There’s nothing like the feeling of flying into a destination with clear blue water on all sides. This trip was a long time coming — though Jacob and I lived in the U.S. most of our lives, we never made it to The Bahamas. Now we can’t imagine why! It’s a short flight away and a welcome slice of paradise. We’ve done so much traveling in Europe lately that we also were pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to get around — everyone speaks English, we could use U.S. dollars everywhere, and the locals are so friendly. Like most tropical destinations, there are elements of The Bahamas that speak directly to a cruise-ship driven economy. However, once we made our way out of the most-trafficked spots on the island, there were plenty of hidden gems to be found. Read on for how to experience the best parts of Nassau Paradise Island.
BEST TIME TO VISIT– MID-DECEMBER TO MID-APRIL IS PEAK SEASON
WEATHER – TEMPS ARE WARM YEAR-ROUND, HURRICANE SEASON IS TYPICALLY JUNE THROUGH NOVEMBER
GETTING AROUND – RENTAL CAR, MOTORCYCLE
CURRENCY – US DOLLARS, MOST PLACES TAKE CREDIT CARDS
LANGUAGES – ENGLISH
NEARBY AIRPORTS – LYNDEN PINDLING (NAS)
Left to right from top: One of the beaches at Rose Island, aerial views of Rose Island, swinging at Sandals private island, Sandals private island at sunset, ‘stranded’ with our boat on Rose Island.
WHERE TO STAY
While there’s plenty to explore on-island, the place you stay in Nassau will dictate the experience you have. In addition to the popular all-inclusive resorts, there are options for laid-back hotels, boutique hotels or a house rentals. No matter where you end up, you’ll also want plenty of opportunities to try the local food and culture!
HOTELS IN NASSAU
SLS Baha Mar – $$$ – We absolutely loved this newly-built hotel. Everything from the room (clean white, with nods to retro style), to the grounds (the poké food truck and daquiri stand were our favorite) to the service was impeccable. We also had our favorite meal of the trip here at their in-house restaurant, Cleo. Where I stayed.
Balcony views from our room at the SLS Baha Mar hotel.
The pool at the SLS Baha Mar.
Sandals Royal Bahamian – $$$$ – this was our first time staying at a Sandals resort! While an all-inclusive resort isn’t typically our go-to, Sandals’ private offshore island was definitely a highlight for its pristine beach. We also loved their oceanside restaurant, Gordon’s on the Pier. Where I stayed.
A sunset dinner at Gordon’s on the Pier at Sandals.
Swinging at sunset on Sandal’s Private Island.
Graycliff Hotel & Restaurant – $$$ – located in the heart of old town, Graycliff hotel is a historic colonial mansion with tropical gardens and pools that provide a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the island. Their wine cellar features over 250,000 bottles sourced from around the world, just a short walk from their on-site chocolate shop which offers lessons in chocolate-making. We got wonderfully lost exploring the grounds of this property! Where I’d stay next time.
The historical building that houses Graycliff Hotel & Restaurant.
The pool at Graycliff Hotel.
The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort – $$$$ – transport yourself into luxury at this historic Four Seasons resort, which has played host to travelers and celebrities since 1962. It’s a unique and romantic property: we loved the stretch of white sand beach and the Versailles-inspired garden, complete with cloisters from a 12th-century French Augustinian monastery. Where I’d want to splurge.
Versailles Garden at The Ocean Club Four Seasons Resort.
Ocean views from Dune Restaurant and bar.
One of the many beautiful pools at The Ocean Club Resort.
Atlantis Paradise Island – $$$ – this oceanside resort has it all: bars and restaurants, a water park, golf course, casino, spa, and more. We had a blast visiting for the day to see the aquarium. It’s an iconic property that’s been known to attract celebrities such as Kevin Hart and Serena Williams since its opening 22 years ago.
AIRBNBS IN NASSAU
Historic Nassau – $ – the most charming pink cottage a walk away from historic sites and downtown Nassau.
Grand Suite #8 – $ – this quaint suite is great for traveling as a couple, 10 minutes from downtown.
Luxury Beachfront Unit – $$ – a modern beachfront property, but the true draw is a private beach that’s steps away.
White Beachfront Home – $$ – located in a quiet area on the western side of Nassau, steps away from the beach.
Secret Garden Villa – $$$ – a nice retreat located on three lush acres of tropical gardens.
Paradise Island Villa – $$$ – located in a beautiful gated complex walking distance from Atlantis Resort.
WHERE TO EAT
Bahamian Cookin’ – this local spot is a must-try at some point during your trip. It’s simple and features classic Bahamian dishes, like conch fritters, cracked lobster, and steamed chicken.
Biggity – this family-owned restaurant was built by hand with repurposed wood and natural elements. Their menu is simple and healthy, with flavors that pack a punch. A must for a laid-back, cozy meal downtown.
Trying homemade specialties at Biggity in downtown Nassau.
Sippin’ fresh lemonade during our food tour in downtown Nassau.
Cleo Mediterraneo – one of our favorite meals of the trip, Cleo restaurant is located inside the SLS Baha Mar and features tapas-style mediterranean dishes. You’ll want to share — everything on the menu is so tasty!
Louis & Steen’s – recommended by a local on the island, this New Orlean’s-style coffee house is eclectic (read: purple cottage) and serves up typical cajun-style dishes and excellent coffee.
Graycliff Restaurant – this property is on our list twice for a reason! We didn’t get a chance to have dinner at this elegant restaurant, but we’ve heard it’s a real treat. At the very least, go for the atmosphere and wine selection alone.
Exploring the grounds at Graycliff Hotel & Restaurant.
Indoor seating at Graycliff restaurant.
Athena Cafe & Bar – though conch is not typically a ‘Greek’ dish, I was pleasantly surprised by the flavors at this no-frills Greek cafe. Perfect if you’re craving something filling while exploring Nassau’s downtown.
Social House – for fresh sushi, try Social House. Their lunch menu offers deals for the afternoon, or make it an evening and sample their small plates for an unforgettable experience.
WHAT TO DO
Swim with the pigs – Unfortunately the weather was not on our side the day we were meant to swim with the pigs. But, this experience is not to be missed! If you’re staying on Nassau, the closest option is the Sandy Toes experience on Rose Island.
Visit the Atlantis Marine Habitat – the Atlantis property is huge and home to an amazing aquarium. You can buy day passes on their site to visit and explore for a day, which is also a great activity if you get hit with tropical rain.
Exploring the Atlantis Marine Habitat at the Atlantis hotel.
Go on a food tour – This is becoming a regular activity for Jacob and I when we travel, and I have to say it’s always one of our favorite parts of the trip. I’m always curious to see what places locals recommend and any excuse to eat is a plus. Tip: if you go on the food tour we went on, you’ll stop at Bahamian Cookin’, Athena Cafe, and Biggity.
Take a boat tour – as with most destinations, we loved exploring local islands off Nassau with a private boat for the afternoon. Don’t miss the turtles at Turtle Cay (tell your captain to take you!) and the sandy beaches of Rose Island for pristine water all to yourself. For a group boat tour with lunch included, check out this boat excursion.
Rose Island’s empty beach on our boat day.
Swimming with the turtles at Turtle Cay.
Explore the local shops – a lot of on-island artists are represented. We loved visiting Doongalik Studios and Craft Cottage, located next to one another. The studio features artist’s work on display and Craft Cottage has a variety of handmade gifts for purchase. I bought a hand-carved ornament here for my mother.
Chatting with Craft Cottage’s owner Fina about all the best local places to go on-island!