Nassau
Visiting Nassau offers a very different experience than other destinations in the super chill Bahamas. This, the Bahamas’ only city, is a fun and busy destination that offers up a wealth of historical and cultural experiences, as well as access to gorgeous beaches, fun restaurants, and the best nightlife on the Islands.
Walking the old city you’ll see grand mansions, brightly painted colonial houses, two cathedrals, and plenty of indicators of the city’s lively past as a pirate hangout and trading post.
Must See
AquaAdventure waterpark at Atlantis Paradise Island Resort: Non-resort guests are welcome at this massive waterpark with 11 pools, water slides, zip-lines, massive shark tanks, and dolphin experiences.
Cable Beach: Considered one of the best beaches in the Bahamas, this beach edges some of the most exclusive hotels in Nassau and offers calm waters and talcum powder fine sands.
Fort Charlotte: Exploring the dry moat, dungeons, and underground tunnels of this huge fort (built between 1787 and 1790) makes for an interesting excursion, and offers sweet views out over Nassau Harbour.
Must Do
Eat conch – Head to locals’ favourite Goldies for grilled, battered, scorched, or raw conch. Pair it with a plantain salad and boozy Sky Juice – a delicious mix of coconut water, gin, and evaporated milk – it’s the Islands’ signature drink.
Make like a pirate – There are nods to the city’s swashbuckling past everywhere, but at the Pirates of Nassau Interactive Museum you’re taken back to 1716, and learn the legends from interpreters in full pirate garb. There’s even a replica pirate ship to explore.
Drink rum – Head to John Watling’s Distillery (a new company housed in a glorious old mansion) to sample hand-crafted rum and get a tour, or head to the bar there for good times and classic cocktails. Alternately, pick up delicious rum-infused cakes at the Tortuga Rum Cake Bakery.
When To Go
The best time to head to Nassau is November through April, and unless you like it steamy and wet, you’ll want to avoid hurricane season which runs from July through October.