the bahamas
The Commonwealth of the Bahamas lies within the West Indies in the Atlantic Ocean It makes up the majority of the Lucayan Archipelago in both land area and population. The capital Nassau is likely where you will start if arriving via flight through Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) and is also a huge cruise stop. The official language is English. Many visitors head straight to one of the top tourist attractions Atlantis Paradise Island which boasts crystal clear waters and an incredible resort hotel with a huge outdoor aquarium but Nassau has so much more to offer including historic buildings and downtown area, Cable Beach, the Ardastra Gardens and Wildlife Conservation Center, Clifton Heritage National Park, and so much more. You can also island hop over to Rose Island, Blue Lagoon Island or do a full day tour to Exuma for a pig experience.
Nassau Bahamas Cruise stop
So, you are stopping in Nassau on your cruise, and you want to get the most out of one day on this beautiful island. There are so many options for exploration so I will give you some ideas on top things to do and tell you how I did it!
Cruise port is right in downtown Nassau the main city of the Bahamas. The Nassau Bahamas Cruise Terminal is walkable to the downtown attractions. When leaving the terminal turn right to head to the main area which includes the Government House, Pirates of Nassau, Nassau Straw Market. You could also get a water taxi from the terminal over to Paradise Island and Atlantis and it is located right next to cruise dock for about $4 per person. To get to the Cable Beach you can take local bus #10 for less than $2 and it takes around 30-45 minutes or take a taxi for 15 minute ride. Many tours to other islands pick you up right from the cruise terminal.
top things to do
Nassau
In town, you should check out the Nassau straw market, Nassau Pirates Museum, the Government House, Queen’s Staircase, Fort Fincastle and more. This colonial historic Caribbean town is beautiful and easy to walk around.
Fort Fincastle and Queen’s Staircase
The fort is the highest point on the island and built in 1793. Leading up to it is the Queen’s Staircase which is 66 steps. This landmark represents Queen Victoria’s role in abolishing slavery.
Government House
The Government House is a beautiful pink mansion constructed in 1801 in Georgian Colonial architecture. There is a changing of the guard ceremony twice a month if you are lucky enough to catch it.
Bay Street
Bay Street located downtown is packed with souvenir shops. You can also find the Pirates of Nassau Museum here. The Pirates of Nassau Museum has replica of pirate ship, pirate artifacts and pirate hosts. It is a fun activity for children.
Cable Beach
One of the more popular beaches on Nassau. Just a few miles from downtown. It is a 2.5 mile stretch of beautiful sand and crystal blue waters are iconic. This area is full of hotels, bars, restaurants, water sports and more. It is the top tourist destination on the island.
Atlantis Paradise Island
This is the top tourist destination on the island. The resort boasts a beautiful aquarium and numerous lagoons, pools and activities. You can walk, taxi or water taxi and explore this beautiful resort grounds.
Blue Lagoon Island
This island is about 5 km from Nassau and is packed with activities from dolphin encounters, snorkeling, water sports and more.
Clifton Heritage National Park
This park is about 25 minute drive from downtown Nassau. You can go via tour or on your own to explore this park packed with trails. There is also a snorkel underwater trail but that is for an additional cost.
My itinerary
After disembarking off the cruise ship, I headed into water taxi over to Paradise Island and Atlantis Resort. The boat ride is about 15 minutes and costs around $4 or you can book an $8 round trip. You can also get over to this area via walking 2 miles. Once there, I roamed around the resort and the grounds which are stunningly beautiful. Just prior to my visit going to open air aquarium was free but now to visit Atlantis as a non-guest you must purchase a day pass. This must be done in advance and it gains you access to the aquarium, beaches, Aquaventure waterpark. You can also book dolphin and sea lion experiences. The current cost is $250 per adult and $125 children 4-12. Paradise Island has beaches including Paradise Beach, Cabbage Beach and Cove Beach.
After exploring the resort and hitting the beach, I headed back to the downtown to explore. I walked down Bay Street and went to see the Government House. I wanted to hit up the Queen’s Staircase but I was running short on time so I headed back to the cruise port. The Queen’s staircase is a 1.1 km 13 minute walk from the Government House and 1 km 12 minute walk to the Cruise Port. If you want to go into Fort Fincastle it is a $3 entry but you can walk around the fort for free.
I boarded the ship and said farewell but this beautiful island is one I would definitely visit again!
