Nassau | What You Need to Know
/Nassau Overview
This bustling harbour, on the colourful island of New Providence, radiates paradise. Lined with flavourful seafood shacks, miles of white, sandy beaches, enchanting mega-resorts and intriguing historical sites, Nassau and Paradise island in The Bahamas has it all.
Getting There and Getting Around
Only a short direct flight from most major U.S cities, getting to Nassau isn't too much of a hassle.
Hop on a 'jitney' bus and get to Cable Beach or anywhere downtown for US$1.25. The streets are lined with bus stops and a taxi is never far away in downtown Nassau and the nearby hotels. From the airport taxi rates are approximately $27 to downtown Nassau, $18 to Cable Beach and $33 to Paradise Island—plus the bridge toll.
If you're looking for an unusual way to see the town, head to the port where you'll find vendors selling horse-drawn carriage rides, a great way to tour the city.
Getting from Nassau to Paradise Island
You can grab a cab or get on a ferry from downtown Nassau over to Paradise Island for just $4.
Top Things to do in Nassau
1. Stop for lunch and a daiquiri at the Fish Fry
A local spot near downtown Nassau. You'll smell the Fish Fry before you see it. A vibrant row of shacks cooking up Bahamian cuisine and serving tasty cocktails, the Fish Fry is a great place to sit and people watch, sample some conch fritters and sip on probably the best frozen daiquiri you'll ever taste.
2. The Queens Staircase
A 102-foot staircase with 65 steps from the 1800's is one of Nassau's most popular attractions. The Queen's Staircase was built by slaves as a route from Fort Fincastle to Nassau City.
3. Play on the slots or check out the aquariums at Atlantis on Paradise Island
If you're not staying at Atlantis on Paradise Island you can get a day pass for $45 and explore the man-made ruins, the predator aquarium and the stingray and turtle lagoons. Place your bets in the Caribbean's largest casino and grab lunch at one of the many high-quality restaurants.
For $139 day-trippers can access the famous 141-acre waterpark with water slides, a mile-long rapid-river ride, beaches and pools.
4. Mingle with locals at Potter's Cay
Known as "the docks" under the Nassau exit bridge, sip on a cold Kalik and meander through the brightly-clouded stalls in search of fresh mangos, chillies, vegetables and the freshest seafood you'll find in town.
5. Check the Shops and Markets Downtown
Check out the notorious straw market downtown, for souvenir bargains or hit the duty free shops in town. With great prices on alcohol, jewellery and beauty products, make sure you bring your wallet.
Ocean West Hotel, Nassau
