bahamas cruise things to do

35+ Best Things to Do in Nassau Cruise Port, Bahamas (2024)

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If you’re visiting Nassau on a cruise, you’re in luck! Nassau gets some mixed reviews. However, it is a beautiful and fun cruise port of call with many great things to do.

Nassau is the largest city and the capital of the Bahamas. In fact, Nassau is one of the most popular cruise ports, attracting over 3.7 million cruise passengers annually.

Nassau, Bahamas, is home to beautiful beaches, rich historical sites, and, of course, the Atlantis resort.

Cruise ships dock in Prince George Wharf, which is conveniently located near the downtown district and Bay Street. Cruisers can do a lot of sightseeing by foot, which is why Nassau is such a popular destination.

There are so many great things to do when you are visiting Nassau, from beautiful beaches near the cruise port to island tours and all-inclusive resorts. Recently we visited Nassau by cruise and had an amazing day!

In this post, I share everything you need to know about Nassau, Bahamas, and the best things to do in Nassau cruise port.

Nassau Cruise Port

Cruise ships arriving in Nassau, Bahamas, will dock at the Prince George Wharf. The cruise port is conveniently close to Bay Street and the downtown district. There are many shops, restaurants, and activities within walking distance of the cruise port.

Passengers who have booked shore excursions through the cruise line will find their tour operators stationed near the dock. Those who have booked their shore excursions privately must meet their guides further down the dock.

The Nassau cruise port can feel quite hectic, as up to 6 cruise ships can dock at a time. It is a good idea to plan something to do in advance, as it will be jam-packed when you leave the cruise port.

To be safe, cruise travelers are best off staying within the busier tourist areas or taking a reputable tour.

What Cruise Passengers Need to Know About Nassau Cruise Port

The official currency for the Bahamas is the Bahamian dollar. However, the Bahamian dollar is equivalent to the U.S. dollar, and both are widely accepted.

In Nassau, most businesses and restaurants accept U.S. cash or credit cards. You can also use US money when shopping for souvenirs or with local vendors.

If you want to exchange money, you can onboard your cruise ship. However, the exchange rate from a local bank or ATM will be better.

There are several banks and ATMs located near the cruise port on Parliament Street or in the downtown area.

In the Bahamas, the official language is English. However, some locals may speak Creole or Bahamianese. Overall, nearly everyone speaks and understands English in Nassau.

In the Bahamas, they operate on Eastern Standard Time. Furthermore, the cruise ship time will typically be the same as the time on land.

Nassau, Bahamas, has a tropical climate and experiences sunny and warm temperatures year-round. Nassau can experience higher humidity and tropical storms during the summer months, which is why Winter is typically the best time to visit Nassau, Bahamas.

Getting Around Nassau

The best way to get around Nassau is on foot. The downtown area, Bay Street retail district, and many of Nassau’s historic sites are within walking distance of the cruise ship pier.

One of the great things about going to Nassau is that you can easily visit historical sites, eat at a restaurant, and go shopping on foot. The downtown area is easy to navigate, and it’s quite safe.

If you like to explore cruise ports by foot, then you will enjoy visiting Nassau.

Taxi operators are located around the Prince George Wharf area. In Nassau, the taxis are not metered, so it’s a good idea to negotiate the ride fare before entering the car.

Nassau’s public buses, also known as jitneys, are an economical and convenient alternative to taxis and car rentals. The bus runs from 6:30 AM to 7:00 PM, costing $1.50 per person for a one-way ride.

There is a bus stop conveniently located near the cruise port, and it stops at popular locations like downtown Nassau and Cable Beach.

Car and Scooter Rental:

For those interested in exploring Nassau on their own, you can do so by renting a car or scooter. There are car and scooter rentals available through Trip Advisor.

However, this is a potential cruise port mistake . If you’ve never driven in the Bahamas, be aware that the rules of the road can differ from the United States.

Most cruise travelers choose to take a taxi or walk in Nassau to avoid the risk of an accident.

Best Things to Do in Nassau Cruise Port

Nassau offers a variety of exciting attractions, activities, and historical sites for visitors. Here are the best things to do while you’re in Nassau:

Best Public Beaches in Nassau

There are some free public beaches in Nassau. If you’re trying to save money on excursions during your cruise , these free beaches are the most popular and recommended.

1. Junkanoo Beach

Junkanoo Beach is the closest public beach to the cruise ship port. This free Nassau beach is a good option for cruisers who want to stay within walking distance of the cruise ship.

The local beach is a about a 15-20 minute walk from the cruise port, or you can take a taxi.

At Junkanoo Beach, you can access restrooms, showers, and changing facilities. There are also local vendors who offer chair rentals.

If you get hungry or thirsty, there are various restaurants and bars nearby.

2. Cable Beach

Cable Beach is often called “Nassau’s best beach”, as it is 2.5 miles long and has white sand and crystal clear waters. This beach is lined with famous resorts, including Baha Mar and Sandals Royal Bahamian.

It can take 25-30 minutes to get to Cable Beach by taxi. A cheaper alternative is taking the No. 10 bus, which costs $1.50 per person.

At Cable Beach, you can do watersports, snorkel, and relax under the sun!

3. Cabbage Beach

Cabbage Beach is a public beach which is located on the north side of Paradise Island. You can get to Cabbage Beach by taking a short water taxi ride to Paradise Island ($10 round-trip) or walking for around 20 minutes.

At Cabbage Beach, you will find crystal-clear water and soft sand. Local vendors offer on-site chair and umbrella rentals.

At times, the water can get quite rough at Cabbage Beach. However, you will be right next to Atlantis, which makes for some amazing photos!

4. Saunders Beach

Saunder Beach is a 10-15 minute taxi ride from the cruise part. It is known to be one of the quieter beaches in Nassau, making it the ideal choice for families. At Saunders Beach, you can access restroom facilities and a playground.

Be sure to bring towels, as there are no vendors at Saunders Beach.

5. Love Beach

If you’re looking for a free beach with stunning water, check out Love Beach. Love Beach is located a bit further than Cable Beach, and many people say it’s one of the most beautiful beaches in the Bahamas.

At Love Beach, there will be chair rentals and the Nirvana Beach Bar, a fan favorite among cruisers!

6. Jaws Beach

Jaws Beach is the furthest beach from the cruise port. However, it was the filming location for the movie Jaws III!

Whether you’re a movie fan or you enjoy snorkeling, this beach is definitely worth checking out. There are Hollywood memorabilia and sculptures located underwater, which is super fun.

If you get tired of the beach, you can walk to Clifton Heritage Park and enjoy a picnic lunch there.

Best Island Beach Escapes in Nassau

These island beach escapes are excursions that can typically be purchased through the cruise line. This makes for a hassle-free experience as you won’t have to worry about transportation and planning.

In most cases, you will meet your shore excursion guide at a designated sport before being guided to a bus or boat. From there, you can enjoy your day before returning to the cruise port.

7. Pearl Island

Pearl Island allows guests to relax on the beach, explore the island’s walking trails, explore a lighthouse, and enjoy a traditional Bahamian lunch. Pearl Island is on the pricey side. However, there is a lot included in the price.

Through Carnival Cruise Line, Pearl Island costs $95 for adults and $75 for children. This includes transportation, a lounge chair, a signature cocktail, lunch, and watersports like kayaks, paddleboards, water trampolines, and water mats.

The boat ride to Pearl Island takes roughly 30 minutes, and the excursion lasts approximately 5 hours. At Pearl Island, you will have access to bathroom facilities, changing rooms, and showers.

If you’re interested, VIP cabanas are available at an additional cost.

8. Blue Lagoon

Blue Lagoon is a small island located off the coast of Nassau. Typically, a Blue Lagoon island excursion combines the beach with other activities like sea lion encounters, dolphin encounters, or segway tours. If you want to spend the day at the beach, you can also do that.

Depending on the shore excursion and what cruise line you are sailing with, day passes range from $90 to $200 per adult.

Related: Why Our Family Had the Best Day at Blue Lagoon, Bahamas

9. Balmoral Island

If you’re looking for a great way to spend your day in Nassau, check out Balmoral Island. Unlike the other islands, Balmoral Island has two freshwater pools available to guests who want a break from the ocean.

The downside to going to Balmoral Island is that your food, drinks, and water sports are not included. If you enjoy doing water sports, it may be a better value for you to try one of the other excursions!

10. Royal Beach Club

Royal Caribbean cruise line is opening the Royal Beach Club in 2025. This beach club be available exclusively to guests onboard Royal Caribbean cruises.

This 17-acre resort is located on Paradise Island, a short water taxi away from the cruise port. At the Royal Beach Club, there will be four pristine beaches for guests to enjoy (Tranquility Beach, Sapphire Beach, Hideaway Beach, and Harbor Beach).

There will also be various restaurants, bars, and pools at the Royal Beach Club. Once the beach is open, it will be the ultimate beach escape for families.

Best Resorts in Nassau (Day Passes)

Resort day passes give cruise ship passengers access to hotel and resort amenities. Depending on the resort, you may find all-inclusive passes.

The resorts typically feature access to the beach, private pools, restaurants, and bars. These day passes can be purchased individually through the hotel or resort.

11. Atlantis Paradise Island

Nassau is one of the main attractions in Nassau, Bahamas, but it is undoubtedly a pricey way to spend your day. A day pass to the Atlantis Aqua Adventure Water Park starts at $210 for adults and $150 for children if you purchase it through the Carnival Cruise Line.

A pass to Atlantis Adventure Water Park includes access to 141 acres of pools, water rides, Atlantis beaches, The Dig, Marina Village, and casino. Food and drinks may or may not be included depending on the conditions of your ticket.

Another option is to purchase the day pass directly through the Atlantis website. The admission price varies on what day you are going, and there is a good chance that you won’t save any money this way. Furthermore, you will be responsible for your transportation.

Atlantis offers additional activities that cruise passengers can do. However, they do cost extra.

Atlantis offers various dolphin experiences, sea lion experiences, stingray experiences, and more. These experiences range in price, but they generally cost $335 for adults and $285 for kids.

You can access certain areas of the Atlantis resort without paying any admission fee. The casino, indoor retail, specific dining venues, and Marina Village are available to the public.

Remember, if you are going to Atlantis without the cruise line, you are responsible for returning to the cruise ship on time. Keep an eye on your watch so you don’t get left behind in Nassau!

12. Margaritaville Resort & Waterpark

Margaritaville Resort & Water Park is a new resort that opened in 2021. This resort features two private beaches, two swimming pools, a lazy river, water slides, and a poolside bar.

The great thing about the Margaritaville Resort is that it’s only a 15-minute walk from the cruise port. Since Margaritaville is a short walk from the cruise port, you can spend the whole day there, and you won’t have to worry about finding a taxi back.

It costs $110 for adults and 55 for children to enter the Margaritaville Resort. This will give you access to all onsite activities, amenities, and Wi-Fi. At Margaritaville, you must pay for the food and beverages.

When we were in Nassau, we spent the day at Margaritaville, and it was awesome! The resort is clean, modern, and the staff is very friendly.

Whether you’re traveling as a family, as a couple, or with friends, you will have a good time at the Margaritaville resort.

13. Baha Mar

Baha Mar is a luxury resort that offers a limited number of day passes. When you visit Baha Mar, you will have access to a 15-acre water park, 24 water slides, a lazy river, an infinity pool, a wave pool, a kids pool, a FlowRide surf simulator, an outdoor casino, and the beach.

Right now, a day pass costs $160 for adults, $65 for guests under 48-inches, and free for guests under two.

14. Warwick Paradise Island

Warwick Paradise Island Bahamas is a resort for guests 16 and up. At Warwick, you will find a small beach and a massive pool with lounge chairs.

A day pass to Warwick Paradise Island costs $130 to $160, depending on if you want the standard or deluxe day package. When you’re a Warwick, your food and drinks are included, which is a huge bonus!

15. Riu Palace

RIU Palace is an adults-only, all-inclusive resort located on Paradise Island near Atlantis. When you’re at Riu Palace, you will have access to a swim-up bar, two swimming pools, and a dedicated beach area on Cabbage Beach.

A day pass for RIU Palace starts at $129 per person. This includes premium cocktails and a poolside “jerk” barbeque station.

When you spend the day at Riu Palace, you must pay for transportation from the cruise ship pier. You will also have to pay $10 for Wi-Fi if you want to stay connected, and there is an additional charge for spa treatments.

16. Breezes Resort & Spa

Breezes Resort & Spa is an all-inclusive that costs $125 for the day. This includes access to the beach, pools, swim-up bar, jacuzzi, land activities, water sports, and your meals and alcoholic beverages.

The resort is located on cable, which is a 15-20 minute drive from the cruise terminal.

Exploring Nassau Bahamas

17. the straw market.

The Straw Market is a large market with handmade Bahamian straw products like purses, bags, and hats. You can also find factory-made souvenirs like shirts, bracelets, and magnets. Before you make any purchases, be sure to negotiate on the price!

The good thing about the straw market is that it’s extremely close to the Prince George Wharf cruise port. If you want to get off the ship and shop for souvenirs, the Straw Market is only a 6-minute walk from the port.

18. The Queen’s Staircase

The Queens Staircase is named after the late Queen Victoria. This historic attraction is a 66-step staircase that was carved out of limestone in 1793.

This staircase provides a direct route from downtown Nassau to For Fincastle. Furthermore, there is no charge to go up the historic staircase.

19. Fort Fincastle

Fort Fincastle is a historic fort that was built back in 1793 to protect Nassau from pirates. At Fort Fincastle, you will gain access to some incredible views of the cruise port.

When you visit Fort Fincastle, you will be near the Queen’s Staircase and the Pirates of Nassau Museum. If you’re exploring Nassau on foot, checking out these three attractions is a great idea!

If you want to enter For Fincastle, the cost of admission is $1 for adults and free for kids under 12.

20. Parliament Square

Parliament Square houses the Bahamas House of Assembly, Supreme Court, and Senate Building. This is a great spot for pictures as the colonial buildings are in a pink pastel color, and they look very tropical.

You will also see a statue of Queen Victoria that was built in the early 1900s.

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If you’re looking to spend your afternoon in Downtown Nassau, and you want to visit museums then you’re in luck. Nassau has several museums that are within walking distance from the cruise port.

21. Pirates of Nassau Museum

If you’re traveling with kids, check out the Pirates of Nassau Museum. This is an interesting museum to learn about the history of Nassau and piracy between 1690 to 1720.

One of the cool features of the Pirates of Nassau Museum is that they have a replica pirate ship. This is a major hit among kids as they can walk on it.

Admission to the Pirates of Nassau Museum is $14 for adults and $7 for kids under 17.

22. Pompey Museum of Slavery and Emancipation

The Pompey Museum of Slavery and Emancipation is smaller. Here, you will learn about Pompey, a slave who led a rebellion in 1830 on the island of Exuma.

The museum is located at the Historic Vendue House. This building was built around 1769 and functioned as a marketplace until the late 1800’s. In 1992, it became a museum that was open to the public.

If you want to visit this museum, it is only a 7-minute walk from the cruise port. It’s also located right next to the Straw Market.

23. National Art Gallery of the Bahamas

The National Art Gallery of the Bahamas is the perfect museum for art enthusiasts. This museum features art from the locals and highlights Bahamian history and culture.

It costs $10 for adults, and it is free for children to visit the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas. Furthermore, the art gallery is a 15-minute walk from the cruise port, and it is nearby several other attractions.

24. Heritage Museum of the Bahamas

The Heritage Museum of the Bahamas is a smaller museum with relics dating back to prehistoric times. At this museum, you will see tools used during slavery, items from a Bahamian grocery store in 1900, and a meteorite slice.

When you visit the Heritage Museum of the Bahamas, you will have the choice of doing a self-guided tour or purchasing an audio guide for around $20. The Heritage Museum is a 12-minute walk from the cruise port, and it is near the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas.

25. Educulture Junkanoo Museaum

Junkanoo is a street festival in the Bahamas that happens on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day every year. This cultural celebration includes dancing, spirituality, and listening to music.

The Educulture Junkanoo Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Junkanoo and to see the costumes that are worn during this festival. This museum is the brainchild of Arlene Nash Ferguson, who has been on the National Junkanoo Committee for over 24 years.

Nassau, Bahamas Shore Excursions

If you’re looking to have an exciting day in Nassau, then consider booking a shore excursion. Here are the top-rated shore excursions in Nassau:

26. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

When it comes to cruise ports, Nassau, Bahamas, is known for having some great snorkeling sports. You can book a snorkeling tour through the cruise line or a private vendor.

On a snorkeling tour in Nassau, you will see coral reefs and a lot of marine life. Furthermore, many shore excursions have a party-like atmosphere on the boat, and they may even have an open bar.

If you’re scuba certified, you can always book a scuba excursion. Scuba diving is a great way to move freely underwater and to feel like you’re a part of the marine life.

27. Bahamian Food Tour

If you’re a foodie, check out the Bites of Nassau Food Tasting & Cultural Walking Tour. For this tour, you will be in a small group and walk the streets of Nassau, learning about the history and trying different local foods. During this tour, you will get the chance to try classic conch fritter, local fish tacos, baked macaroni and cheese, rum cake, and more. You will also get to meet the chefs and small business owners.

This tour costs $79 for adults, $49 for kids between the ages of 4 and 12, and free for children under 4. This tour is highly recommended, and it is a great way to try local Bahamian foods.

28. Jeep and Beach Tour

The Jeep and Beach Tour is a popular shore excursion offered by most cruise lines. For this tour, you will drive a Jeep Wrangler through downtown Nassau and see some prominent landmarks.

Afterward, you will head over to the beach, and you can spend time relaxing by the water. You will then be served a Bahamian lunch before returning to the cruise port.

29. Rose Island Swim With Pigs

The Rose Island Swim With Pigs is one of the most popular excursions in Nassau. Many major cruise lines offer this excursion, which is an amazing experience.

You will begin this tour by taking a boat over to Rose Island. Once you arrive at Rose Island, you will be greeted by friendly pigs who are domesticated and love attention.

The guide will teach you how to feed the pigs and interact with them while swimming. Afterward, you head to a private beach to relax and enjoy light snacks.

30. Shark Encounters at Blue Lagoon

If you’ve ever wanted to swim with sharks, check out the Shark Encounter & Snorkel at Blue Lagoon. Here, you will be swimming with nurse sharks, who are slow-moving and mild-mannered.

The trainer will stand nearby so you can feed the sharks and cradle them in your arms. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it makes for an amazing story.

Afterward, you will get the chance to relax on the beach and enjoy some free time before heading back to your cruise ship.

Water Sports and Activities

Nassau is known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear water. This is the perfect recipe for water sports. Here are some water sports and activities that you can do when you’re in Nassau!

31. Bahamas Jet Boat

The Bahamas Jet Boat is one of the newest attractions in Nassau. This excursion combines a scenic ride with a high-speed thrill ride.

The captain and crew provide a tour of the Nassau Harbor while sharing fun facts about the island. You will then go on an adrenaline-pumping ride that is fun for the whole family.

This tour is educational, exciting, and safe, making it one of the most popular tours in Nassau.

32. Glass-Bottom Boat

The glass-bottom boat is a popular attraction that many people will try when they are in Nassau. Many tour companies combine the glass-bottom boat with snorkeling and drinking afterward.

On the glass-bottom boat, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the water while looking for sea turtles, dolphins, and other marine life.

33. Jetski Rental

Nassau is one of the best places to jetski because of the beautiful water. If you enjoy jet skiing, then consider renting a jet ski.

There are various places to rent jet skis from. However, the Jet Ski Adventure at Cabbage Beach is highly recommended as they will pick you up at the cruise port and transport you to the beach.

Where to Eat and Drink in Nassau Cruise Port

If you’re into eating local foods, there are great options near the cruise port in Nassau. Here are some recommended sports to eat when visiting the Bahamas.

34. Potter’s Cay Conch Shacks

If you’re looking to try an authentic Bahamian Lunch, then check out Potter’s Cay conch shacks. Here, you will find bright-colored conch shacks that feature dishes from 40 different chefs who are cooking different dishes.

This is a great place to try Bahamian food, interact with locals, and immerse yourself in their culture. It is recommended to go to McKenzie’s shack as he has been in the same location for 25 years and is a former conch fisherman.

35. Pirate Republic Brewing Co.

If you’re looking to get off the cruise for a bit and grab a quick drink, then head over to Pirate Republic Brewing Co. Pirate Republic Brewing Co. is one of two breweries in Nassau, and it is located right next to the cruise port.

This place has a great vibe, and the drinks are amazing! Whether you want to grab a quick drink or if you’re stopping in before heading back to your cruise, Pirate Republic Brewing Co. is worth checking out.

Honourable Mentions:

• Bahamian Cookin’ Restaurant
• John Watling’s Distillery & Vell Monkey Foot
• Blackbeard’s Rum Cakes

Where to Shop in Nassau

If you’re shopping for local souvenirs to bring back home, Nassau has many shops near the cruise port. Many cruise passengers will bring back wood carvings, craftwork, original paintings, and handmade garments as they make nice gifts and souvenirs.

Here is where to shop in Nassau:

36. Bay Street

Bay Street is known as Nassau’s retail district, so there will be many local businesses there if you are interested in shopping. On Bay Street, you will find jewelers, clothing stores, gift shops, and more.

37. Festival Place

Festival Place is an outdoor bazaar located next to the cruise port. Festival Place features over 45 vendors who sell crafts, food, and drinks.

When shopping at Festival Place, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings as it can get very busy and hectic. Vendors will approach you, and it will not be a relaxing shopping experience.

If you want a more enjoyable shopping experience, go to Bay Street. However, Festival Place is ideal for cruise passengers looking for a last-minute gift or those who want to stay near the cruise port.

38. Nassau’s Straw Market

Although it was mentioned earlier, Nassau’s Straw Market is a great place to buy local Bahamian crafts, souvenirs, and gifts. The Straw Market is on Bay Street, so you will be near many other retail stores.

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Final Thoughts On Best Things to Do in Nassau Cruise Port

Well, there it is, everything you need to know about the Nassau cruise port.

Whether you’re going on an excursion or walking around on foot, there is a lot to see in Nassau. The great thing about Nassau is that there is a mix of historical sites and beautiful beaches, so there is something for everyone!

In this post, I shared the best things to do in Nassau when you’re on a cruise.

Happy cruising!

If you found this article helpful, please pass it along. Please feel free to share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Author Bio: Ethan Schattauer has been cruising since he was in preschool! As a frequent cruiser, Ethan now shares his unique perspective on what cruising is like for teens and young adults. Ethan is a freelance writer and also writes about men’s fashion, travel and college advice on the website WhatToWearMen.com .

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25 Things to Do in Nassau, Bahamas on Your Cruise

You've never had more reason to get off the ship in Nassau. See what this port stop has to offer...

With over 4 million cruise passengers a year stopping at this cruise port, Nassau has become a very popular destination for cruise ships in the Bahamas.  It’s also become a perfect port of call for shore excursions.

Looking for things to do in Nassau, Bahamas?  You’re in luck!  There are plenty of activities in Nassau to give you reasons to get off the ship.  Whether you want a relaxing beach, fun water sport activity, boat tour, shopping day, historical museum, or wildlife excursion you can find something for everyone in your group.

Even if you’ve been to Nassau before you can always find new and exiting excursions you probably didn’t even know existed.  There’s more to this cruise port than meets the eye.  So, look beyond the port itself and see what this popular port has to offer.

New Providence Island is only 21 miles long and 11 miles wide and yet is full of things to do.

Let’s check out some of the best things to do in Nassau, Bahamas on your next cruise.

Disclosure notice: This post contains affiliate links which will provide us with a small commission if you purchase through them, all at no cost to you.

1.  Visit the Best Beaches of Nassau

Some of the clearest, most beautiful water in the world can be found at Nassau, Bahamas.  If you’re looking for a relaxing beach day or a fun-filled day at the beach there is a white-sandy place for you.

Many believe that some of the best beaches in all of the Bahamas are located on Paradise Island, which is just offshore from the island of New Providence.  It’s still close to the cruise port, so don’t miss this opportunity.

Here are some of the best beaches to visit:

• Cable Beach – Home to some luxury all-inclusive resorts, Cable Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Nassau. There are over 2 miles of coastline with perfectly clear waters and soft sand.   There is an assortment of restaurants and shops nearby.
• Cabbage Beach – Located just a bridge away on Paradise Island, Cabbage Beach is probably the most beautiful beach you will find around the island. There are resorts close by, and the beach can be more crowded on the western side during peak season.   It’s a great place for walking along the beach and sunbathing.  You will fall in love with this beach if you’re a beach-lover.
• Love Beach — Further to the west from the cruise port, Love Beach is about a 20-minute drive from downtown Nassau.  It’s well worth the drive if you ask me. It is a quiet, pristine beach that has some amazing coral reefs for snorkeling.  After all it is right near 40 acres of protected coral.   If you want a beach away from the bustle , this might be a great option.
• Cove Beach – Another relaxing beach location, Cove Beach is located on Paradise Island. Palm trees and white sands welcome visitors to this tranquil destination.  It’s also right near The Cove Atlantis if you’d like a relaxing place to spend the day in port.
• Junkanoo Beach – Although not one of my favorite beaches, it is popular with cruisers as it is just a 15-minute walk away from the pier and does have beautiful clear water. You can get some great views and pictures of your ship from here.  The beach has a more casual atmosphere.  You will often see some beach volleyball being played and some other beach games.  There are places to grab a bite or drink close by.    This is a great beach if you just want to pop in, have some beach time, and hit some shops on the way back to the ship.

Want to see more beaches in Nassau ?  Check out our post on the best beaches in Nassau here .

2.  Enjoy Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis

There are tons of things to do at Atlantis, Paradise Island.  We will mention a few in the other points of this post, but one of the most exciting things you can do is spend the day at Aquaventure.  This is a 141-acre water park that is a flat-out blast for kids and adults alike.

Being the largest water park in the Caribbean is only part of the park’s claim to fame.  There are 11 pools, high-speed water slides, lazy rivers, kiddie splash zones, and even a mile-long river-ride with intense rapids along the way.

The Power Tower offers 4 water slides from its heights, including a 200-foot long body slide and a 50-foot near vertical drop.    The Mayan Temple has 5 water slides, and one of them drops you 60-feet before plunging you into a clear tunnel underneath a shark-filled lagoon.

3.  Walk Around Atlantis on Your Own

Let’s say you just want to see what Atlantis is all about before paying for the Aquapark or other activities on the premises.  You can simply take an inexpensive water taxi from the cruise port to Paradise Island.  On the way, a tour guide will point out some interesting facts and stories about Nassau.

Once on the other side it’s a short walk to Atlantis where you can walk around the incredible architecture.  From the stunning lobby of the hotel you can see part of the aquarium and then walk outside to check out the beautiful facilities.  Waterfalls, lagoons, and marine life provide a peaceful setting for a leisurely walk.

There are high-end shops and restaurants around the resort as well.   Not to mention the infamous casino.

4.  Shop at the Straw Market

If unique, hand-crafted odds and ends made by local Bahamians are on your shopping list, you won’t be very far from a place that has it all once you get off the ship.

The Nassau Straw Market is right in the middle of Bay Street, just a 2-minute walk from the pier.  Once you walk out of the terminal take a right and you will see the market along the street.

You will find treasures like hand-woven straw hats, bags, and trinkets along with some of the most beautiful and interesting wood-carvings you’ve ever seen.

Be ready to utilize your negotiation skills and find a bargain.   You can use either U.S. or Bahamian cash.

Note:  There are plenty of other shops and stores along Bay Street as well that sell t-shirts, sunglasses, souvenirs and other touristy items.

5.  Climb the Queen’s Staircase

Carved out of solid limestone by slaves in the late 1700’s, the Queen’s Staircase consists of 66 steps that lead to the highest point of the island, Fort Fincastle.  The stairs were named after Queen Victoria for her part in abolishing slavery in the Bahamas.

Fort Fincastle overlooks the city of Nassau and the front of it is shaped like the bow of a ship.  It’s a great historical tour that allows you to see the cannons and fortifications of a different era.

Some of the Nassau tours will take you to this iconic location on the island ().    I have actually walked there from the port as well, although it’s a fairly long walk.

6.  Visit Blue Lagoon Island

One of the most popular side trips from Nassau is the 3-mile boat ride to Blue Lagoon Island.    Also known as Salt Cay (since it was a salt marsh in the late 1800’s), the island is dotted by coconut palms and is surrounded by clear turquoise waters.  The hidden lagoon in the center of the island is perfect for swimming and relaxing on its sandy beaches.

The Dolphin Encounter on the island (more on this below) allows guests to get an up-close experience with both dolphins and sea lions.  This family-owned habitat is educational and fun for the whole family.

If watersports are your thing there are plenty of rentals made available as well.   You can rent paddle boats, canoes, and inflatables.  For a more relaxing experience there are hammocks all over the island as well.

Blue Lagoon Island has a rich history, which you can learn about on a Segway tour or walking tour.  From a pirate rest-stop to a WWII testing facility, the island has some very interesting roots.

See more information on a .

7.  See the Pirates of Nassau Museum

Exploring a full-size replica of the pirate ship Revenge is just part of the Pirates of Nassau Museum.  This is an interactive experience that lets visitors peer into the life of a pirate in 1716.

Some of the fun exhibits include walking through a shanty town at twilight, learning about female pirates, facing the infamous Black Beard, understanding what happened to the most famous pirates, and being able to see flintlock pistols, cutlasses, and other artifacts from the pirate era.

The museum is located in the heart of Nassau, an easy walk from the cruise port, and admission costs $13.50 for adults and $6.75 for children 4-17.

Nassau was at the very center of Caribbean pirate activity, so this is a fun way to learn some history while keeping the kids entertained.  The stocks out front provide a great photo op as well.

8.  Enjoy a Dolphin Excursion (Several Locations)

If you want to have a magical experience with these fascinating mammals there are plenty of places to choose from in Nassau.  Keep in mind there is a difference between swimming with dolphins and dolphin encounters.  Encounters are usually cheaper and in more shallow water.  Swimming with dolphins can involve deeper water and life vests.

Get a picture of a dolphin giving you a kiss, shake the dolphin’s fin, and even enjoy a foot-push across the water, also known as dolphin water-skiing.

Here are some places that offer dolphin excursions around Nassau.  All of the below places have both “swims” and “encounters” with dolphins.

• – Atlantis offers all kinds of activities with dolphins at Dolphin Cay, one of the world’s largest open-air marine mammal habitats. The 11-acre lagoon provides dolphin excursions for kayaking, snorkeling, swimming, or even just sitting on a beach and enjoying being close to the dolphins.  Atlantis offers a great educational experience as well, and you can spend time with sea lions in addition to dolphins.
• – We already mentioned Blue Lagoon Island,  and this is another popular place for dolphin excursions.   A local family runs the dolphin habitat, and the entire island is an excursion itself.  This is one of the highest-rated dolphin experiences for cruisers in Nassau.  There are sea lions on Blue Lagoon as well.
• Balmoral Island – The ferry ride to Balmoral Island is about 30 minutes from Nassau. After your excursion with the dolphins you can enjoy white sandy beaches, 2 pools, the use of noodles and innertubes, and even free WiFi.   There are plenty of loungers by the beach to relax after your time with the dolphins.  There is also a stingray encounter on Balmoral Island.

9.  Dive with Sharks

You read that right.  Located on the south western side of New Providence Island, Stuarts Cove provides a very unique experience for thrill seekers.   Get up close and personal with Caribbean reef sharks on a 3.5 hour .  You will be within touching distance of 5-6 foot wild sharks.  How cool is that?  A Divemaster will feed the sharks with a pole, and it’s an electric experience.

There are 2 parts of the dive.  The first dive is a free swim near the Shark Wall where the sharks may follow you around.  They have been trained by the “dinner bell”.  The 2 nd dive is where you will actually feed the sharks and get to see these amazing creatures in a surreal way.   Don’t worry, the sharks want the bait more than you, but it’s still a great activity for adrenaline junkies .

Keep in mind that you must have your dive certification in order to book this excursion.  See more information on this .

10.  Visit Ardastra Gardens, Zoo, and Conservation Center

Made famous for the marching flamingos (a spectacular show to watch), this was the first zoo in the Bahamas. It is now home to over 200 animals on 4 acres of tropical gardens.

Any animal lover will absolutely love this place.  Visitors can hand feed the colorful Lory Parrots, check out the peacocks, play with the friendly domesticated pigs, and even spot a few lemurs.

The location is less than 2 miles from the cruise port.  The cost is $18.75 for adults and $9.50 for children 4-12.

11.  Visit Clifton Heritage National Park

Located on the western most side of the Island and near Jaw’s Beach, Clifton Heritage National Park offers hiking trails, ruins, snorkeling, and beaches.  There are actually 5 national parks on the island. This one is relatively new, opening in 2009.

There are 208 acres for the public to enjoy.  The park is jam-packed with a diverse eco-system that consists of cliffs, wetlands, dunes, coral reefs, and a variety of bird life.  It’s a great place for snorkeling the Coral Reef Sculpture Garden.  But many like it for just getting away from the busyness of downtown Nassau.  Outdoor enthusiast will enjoy the walking trails and a more relaxed environment.

The historical aspect of the park allows visitors to learn about the first inhabitants of the Bahamas, the Lucayan people.  Several buildings on the property are replicas, showing how these people lived.

12.  Go Swimming with Pigs

Sure, it sounds weird, but there’s a reason swimming with pigs near Nassau is such a popular activity.  The location of this excursion is actually in The Exumas which is an hour boat ride from Nassau.   Just the trip through The Exuma Cays is worth the trip, as you can soak in the stunningly pristine and turquoise waters around the islands.  It might be some of the clearest water you will ever see.

The cute little piggies are excellent swimmers and there are over 20 of them on Pig Beach.  Get your selfie with the piglets and swim around with them in a tropical paradise.  Kids love it, and it’s an unforgettable experience.

Some say the pigs got to the islands by surviving a ship wreck.  Others say that sailors left them there with the intent of coming back to cook them up later.  What’s the real story?  Take a visit and find out for yourself.

13.  Play with Stingrays

Don’t let any misconceptions scare you away from swimming with some stingrays.    The Southern Rays of the Caribbean are docile creatures that are more puppy-like than anything else.  Stingray City is a short boat ride from Nassau and is a natural habitat for these creatures.  These stingrays do not have barbed tails and are perfectly safe to touch and feed.  Get your camera ready for a photo-op because these rays will swim right up to you and might even ask for a kiss.

14.  Satisfy Your Taste Buds at the Fish Fry (Arawak Cay)

If you want great food that is truly authentic, eat where the locals eat.   Arawak Cay was built with sand that was dredged from Nassau Harbour in 1969.  Today it is known as the Fish Fry and is full of amazing restaurants offering authentic Bahamian food.

Restaurants as Goldies (Conch House at the Fish Fry) and Twin Brothers are some of the most popular eateries.  But there are plenty of places to tantalize your taste buds in this area.

Right off West Bay Street in Nassau the Fish Fry is only a short 1.3 mile walk from the cruise terminal.   So, you can hit some shops on the way back to the ship.  Whether you’re in the mood for shrimp, lobster, or even conch, any foodie will love the selections available at this location.

15.  Take a Culinary Walk Through Nassau’s History

Still on the topic of food, you can enjoy some delicious local food while learning about Nassau’s past on an .

This 2-hour historical adventure begins at Pompey Square and then leads to Christ Church Cathedral.  There you can appreciate the 1670 architecture of the first Bahamian church.    There are 3 tastings throughout the tour and you will see other sites like the Pirate Museum, the Towne Hotel,  Government House, Graycliff Hotel, a cigar factory, and Bahama Barrels.  The walks between shops are short, so it’s easy walking for anyone.  You will learn a lot about Nassau’s rich history, all while making sure your stomach stays happy.

16.  Experience Nassau’s Chocolate Factory

Graycliff Hotel is home to the best chocolatier on the island.   Not only will you have a chance to tour the factory and see how cacao beans are turned into chocolate masterpieces, but you will also have the chance to indulge your senses with some chocolate tasting of your own.

In fact, you can create your own chocolate using some unique ingredients like mango, lime, sweet-tomato basil, and bacon.  Who can turn that down?   An easy walk from the cruise port, this is a tour for the whole family.  And at the end you can shop for some truffles and treats at the boutique.

17.  Tour Around Parliament Square

Want to see some history on your own?  You can’t miss these pink, colonial style buildings that make up Parliament Square.  You can really get a feel for the British heritage Nassau carries when seeing the square that was built in 1815.

The House of Assembly, the Supreme Court, and the offices of the Leader of the Opposition are the buildings that make up the square.  Visitors can actually see the government in action and watch a lively debate by lawmakers when the House of Assembly is in session.  Judges and lawyers still dress in traditional British wigs and robes.

18.  Visit Fort Charlotte

Although it was never used in battle, Fort Charlotte is one of a few English forts on the Island and is one of the most impressive.  It is in fact the largest, at over 100 acres.  An easy walk to the west from downtown Nassau, this fort was built out of limestone in 1789.

The fort boasts a moat, dungeons, underground passageways, and 42 cannons that overlook the far west end of the harbor.  You can get tours of Fort Charlotte and learn more about life in the 18 th century.  If you happen to be in Nassau on a Wednesday or Friday, you can experience something special.  Characters dress up in period costumes and some of the cannons are fired off around noon.

19.  Ride a Bahama Jet Boat

Another activity for thrill-seekers, a ride on a is an incredibly fun experience.   You will see Nassau’s coastline in an ultra-fast ride full of twists and turns.   The 24-passenger boat will provide an hour of safe, fun, and exciting site seeing while zipping through the pristine waters of the Bahamas.  These things are fast, but the captains are well trained.  Get your heart racing, and try it out if you want an excursion in Nassau that will get your adrenaline pumping.

20.  Take a Glass-Bottom Boat Tour

Want a more leisurely boat ride in Nassau?  takes you to the Sea Garden where you can both feed and admire the fish and marine life.  Sitting 5-feet below the waves the vessel allows you to see clearly into the beautiful waters at this underwater world.  The boat will stay at the Sea Garden for an hour.  On the way to and from this location the tour guide will point out where several celebrities live on Paradise Island.  Some of the celebrities include Oprah, Jay Z and Beyonce, Mick Jagger and Bill Gates.

21.  Take an Underwater Scooter to Explore the Ocean

A SUB underwater scooter is a very cool way to really appreciate the marine life of Nassau.  You can take your own personal submarine into the water without ever getting your hair wet and have perfect visibility of the vibrant coral and fish.  It’s a 6-hour excursion in your Scenic Underwater Bubble, and it’s safe for any level of experience as long as you are at least 12-years-old.  The scooters go to 15-foot depths and travel at 2 knots.   The time underwater us only about 30-minutes, and that’s been the biggest complaint about this activity.

22.  Take a Catamaran Sail and Snorkel Cruise

Sure, you just got off a ship, but there’s nothing like sailing away on a catamaran to check out the very best places around Nassau to snorkel.  You will see lush coral reefs on this excursion.  Just the short sail to the snorkeling spot is very relaxing and enjoyable.  Upon arrival you will snorkel from the boat itself.  Flotation vests are required as the water may be fairly deep.

It is about a 45-minute sail to the snorkel location, and you will spend an hour snorkeling.  The captain will use the sail on the boat in most cases.   But the boat does have a motor if needed.  It’s a very cool experience sailing through the waters of the Bahamas.

Check out this .

23.  Take a Marley Resort Beach Day

Want to get away from the crowds but still enjoy a great beach with plenty of food around?  This might be the option for you.  This is an adult-only excursion that allows you to spend the day at a home used by Bob and Rita Marley when vacationing in Nassau.  It’s about a 30-minute car ride to Cable Beach where you will be let off.

You can tour the home and see memorabilia from Bob Marley’s life and then enjoy the private haven.  The private beach, pools, and hot tub are all included and lunch is provided around noon.  The food selection is based on the tastes of Bob Marley himself.   Check out this .

24.  Enjoy Some Bahamian Art

The National Art Gallery of the Bahamas is located in the historic colonial house of Villa Doyle built in 1860.  Any art enthusiast will appreciate the life and work of these Bahamian artists as their struggle and fight for independence can be seen in their works.  Each room has a theme that is reflected in the paintings and murals throughout.   It will take a good hour to explore the art inside the building and there are sculptures outside as well.  Admission is $10 for adults and children under 12 are free.

25.  Take a James Bond Adventure

This is the perfect excursion for you if you’re a fan of classic James Bond films.  The 4-hour tour and adventure will let you explore James Bond film locations through downtown Nassau.  You will then play the part of either a 007 agent or a rogue villain.  Missions (games) will be played throughout the tour.   As part of the tour a bus will take you along the northern shore and will let you off at a beach in Western New Providence.  This is where you will have an included lunch.

If you just want to get a basic tour of all the highlights of Nassau as a tour guide takes you around the island in an air conditioned vehicle you can book a .

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10 Best Things To Do In Nassau Cruise Port + Port Guide

Welcome to Nassau cruise port!

Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, is conveniently located on the northern coast of the tiny island of New Providence. Due to its proximity to the coast of Florida and a wide variety of attractions and things to offer, Nassau is one of the most visited and popular cruise ports in the Caribbean cruise itineraries. The Port of Nassau has been breaking records in passenger visits, averaging around 12,000 visitors daily in 2023. In this article, read about:

• Nassau cruise port (Nassau cruise terminal info, getting around, helpful tips)
• 10 best things to do in Nassau port and best shore excursions

Visit also our cruise guides to Freeport , Grand Cayman , Perfect Day at CocoCay , St Maarten , St Thomas

Nassau Cruise Port

Nassau cruise ship terminal is located in Nassau downtown, within easy walking distance from its main historic landmarks, shops, restaurants, and bars.

Cruise ships dock at Prince George Wharf cruise terminal , which consists of three long piers with berthing spaces built to accommodate up to six cruise ships. Despite a large number of docks, the distance between them is short and you don’t need more than 5-10 minutes to exit the terminal, regardless of where your cruise ship docks.

Nassau has invested over $300 million into upgrading the old terminal into one of the greatest waterfronts in the Caribbean. The brand-new Arrival’s Terminal Building features an innovative design and is still under construction.

The whole terminal area is designed to cater to cruise passengers’ needs, with facilities such as a welcome center, a Junkanoo museum, event and entertainment spaces, an Amphitheater, tour booths, shops and cafes.

Make sure to grab a fresh pineapple before exploring the city, check out the Hair Braider Pavillion, or browse unique souvenirs at the Marketplace.

Nassau offers so many things to do, from the downtown area located just outside the terminal to exotic islands and resorts such as the world-famous Atlantis. If you have booked a shore excursion through your cruise line, make sure to carefully follow the instructions on your ticket.

You will find zones in front of your cruise ship, which represent meeting places for tours. You will either be meeting your group at one of the zones or onboard, so be sure to double-check your tour ticket for details.

Inside the cruise terminal, you will find independent tour operators offering water taxi transfers to Paradise Island and the iconic Atlantis, and other tours and services.

Getting Around Port of Nassau

• The port area is flat and suitable for wheelchair users/people with walking difficulties.
• Outside the terminal, you’ll find an array of shops, souvenir stores, eateries, and internationally recognized brands such as Harley Davidson (opposite the Festival Place), Starbucks, Burger King, Hard Rock café, Senor Frogs, and many others. Get ready to be harassed as well, as you’ll come across countless local vendors offering car/scooter/off-road vehicle rentals, excursions, walking tours, day passes to famous local attractions, and ferry, boat, or taxi rides.
• Taxis are available outside of the terminal.
• Upon coming back to the terminal, you may be required to show a physical photo ID , so make sure you bring it.
• Junkanoo Beach is the nearest beach to Nassau cruise port (a 15-minute walk).
• The currency in the Bahamas is the  Bahamian Dollar (BSD) . 1 USD equals 1 BSD. US dollars and credit cards are widely accepted. ATMs are available in town.
• The high season in Nassau lasts from mid-December to mid-April, with warm, dry weather and pleasant temperatures. Nassau lies within the hurricane belt, so hurricanes and heavy rains may occur from June to November.
• Lynden Pindling International Airport is the main international Nassau Airport and is located 16 km/10 miles southwest of Nassau cruise port.
• Major cruise lines sailing to Nassau Include Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, MSC Cruises and Oceania Cruises. 
• Explore Nassau tours and activities
• Search the best Caribbean cruise deals

Watch my YouTube video about Nassau cruise port and the best things to do in Nassau!

10 Best Things to Do in Nassau Cruise Port

1. nassau downtown and beaches.

If you decide to skip an excursion and stay in Nassau’s vibrant capital, there are numerous things you can do and see. Here is the list of the top-rated attractions:

1.1. Woodes Rodgers Walk

This is the street parallel to the harbor, and you’ll spot it upon exiting the terminal. It is filled with cafes, bars, restaurants, souvenir shops, and numerous local vendors. On the waterfront boardwalk, you’ll come across the ferry terminal where you can catch a ferry to Paradise Island.

1.2. Bay Street

This is the main street in Nassau where you will find the majority of shops, restaurants, bars, and tourist attractions. It is located parallel to the Woodes Rodgers Walk, a 5-minute walk from the pier. The street is home to several historic landmarks, including Pompey Museum, Rawson Square, and Parliament Square.

1.3. Queen’s Staircase and Fort Fincastle

Carved out of limestone by hundreds of slaves in 1793 as an escape route from Fort Fincastle, Queen’s Staircase represents one of the major landmarks in Nassau. The staircase was constructed as a shortcut to Fort Fincastle, a defense fort built in the 18 th century to protect Nassau from pirates.

Both landmarks are located within a 15-minute walk from the Nassau cruise terminal and are well worth visiting if you want to soak up some local history. A staircase consists of 65 steps that will lead you to the fort from where you can admire beautiful panoramic views of the harbor and city.

1.4. Pompey Museum

Located only a 10-minute walk from the port, on Bay Street, Pompey Museum is a museum of slavery built on the site of the 18th-century slave auctions. Housed in an old, brightly colored pink building, it is a simple and small museum with an impressive story where you can learn about this dark period of Bahamian history.

1.5. Pirates of Nassau

At a stone’s throw from Pompey Museum, the fascinating Pirates Museum reveals the 18th-century history of the city when Nassau served as a pirate base. You’ll see fantastic artifacts, a replica of a pirate ship, and exhibits that will throw you back to the era of pirates.

1.6. Nassau Straw Market

Situated alongside Woodes Rodgers Walk, the Straw Market is a bustling market where you can buy traditional Bahamian handicrafts, authentic gifts and souvenirs, clothes, wooden toys, and much more. Bring cash and don’t forget to bargain, as you can get some amazing deals and quality stuff here.

1.7. Christ Church Anglican Cathedral

Right between the Pirates of Nassau and Pompey Museum, in King Street, the impressive Anglican church dates from the 19 th century and was built in an exceptional Gothic style. It is the oldest and largest church in Nassau with astonishing stained-glass windows and wonderful acoustics.

1.8. Government House

Only a 10-minute walk from the cruise dock, you’ll come across a 19th-century residence of the British Governor-General housed in a well-preserved pink and white colonial mansion. It sits on a hill overlooking the harbor and boasts beautiful gardens ideal for a leisurely stroll.

1.9. Junkanoo Beach

When it comes to the Nassau beaches, the nearest one to the cruise terminal is Junkanoo Beach, located within a 20-minute walking distance from the port. It is a nice beach to spend your day at if you want to keep a low budget and still have a fun day.

Of course, you’ll find the best beaches on the private islands and Paradise Island, but Junkanoo Beach is a great alternative as it’s free and offers a variety of facilities to enjoy your day. It is a sandy beach with clear water and great swimming opportunities.

Right next to it is Western Esplanade Beach , where you can find bar restaurants and sometimes there are live performances. These are the public beaches and expect a lot of crowds and noise.

1.10. Saunders Beach

You can reach this beautiful beach within less than a 10-minute drive from the port of Nassau. It is a quiet stretch of white sand with crystal clear water where you can snorkel right off the beach. It’s not crowded and you can spend some enjoyable time with your family and friends away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

If you get hungry or thirsty, you’ll find several food chains and shops across the street. Restrooms and changing rooms are available too.

1.11. Cable Beach

This beach is located near Saunders Beach, a 15-minute drive from Nassau cruise port. It is a small piece of heaven lined with hotel resorts, boasting crystal clear turquoise waters and white sands where you can swim, snorkel or simply sunbathe under the palm trees. Bars, restaurants and watersports are available. It is considered one of the best beaches in Nassau.

1.12. Paradise Island

Within and outside the cruise terminal, you will find vendors selling ferry tickets to Paradise Island where the famous Atlantis resort is located. The Paradise Island ferry terminal is located under the two bridges connecting Nassau and Paradise Island, and from there you can walk to Atlantis Resort.

Keep in mind that it can be very crowded on the way back (as most of the cruise ship passengers go to the island by ferry), so always save at least 1 hour for the transfer back to the ship. An alternative option is to take a taxi to Paradise Island.

Besides the Atlantis Resort, Paradise Island has stunning beaches, such as Paradise Beach, Cabbage Beach, Cove Beach, Smugglers Beach, Arawak Beach, and others. The beaches are public, so you can freely come and enjoy the Caribbean vibes on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

Explore Nassau sightseeing tours and activities

2. Pearl Island

This gorgeous tiny island is definitely my favorite when it comes to the Bahamas. It is nestled around 8 miles off the coast of New Providence and a 15-minute boat ride from Nassau. If you seek peace, sugar-white beaches, snorkeling, and delicious Bahamian cuisine far from the bustling city and tourist resorts, you are in the right spot!

The island is private and therefore it’s not crowded. You can take a dip in the crystal clear blue waters, enjoy frozen cocktails at the bar, relax in the loungers or climb the white lighthouse (the symbol of Pearl Island) for spectacular 360-degree views of the island. Island personnel is friendly and helpful, and will do their best to make your stay pleasant and enjoyable!

Explore Pearl Island tours

3. Blue Lagoon Island

I’ve been to Blue Lagoon island twice and both times I had a fantastic time. Blue Lagoon is located a 20-minute scenic boat ride from Nassau and is larger than Pearl Island. You’ll recognize it by the concrete tower that guards the entrance to the hidden lagoon and the incredible turquoise water surrounding the island.

On the island, you can meet dolphins and sea lions in their natural habitat, join eco-walking tours and segway rides around the island, indulge in grilled Bahamian specialties, kayak, snorkel, or swim in a secluded sugar-white beach known as Salt Cay. VIP packages are also offered.

Insider tip : Guests often don’t know the difference between Pearl Island and Blue Lagoon, and are wondering which island is more suitable for them. Pearl Island is very small and is a better choice for those who look for peace. Snorkeling and kayaking are the only activities offered. Blue Lagoon is larger and more crowded. It’s more suitable for families with kids because of the animal programs, an aqua park, and more family-friendly activities.

Explore Blue Lagoon excursions

4. Balmoral Island

Another gorgeous island awaits you just off the northern coast of Nassau. Besides powdery sands and aquamarine water, Balmoral Island offers animal interaction programs (dolphin and stingray encounters), great snorkeling, delicious food, and a stunning beach where you can relax in the cabanas or sunbathe under the hot Caribbean sun.

Ferries run regularly between Nassau downtown and Balmoral Island, so you can come here on your own too.

5. Atlantis Resort

The world’s largest open-air marine habitat, breathtaking beaches, oceanfront golf course, Aquaventure water park, Atlantis casino, and hotel resort facilities await you on this incredible adventure to one of the most famous resorts in the world! The resort boasts numerous facilities and offers a wide range of activities and unique experiences such as:

5.1. Dolphin Cay

One of the largest marine-mammal habitats in the world where you can swim and snorkel in a deep-water lagoon alongside sleek bottlenose dolphins, play with sea lions, or kayak and paddleboard while adorable mammals swim alongside.

You can also sign up for one of the dolphin educational programs, or relax at the private beach while the dolphins cheerfully jump and play a few feet away.

5.2. Aquaventure Water Park

A unique, 141-acre water park, home to thrilling water slides (The Abyss, Leap of Faith, The Falls, Jungle Slide, The Surge….), a mile-long river with through tunnels, rapids, and waves, a magnificent water-play fort, eleven stunning swimming pools, and twenty swimming areas.

Set in a lush tropical environment, this water park is a spectacular attraction equally enjoyable for both kids and adults.

5.3. Marine Habitat

You can explore 14 lagoons with over 50,000 sea animals representing over 250 marine species.

Snorkeling, snuba, scuba diving, swimming with sharks, golf and tennis courts, a spa, the largest casino in the Bahamas and extraordinary shopping are only some of the things you can experience in Atlantis… the list is endless!

Atlantis also offers access to five miles of gorgeous white sandy beaches to top off your day: Cove Beach , Atlantis Beach , and Paradise Beach .

This place is incredible and should be on everyone’s Nassau bucket list! There are different day passes and packages, so based on your preferences and wishes, you can choose the one that suits you the best.

Cruise lines offer shore excursions to Atlantis, but you can also book on your own. Check the prices on Atlantis Resort’s official website

Explore Atlantis Resort tours and activities

6. Nassau Off-Road Adventure

If you want to explore Nassau in a thrilling and adrenaline-packed way, go for an off-road tour around the city and the island of New Providence.

You’ll stop at famous attractions and landmarks such as the Bahamas Rum Cake Factory (you’ll taste them and see the rum cakes-making process), Fort Fincastle and Queen’s Staircase, Fort Charlotte, Clifton Heritage National Park, plantations, historical villages, rum distillery, and many more.

Get ready to get dusty and dirty as you drive through Nassau’s rugged terrain and explore the hidden gems of New Providence island. Make sure you bring a driver’s license if you are a driver (but before that, check the tour operator’s age requirements!)

• See the list of Nassau ATV tours
• Explore Nassau jeep/buggy tours

7. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

If you are a fan of underwater activities, you should know that the Bahamas offers some spectacular snorkeling and scuba diving sites. You can opt to snorkel from the beach on your own (Cable Beach and Cabbage Beach are great choices), and in that case, make sure you bring your gear.

However, if you want to explore the depths of Bahamian waters, you should book a boat trip to Nassau’s beautiful coral reefs hiding an abundance of incredible aquatic life. The tours will usually take you to the Rose Island Reef , located only three miles east of Paradise Island, an exceptional snorkeling and scuba diving location.

Besides beautiful marine life, you’ll also find two shipwrecks that make this place even more attractive to snorkelers and divers.

Goulding Cay Reef is another fascinating reef located at the western end of New Providence that is said to be one of the best shallow-water snorkeling sites in the world. It attracts both experienced snorkelers and beginners and is suitable for people of all ages.

However, if you prefer to stay dry and would like to observe the aquatic wildlife from a safe distance, you can go for a glass-bottom boat trip , Seaworld Explorer (semi-submersible), or simply stay on board a luxury catamaran while the rest of the group snorkels.

Check out Nassau snorkeling and boat tours

8. Swimming Pigs

Swimming Pigs is one of the major attractions in the Bahamas! It’s a fun and unique experience where you get to meet these friendly guys living the Bahamian dream!

There are several locations where you can swim and play with pigs, the two most popular ones being Rose Island (Sandy Toes) and Exumas Island (Pig Beach) , both located up to 1-hour boat ride from Nassau cruise port.

Not only will you have the chance to swim and interact with sociable pigs, but you will also get the opportunity to enjoy the sapphire-blue waters, secluded beaches, deserted cays, snorkeling with sharks, and an array of fun activities.

Explore Swimming with Pigs tours and activities

9. Nassau Food Tasting and Cultural Experiences

Besides awe-inspiring beaches and fancy resorts, Nassau boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage that you can explore on one of the historic or cultural tours and experiences.

While there, make sure to taste the Bahamas’ handcrafted rum cocktails, delicious seafood, traditional mac ’n’ cheese, and a variety of authentic specialties, which are an important part of Bahamian culture.

You can book one of the food and cultural tours, or explore on your own. Some of the must-see places are the Bahamas Rum Cake Factory, Graycliff Chocolate Factory and John Watling’s Distillery.

Explore Nassau food and cultural tours and activities

10. Book a Private Charter

As Nassau has so many attractions and activities to offer, sometimes it’s difficult to decide on how to spend a day in the Nassau cruise port. Booking a private charter in Nassau allows you to design your itinerary and enjoy an exclusive sailing experience along the vibrant coast of New Providence and Paradise Islands.

Away from crowded touristy places, you can spend your day deep-sea or near-shore fishing, snorkeling, relaxing at a secluded beach, or sunbathing on your private yacht! Enjoy a fully private tour and let your captain show you the best of Nassau on a customized half-day or full-day yacht trip along the mesmerizing Bahamian islands.

Book a private charter in Nassau

Visit also our cruise port guides to Aruba , Bonaire , Curacao ,  Falmouth Cozumel , Costa Maya , Perfect Day at CocoCay , St Maarten , St Thomas , San Juan , Tortola , St Lucia , Puerto Plata , Punta Cana , Barbados , Antigua , Grand Turk

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for Solo Travel Over 50

50+ Unique Things to Do in Nassau Bahamas on a Cruise

In the heart downtown Nassau rests the busy cruise port receiving multiple cruise lines every day is the ideal launching point for incredible beaches, fun water activities, marine life encounters, historical landmarks, and more. Here I’ll unveil the (over) 50 unique things to do in Nassau Bahamas on a cruise to entice the history buff, adventure seeker, foodie or other to step off the cruise ship for an unforgettable day in The Bahamas.

As you’ll notice from the tips throughout , this Nassau itinerary is intentionally written for the first time Bahamas solo traveler and/or older traveler (I am over 50 and have been traveling solo FOREVER). Yet, anyone can use this Nassau itinerary it to plan and book a 4 day Nassau adventure.

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Is it Worth Getting Off the Ship in Nassau?

Can you walk around nassau from a cruise ship, do i have to do an excursion in nassau, ultimate nassau bahamas travel guide video, nassau bahamas packing essentials, 1 – nassau public beaches, 2 – local flora and fauna, 3 – marine life excursions, 4 – island hopping, 5 – paradise island, 6 – food in nassau, 7 – art & culture, 8 – historical sites & museums, 9 – resorts, 10 – shopping, 5 must dos in nassau bahamas, the perfect day in nassau downloadable pdf itinerary.

That is a big, fat yes . I revisited Nassau this year after a 23 year gap and spent a fantastic 4 days in Nassau solo and feel I only scratched the surface.

I feel for those only spending one day in Nassau, but you’ll soon find one day in Nassau on a cruise ship is better than none at all.

Since the cruise port is in the heart of the capital city center, there is much to see and do on foot once you get past the shopping stalls, crowded bars and throng of other tourists disembarking from the cruise ships.

Of course you can explore Nassau without an excursion. Many activities downtown and beyond are free things to do in Nassau, Bahamas, which is beneficial if you are traveling Nassau on a budget.

Without an excursion, you can just walk around Nassau or make use of the taxis, The Jitney public bus, water taxis, or tours to cover more of Nassau.

Despite the free Nassau activities, however, I highly recommend supplementing your day in Nassau with one excursion or tour to maximize your Nassau experience if your Nassau port time and budget allow.

You do not have to book your excursion from the cruise ship, or at the cruise port, either. In fact, depending on time of year and the limited time you have in Nassau, I recommend booking your Nassau excursion before arriving.

Need Nassau travel planning help before you arrive? Discover the 15 things to know before you go to Nassau , from getting there, getting around, the best time to go, top things to do in Nassau, Nassau budget tips, safety tips, and more to plan your first time travel to Nassau.

If you’re a first-time traveler to The Bahamas, also use my ultimate Bahamas Solo Travel Guide full of tips on culture, entry requirements, currency, tipping, using electronics, safety, and a lot more.

Here some ideal Nassau travel essentials to make your day of tropical paradise, relaxation, and diversity of exciting activities in the Bahamas much easier, if not more eco-friendly.

50+ Things to Do in Nassau Bahamas for a Day

The “gateway to The Bahamas”, New Providence and Paradise Island offer an immersion into award-winning beaches, colorful marine life, delectable dishes and cocktails, unique art, history, shopping, festivals, and friendly locals.

Let’s explore the top 10 categories of things to do in Nassau on a cruise that encompass over 50 unique, possible activities and attractions to fill a day. If you don’t get off the cruise ship in Nassau to try some of these, you’re going to kick yourself.

Nassau in a Day Pro Tips

• Disembarking by 8am allows more Nassau excursions available. Confirm port times in advance with your cruise line.
• Most of these Nassau activities can be accessed on foot, or you can take a taxi, bus, or water taxi.
• Traveling Nassau in the peak season is the best for enjoying walking and outdoor activities.
• Wear marine-safe sunscreen year-round to protect yourself and The Bahamas’ marine environment.
• Walking considerably on concrete, dirt paths and beaches, wearing comfortable walking shoes is ideal.
• Practice caution walking along and crossing streets. Bahamians drive on the left side of the road and may not always stop for pedestrians. Plus, many tourists are not familiar with driving on the left side of the road.
• Avoid hauling or leaving valuables unattended by bringing only the day’s essentials with you and saving shopping for last.
• For safety precautions, avoid the “Sand Trap” area west of Arawack Cay, and “Over the Hill” area, south of Nassau’s city center.
• Book all Nassau excursions and tours well in advance to secure your spot for your limited time in Nassau.

Yes, you can walk to the beach from Nassau port. Nassau’s public beaches are limited, but here are some accessible for a day:

• Junkanoo Beach – has water sport, lounge bed and umbrella rentals, and multiple outdoor dining and bar huts, is a public beach a mere 10 minute walk from the cruise port.
• Walking west toward Western Esplanade Beach and Long Wharf Beach, closer to Arawak Cay, provide a quieter beach experience.
• Cabbage Beach on Paradise Island can be accessed via a water taxi and walking, or catching a taxi. The entry is at Paradise Beach Club. There are no lifeguards or rentals on this expansive, quiet beach. Cabbage Beach is also closed on weekends. Enjoy a seafood lunch and local Sands beer at the outdoor friendly and fun Cabbage Beach Bistro at the beach public access way.
• Cable Beach has private and public entrances. Cable Beach must be reached by either the #10 Jitney or by taxi. Private entrance can be accessed through purchasing Baha Mar Resort day passes. Cable Beach also offers water sport, lounge bed and umbrella rentals.

From preserved local wildlife and colorful birds, to wandering lush gardens and boardwalk parks to spy pristine nature and ecosystems, visit any of the following for an hour or two:

• Ardastra Gardens & Wildlife Conservation Center – The only wildlife conservation centre in the Bahamas. $20 entry for adults. Open 7 days a week. Last entry at 3pm.
• Nassau Botanical Gardens – 18 acres of tropical flora covering over 600 species. Free to enter.
• The Retreat Garden – 11 acre lush botanical garden with exotic flowers and more than 90 species of palm trees. $12 entry for adults. Open Monday – Friday 9am to 4pm.

Enjoy the colorful marine life in their natural Caribbean habitat. These are 2 to 4 hour adventures that will not disappoint.

• Stuart’s Cove – this Bahamian dive shop offers 4-hour morning SCUBA , SNUBA and snorkeling adventures 7 days a week with complimentary shuttle service . Schedule your excursion and rental gear in advance.
• Green Cay Swim with Seat Turtles – before lunch Bluefinn Charters will whisk you away to Green Cay for 2 hours to snorkel and observe sea turtles feed on sea grass and swim with remora. Drinks and snorkel gear is included. You’ll be back in Nassau in time for a late lunch.
• 3 Island Reef, Pig and Turtle Snorkeling Tour – visit Rose Island, Pearl Island and Green Green Cay for 4 hours of playing with pigs and snorkeling with sea turtles and swimming with fish for the ultimate half-day Nassau adventure. Depart at 9 or 10am.
• Spearfishing The Bahamas – for groups up to 8 people, enjoy a half day of spearfishing seafood that will be caught, cleaned and cooked just how you want. Your desired catch dictates your fishing destination. Select morning departures from 9-11am.

Discover idyllic islands, swim in clear waters, interact with pigs and iguanas, and more with any of these half-day Bahamian island trips, most of which depart from Paradise Island Ferry Terminal and can be cancelled with a free refund. Check all terms and times to meet your schedule.

• Pearl Island Trip with Lunch – White sand beaches, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards, snorkeling, and lunch included. Just show up ready for 5 hours of fun. Depart at 10:30am.
• Rose Island All Inclusive Private Beach Club Access – take a motorboat to snorkel a tropical reef, watch turtles at the Green Cay sanctuary, then end at 007’s Private Beach Club serving unlimited drinks and lunch. Departs at 9am.
• Swimming with Pigs on Pig Island – boat to Pig Island to interact and swim with pigs. Lasts 3 hours and departs at 9:30am.

You could take a taxi to Paradise Island, but save money by walking a few minutes to the middle docks to find the Paradise Island ferry booth , and ride 15 minutes to Paradise Island for $5 (each way) for exploration:

• Marina Village – steps away from the Paradise Island ferry for shopping and dining.
• The Cloisters and Versailles Gardens – on your 25 minute walk to Cabbage Beach, stop to view the beauty of the 14th-century Augustinian monastery, imported from Europe by William Randolph, and gardens that over look the water.
• Atlantis Resort – this massive beach front mega-resort is a short walk past Marina Village. It houses restaurants, bars, a casino, aquarium, and the well-known Aquaventure waterpark with water features, nine water slides, and a shark-filled tank. You can book a day pass in advance for a hefty $190, which does not include food, drinks or, of course, gambling.

Take a flavorful exploration of Nassau to sample savory seafood dishes of conch, rock lobster and shrimp, fluffy light rum cake, or indulge in the local rum with a vibrant spectrum of Bahamian cocktails like the refreshing coconut-based Bahama Mama or Bahamian Sky Juice. Try the following for culinary experiences:

• The Graycliff Hotel and Restaurant – dine , have a signature drink , do a tasting in the wine cellar , the chocolatier , or the cigar store where you can see them make the cigars by hand.
• Rum Cake Factory – sample (and buy) traditional and other flavors of rum cake.
• Arwak Cay – enjoy delicious traditional fish fry dishes and shopping handmade crafts, just west of Junkanoo Beach. If you don’t want to walk, catch the Arawak Cay Shuttle for $20 roundtrip. It runs noon to 8pm.
• Hillside House – outdoor BBQ style patio with bar a couple of blocks off Bay Street.
• Potters Cay Conch Shacks – east of downtown, walk to a pleathora of colorful shacks serving up the day’s catch.
• Tiki Bikini Hut – one of the many outdoor dining opportunities on Junkanoo Beach .
• Rip Ty’d Taproom – savor locally-made craft brews over a board game a short walk past the Rum Cake Factory.
• John Watling’s Distillery – free tour, bottle making, rum tasting, or just a signature cocktail. Closes at 6pm.
• Sky Bar – sit on top of Margaritaville Resort for cocktails with a view of the water.

Better yet, take a guided food tour of Nassau for enjoying the most local cuisine you can indulge in in one day. I highly recommend the Nassau Bites and Sites Food & Cultural Tour for a yummy 3-hour tour downtown involving some of the above while learning about Nassau. Start times available for 10:30am and 12:30pm.

Part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, Nassau is not short on art and culture opportunities. Why not try stopping in at any of the following for an hour or so and support Bahamian culture and local artists?

• Hillside House Gallery – stop in to the gallery to enjoy local art when you’re enjoying your cocktail on the patio.
• National Art Gallery of Bahamas (NAGB) – glimpse Bahamian history and culture through the art of its people. Adults $10. Closed on Mondays and public holidays.
• Doongalik Studio Art Gallery – gallery promoting Bahamian artists. Free.
• Popup Studios – independent art studio and gallery dedicated to the preservation and advancement of contemporary Bahamian art and culture. Free.

Since its founding in 1670 by the British, the port city of Nassau has been burnt down, rebuilt, renamed and colonized, and has been the center of wars, pirates, slavery, international trade, and tourism. Keep in mind, Nassau is also the capital of The Bahamas.

So, it goes without saying there are quite a few historical sites, landmarks and museums ideal for the history buff to expand his or her knowledge of Nassau. Even better, many of these are free.

• Fort Charlotte – the largest of the three remaining forts on New Providence Island. Adults $5. Closed on weekends.
• Fort Montegue – the oldest of the three forts, it rests on the water front and is free to enter.
• Fort Fincastle – towering 18 th century limestone fort built in the shape of a paddle steamer, this fort sits on top of Bennett’s Hill, highest point in Nassau, and holds views of the harbor and Paradise Island. Best to visit during the day. Free.
• Queens Staircase – steep set of 66 stairs carved by slaves at the end of the 18th century and measuring 100 feet. The stairs lead to the top of Bennet’s Hill to visit Fort Fincastle. Best to visit during the day. Free.
• Pirates of Nassau Museum – learn all about Caribbean pirate history in an interactive pirate experience. Adults $14.
• Balcony House Museum – the oldest wooden home in Nassau refurbished into a museum. Free.
• Nassau Public Library and Museum – circa 1797, this former town jail now houses books inside the former jail cells. Free.
• Parliament Square – downtown square surrounded by “Victoria Pink” governmental buildings with a statue of Queen Victoria in the center. Free.
• Pompey Square – vibrant downtown square named after the slavery rebel Pompey. Free.
• Government House – imposing pink building on top of hill overlooking downtown Nassau, this is the official residence of the governor-general of the Bahamas. Check to see if tours are available.

Don’t want to explore alone? Take a 3-hour guided Cultural Walking Tour of Downtown with an 11am start time. Don’t feel like walking, opt for an eco-friendly 3-hour Segway guided tour of historic Fort Charlotte, beaches and lunch at Arawak Cay, which conveniently meets at 8:30am or 10am at the Nassau Cruise Port.

Here are the top three Nassau resorts where you can access beaches, activities, restaurants, bars and more should you wish to spend a lazy day in Nassau. Check in advance for day pass requirements and costs.

• Margaritaville Resort – at the base of Junkanoo Beach, this resort is a 10 minute walk from the Nassau cruise port. In addition to restaurants and bars, you can purchase a day pass to Fins Up Aqua Park . Adult passes cost $110, but do not include water sport rentals, food or drinks.
• Atlantis Resort – access via water taxi and walking, or taking a taxi. The Jitney bus does not go to Paradise Island.
• Baha Mar Resort – access via taxi or the #10 Jitney bus.

You’ve probably heard you’ll be bombarded by vendors to buy their wares and hand-made crafts when you step off the ship in Nassau. Well, tell them you’ll be back and save this activity for last.

As you navigate Nassau, you’ll soon find shops of all kinds dot the port area, in the city center and surrounding downtown, for locally made crafts to high-dollar free items.

• Heritage Village – pop in to spy the multiple shops after your visit to The Graycliff.
• Bay Street – the main strip downtown, this area will be packed full of cruisers in port for the day perusing the stores, restaurants and bars.
• Rawson Square – has pop-up stands for browsing local crafts.
• Straw Market – this imposing, yet colorful, building on Bay Street is packed to the gills with independent vendor stalls selling anything from touristy t-shirts to hand-crafted woven baskets and hats. It closes at 5pm.
• Festival Place Welcome Center – This yellow building you’ll see from cruise ship contains the gauntlet of vendors and excursion sellers to dodge when you disembark.

Believe or not, all of these must do Nassau activities are doable from the Nassau cruise port. You can’t do them all in one day, but partaking in one of them is a must . They will also inspire you to come back to Nassau for more.

Now that you know the plethora of the amazing things you can see and do in Nassau from the cruise port, would you like my recommendation on how to spend the perfect day in Nassau? One with a mixture of beaches, water sports, food, culture and shopping?

Having just revisited Nassau for 4 days , you know I’ve got the skinny on the top things to do in Nassau you don’t want to miss. And I’ve prepared it in a sleek PDF for you to have at your fingertips. You know this Nassau Itinerary is from actual Nassau travel, not a crappy, AI-generated itinerary with stock photos and misinformation.

I’ve done all of the work for you so you know it’s a Nassau day itinerary you can trust to get some of the best activities, fun and relaxation Nassau has to offer that can fit into an 8-hour cruise docking time. Whether you’re a solo traveler, older traveler, or budget traveler, this Nassau Itinerary is a steal .

So, why spend more time researching and planning? Grab this Nassau 1 day itinerary as a PDF . Formatted for sleek use on all devices , it not only gives you the realistic itinerary with walking maps, it also gives a complementary Nassau Travel Guide. Check out all you get, with clickable links, taking out all of the guesswork so you can go ahead and enjoy your epic day in The Bahamas:

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17 Best Things to Do in Nassau Bahamas Cruise Port

Nassau is one of the most popular Caribbean cruise ports, but it does not have the best reputation. In fact, many people choose to stay on their ship instead of visiting the port. This is a huge mistake because there are a ton of great things to do in Nassau Bahamas!

You can relax at the beach, explore the jungle, learn about Bahamian culture, and so much more. There’s an activity for everyone to enjoy in port at Nassau.

I’ve visited Nassau more times than I can count. Most recently, I visited in late 2023 on my family’s annual Thanksgiving cruise.

Some of my favorite memories in Nassau have been swimming with dolphins at Atlantis, taking a boat trip, and playing at a resort waterpark. This year, we opted for an adults-only all-inclusive which was the perfect way to relax.

Keep reading to learn what to do in Nassau during your port day.

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The Top Things To Do in Nassau Bahamas

1. Half Day Boat Charter

🕒 Duration : 4 Hours | ✔️ Book Here

One of my favorite things to do when I only have one day to explore a new destination is a private combo tour. The benefit of private is that you can start and end on your own timeline, and adjust the day to your interests.

The benefit to a combo tour is you can see the highlights off a destination in a short amount of time. You can tailor this charter to your own interests, but some things to do are swimming with pigs, snorkeling, beach time, and jet skiing.

The boat charter also includes snacks, water, and rum punch.

I have not done this tour personally, because I hadn’t heard about it prior to planning my recent trip. However, when I return this is the #1 thing I plan to do.

• Fit a ton of activities into a short amount of time
• Tailor the day to your interests
• Choose between the most popular activities in Nassau such as snorkeling with turtles, swimming with pigs, watersports, and beach time
• Move at your own pace with the private charter

Considerations:

• More expensive than other tours since it is a private charter
• Some activities, such as swimming with pigs, have a small additional fee

Check Prices and Availability

2. Paradise Island Resort Day Pass

One of the most common things people do during a port day in Nassau is getting a day pass for one of the popular resorts on the island.

Around 15 minutes from the Nassau cruise port is a resort island called Paradise Island. It’s home to many resorts and the best beaches on the island.

Many of these popular resorts offer a day pass. The day passes grant you access to the resort’s amenities for a per-person fee that is lower than the nightly rate.

Three Top Resort Day Passes:

Baha Mar – Baha Bay Waterpark

Baha Mar is my top recommendation for a day pass in Nassau. It’s a great combination between the following two on this list. It has a great waterpark and also upscale areas for adults to relax.

The day pass includes entrance to the Baha Bay waterpark which has 24 waterslides, 2 water coasters, a surf simulator, a lazy river, and a giant wave pool. With so many attractions, this waterpark is great to keep kids or active adults busy for the full day.

Baha Bay also has a giant infinity pool, 15 acres of beachfront at Cable beach, and private cabanas for rent if you prefer to kick back in a lounge chair with a good book.

Atlantis Aquaventure

If your top priority for a day pass is a great waterpark, Atlantis is a great choice. The waterpark at Atlantis is much larger than the one at Baha Bay. There are dozens of waterslides, 11+ pools, a mile long lazy river, and many more attractions.

However, Aquaventure is much more expensive than Baha Bay, so it may not be worth the upcharge if you don’t value the extra attraction options.

Riu Palace All Inclusive

If you’re an adults-only group and value relaxation over water parks, the Riu Palace is the right choice. This adults-only all-inclusive has two large pools overlooking the ocean and sandy beachfront access to Cabbage beach.

Since it’s an all-inclusive resort, you can drink and eat as much as you want during your visit.

This is what I did on my most recent visit and had a great time. It’s less flashy than the above waterparks, but much more relaxing. Plus, I was obsessed with the views from the infinity pool (pictured above).

3. Swimming with Pigs

🕒 Duration : 4 hours | ✔️ Book Here

Whenever I hear about swimming with pigs , I think about Fyre fest. Anyone else? For those that are less chronically online, Fyre fest was a failed music festival that was supposed to be in the Bahamas. One of the activities they heavily promoted was swimming with pigs.

Regardless, swimming with pigs is one of the most popular and iconic things to do in the Bahamas. It’s honestly one big photo op, but an opportunity you won’t find many places in the world.

The full excursion is a beach day on Rose Island, which as crystal clear water and white sand beaches. The actual pig portion of the tour is 30 minutes, which is honestly plenty of time.

You’ll have the opportunity to pet, feed, and snap some photos with the pigs.

• Unique opportunity to swim with cute pigs
• Great Instagram photo opportunity
• Includes a full day of beach time to relax in the Bahamian sun
• Most of the day is spent on the beach versus with the pigs
• Potential for pig poo or dirtiness in water

4. Rum and Food Tour

🕒 Duration : 3 hours | ✔️ Book Here

I love taking a local food tour every chance I get. It’s a great way to learn about local culture and try some new foods.

This rum and food tour is one of the highest rated things to do in Nassau. Its equal parts foodie and boozy which is perfect for vacation!

This food tour has multiple stops including:

• Smugglers Beer Garden for rum samples
• Rum infused chocolate at a local choclatier
• Conch fritters
• John Watling’s Distillery
• Eat and drink the most popular Bahamian foods and drinks
• Includes rum mixology lesson
• Small group of maximum 10 people for an intimate experience
• More drink than food stops so you may be a bit hungry after the tour

5. Island Sightseeing Tour

🕒 Duration : 2.5 hours | ✔️ Book Here

If it’s your first time visiting Nassau, an island sightseeing tour is a great way to see the island and learn about its history.

This tour includes transportation around the island with commentary from the local guide about the sights and history. Some of the places you’ll visit are the Queen Victoria staircase, a rum cake factory, Atlantis resort, the Graycliff Chocolate Factory and John Watling’s Distillery.

If you’re tempted to stay on the ship in Nassau, I encourage you to at least get off to take this tour to see the most popular parts of the island.

• Great overview of Nassau
• Stops at historic sites and popular tourist areas
• Educational and informative
• The stops are quick, so you may not have enough time to do everything at each stop that you would be able to do if you visited them individually

6. ATV Tour

🕒 Duration : | ✔️ Book Here

If the above sightseeing tour interested you and you enjoy adventure, this is the perfect Nassau excursion for you.

This ATV tour includes stops around the island such as Fort Charlotte, the Caves of New Providence, and the Queen’s staircase. It ends at the beach for relaxation time and an included lunch.

• Explore the island and see beyond the cruise port
• Spend time at the beach with included lunch
• ATVs may not be suitable for young kids
• It is difficult to hear on the ATVs, so expect less commentary than a bus sightseeing tour

7. Pearl Island Relaxation

🕒 Duration : 5 hours | ✔️ Book Here

Looking to relax? This Pearl Island private cabana is for you. Pearl island is a great alternative to a beach resort because it’s tailored to cruise visitors.

Pearl island is a small island off of Nassau with beaches, excursions, and amenities such as restaurants and restrooms.

This Pearl Island cabana rental includes a boat ride to and from the cruise ship port, an oceanside cabana with a private server, a welcome cocktail, lunch, and snorkeling equipment.

• Private cabana is perfect for a romantic escape or families
• Inclusive food and snorkeling makes it a full day of fun
• Access to two white sand beaches for swimming and relaxing
• Since it’s an island, you will have to start and end the activity at a set time, having less flexibility than a resort day pass

8. Cabbage Beach Day

Cabbage beach is the #1 beach in Nassau. It’s where you’ll find the most popular resorts such as Atlantis and the Four Seasons.

You can visit Cabbage beach through a resort pass, mentioned above, if you want amenities such as restrooms and bar service.

Alternatively, you can visit on your own since the entire beach is public. Simply pack your own towel, snacks, and water from the ship.

9. Walk to Junkanoo Beach

If you’re looking for an activity next to the port, Junkanoo beach is a good walkable option. I have not been personally, but have heard varied opinions.

Some people love that it’s walking distance and love spending the day there. Other people share that it is overcrowded, a little dirty, and not worth getting off the ship.

I’d recommend Junkanoo beach if you simply want to walk along the beach or visit for a short amount of time before heading back to downtown Nassau.

If you want a long beach day, I recommend Cabbage beach (mentioned above).

10. Historic Bike Tour

🕒 Duration : 4.5 hours | ✔️ Book Here

This bike tour is a combination of exercise, sightseeing, and a food tour. It includes stops at popular landmarks where you can learn about the island’s history.

You will also visit food and drink stops such as rum, chocolate, and conch fritters.

• Guided tour to learn about the island and try tasty local food
• Good way to get some light exercise
• It might be too hot in the middle of the day for exercise

11. Snorkeling Tour

🕒 Duration :4 hours | ✔️ Book Here

There is great snorkeling in many popular Caribbean cruise ports . Nassau is no different.

On this snorkel tour, you will embark from the cruise port to a popular snorkeling spot with potential animal sightings such as turtles and stingrays.

From there, you will continue on to Rose Island for swimming, beach time, and a grilled lunch.

• Combination of snorkeling and beach
• Potential to see turtles and stingrays
• Snorkeling quality may be better at a different port on your cruise

12. Sportfishing

🕒 Duration : 8 hours | ✔️ Book Here

If you’re into fishing, this private yacht sportfishing tour is for you. Since this is a private tour, you can customize it to your interests. Some things to choose from are fishing, snorkeling, beach time, sightseeing, and swimming with pigs.

Unlike other boat charters, this one is specifically outfitted for fishing with equipment, coolers, and ice.

• Flexible day on a private yacht
• Tailor the activities to your interests
• More expensive than some other excursions on this list

13. Explore Fort Charlotte

Fort Charlotte in the Bahamas is best known for its beautiful views of the harbor, its cannons, and its fortifications, making it an ideal spot for sightseeing.

Additionally, the fort is home to a number of historical sites that provide an interesting insight into the country’s history.

One of the most popular activities at the fort is a guided tour, which includes a visit to the dungeons and the ramparts.

Other activities include exploring the inner courtyard, climbing the stairs to the highest point of the fort for a stunning view, and visiting the barracks and powder magazine.

If you’re interested in historic forts, I’ve also heard good things about Fort Fincastle.

14. Visit the Straw Market

Explore the Straw Market for local crafts, souvenirs, and handmade items, including straw bags and hats. This is not a full-day activity, but is a good stop either to or from the cruise port.

It’s expected to negotiate with the local vendors. I’d expect to pay around 60% of the initial listed price for any item.

15. Visit the Pirate Museum

Learn about Nassau’s pirate history at the Pirates Museum , featuring interactive exhibits and displays. Since the museum is indoors, this is a great activity if there is bad weather or you need a break from the sun.

The entire museum is interactive with exhibits such as a shanty town, flag room, and recreation of the pirate trials. There are also exhibits dedicated to famous pirates such as Blackbeard and Anne Bonny.

As of 2023, admission is $14 for adults and $7 for children under 18.

16. Experience Fish Fry in Fish Fry

Arawak Cay is a part of Nassau known for having many local restaurants. It’s commonly referred to as “Fish Fry” since there are so many fish fries in the area.

A Fish Fry is a traditional Bahamian event that usually involves cooking and eating a variety of freshly-caught fish, such as grouper, snapper, and yellowtail. The ingredients typically used in Bahamian Fish Fry are garlic, onion, thyme, seasoning, and a variety of other spices, depending on the preference of the cook.

The fish is fried in oil and served with sides such as potatoes, coleslaw, and macaroni and cheese. It is a popular and traditional meal in the Bahamas and is enjoyed by both locals and visitors alike.

If you get hungry during your day in Nassau, head to this part of the island to try it for yourself.

17. Visit Ardastra Gardens, Zoo, and Conservation Centre

The Ardastra Gardens are the only conservation center in the Bahamas. The initial goal of the gardens was to bring visitors peace, and act as a home for the endangered Caribbean flamingos.

Now, Ardastra is home to over 135 animals and interactive exhibits. You can feed tortoises, see tropical birds, or water the flamingo show.

The gardens are open seven days a week. The entrance rates as of 2023 are $35 for adults and $25 for kids.

FAQ – Nassau Bahamas Cruise Port

Yes! It is definitely worth visiting Nassau Bahamas. If you’re visiting on a cruise, be sure to get off the ship to explore. There are many fun things to do in Nassau such as snorkeling, swimming with pigs, touring the island, or relaxing at the beach.

To get to the official taxi line, walk through the cruise terminal, following signs for the taxis. You will exit past a fence, then see many taxi drivers offering tours and rides. Any of these official taxis are safe to take. Expect to pay around $8 per person to get to paradise island.

Yes, you can just walk around Nassau. From the cruise port, you can walk to the Straw Market, downtown shopping, and Junkanoo beach. The port was also recently renovated, so you can walk around there to visit an art gallery, souvenir shop, or food stall.

Summary of What to Do in Nassau

By now, you should be convinced there are many amazing things to do in Nassau Bahamas port. I hope I’ve convinced you that Nassau is worth visiting and you should get off the ship and go on a guided tour or explore on your own.

Still deciding what to do? Here are my top three choices:

Best for families : Half Day Private Boat Charter

Best for beach lovers : Baha Mar Day Pass

Best for foodies : Rum and Food Tour

Be sure to check out my guide to what to wear on a cruise to plan out all your outfits for Nassau and the rest of your trip!

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• Royal Caribbean Western Caribbean Cruise Tips And Itinerary
• Best and Worst Caribbean Cruise Ports for Vacationers
• CocoCay Bahamas Things To Do & One Day Itinerary
• Top Things To Do In Roatan – What To Do In Roatan Honduras In One Day
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Lauren is the creator of The Traveling Moore blog. She's travel obsessed, having been to nearly 50 countries and all 7 continents. She has a full time corporate job, and loves showing others that it's still possible to travel the world with limited PTO hours. Lauren is also travel hacking obsessed, finding every way to travel more often and more luxuriously.

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The Traveling Drifter

22 Great Things To Do In Nassau Bahamas When On A Cruise

Are you planning a cruise to Nassau Bahamas and wondering what to do when you get there? You’re in luck! This stunning Caribbean destination has a plethora of activities that will make your visit unforgettable. From soaking up the sun on pristine beaches to exploring vibrant local markets there are many great things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise.

One of the best things about Nassau is its rich history, which is evident in its architecture, museums, and cultural landmarks. Take a stroll through the historic town of Nassau and see the iconic pastel-colored buildings that line the streets. Whatever your interests, Nassau is sure to captivate you with its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

You will find many great things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise once you make it to port. Whether you are looking to shop, discover the beaches, tour the history, or take in the many wonders of Atlantis, Nassau has you covered.

The Basics To Know Of Nassau

So you got to port, you are in Nassau, but what do you really know about it? Language? Currency? Location? Should you drive?

The Bahamas is an archipelago island group. Nassau is the capital of The Bahamas on an island called New Providence. You will also be in the Eastern Time Zone. Do take note that The Bahamas are in a high activity zone for tropical storms and hurricanes during the warmer months of the year.

Because of the warm weather and close proximity to The United States, Nassau is one of the most popular cruise ship ports. The port, Prince George Wharf has been going through renovations and puts you right in the heart of the city. Once you get out of the port, you are thrown into the bustling city of shops, taxis, and restaurants.

If you are an English-speaking citizen, you will not have a hard time communicating in The Bahamas since English is the official language. The Bahamas was once an English colony and English stayed as a language.

The official currency is the Bahamian Dollar. If you are an American with U.S. Dollars, you do not need to worry about exchanging them. Nassau will take U.S. currency and credit cards. If you want to though, there are plenty of banks on Parliament Street, which is close to the cruise terminal.

As for driving, The Bahamas was once a British colony and adopted driving on the left side of the road. Take a look later on in this post for getting around Nassau.

A Brief History Of Nassau

Nassau was founded in 1670 by British nobles who brought settlers with them. They established a fort called, Charles Town but it was burned to the ground in 1684. In 1695, it was rebuilt by the new Governor, Nicholas Trott, and renamed Nassau in honor of King William III.

During this time, the slave trade was working hard between all the British colonies, Europe and Africa with The Bahamas largely involved. Much of the influences in The Bahamas come from the strong background of descendants of slaves in the country.

In the early 1710s of Nassau, the city was governed loosely and it became a strong pirate haven. At one time there were over 1,000 pirates living on New Providence Island and proclaimed Nassau a pirate republic.

In 1718, the British appointed Captain Wood Rogers as Royal Governor to quell the pirate problem. He succeeded and brought Nassau back to British control by 1720.

During the American Revolution, Nassau prospered economically with the influx of Loyalists and the slaves they brought with them. Nassau greatly prospered again in the 1920s and 1930s because of prohibition in The United States.

The Bahamas gained its independence from Britain on July 10th, 1973.

Things To Do In Nassau Bahamas When On A Cruise

Nassau will have many things to choose from while on a cruise . The city is loaded with many different options. Each time you come to port, you could do a completely different style of adventure.

Most cruises will be in port for a half day or so and will most likely have activities that you can purchase. However, many people like to head out and adventure on their own and make their own discoveries. If that is you, then this list of activities is for you.

Special Note: If you are looking for some great tips when cruising for what you should expect, check out this page by my friend,  Semi Pro Cruiser  for all your needs while on board.

I hope that through this list of options, you will find your own adventure. Enjoy these different things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise.

Historic Sites to see in Nassau when on a cruise

As you read earlier, Nassau is full of great history. British, African, and Native peoples have greatly influenced the city. Nassau has some great historical sites to see. This is a great start while looking for things to do in Nassau Bahamas while on a cruise.

1. Queen’s Staircase

The Queen’s Staircase is 102 ft high and consists of 66 steps. This staircase was carved between the years of 1793 and 1794 by 600 slaves out of solid limestone. The Queen’s Staircase was named in honor of Queen Victoria, who reigned from 1837 to 1901 for The United Kingdom. She abolished slavery in the British Empire and the staircase was named in her honor.

You will find the staircase between high stone walls with tropical plants and trees surrounding it. On one of the sides of the staircase is water cascading down to a pool. The staircase is right next to Fort Fincastle, which resides on top of Bennett’s Hill, Nassau’s highest point.

2. Fort Fincastle

Fort Fincastle was built on top of Bennett’s Hill in 1793 by Lord Dunmore. This fort was built to protect Nassau and the harbor from pirates. It is named Fort Fincastle in honor of Lord Dunmore and his official second title, Viscount Fincastle. The fort hosted 2 24-pounders, 2 32-pounders, 2 12-pounder canons, and a single howitzer.

Sitting just up from The Queen’s Staircase, Fort Fincastle was constructed out of the same limestone. Fort Fincastle and The Queen’s Staircase go hand in hand together while touring since they are connected. While in the fort, prepare to take in amazing views of Nassau, Paradise Island, and the ocean.

3. Pirates Of Nassau Museum

If you are into pirates at all, then this is your place! Pirates of Nassau is your pirate museum dream come true! Nassau was at the heart of the Golden Age of Piracy that lasted for thirty years from 1690 to 1720.

Start your journey on the docks next to a replica ship built in the museum. As you walk through the exhibits that include, Women Pirates, Marooned, and Trials; you will learn all about the history of piracy.

During your journey at Pirates of Nassau Museum, you will learn about famous pirates that called Nassau home. Those pirates include Benjamin Hornigold, Henry Jennings, Edward Teach (Blackbeard), Stede Bonnet, Charles Vane, “Calico” Jack Rackham, Anne Bonny, and Mary Read.

This is not something you want to miss while visiting Nassau.

4. Fort Charlotte

Fort Charlotte was built in 1789 by Lord Dunmore. It was named Fort Charlotte in honor of the wife of King George III, Queen Charlotte. Fort Charlotte is the largest of the three forts around Nassau. The fort was built to protect Nassau from pirates and Spanish invaders.

Fort Charlotte sits about one mile west of downtown Nassau. It has a water-less moat, drawbridge, dungeons, and ramparts. While touring the fort you will be able to see spectacular views of Nassau Harbor and Paradise Island.

Beaches to go to in Nassau when on a cruise

Beaches are always a great option everywhere you go while on a cruise. And while in Nassau, this is no exception. You will have the option of choosing between many different beaches.

The Bahamas are surrounded by some of the most beautiful water. Finding a great beach on this water is not hard to do while you are visiting Nassau. The more you come to Nassau, the more beaches you get to visit.

5. Junkanoo Beach

Junkanoo Beach is a great beach for those that do not want to venture too far from their cruise ship. This beach is located just a mile from the cruise port by downtown Nassau. A great thing about this beach is that it is a bit small than the rest of the beaches around Nassau, so it usually stays less busy. Though at times it can get crowded.

Junkanoo Beach also hosts some great little restaurants so you can get the taste of the Bahamas while there. While enjoying the water, you are able to snorkel and paddleboard. At times, be prepared to see live bands or a DJ while enjoying your beach time.

6. Cable Beach

Cable Beach is about 6 miles west of the cruise port and is one of the most crowded beaches in Nassau. This beach hosts some of the most popular all-inclusive resorts in the area. The 2.5-mile-long beach has lots of activities and watersports to do while there.

Cable Beach is a free beach to visit unless you want to use some of the hotel amenities there. You will be able to find many bars and restaurants along the beach as you are enjoying your day. When you think of the perfect beaches in the Bahamas, this is the one that will come to mind.

7. Cabbage Beach

Cabbage Beach can be found on the north side of Paradise Island. You will need to rent a taxi or ride a bus to get there. This beautiful, white sand beach makes for the perfect day for laying out in the sun. You will have the ability to rent beach chairs and umbrellas from the beach club if you are looking to relax a little more.

If swimming at Cabbage Beach, be cautious because the waves will be bigger and the rip tides are strong. There are no lifeguards on this beach, so just be aware of the water. Though, there is a lot to do on the water from kayaks, jet skis, and banana boats. Be prepared for the beach to fill up with people that can turn into a fun party on the beach too.

8. Love Beach

Love Beach is about 10 miles from downtown Nassau which is about a 20-minute ride. This beach is located on the north side of New Providence Island. You will notice that this beach has a completely different feel than the busy Cable Beach.

Love Beach is a much more laid-back beach area. If you are into snorkeling, this is one of the best places to go to in Nassau. There are close to 40 acres of protected coral to discover as you snorkel the waters. When you are finished with your day of sun and water, have a drink at the Nirvana Beach Bar.

Fun things to do in the water

If you are looking for plenty of things to do in the water, you can’t beat Nassau and the Bahamas. Being an archipelago, the water is all over the place with amazing beaches. There are so many different things to choose from when finding things to do in the water. Some are well known like snorkeling, swimming, and jet skiing; while others will be new, like swimming with pigs!

9. Blue Lagoon Island

Blue Lagoon Island, also known as Salt Cay is located just northeast of Paradise Island and is a short 40-minute boat ride from Nassau. This can be an all-day event for you and your family with plenty to do. There are so many options to do while visiting Blue Lagoon Island.

Blue Lagoon Island is an all-exclusive island that you would buy a day pass to enjoy. You will enjoy secluded beaches that are private. Enjoy many water activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and water biking.

If you are looking for a more relaxing time, lay back in a hammock or float around in the crystal blue waters on an inner tube. Enjoy some great food and drinks before you go for a walk around the island to see some great wildlife. Take some time to go to the marine park to see dolphins and sea lions.

• Get The Best Deal On Blue Lagoon Island Tickets Here

10. Swim With Pigs

Only 25 minutes from Nassau and Paradise Island, you can get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, swimming with pigs. You will be able to find this great adventure at Sandy Toes on Rose Island, which is just west of Blue Lagoon Island. Sandy Toes is home to an amazing sanctuary of protected wildlife.

In this sanctuary, you will find ocean coral reef life, peacocks, lizards, and 9 Rose Island pigs! The pigs are living their best lives and you will be able to open swim with them and have a ton of fun. The pigs are taken care of in an extremely great matter from their diet, to wearing sunscreen and getting plenty of love.

• Get The Best Deal On Swimming With Pigs Here

11. Glass-Bottom Boat Tour

With the crystal clear waters of The Bahamas, going out to see underwater is a must. For those that do not like scuba diving or snorkeling, glass-bottom boat tours are the next best thing to see the amazing underwater ecosystem.

By doing glass-bottom boat tours, you will get to see a plethora of amazing things. The Bahamian waters are filled with a ton of fish and coral reefs. Chances are that you will be able to see a shipwreck as well!

• Get The Best Deal On Glass-Bottom Boat Tours Here

12. Dolphin Excursions

One of the most asked questions that comes up when talking about Caribbean island cruise ports is, “Where can I swim with dolphins”?

Almost everyone loves dolphins and wants to interact with them. Swimming with dolphins is one of the best things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise. You can expect to swim, dance, kiss, and take a photo with dolphins during your encounter with them. These are the places to have the best dolphin encounters to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise.

Click the link to purchase tickets to each location.

• Blue Lagoon Dolphin Encounter

13. Dive with Sharks

For those that like a little more danger and adrenaline in their adventures, go all out and dive with sharks. The best place in Nassau to do your shark diving is at Stuart Cove’s. You will find this location on the south side of New Providence Island, but they will pick you up from the port.

You will receive your equipment to use before you head out on your dive. You will get to go to two different locations on your shark dive, “The Arena” and the “Shark Wall” or “The Runway” and “Shark Wall North”.

The first dive is a free swim as you are at one of the walls where the sharks will swim close to you. Enjoy the adrenaline of the second dive as it is a shark-feeding dive. During this dive, a professional shark feeder will feed the sharks as they swim and feed all around you.

14. Catamaran Snorkel Cruise

Hop aboard The Flying Cloud and sail in paradise on this 57′ catamaran on Paradise Island. Depending on what day you are visiting you will be able to choose between a full-day or half-day excursion. Depending on the time of day too, you might be able to get a sunset cruise in.

While out on the catamaran, you will get the chance to snorkel a beautiful coral reef, stop at Rose Island for a beach day, and see some amazing sea turtles. All of the excursions include an all-inclusive bar for your fun.

Click Here For More Information

Shopping and Eating when in Nassau

If you are looking for a more on-the-flow feel of Nassau and want to just walk around shopping and eating, the downtown area is a perfect place for you. As soon as you get out of the cruise terminal, you will be in the heart of Nassau and be surrounded by shops and restaurants. Take your time to venture out and find what you are looking for. Here are a few spots to make sure to hit up while walking around downtown Nassau.

15. Nassau Cruise Port

As soon as you disembark your cruise ship, you will enter the Nassau Cruise Port . The Nassau Cruise Port was recently completed in 2023 and it is amazing. You will find shops and restaurants lined up throughout the cruise port. I was very impressed with how the overall look of the new cruise port.

For many cruisers who do not wish to venture into Nassau, this is a perfect location to explore while you are in port. There is a great museum as soon as you enter the cruise port. Enjoy all the classic tourist shops, restaurants, and other activities as you relax at the Nassau Cruise Port.

16. Nassau Straw Market

No stop in Nassau is complete until you stop in the Nassau Straw Market . You will find the Nassau Straw Market in the heart of Nassau’s boutique shops on Bay Street.

Here you will find tons of amazing handmade Bahamian crafts, souvenirs, gifts, and hand-crafted items like bags, hats, jewelry, and so much more. Enjoy the amazing work that the locals work hard at. Don’t be afraid to negotiate on the prices as well. They do take US dollars here too.

This is a perfect tourist spot to stop at while looking for things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise.

17. Bay Street

Bay Street is the street to know in Nassau. This street is known for its world-class shopping. Just off of the cruise port terminal, Bay Street is busy and full of what you are looking for if you are shopping. You can get everything from high-end stores to your typical tourist gift shops.

Take your time to go from shop to shop as you will find amazing treasures all over Bay Street. Make sure to stop at the Nassau Straw Market or one of the amazing rum cake shops. Bay Street is a shopper’s paradise with so many options. Don’t forget to take a break and get some amazing food at one of the many restaurants along Bay Street as well.

18. Local Food to Try in Nassau

If you are looking for a taste of the islands while visiting Nassau, you are in luck. Nassau and the Bahamas hold a lot of great Caribbean food that you must try when visiting. As you walk around downtown Nassau, you will have plenty of options on where to try some of their great food.

One of the specialties of food you will find throughout Nassau is Conch. Conch (pronounced “konk”) is a major staple of food in the Bahamian culture. Look for many different ways that it is served, cracked (fried), as a salad, and as a fritter just to name a few options.

A few other specialty foods to keep an eye out for in Nassau are Rock Lobsters, Johnnycakes, Bahamian Stew Fish, and Souse. There are so many options for you to try while finding things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise.

Some great restaurants to check out great Bahamian food in Nassau:

• The Fish Fry
• Crab – n – Tings
• The Bearded Clam Sports Bar and Restaurant

Other things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise

As you can see, there are many things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise. A few more main things that you should check out are below. Nassau is a place that you have to visit multiple times to really get the full Nassau experience.

19. Check out Atlantis

As you have read this post, you have noticed a lot of amazing things on Paradise Island, which is a quick ride from the cruise port. But as you walk on Paradise or are taking in the sun at the beach, you will notice the large buildings on the island. Welcome to the famous Atlantis.

There are so many different activities to choose from while visiting Atlantis that it will be hard to find something that you don’t want to do or try.

Take some time visiting Dolphin Cay and Marine Adventures and swim with Dolphins and meet some amazing Sea Lions. Or take the family and enjoy Aquaventure, an amazing water park with slides, a rolling rapids river, and dozens of pools. Take some time to relax at the Mandara Spa and have your troubles leave your body. If you are feeling lucky, take a chance on yourself while gambling at their casino.

20. Ardastra Gardens And Wildlife Conservation Center

Ardastra Gardens and Wildlife Conservation Center was named from the Latin words ardua ad astra, which means “striving towards the stars. This name was chosen by the center’s founder, Hedley Edwards, a Jamaican Horticulturalist. He developed that 4-acre tropical garden as a nature preserve.

Edwards brought the endangered Caribbean Flamingo to the center, which then became a successful breeding center for the birds. The flamingos have been trained to perform acts for visitors of Ardastra Gardens and Wildlife Conservation Center.

Today you will be able to enjoy over 135 different animals while you walk around and take in the beauty of the tranquil gardens. This is a great place to get out of the bustling city for a little bit and be around nature.

21. Walking Tours

Nassau is a great city with a lot to do and learn about. One of the best ways to do this is by doing a walking tour. The downtown area of Nassau is very well laid out and very walkable.

There are so many different types of walking tours that you will be able to find one that works best for you or for your group. Whether you are looking for history, food, drink, or culture; there will be a tour for you.

Check out a few of these and purchase the best tour for you.

• Nassau Food Tasting and Cultural Walking Tour
• Nassau Rum and Food Walking Tour
• Nassau Historical Walking Tour
• Dilly Dally Walking Tour of Nassau

22. Visit A Rum Distillery

Rum and The Caribbean go hand-in-hand together. All the pirate history of rum that is known just makes rum one of the most popular spirits in the world. “But why is the rum gone?” – Jack Sparrow played by Johnny Depp, Pirates Of The Caribbean.

There are a couple of great rum distilleries to visit while in Nassau. Both of them are not too far from the cruise port and downtown. The first one you can walk to but the second you may have to take a taxi or bus.

Check out these Rum Distillery locations

• John Watling’s Distillery
• Luna Rum Distillery

How To Get Around When in Nassau

There are plenty of ways to get around while in Nassau. I will say, if you are planning on renting a car, be prepared to drive on the left side of the road since the Bahamas adopted the British driving system when it was a British colony.

Overall though, there are plenty of ways for you to get to your adventures for things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise. Here are the best suggestions for you.

• Rent a car or moped
• Use the tour vehicle such as a bus

Is Nassau Safe?

Wondering if Nassau is safe while finding things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise?

Nassau has about a medium safe/risk level if you are visiting. Meaning that as long as you stay in the tourist areas, you should be alright. It is all about being smart, going out in a group, and paying attention to your surroundings.

Nassau does have a high murder rate but that usually doesn’t happen in the tourist areas. It is recommended that visitors stay away from the area known as Over-The-Hill, which is south of downtown and one of the poorest areas in Nassau.

Another area of concern in Nassau is mugging. These tend to happen around hotels. The best way to handle this is to be in a group and be vigilant about where you are going.

If you can keep the pointers in your mind, you should be safe as you explore the city. You will see as you leave your boat, the city will be flooded with tourists all trying to see the same things you are. Stay safe and pay attention and enjoy Nassau.

Things To Do In Nassau Bahamas When On A Cruise: In Conclusion

Of course, there are many options to do when on a cruise when visiting a place. Most cruises will offer excursions that you can buy while on board. But as you can see, there are many things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise to choose from.

I personally love to get off the ships and explore myself. So if you are like me, Nassau is a great place to explore on your own. Nassau has a lot to do and to offer someone who is visiting for a port stop or spending a long time.

As you can see, you can take a cruise to Nassau a lot and still find a lot to do. I love Nassau and going as much as possible. This is a perfect location while cruising. I hope this post will help you find things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise.

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Shaun Hammond is the owner and author of The Traveling Drifter, a travel blog that has a focus on Charleston, South Carolina, Cruising, and Hiking/Backpacking. Shaun is a has lived in Charleston since 2007 and is an expert about the city. He has spent much of his time exploring and discovering Charleston to help travelers and locals get the most out of their Charleston experience.

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Best Things to do in Nassau Bahamas: 2023 Insider’s Guide

• August 7, 2023

Table of Contents

What is Nassau Bahamas Best Known for? Travel Tips in Nassau Bahamas What are the Best Things to do in Nassau Bahamas? Tours: One of the Best Things to do in Nassau Bahamas Nassau Bahamas for the History Buffs Nassau’s Paradise Island Safety and Crime in Nassau

What is Nassau Bahamas Best Known for?

The vibrant city of Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas and port on New Providence Island is known for its natural beauty – one of the most convenient ports of call for cruise lines with stunning beaches and a charming blend of the old world and the new in culture, art, and architecture. Experience the island’s culture at Junkanoo Festival, visit landmarks, and explore historical museums. Explore Nassau’s famous Paradise Island and the world famous Atlantis Resort.

Travel Tips in Nassau

The Bahamas are conveniently close to Florida and to most US ports. This makes Nassau one of the most called-upon ports in the Caribbean. If you book a cruise out of the US then odds are it will be calling at Nassau at some point. This means the city can be quite congested with multiple ships, and thousands of cruisers figuring out what to do in Nassau. The best advice that can be given is to be aware of and plan for crowding, long lines, and possibly fraying tempers. If traveling with children something to keep them entertained is in order. There are many beaches in the Caribbean. If you’re traveling with Disney, Royal Caribbean, or Disney then you may wish to save your beach and bar days for when your ship ports at its private islands. Instead, consider visiting the forts, going on tours, or experiencing other features unique to Nassau.

Is Nassau Bahamas Worth Going to?

Nassau offers many things to do depending on your interests so it might be worth exploring. Immerse yourself in the Bahamian culture, the sightseeing or even the parties. If you want to check out the city, there are a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as food tours, distillery tours, excursions, and walking tours. If you’re looking for some sun time, there are some great free beaches to relax on the sand.

How Many Days do you Need in Nassau?

If you’re not cruising on a tight itinerary, it will take 3 days to explore all the highlights in Nassau, from colonial-era sites to beautiful Caribbean beaches, with time to spare for a couple more island day trips.

What are the Best Months to Visit Nassau?

The best months to visit Nassau are from the middle of December to the middle of April, especially winter time. Expect nice weather with temperature averages around 73℉ (22.7℃) with highs reaching a comfortable 81℉ (27.2℃) in December, January, and February. Winter is the dry season in the Bahamas for calm weather to do some exploring. The islands are prone to hurricanes between June and November.

Can you get off a Cruise Ship in the Bahamas Without a Passport?

If you are a US citizen, you can take a cruise that begins and ends at the same U.S. port to The Bahamas without a passport. Though you’ll need to show your birth certificate and a government-issued photo ID.

What are the Best Things to do in Nassau Bahamas?

Is Nassau Bahamas Cheap?

When it comes to the cost of vacationing in Nassau, Bahamas, the answer mostly depends on your perspective and lifestyle preferences. Nassau is the capital city of the Bahamas and is known for its luxurious resorts, high-end dining, and a variety of entertainment options. However, it’s also possible to experience Nassau on a budget. Affordable accommodations, local eateries, and free or low-cost activities can make a trip to Nassau much more budget-friendly. Many people like experiencing the history and culture by exploring the city’s historic sites or relaxing on its beautiful beaches. It’s also important to note that prices can fluctuate based on the tourist season. So while Nassau can certainly be an expensive destination, with planning and budgeting, it can also be a very low cost experience.

What can you do in Nassau for Free?

If you decide to leave your credit card on your ship’s stateroom, here are some attractions in Nassau you can enjoy for free:

• Cable Beach
• Cabbage Beach
• Queen’s Staircase
• Fort Fincastle
• Junkanoo Beach
• Parliament Square
• Christ Church Cathedral
• Paradise Beach
• Prince George Wharf
• Straw Market
• Hillside House Art Gallery
• Nassau Public Library & Museum

Tours: One of the Best Things to do in Nassau Bahamas

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a luxury seeker, Nassau Bahamas tours promise a well-rounded and memorable experience. 

Historic Nassau sightseeing tours: Explore the city’s rich history with visits to key sites like the Queen’s Staircase and Fort Fincastle. Enjoy a self-guided walking tour of the city’s historic district, taking in the iconic pink Bahamas Government House and the majestic Christ Church Cathedral. If you want to learn about the history of Pirates in Nassau, check out the Pirates of Nassau Museum . The National Art Gallery of the Bahamas (NAGB) occupies a historic colonial-era home from the 1860’s and boasts an extensive collection of historic and contemporary Bahamian art. 

Walking tours: Simply stroll down Downtown Nassau shop district and get a knowledgeable guide by your side. Check out Nassau’s Straw Market, also known as the original island town market. It’s the inspiration behind all of the other island markets you’ll see on your cruise throughout the Caribbean. Although the original building burned down, the new Straw Market is a continuation of the island tradition.

Nassau guided tours: If exploring Nassau on foot isn’t enough and you want to see as much as possible, consider taking a quad bike tour — one of the best things to do in Nassau Bahamas. Many guided tours are available for different time ranges, offering a great opportunity to witness the beautiful sights and history of The Bahamas. The ATV tours feature different experiences, whether it’s the streets of Nassau or the scenic dunes of Clifton Heritage National Park. Discover historical sites like the Queen’s Staircase, Fort Charlotte, and the Water Tower. Some quad tours even take drivers to beaches, islands, and markets. Large groups or families can opt for buggy tours over ATV tours where the four to six seater vehicles with an open-air enclosement take you on a guided tour safely.

Swimming with the pigs: A Nassau staple for beach lovers – Take a boat tour from downtown Nassau so you can visit Pig Beach on Big Major Cay, an island uninhabited by humans but famous for its delightful swimming pigs.

Dolphin Encounter tour at Blue Lagoon Island: The most popular tourist destination in the Bahamas where you can enjoy the Dolphin Encounter tour , a one-in-a-lifetime experience to swim with the most intelligent aquatic mammal in the world.

Food tours: A visit to Nassau wouldn’t be complete without the must-try local delights like conch fritters and mac ‘n’ cheese. Join a food tour to get up close and personal with Bahamian finest cuisine. An option worth mentioning is a tour to six local, family-owned restaurants, where you can observe the chefs at work behind-the-scenes and even take home their famous recipes to try!

Rum distillery tours: Booze and cruise the right way with Nassau Bahamas’ rum distillery tours, where you can sample famous local rum. Since rum is one of the most renowned Caribbean exports, why not enjoy it fresh at the source? Nassau’s specialty, John Watling’s Rum , is aged in white oak barrels to produce a smooth, perfect flavor that symbolizes the warmth of the Bahamas. John Watling’s Rum’s focus on quality and tradition has made it a favorite to both locals and visitors.

Nassau Bahamas for the History Buffs

Nassau is the largest city in The Bahamas with a population of nearly 250,000, and the city has a long history. Although settlers have been there since 1695 the British government lost control of the islands throughout the first decades 1700s. Pirates ruled, and Nassau was the main base for such famous buccaneers as Calico Jack, Anne Bonny, and the dreaded Blackbeard. In 1718 the British finally chased the pirates out and restored control of the island, but it wasn’t until crown loyalists fleeing the patriot’s victory in the American War of Independence settled there that Nassau really got started. For those interested in engaging more with history, New Providence has several historical landmarks to explore.

New Providence

The name of the island the city of Nassau sits on is called New Providence. The island is rich in Bahamian history. Gambier, Adelaide, and Fox Hill are historic villages settled by slaves when the British shut down the slave trade. These three towns maintain a rich cultural heritage with roots that stretch from West Africa across the Atlantic to the Caribbean. This history can be taken in at the Pompey Museum which is home to a permanent display that records the African experience in The Bahamas.  

Other colonial-era sites to see include three forts. The first, Fort Charlotte , is just west of downtown and combines a history lesson with great views of Nassau Harbor. The Fort’s dungeon offers a different, creepier sort of history. Inland Fort Fincastle was built on the highest point of New Providence and offers fantastic views of the entire island.  Just getting to the fort offers an intimate view of history as the Queen’s Staircase, which must be climbed to get there, is the source of the stone used to build the fort.  The third and final fort, Fort Montague , has an interesting history involving the United States. It is the first place the United States Marines went ashore.

Its stunning beaches like Cable Beach offer crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling. The Primeval Forest National Park provides low-cost hiking trails where you can encounter rare and endemic species of the Bahamas’ exotic flora and fauna. The surf and sand are what most people expect on a cruise, and Nassau doesn’t disappoint. Montague Beach, Saunders Beach, and Goodman’s Bay Park (Cable Beach) are all close to downtown Nassau and the pier. All three are favored by locals and offer authentic experiences away from the tourist zones. 

Nassau’s Paradise Island

Across the bridge on Paradise Island, you’ll find what are regarded as some of the world’s best beaches.  It is also home to the world famous Atlantis resort . You’ll hear from other cruisers that this is definitely one of the top things to do in Nassau Bahamas! Atlantis is the largest resort in The Bahamas and the second largest employer in the islands, just behind the Bahamian government. Paradise Island is no sleepy place off of the beaten track, but a major resort with prices to match. Atlantis offers what may be the best nightlife on the islands with bars and dance clubs. The daring will delight in taking a risk at the casino. Kids too will have something to do – pools, play areas, and water parks abound. Some other features of the resort include the world’s largest open-air marine habitat, 11 unique pools, and an 18-hole golf course. 

Can I go to Atlantis Without Staying There?

You can visit Atlantis without staying there but there is limited access. You can only visit the shops, marina, and casino. Alternatively, Atlantis resorts offer day passes to book online if you’re keen on stopping by to enjoy the waterpark, marine habitat, or Dolphin Cay.

Is it Free to Walk Around Atlantis Bahamas?

You can explore some parts of Atlantis for free such as the marina, shops, and casino but most likely you’ll spend money while you are there. Without a Day Pass, you won’t be able to enjoy much of the resort. All non-hotel guests must purchase a day pass to access Dolphin Cay, the waterpark, the marine habitat, and the beaches at Atlantis. Atlantis day passes usually sell out quickly so it is recommended to book online ahead of time.

Safety and Crime in Nassau

In most tourist destinations, there are unsavory elements looking to exploit travelers. Nassau is no exception. Visitors, often unfamiliar with the area and carrying cash, become tempting targets for criminals. Exercise caution, don’t believe everything you hear from locals, keep track of belongings, stay together, and avoid deserted areas. The US State Department offers a program to keep travelers informed of advisories and security threats. Signing up in advance and paying attention to updates can be helpful for cruisers, even if they don’t have access to their phones during the voyage.

Is Nassau Walkable?

Nassau is a convenient walkable city, offering many things to do within walking distance as you venture away from the cruise port.

Is it Safe to Swim in Nassau Bahamas?

The waters in Nassau Bahamas are safe and perfect for swimming. However, there are some risks for tourists depending on the weather including strong currents, riptides, and hazardous marine life. Travelers should heed all posted warnings, refrain from swimming alone, and avoid areas with no lifeguards.

Is it Safe to Walk to Junkanoo Beach from Cruise Port?

You can reach Junkanoo Beach by foot with a 15-minute walk from Nassau cruise port and there are many shops and hotels along the walk so you will feel safe. When you disembark at the Nassau cruise dock and exit the port (It requires a bit of a walk down the pier and through the marketplace), make a right and head west toward Junkanoo Beach.

Can you Snorkel at Junkanoo Beach?

When you’re out at sea, you can paddleboard, kayak, or snorkel to explore the vibrant marine life while admiring cruise ships passing by. Try out the water trampoline if you want to feel the rush.

Can you Drink Tap Water in Nassau?

Tap water is drinkable in Nassau, Bahamas – something to note is that locals don’t seem to face any problems but if you’re a tourist, especially for first-timers in a hot tropical country, you might want to drink bottled water. Luckily, resorts and many dining establishments thoroughly filter and chlorinate tap water, as well as bottled water being sold at many stores.

Can you Drink in Public in Nassau Bahamas?

It is legal to drink alcohol in public in the Bahamas. Even though you can drink in public, you should always drink responsibly. In other words, don’t get too drunk or cause any trouble.

How old do you Have to be to Drink in Nassau Bahamas?

The legal drinking age in Nassau and in any other Bahamas city is 18. Alcohol is sold in liquor stores and convenience stores at all hours, except for on Sundays. You cannot drink or purchase alcohol if you’re under 18 years old.

Now that you’ve learned about things to do in Nassau Bahamas, make sure you’re prepared before cruising. Go Port is the #1 land-travel provider – offering a range of cruise shuttle packages from both the Orlando Airport as well as a variety of nearby hotels to Port Canaveral . Cruisers flying in who also need a hotel stay can book a Fly Snooze Cruise package that includes accommodations and all your necessary transportation for one low rate . Go Port’s hotel and cruise transportation packages will be available to reserve online up to a year before your sail date.

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30 Fun Things for Cruise Passengers to Do in Nassau

Traveling on a cruise from the East Coast? If so, then chances are high your trip will include a stop in Nassau in The Bahamas.

Located just about 180 miles to the east of Miami, Nassau still feels a world away. That’s because for centuries it was under the rule of the British (it’s now an independent commonwealth), creating a culture and atmosphere that’s distinct from the United States, despite the proximity.

These days millions of cruise passengers call on the port each year and it’s among the busiest stops in the Caribbean/Bahamas area. Of course, with so many tourists coming each year, Nassau has rolled out the red carpet to give all those cruise passengers something fun to do. No matter what sort of activity appeals to you — from adventures to history to food to gambling — the area has something that you’ll love to do.

To give you an idea of what’s available for cruise passengers to do on Nassau, we’ve rounded up dozens of ideas. Keep in mind that these are just a start. If you’re looking for more ideas you can check out what excursions are offered through your cruise line.

General Info About Cruising to Nassau

Before we get to the things to do in Nassau in a cruise, it’s helpful to get a feel for what to expect. 

The cruise port sits on the northern edge of Nassau and can see multiple ships in the port at once. So expect the dock to be busy. As well, a new port facility was recently built to welcome passengers, so there is a good bit to see right at the port.

From the cruise dock you can walk into town and there are a number of things to see and do within walking distance.

English is spoken in The Bahamas and U.S. dollars are widely accepted. The map below should give you an idea of the port area and what’s nearby:

Try Your Luck at the Atlantis Casino

Dock in Nassau and one of the first things you’ll see is the large pink hotel across the water. That’s the Atlantis resort — one of the most famous hotels on the planet, complete with a public casino.

Sure there is a casino on the ship, but it’s nothing compared to a land-based one. If you want to get your gambling fix, head over to Atlantis. In the complex you’ll find a large casino floor with all the games you’d expect — slots, table games, and even a sportsbook. There are also freeplay offers for new players so you can play without spending a fortune.

You can get there via taxi or by taking a ferry boat from the cruise port . 

Take a Walk Down Queen’s Staircase

This might be the most photographed spot in Nassau. A set of 66 steps carved by slaves out of solid limestone, it took a staggering 16 years for more than 600 slaves to complete back in the 1700s. Today the staircase is named in honor of Queen Victoria, who abolished slavery during her reign. Take a visit for a classic photo op. It’s only about a 10-minute walk from the cruise ship.

We especially like that it’s formed a mini canyon that’s covered with foliage across the top, making it a great place to find some shade and a cool breeze.

Go Yacht Spotting

Nassau is a playground for yachters. If you like looking at the boats, head to the Atlantis Marina on Paradise Island. There, located behind the hotel is Paradise Lake, which serves as the marina. You can see some expensive yachts here, and dream about what it’s like to own a cruise ship of your own.

Head to Aquaventure Waterpark

If you’re traveling with the family, then the kids will want to head to the Aquaventure water park at Atlantis. With waterslides, a river ride and nearly a dozen pools, it’s a day’s worth of activities and a fun way to spend your time in port. Kids will especially love the water slide that zooms underwater and through the shark pit. There’s no other slide like it in the world. Note that space is limited and you’ll have to buy a day pass in advance from the Atlantis website . As well, the prices are steep — $250 for adults at last check.

Head Out on a Powerboat for Adrenaline and Views

Feel the need for a little adventure? Then Powerboat Adventures can give you a thrill with a ride on one of their boats. The speed boats take you on an hour-long trip to remote cays about 40 miles from Nassau. You’ll see the famous swimming pigs, have the chance to feed stingrays, and also eat a delicious fresh lunch. It’s a bit pricey (more than $250 per person) but it’s a lifetime memory. And if you book online you can save 10%.

Have a Drink at the Famous Tiki Bikini Hut

When you think of beach bar, you are likely envisioning something like the Tiki Bikini Hut. The open air bar sits right on the Junkanoo Beach just a short walk down from the cruise ship pier. It’s got a party vibe with folks playing limbo and hanging out on the beach or playing in the water. Meanwhile the drinks flow freely. If you’re looking for a simple way to just hang out for a few hours and enjoy the beach, this is a good bet.

Take a 360 Spin on a Jet Boat

It’s a cross between a jet ski and a powerboat. Jet boats can sit about a dozen passengers and take off doing all the moves a jet ski can do. From roaring quickly over the water to insane 360-degree spins, if you have a pulse then your heart will be pumping. Teens and older kids looking from something exciting to do will have a blast skimming over some of the most beautiful water in the world. Check your cruise line’s short excursion desk for trips.

Learn About History at the Pirate Museum

The Bahamas has a long history of pirates, going back centuries. If you (or the kiddos in your family) are into pirates, then you’d likely enjoy some time at the Pirate Museum . With displays and exhibits of what it was like to be a pirate, you can learn a lot — and get a break from the heat of Nassau inside the air conditioned building. Be sure to get your picture with your head and hands in the pillory while you’re there.

Take a Tour of Fort Charlotte

Nassau also has a lot of history as an important colonial outpost. If you’re interested in the city’s past, check out a tour of Fort Charlotte . Built around the time of the American Revolutionary War, it was designed to be a defense outpost from the Spanish. Fort Charlotte is the largest on the island and just about a mile from the cruise port. There are also reenactments on Wednesday and Fridays.

Visit Parliament Square

As the capital of The Bahamas, Nassau is like the nation’s Washington D.C. You can visit Parliament Square, which houses the House of Assembly and the Senate. It also houses the Supreme Court of the Bahamas. Don’t expect anything like the U.S. Capitol. The pink building are much more approachable than their American counterparts.

Enjoy a Beer and a Snack at Pirate Republic Brewing Company

Located just a short walk from the cruise pier, Pirate Republic is a local brewery with a tap room serving up brews as well as awesome snacks. The spot gets great reviews and for good reason. The beer and food are tasty, and it’s a fun spot to hang out for those that want something a little different than Senor Frog’s.

So grab a beer and a burger… or Bahamian conch fritters… or a side of guacamole.

Hit the Beach…And Do Nothing

Want to keep things simple and cheap? Just hit the beach. One of the most famous is Cabbage Beach, just down from Atlantis. There is a public access but you will have to pay for a ride to get there. The sand is sugary white and the water is electric blue. Just be warned that it can get pretty busy on days when lots of ships are in. You’ll be able to find a space if you walk down the beach a little. ( See directions to the beach here .)

Get Out on the Water Aboard a Catamaran

If you’re headed to The Bahamas, then you no doubt want to get on the water. What better way than to head out on a catamaran? You can typically book trips through your cruise line. They usually last a half-day and include a chance to snorkel and a lunch. This is a great idea if you want to get out from the hustle and bustle of downtown Nassau.

Relax in Luxury with a Hotel Day Pass

Sometimes you just want to hang out by the pool, eat good food and have a waiter bring you umbrella drinks while you soak up the sun. Luckily, a number of hotels in Nassau will be more than happy to accommodate you. For instance, the Graycliff Hotel provides a day pass with a welcome drink, access to the pool and amenities, and a three-course lunch, as well as towels, changing rooms, and showers. It’s an easy way to spend the day while enjoying your time in Nassau.

Get a View Under the Water in a Semi-Submersible

Want to see the beauty under the water in The Bahamas but don’t (or can’t) want to go snorkeling or diving? Head out on a semi-submersible. These boats offer a comfortable place to sit and see under the waves all without you getting wet. You can book these trips through your cruise line, where it costs about $75 per person for the trip.

Take in Breathtaking Views While Parasailing

As soon as your ship arrive in port, you’re likely to see people flying in the sky, suspended by a parachute. Parasailing is a popular sport in Nassau and there are a number of vendors who will give you a ride. We suggest booking through your cruise line and NOT simply finding someone on the beach offering rides for cheap. Your safety is worth the extra money.

Spend the Day in Paradise at Blue Lagoon Island

If you’re wanting a day at the beach, then Blue Lagoon Island may be just the thing. Just a few miles from the cruise dock, you’ll take a scenic ferry ride over. The protected lagoon features pristine beaches with swimming in electric blue water, water sports, swimming with dolphins, sea lion encounters and more. In fact, it feels a world away from Nassau despite being only a short boat ride away. You can book your spot through the cruise line excursion desk. See our review of the day at Blue Lagoon here .

Explore Under the Waves with a Snorkeling Tour

As we mentioned you can take a semi-submersible to view under the water. However, it’s more exciting to take a snorkeling tour. With abundant wildlife around the island, there is a lot to see and a good guide can take you to the hot spots. As well, you don’t have to worry about bringing your own gear. Snorkels, masks, and flotation devices are available on any tour and included with the price you pay.

Party at Senor Frogs

You’re on a cruise. Chances are you want to party! If that sounds like fun to you, then you’ll be happy to know there is a Senor Frogs within walking distance of the cruise ships. Just hang a right out of the cruise port and walk along the water until you see the bar.

Walk over, enjoy the music, dance, have a drink, have a drink, have a drink, and then when you’re ready, you can stroll back to the ship. It doesn’t get much more fun than drinking cocktails in The Bahamas… although you might be forgetful after a day here.

Visit the National Art Gallery

Nassau isn’t all beach and shopping. Case in point: The National Art Gallery located just about a 20 minute walk from the cruise ships. 

The country’s National Art Gallery of The Bahamas sits in an 1860s home (Villa Doyle) that’s been converted into an exhibition space. The grounds feature an outdoor theater, a sculpture garden, and two stories of Bahamian art displays. (Our favorite is “Crawfish Woman,” which is a concrete sculpture of a mix between… well, a crawfish and a woman.)

The gallery is open most days from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., but is closed Mondays. Sundays open at noon. Admission is $10 for adults. 

Hit the Casino at Baha Mar

Sure Atlantis will get your attention — after all it sits prominently right by the cruise ports. However, it’s another resort that actually has the largest casino on the island. In fact, at 100,000 square feet, it’s the largest casino in the Caribbean. Inside you’ll find more than 1,100 machines and nearly 120 tables games for you to try your luck. When it comes to gambling in Nassau, it simply doesn’t get any bigger.

The spot is located west of the cruise port and you’ll need a taxi to get there. There’s a taxi stand at the cruise port.

Take a James Bond Tour

Nassau and James Bond go way back, acting as a backdrop for scenes in Thunderball and more recently Casino Royale. You can still see many of the filming locations today. Not sure where to go? There are websites that track the filming locations of the famous scenes so you can set an itinerary of what you want to see to walk in the footsteps of Bond.

Hit the Links to Get in a Round of Golf

If you are a golfer, then you’ve come to the right place. There are a number of courses around Nassau where you can squeeze in 18 holes while the ship is in port. What makes it so special is playing golf in one of the most beautiful natural surroundings you can imagine. It’s hard not to have a good round (even if your score isn’t so hot) when the backdrop is electric blue water. Check out the Ocean Club course or Royal Blue at Baha Mar .

Head to the Spa For a Relaxing Massage

Tired of the go, go, go? How about a nice massage to help you relax? With many people getting off the ship while in port, you will likely find discounts for spa services onboard while the ship is in Nassau. So not only will you pay less, but you’ll have a much less hectic environment onboard with the ship much emptier than normal. 

Shop ‘Till You Drop on Bay Street

Located just a block from the cruise pier is Bay Street. It’s a shopping destination with store after store for blocks on end. You can find anything you’re looking for when it comes to souvenirs — from t-shirts to diamond rings and everything in between. If the weather is bad when you are in port, this is a good option as the stores have a covered walkway between many of them. There is also the Straw Market, housed indoors with dozens of vendors.

See the Wildlife at Ardastra Gardens & Zoo

Kids and adults will enjoy a trip to Ardastra Gardens . The four-acre lush tropical garden with tons of flora also features a lot of fauna. See flamingos, jaguars, lemurs and more. There is also a petting zoo for the little ones who want to have a hands-on experience they won’t soon forget.

Experience Swimming with Dolphins

If you’ve ever wanted to swim…or paddleboard…or kayak with dolphins, then here is your chance. Head to Atlantis for the opportunity to experience these creatures firsthand in their 14-acre sanctuary. You can also rest easy know that the resort has partnered with a number of universities and is a member of several zoological societies. So you know that the animals are respected and cared for.

Try Your Hand at Rolling Cigars

The Graycliff Cigar Company is located just a few minutes from the cruise pier and gives you the opportunity to tour a real cigar factory. And if you want to try your hand the company also gives cigar rolling lessons where you can roll your own. They will even show you how to properly light and enjoy your cigar once you’re done. If you’re a fan of a good smoke, this would be the ultimate experience.

Stay on the Ship!

Ok, maybe it’s not the most exciting way to spend the day… but it’s your vacation. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with just hanging out on the ship when stopped in Nassau. It’s nice to relax and have fewer people on the ship. Many people use this time to book a spa package to pamper themselves while everyone is away or hang out by the pool with smaller crowds.

More on Visiting Nassau on a Cruise:

• Blue Lagoon Island (Nassau): Full Review & Is It Worth It?

Everything About Riding the Ferry from Nassau to Paradise Island (Atlantis)

• Guide Map: Get to the Free Beach on Paradise Island (Cabbage Beach)

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22 Top-Rated Things to Do in the Bahamas

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Aquaventure at Atlantis, Paradise Island (Paradise Island) Aquaventure at Atlantis, Paradise Island (Paradise Island)

Spread across a good chunk of Paradise Island, the Atlantis, Paradise Island resort complex is home to top-notch accommodations, a casino, a golf course and multiple restaurants. But the property's most impressive features are undoubtedly its water-focused amenities. In addition to offering 11 swimming pools and 5 miles of white sand beaches, Atlantis touts a 141-acre water park called Aquaventure, where you'll find a lazy river, a Mayan-themed water playground and more than eight waterslides. The resort also boasts the world's largest open-air marine habitat filled with sharks, rays, barracudas, eels and more.

Atlantis' marine habitat and water park were a hit with previous visitors, although some caution that the property is only worth stopping at if you're staying on-site, since day passes start at $250 per adult (ages 12 and older) and $190 for children ages 4 to 11 (prices vary by season). Popular attractions at the water park include the lazy river and the 60-foot Leap of Faith waterslide. At the marine habitat, travelers enjoyed watching various aquatic animals swim by, especially at the Predator Lagoon aquarium. Meanwhile, the Dig is an imagined archeological expedition to the lost city of Atlantis that visitors can walk through.

Blue Lagoon Island Blue Lagoon Island

If you aren't up for shelling out money for a day pass to Atlantis , consider Blue Lagoon Island (also known as Salt Cay) as an option. Located just across the water from Paradise Island, about 3 miles northwest of Nassau, Blue Lagoon Island offers plenty of opportunities for rest, relaxation and fun in the sun. Upon your arrival, you'll be greeted with white sand, turquoise waters and plenty of eye-catching tropical foliage throughout, including native coconut palm trees.

While here, visitors can lounge on the relaxing shoreline of Salt Cay, doze off in a hammock under the palm trees, take a dip in the lagoon, rent water sports equipment or meet one or more of the island's animal inhabitants. You can do the latter either on an eco-nature tour or sign up to swim with dolphins, snorkel with sharks and stingrays and have an encounter with resident sea lions.

Cable Beach (Nassau) Cable Beach (Nassau) free

If you're staying in Nassau and want to explore shorelines outside of your resort, chances are you will wind up at Cable Beach. Cable Beach is not only one of the most popular beaches on New Providence Island, but it's also one of the most popular in all of the inhabited Bahamas islands. There are several reasons for this. First, it's convenient: Cable Beach is about 6 miles west of downtown Nassau and it is awash with amenities, including chairs and umbrellas, and water sports rental equipment, as well as restaurants and bars thanks to its close proximity to hotels and the bustling West Bay Street. Amenities aside, Cable Beach is also downright beautiful. The sand is white, the water is clear and turquoise, and the beach stretches for more than 2 miles, leaving a good chunk of space for you to find a spot in the sand. Plus, the water is very calm and largely absent of waves, making it an excellent option for families.

Recent visitors called the beach beautiful and relaxing, with one traveler saying it looked "like a postcard." Travelers reported spending hours just soaking up the sun on this shoreline, and many of those who chose to snorkel were delighted at the fish and manta rays they saw. Some were pleased to find that the beach itself, despite its popularity and close proximity to hotels, notably the Sandals Royal Bahamian , wasn't super crowded. However, the activity from surrounding hotels did bother some visitors. Some said that the frequent Jet Ski and boating rentals can be quite loud and that the Jet Skis specifically have a habit of getting too close to the swimming area of the shore.

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Clifton Heritage National Park (Nassau) Clifton Heritage National Park (Nassau)

This Nassau national park offers an excellent blend of historical information and outdoor activities. Located on the easternmost tip of New Providence Island, Clifton Heritage National Park features beaches, snorkeling opportunities, important cultural ruins and lush walking trails. The popular Jaws Beach is part of this park, which (as you might have guessed) gets its name from the 1987 movie, "Jaws: The Revenge," which filmed some scenes here. As for snorkeling, this national park is home to coral reefs and the Sir Nicholas Nuttall Coral Reef Sculpture Garden, which features the world's largest underwater sculpture, called Ocean Atlas. Another major highlight here are the ruins left behind from previous civilizations, including a village where Lucayans (indigenous Bahamians) lived, as well as slave quarters when the site was a plantation in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Many recent visitors enjoyed their tours of the park as well as the friendly and knowledgeable guides. Those who went on the snorkeling tour were pleased with the amount of marine life they encountered and the fact that visitors can get their pictures taken while snorkeling. Others on the history tour were impressed with the guides' in-depth knowledge as well as their storytelling skills, with one traveler saying their particular guide "made the stories come alive."

Bahamas Diving & Snorkeling Bahamas Diving & Snorkeling

Beneath the surface of the Bahamas' waters lie a plethora of reefs, underwater caves and sinkholes teeming with aquatic animals, such as stingrays, sea turtles, dolphins, sharks and giant grouper. As such, it's hardly surprising that visitors flock to the Bahamas to snorkel or dive. Many local beaches, resorts and private islands have shallow areas that are ideal for snorkeling, while islands like New Providence, Grand Bahama, Andros and The Abacos feature world-renowned dive sites, such as the 6,000-foot-deep Tongue of the Ocean (between Andros and New Providence) and the James Bond Wrecks (near New Providence Island).

Many boat tours (such as ones offered by Island Time Charters and Exuma Water Sports ) include snorkeling in their itineraries. For diving, past visitors suggest signing up for excursions with companies like Stuart Cove's Dive Bahamas (on New Providence Island) and Sunn Odyssey Divers (on Grand Bahama Island). Each company offers knowledgeable and friendly guides, according to previous divers.

Junkanoo Beach (Nassau) Junkanoo Beach (Nassau) free

Popular with both tourists and locals, Junkanoo Beach sits within walking distance of the Nassau cruise port and attracts passengers who prefer walking to a beach to paying for a tour; it's also a lively weekend cookout spot for Bahamian families. College students also flock here from nearby resorts, giving the downtown Nassau strand its nickname, "Spring Break Beach."

Adjacent to the new Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau (which opened in 2021) and attractions like the Pirates of Nassau museum and Nassau's historic Straw Market, the beach is perfect for travelers who like to have plenty of drink, dining and off-beach options to combine with a morning or afternoon by the shore: the beach is dotted with beach bars – some little more than shacks – with swing-style seats serving beer, rum drinks and other refreshments.

John Watling's Distillery (Nassau) John Watling's Distillery (Nassau) free

If you need a break from snorkeling, boating or beach lounging, consider touring New Providence Island's John Watling's Distillery. This distillery is famous for its locally distilled rum, which you can sample and see being produced during a tour. Other spirits, such as a vodka filtered with pink sand from Eleuthera, are also made on-site. The guided tour is about 15 minutes long, and after you can head to the on-site pub to enjoy a cocktail. There's also a gift shop on-site selling merchandise and bottles.

Visitors who decided to take a tour of the property certainly enjoyed their time here, making it an excellent activity for those who need a break from the sand and the sun. Many enjoyed learning the history of the distillery and found the drinks offered at the tasting and served at the bar to be delicious. Reviewers were particularly pleased with the free pina colada tasting that's offered at the start of the tour.

Lucayan National Park (Grand Bahama Island) Lucayan National Park (Grand Bahama Island)

There are three national parks on Grand Bahama Island, but this is the definitive favorite. A 40-acre spread of mangrove, palm and pine trees, Lucayan National Park also contains the impressive Gold Rock Beach (which appears in two of the "Pirates of the Caribbean" movies), as well as the Burial Mound Cave (where the remains of indigenous Lucayans were discovered in 1986) and Ben's Cave. Both caves are part of one of the world's longest underwater limestone cave systems.Recent visitors enjoyed Lucayan National Park's sights, especially the beach. Many travelers were smitten with Gold Rock Beach, commenting on the clear waters, lack of crowds and overall beautiful setting. Some visitors recommended kayaking through the mangroves as another way to fully immerse yourself and enjoy the park. Meanwhile, avid divers can go diving at Ben's Cave via operators like Sunn Odyssey Divers and Calabash Eco Adventures . No food or beverage concessions are available within the park, but restrooms can be found by the entrance. To get to the property, plan on driving and parking at the beach's parking lot. Visit Lucayan National Park's website to learn more.

This national park sits less than 20 miles northeast of downtown Freeport and is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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Pig Beach (Great Exuma) Pig Beach (Great Exuma)

U.S. News Travel Insider Tip: Staying in Nassau, but still want to see some pigs? A second population of swimming pigs has been established on Rose Island – a 25-minute boat ride as opposed to the combination flight and boat excursion needed to reach Pig Beach in the Exumas. – Robert Curley

Pig Beach is easily one of the quirkiest and most unforgettable attractions in the Bahamas. This beach isn't just randomly named Pig Beach, it's actually named for the small population of pigs that call this beach home. Yes, the pigs live here, take dips in the ocean and are known to be friendly to the locals and travelers who make the trek to this uninhabited island. If you're wondering how the pigs got here, no one truly knows. They aren't native to the Bahamas and are believed to have been left behind either by a sailor or a shipwreck.

Pink Sands Beach (Harbour Island) Pink Sands Beach (Harbour Island) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Harbour Island isn't the only place you can find a pink sand beach in the Bahamas; Eleuthera’s Surfer Beach and Lighthouse Beach also have pink-hued sand. – Robert Curley

The Bahamas is full of unique travel offerings, including feeding beach pigs and the ability to drive between two different bodies of water (Eleuthera Island sits between the Atlantic Ocean and the shallows protected by the Grand Bahama Bank). Another exceptional experience you can enjoy in the Bahamas is sinking your toes into a beach with pink sand . This Harbour Island beach with its rose-hued shoreline makes for a truly dreamy seaside landscape. The pink sand, believe it or not, comes from single-cell organisms called Foraminifera. These microscopic creatures live in various parts of the ocean and when they die, the waves carry their pinkish shells onto the shore and they become integrated with the sand, along with leftover pieces of coral.

Dean's Blue Hole (Clarence Town) Dean's Blue Hole (Clarence Town) free

A water-filled natural limestone cavern, Dean's Blue Hole plunges 663 feet below ground level on Long Island, part of a string of Bahamian islands south of Nassau and New Providence Island. Surrounded by cliffs on three sides that form a natural amphitheater, the blue hole is also fringed by a white sand beach and opens onto a shallow lagoon. It's a beautiful sight whether viewed from the beach, the water, the cliffs or on a guided dive into its cobalt depths. Some daredevils also jump from the cliffs into the blue hole.

Dean's Blue Hole is the second deepest sinkhole in the world and the deepest one filled with salt water. A habitat for a variety of fish, the sinkhole can be traversed by even novice swimmers and snorkelers, who benefit from visibility of up to approximately 100 feet and mild waves. Scuba diving and free diving into the cavern is possible with the aid of expert guides. Although the opening of the sinkhole is about 100 feet in diameter at the surface, the cavern opens to more than 300 feet as divers descend.

The Glass Window Bridge (Eleuthera) The Glass Window Bridge (Eleuthera) free

For one of the most unique views in the Bahamas, travel along Queen's Highway to The Glass Window Bridge. This strip of land and road – which connects Eleuthera's Gregory Town and Lower Bogue – measures just 30 feet wide at its narrowest point. On its northern side, you'll see the rough, deep blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean, and on the southern side, you'll get views of the calm, turquoise-green waters of the Bight of Eleuthera.

According to previous visitors, the stark contrast between The Glass Window Bridge's two sides makes for "beautiful" and "truly amazing" views. You can see both sides without leaving your car, but to make the most of your time at the bridge, many recommend getting out of your vehicle to climb up onto the rocks that surround the area. To do so safely, wear shoes with a good grip, and take your time traversing the sharp rocks. You'll also want to be mindful of passing cars.

Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve (Eleuthera) Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve (Eleuthera)

Named for Leon Levy, a Bahamian with an interest in Eleuthera's plant life, this lush oasis is filled with beautiful flora, ranging from orchids and mangroves to palm trees and cactuses, to name a few. All can be viewed from the miles of trails that weave throughout the 30-acre national park. Some of the trails include The Mangrove Boardwalk, which takes visitors through a mangrove forest that features all four mangrove species found in the Bahamas, and the Medicinal Plant Trail, a pathway that showcases plants used to treat various ailments.

Recent visitors found the nature center to be beautiful and enjoyed taking in the various flora on hikes. Others were delighted with how well maintained the grounds were, especially the informative signage, and how kind, friendly and knowledgeable the on-site staff were. Some did note that insects are present in the area and say visitors should utilize bug spray or (if weather permits) wear long sleeves and pants.

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Bahamas Boat Tours Bahamas Boat Tours

Though you'll find many ways to spend your time on shore, one of the best ways to take advantage of all the Bahamas has to offer is to go on a boat tour. Chartering a boat will give you the chance to try a variety of activities, including diving and snorkeling, fishing and swimming with wild pigs . Many excursions also offer access to private islands , where you can lounge on pristine sands after savoring a picnic lunch on the beach.

Recent travelers raved about the sailing excursions offered in the Bahamas, describing their experiences as "incredible," "fantastic" and "awesome." However, a few cautioned that charter prices are steep, so plan your budget accordingly. Boat operators recommended by previous visitors include Island Time Charters and Bahama Boat Tours (for Nassau/New Providence Island) and Exuma Water Sports (for The Exumas).

Graycliff Hotel & Restaurant (Nassau) Graycliff Hotel & Restaurant (Nassau)

U.S. News Insider Tip: Combine a visit to Graycliff with stops at the nearby John Watling's Distillery and the historic Queen's Staircase , all located "up the hill" from Bay Street and the Nassau waterfront. – Robert Curley

Built high on a Nassau hillside as a pirate's residence in 1740, Graycliff is by far the most historic hotel on New Paradise Island that also houses a fine dining restaurant, a Byzantine wine cellar stuffed with more than a quarter of a million bottles, and a variety of activities, including chocolate-making classes, cigar tastings and a local history museum.

Baha Mar (Nassau) Baha Mar (Nassau)

This 1,000-acre, billion-dollar resort complex opened in 2017 and has transformed Nassau’s Cable Beach area, adding a trio of luxury beachfront resorts, a massive casino, dozens of dining and entertainment options, an artists' commune and – most recently – a water park that rivals the scale and scope of Atlantis ' Aquaventure.

Visitors looking for an overnight stay can choose from rooms and suites at Grand Hyatt , Rosewood and SLS branded hotels, but Baha Mar also offers plenty to do and see for those visiting for the day (or evening). The Baha Mar casino is the largest in the Caribbean, a light-filled space that defies casino conventions with large windows overlooking the resort grounds and the ocean. The casino has 18 different types of table games, more than 1,000 slot machines and live sports betting.

Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre (Nassau) Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre (Nassau)

Flowers and flamingos are among the chief attractions of this botanical garden in the heart of Nassau. Founded by Jamaican horticulturalist Hedley Edwards in 1937, the Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre is a lush oasis of tropical trees, plants and flowers as well as home to 135 animals, including the Caribbean flamingos. In addition to walking through the gardens, visitors can enjoy daily flamingo shows and presentations by zookeepers.

Past visitors say Ardastra Gardens is a fun attraction for families and nice to visit on a cloudy or rainy day when the beach isn't an option. Some visitors complained that the zoo was small and the animal enclosures seemed cramped.

Arawak Cay Arawak Cay free

A popular nightlife destination in downtown Nassau, Arawak Cay is within walking distance of the cruise port and offers a lively taste of Bahamian culture, music, food and drink. Known to locals as the "Fish Fry," the food shacks and dining establishments at Arawak Cay do indeed sell a variety of fried fish; local favorites include fried whole red snapper and conch fritters. The complex also has a stage for live music performances. Tourists are generally here every night Arawak Cay is open, whereas locals are more likely to show up on Sunday nights.

Arawak Cay isn't a natural cay, or small island: it was created with sand dredged from Nassau Harbour in 1969 and has been a popular gathering place pretty much ever since. In addition to live bands, costumed local Junkanoo troupes occasionally show up to practice their carnival-style marches and music to the delight of visitors. Kalik beer, served at nearly every restaurant in Arawak Cay, is a locally made lager that gets its name from the "click click" sounds made by Junkanoo bands.

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Staniel Cay Staniel Cay free

A small island that's part of the Bahamian "Sister Islands," Staniel Cay is located in the Exumas about 75 miles south of Nassau and is best known as the location of the Thunderball Grotto , a swimmable sea cave, and the Staniel Cay Yacht Club, a popular stopover for boaters in the Bahamas.

Founded by loyalists fleeing the American colonies during the Revolutionary War against Great Britain, the small village on Staniel Cay has less than 200 year-round residents and includes a handful of businesses mostly catering to visitors, including a small number of local restaurants.

Thunderball Grotto Thunderball Grotto free

Never say never again when asked if you've been to Thunderball Grotto – this top snorkeling and scuba diving destination reached Hollywood fame for its appearance in two James Bond flicks ("Thunderball" and "Never Say Never Again"). The intricate, underwater maze located on Staniel Cay is enclosed by sky-high cave ceilings with holes just big enough to let the sun shine through and reflect off the water.

Experienced snorkelers will have no problem navigating the ins and outs of Thunderball Grotto, but many travelers recommend that novice snorkelers plan an outing during low tide. Recent snorkelers advise experienced snorkelers to avoid the crowds in the first room and instead paddle into in one of the secondary rooms.

Rose Island Rose Island

Rose Island is a popular daytrip destination for visitors to Nassau and Paradise Island who want to combine the experience of a private island beach getaway with a stay in the Bahamian capital. Just 25 minutes from Nassau/Paradise Island by boat, Rose Island has beautiful beaches, a few rough shelters and hammocks, and is mostly deserted except for the visitors who arrive daily for a few hours of sunning and snorkeling.

The most popular way to get to Rose Island is on a catamaran operated by Sandy Toes , a charter boat company located in Nassau's Potters Cay. In addition to full-day charters, the company can arrange for overnight stays at a private villa on the island. The company has also installed a population of pigs on Rose Island and runs excursions for Nassau visitors who have heard of the famous swimming pigs of the Exumas , but don't want to make the longer trip to see the original herd of hogs. A visit to the swimming pigs is included with Sandy Toes' full-day trips to Rose Island.

Queen's Staircase (Nassau) Queen's Staircase (Nassau) free

Occasionally referred to as the 66 steps (though only 65 are visible), this historic staircase spans 102 feet. It was carved out of limestone by roughly 600 enslaved people in the late 1700s as a way for the British (who colonized the Bahamas) to connect Bennet Hill's Fort Fincastle to the capital city of Nassau. The staircase took more than 16 years to complete and was named for Queen Victoria, who ruled over the region for 64 years and was responsible for abolishing slavery in the country.

Reviews from recent travelers are mixed. Some visited the stairs as part of an organized tour, and found the history of this site to be fascinating, calling the stairs and surrounding jungle-like vegetation "beautiful." However, others warn of aggressive locals at the top and bottom of the stairs soliciting visitors for tips in exchange for a tour of the area. What's more, many cautioned that the stairs can get slippery when wet, and reported seeing rats at the bottom of the stairs. All in all, reviewers say this is a quick stop, not a must-see while in the Bahamas.

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Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point: A complete guide to Disney Cruise Line’s private beach destination

Editor's Note

If you're wondering what a Disney Cruise Line private beach destination is like, you might imagine it's Disney World in a tropical atmosphere. However, I can assure you that Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point isn't like the parks at all — it's different in all the right ways.

For starters, it's not crowded, and it offers beaches instead of amusement rides. Although you'll share the beach with others, you won't wait in sometimes hourslong lines for a lounge chair. Instead of retail shops and restaurants urging parents and other visitors to spend, spend, spend, there are only a couple of shops, and all eateries are free of charge, which reduces temptation.

Lookout Cay is also unspoiled and happily lacks the commercial feel of other cruise line private islands. Through a partnership with the Bahamian government, Disney Cruise Line created an oasis that's a nod to the culture, food and art of the Bahamas. It features local seafood, native flora, art classes, sculptures by local artists, Disney music with an island twist and Junkanoo dance celebrations. It also houses a nature trail that leads to a lighthouse overlooking the sea, which is how Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point received part of its name.

However, it does feel a little like it's still growing into its ears. When it received its first ship call, signage was still being installed, and bicycles weren't yet available to rent for use on its bike paths. There was also a marked lack of shade because most of the native flora Disney planted hasn't yet matured to provide it — something that will take years.

Want to know what else to expect during a visit to Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point? Here's a rundown of all the beachy business.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Where is Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point?

Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is on the southeastern tip of the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. Disney Cruise Line purchased 900 acres of land for the purpose of creating its own private beach destination there but developed less than 16% of the overall parcel.

The line also donated 190 acres back to the Bahamian government, including the southernmost point and a significant amount of beachfront property.

Which cruise ships go there?

Disney Lookout Cay is exclusive to passengers who sail on Disney Cruise Line's ships, and all of the line's vessels are able to call there. At press time, voyages visiting Lookout Cay through 2024 included three- to six-night sailings, mostly on Disney Magic . Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream are also scheduled to make a handful of stops there.

How do you get to and around Disney Lookout Cay?

Although Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point has a pier for its ships to dock, vessels tie up a half-mile from the destination entrance in an effort to avoid harming the coral reefs that grow closer to shore. Unfortunately, that means passengers face a 10- to 15-minute walk in the Bahamian sun with no shade.

A limited number of complimentary wagons are available near the pier entrance for passengers with small children to borrow on a first-come, first-served basis.

Passengers who can't make the trek on their own can request golf cart assistance by contacting guest services on the ship. Due to the width of the pier, a more robust shuttle service cannot be offered for everyone. It's surprising that the cruise line didn't anticipate this need, particularly since it caters so heavily to families with young children.

From the entrance to Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, visitors will take a free shuttle from the Mabrika Cove area to the Goombay area, where most of the action happens. The latter is home to the beaches, restaurants, buffets, entertainment and cultural venues that the destination offers.

Shuttles depart in pairs on a regular cadence, and since there's only one route with two stops — one at the beginning and one at the end — it's an easier system to navigate than the one on Disney's private island, Castaway Cay .

Be prepared for the ride to take about 15 minutes in each direction, and note that there could be waits at peak times. Shade is provided in the form of a long pavilion at each of the two shuttle stations. During the trip, you'll hear a recording that features a cast of sea creature characters who aim to educate riders about the history of the island, what it offers, and the types of plants and animals that call the island home.

When you arrive at the Goombay Cultural Center tram stop, wagons and strollers are provided for passengers with children to use on a complimentary first-come, first-served basis.

A series of gorgeous boardwalks connect points of interest in the Goombay area. Instead of providing straight paths, they're largely winding. That makes them aesthetically pleasing but also frustrating because their layout forces you to walk longer than necessary when moving from place to place. Due to a lack of signage, which the line says it's working on, it can also be difficult to find your way between locations.

After you take the tram back to the Mabrika Cove area at the end of the day, you'll have to pass through a security checkpoint in order to begin the long walk back to the ship.

What are the Lookout Cay beaches?

The Goombay section of the destination is divided into two tiers. The upper tier has bars, restaurants, bathrooms and attractions. It also has small sandy areas with loungers and umbrellas. However, to access the ocean and beaches at Disney Lookout Cay, cruisers must venture to the lower tier via stairs or one of five accessible ramps, which descend a short distance down the dunes that separate the tiers.

Instead of several separate beaches, Lookout Cay has one long white-sand stretch that encompasses two areas: Family Beach, which is for everyone, and Serenity Bay Beach, which is for cruisers 18 and older only.

The beaches flow into one another with no visible divider. However, crew members will direct families with children to the proper beach if necessary.

One other beach area — at Mabrika Cove, near the entrance to Lookout Cay — is only accessible if you rent one of the family cabanas there. (See below.)

Beachgoers who enjoy the two main beaches can take advantage of bars and buffets that are a short walk away. Cruisers accessing the Mabrika Cove beach via cabana rental have their own dedicated dining pavilion in that area. (See below.)

All beaches have complimentary access to loungers, umbrellas and nearby bathrooms. Lifeguards are stationed both on land and on personal watercraft that scan all of the beach areas. Life jackets for children and adults also are available for complimentary use.

Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point has no pools.

A towel station is near the Mabrika Cove tram stop, so you don't need to bring your own from the ship.

A limited number of first-come, first-served beach wheelchairs will soon be available for complimentary passenger use.

What are the best things to do at Disney Lookout Cay?

For families.

Families looking for more than just a day lazing on the beach can head to Rush Out Gush Out, Disney Lookout Cay's colorful, family-friendly water play area. It features water sprayers and a couple of small tube slides for kids.

A separate splash area for kids is Sebastian's Cove, where young children who are signed up for the cruise line's kids club activities can play under the supervision of youth club staff. Parents can check their kids in during set hours to enjoy some adults-only time while the little ones splash among fountains adorned with sea characters a la "The Little Mermaid."

For interactive fun and games, check out the "Disney Fun in the Sun Beach Bash," which is, ironically and mercifully, held in the shade of the Play-Play Pavilion — a large, covered, open-air structure used for family activities. The bash happens twice a day and involves ring toss and water games for kids, hosted by Chip, Dale, Goofy and Pluto. Other kid-friendly activities — Hula-Hoops, soccer, etc. — happen throughout the day, too.

Next door, you can also check out Triton's Trumpet Stage, where various family-friendly activities and music performances take place. During my visit, artists were there making sand sculptures.

For beach bums

This one is easy. Simply plant yourself at one of the free umbrella loungers along any of the beaches, and enjoy. For a kid-free experience, head left just past the Goombay area's information station and make your way to the far end of the beach, where you'll find Serenity Bay.

If you have the budget and you can book one before they sell out, renting a private cabana is another great way to enjoy the beach — but with extra amenities. (See below.)

For culture vultures

If you're eager to learn more about the Bahamas' beautiful culture, visit the Goombay Cultural Center in the heart of the Goombay area of Disney Lookout Cay.

In addition to admiring the local art pieces displayed, you can take part in art classes taught by locals and learn a bit about the islands' history.

It's also the place to view "Rush! A Junkanoo Celebration" — a vibrant and energetic performance by local Junkanoo dancers. It features elaborate, brilliantly colored costumes and visits from Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Daisy.

For active visitors

Passengers who just can't sit still can rent bicycles at the Rocky Point rental stand near the Goombay Cultural Center tram stop ($15 per person for the whole day). Pedal along a series of bike paths that wind throughout the destination. (During my visit, the trails weren't yet ready and, therefore, weren't open to visitors.)

If counting steps is more your thing, you won't want to miss a walk along the Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point nature trail. It takes between 10 and 15 minutes each way to walk the sandy but firm path to see the old lighthouse, from which the destination's name was derived. It's a great spot for photos, and along the way, you're sure to spot some of the island's native plants and maybe an animal or two. You can walk it on your own or book a guided tour.

Given the terrain, I don't recommend wearing flip-flops for the walk. Additionally, because the trail is hard-packed, it's largely wheelchair accessible. However, the route has some mild inclines and areas where the terrain might be a little looser or rougher. Anyone using a mobility aid should proceed with caution and discretion.

Want some watery fun while you burn calories? Rent snorkeling gear (a mask with a snorkel, a life vest and fins) for $38 per person for the day. You can pick up the gear at the Flippers & Fins stand, about halfway between Family Beach and Serenity Bay Beach.

Like Castaway Cay, Lookout Cay will eventually host a 5K run for passengers wishing to take part while they're in port. At press time, information about the specific route was not yet available.

If you'd like to pay for an active excursion, options abound, including biking, kayaking and snorkeling. (See below.)

For eco-conscious guests

If you're interested in the local environment, check out the Discovery Trail, part of the nature trail experience. A series of posted signs throughout the destination offer QR codes that provide information about native plants and animals, the island's geography, and more.

Several eco-tours are offered among the list of shore excursions that take passengers out of the immediate Lookout Cay area and into the rest of Eleuthera. (See below.)

Can I meet Disney characters at Lookout Cay?

Yes, opportunities abound to meet and take photos with Disney characters. Check the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App for scheduled appearances.

You can also catch a glimpse of Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Daisy during "Rush! A Junkanoo Celebration" at the Goombay Cultural Center. Plus, Chip, Dale, Goofy and Pluto lead the "Disney Fun in the Sun Beach Bash," held at the Play-Play Pavilion.

What are the excursions at Lookout Cay?

What's nice about Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is that it's not the entirety of the island. Unlike Castaway Cay — which is its own island, entirely operated by Disney Cruise Line — Lookout Cay is a small portion of a larger island on which people live, work and go about their daily lives. Because of that, Disney is able to offer excursions that venture beyond the cruise line's designed areas.

During my visit, excursions listed on the DCL app included:

• Bahama Bank Boat Escape: A two-hour, 15-minute tour for $109 (ages 10 and older) or $79 (ages 8-9)
• Banana Boat: A 45-minute tour for $59 (ages 10 and older) or $49 (ages 8-9)
• Bike and Kayak at Disney Lookout Cay: A two-hour, 15-minute tour for $99 (ages 10-80) or $89 (ages 4-9)
• Boiling Hole Reef Snorkel: A three-hour, 15-minute tour for $109 (ages 10 and older) or $79 (ages 8-9)
• E-Bike, Sand, Snorkel and History: A two-hour, 15-minute tour for $139 (ages 16-75)
• Historical Nature and Buggy Tour (two people) : A one-hour, 45-minute tour for $239 (ages 12 and older)
• Historical Nature and Buggy tour (four people): A one-hour, 45-minute tour for $399 (ages 12 and older)
• Nature Walk and Coral Nursery: A two-hour, 15-minute tour for $59 (ages 10 and older) or $49 (ages 8-9)
• Pirates of Eleuthera: A two-hour, 15-minute tour for $79 (ages 10 and older), $69 (ages 3-9) or free (ages 2-3)
• Private Historical Cultural Tour (in SUV): A four-hour, 15-minute tour for $799 (ages 18 and older)
• Snorkel by Boat: A two-hour, 45-minute tour for $109 (ages 10 and older) or $89 (ages 5-9)
• South Eleuthera Eco and Cultural Tour: A three-hour, 45-minute tour for $149 (ages 10 and older), $119 (ages 4-9) or free (ages 2-3)
• South Eleuthera Eco and Historical Tour: A three-hour, 45-minute tour for $119 (ages 10 and older), $79 (ages 4-9) or free (ages 2-3)
• Tropical Reef Safari Snorkel: A two-hour, 15-minute tour for $109 (ages 10 and older) or $79 (ages 8-9)

You can book excursions prior to sailing, on board at your ship's Port Adventures desk, via the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App or upon arrival at Lookout Cay. Tours depart from either the Turbot Berth stand at Mabrika Cove, just inside the entrance to Lookout Cay, or The Gathering Tree to the left of the information center near the Goombay Cultural Center tram stop.

Does Disney Lookout Cay offer cabanas to rent?

Disney Lookout Cay has two cabana sections: Mabrika Cove Cabanas, designated for families, and Serenity Bay Cabanas, designated for adults only.

All cabanas book up quickly on a first-come, first-served basis. They're one price for the entire day for a set number of people, depending on the size. However, you can add more people (up to a maximum number, depending on cabana type) for an additional fee (per person). (See below for details.)

Accessible cabanas are available. Passengers can contact Disney Cruise Line's special services at 407-566-3602 to inquire about booking those.

Mabrika Cove Cabanas

Oddly, the family cabanas are in Mabrika Cove, as the name suggests, which means they're a 15-minute tram ride away from the main entertainment location – something that doesn't seem particularly family-friendly.

Fortunately, families don't have to make the journey to grab a bite to eat. In addition to snacks provided in the cabanas, lunch is served at a dedicated dining pavilion nearby. Visitors can dine at tables there or take food back to their cabanas.

Cabanas for families come in two sizes. Family Cabanas are the smaller of the two and can hold up to six people for $963. The second, Grand Family Cabanas, are a little larger and can accommodate up to 10 people for $1,375. Additional people can join for $56 each. In total, 20 cabanas are available: four Grand Family Cabanas and 16 Family Cabanas.

Cabanas are not air-conditioned. They consist of three walls (one with counter space and a minifridge stocked with bottled water and soda), a main entrance and slatted windows that push out to open. A fourth partial wall is mostly open-air and leads out onto the attached wooden deck, where visitors can take advantage of padded loungers and a table with chairs.

Inside, a couple of chairs and coffee tables make for pleasant and comfortable indoor seating. Passengers wishing to venture to the beach can do so via a set of stairs that leads down from the deck. Waiting in the sand are loungers, upright chairs and an umbrella (which doesn't provide nearly enough shade for all of the chairs).

Larger cabanas include more deck space, additional outdoor loungers and an indoor dining room with a large, long table and chairs.

Family cabanas also include freshwater outdoor showers for easy sand removal, food (snacks and lunch) and nonalcoholic beverages, sand toys, sunscreen, beach towels, and a safe for use during the day. Snorkeling equipment is also included upon request. Cabanas do not have private restrooms, but a public restroom facility is nearby.

Serenity Bay Cabanas

Exclusively for guests 18 and older, the Serenity Bay adults-only cabanas are about as far from the family cabanas as you can be on the developed part of the Disney property.

They consist of two types: Serenity Bay Cabanas, which hold up to four people for $523, and Serenity Bay Grand Cabanas, which can accommodate up to 10 people for $963. Additional people can be accommodated for $56 each. Six cabanas make up the total inventory, with two of them in the Grand Cabana category.

Layouts and amenities are similar to those of the Mabrika Cove Cabanas, and they are also not air-conditioned, nor do they offer private bathrooms. Public ones are in the vicinity, however.

Is food included at Disney Lookout Cay?

You bet. Lookout Cay has two main (and free) buffet areas: True-True BBQ and True-True Too BBQ. True-True is found between the information booth and the family beach, and True-True Too is between the information booth and Serenity Bay.

Both serve fish (mahi-mahi and salmon), chicken and seafood rice bowls, barbecue ribs, rotisserie chicken, cheeseburgers, hot dogs, Impossible Burgers, and crispy chicken sandwiches. Sides include couscous salad, coleslaw, baked beans, grilled broccoli, corn on the cob, baked plantains and sweet potato fries.

Unfortunately, the food areas have a fly problem. The insects buzz all around the serving areas and often land on the food items. The line has taken steps to curb the issue, including adding fans to food service counters and tables in the seating areas.

Speaking of seating, True-True has five covered pavilions with tables, and True-True Too has four. At peak times, it can be difficult to find a spot.

Each location has a drink kiosk area that offers free self-serve water, soft drinks and soft ice cream.

Additionally, Serenity Bay has its own complimentary buffet, Serenity Bay BBQ, which serves the same items as True-True and True-True Too. It also has its own shaded seating areas and a stand with drinks and ice cream. The nearby Blue Hole Bar is the place to grab an alcoholic beverage.

The buffets are the only places at Lookout Cay that serve food, and they do so between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. That means if you're hungry or need a snack earlier or later, you're out of luck. Be sure to eat a good breakfast before you disembark, and pack your own nibbles if you think you might be peckish in the late afternoon.

Are there bars at Lookout Cay?

Of course! Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point has four bars, a smoothie stand and a coffee kiosk. All are in the Goombay area, with the exception of the coffee stand, which is at Mabrika Cove.

The Blue Hole Bar serves the Serenity Bay adults-only area, and it's the bar with the easiest access from the beach. The next closest one to the beach is at the totally opposite end, at the end of the family beach. Halfway between the two are the Watering Hole Bar, near True-True BBQ, and the Bow & Ribbon Bar, which is near True-True Too BBQ.

The menus include Volley, Truly and White Claw seltzers; Kalik and Sands beers; a selection of flavored cold-brew coffees; and cocktails like a black cherry pina colada, Junkanoo Juice (rum, banana, lime, pineapple and passion orange guava) and a Bahama Sling (peach rum, Cointreau, lime, orgeat and bitters).

The menu also features specials: Eleuthera Euphoria (rum, pineapple and Dole Whip pineapple) and Butterfly Switcha (lemonade, jasmine green tea and a tastebud enhancer).

You can also purchase souvenir pineapple cups and tumblers at the bars for $21 each.

Sandsational Smoothies, the smoothie stand near the Watering Hole Bar, offers nonalcoholic frozen drinks. (Try the Tropical Teaser: vanilla ice cream, mango, pineapple and tropical Pop Rocks.) Nonalcoholic specialty drinks include flavored iced tea and watermelon limeade.

The coffee stand Mangroves & Go is just beyond the entrance to Lookout Cay. It's ideal for grabbing a morning cup of joe to start your day ashore. Choose from double and single shots of espresso, lattes, cappuccinos, iced coffee and cold brew, as well as spiked coffee beverages and specialty island concoctions like the Junkanoo Latte — a blend of cold brew, vanilla and lavender.

Oddly, most bars and the smoothie stand are pretty far from the beach, meaning you'll have a bit of a trek to grab drinks. It can be an ordeal if you have to pack up the kids every time you head off in search of water or other hydration, which is crucial in the hot Bahamian sun.

The cruise line says it's working on adding water stations beyond the soda fountains found near the buffet areas. In the meantime, one rather pricey option beachgoers have is to purchase a cooler bag at Mabrika Cove. Each carries six bottles of either Dasani or Smartwater for $26 or $32.25, respectively.

Since Disney Cruise Line doesn't offer beverage packages, each drink is charged a la carte to your onboard account using your keycard.

Is there shopping at Disney Lookout Cay?

Is Mickey a mouse? Shopaholics can satisfy their retail therapy cravings at several outposts, including Disney T'ings and Treasures of Eleuthera, both in the heart of the Goombay Cultural Center area, near the tram stop of the same name.

The former offers Disney merchandise, which includes a variety of apparel bearing Bahamian-designed representations of popular characters like Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy. You'll also find Lookout Cay Spirit Jerseys, T-shirts, hats, tumblers, Loungefly bags, beach blankets, photo frames, water bottles, magnets, holiday ornaments, Crocs and, of course, mouse ears.

The latter features handicrafts made by local artists. During my visit, the shop showcased paintings, prints, straw purses and totes with Disney characters hand embroidered on them.

Visitors wishing to have their hair braided can do so at the nearby Plaits & Pleats.

For passengers who just can't wait until they arrive in the Goombay area — or those who waited until the last possible second before heading back to the ship — there's the First & Last Chance Stand. Found just past the entrance to Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point in Mabrika Cove, this small kiosk sells shirts, beach towels, sunscreen, pins, keychains and an assortment of other essentials and Disney-branded items.

What additional amenities will I find?

As far as the basics go, plenty of bathrooms, trash cans and recycling bins are dotted throughout Disney Lookout Cay. Places for service animal relief are also designated throughout the area.

You'll find an information desk and a first aid center when you arrive at the Goombay Cultural Center tram stop.

Wi-Fi is available there. If you've purchased a package , you'll be able to access it but note that you'll likely lose connectivity on the tram ride between Mabrika Cove and Serenity Bay. You can also connect to cellular data if you have an international plan that covers the Bahamas. Otherwise, keep your phone on airplane mode .

If you walk to the far end of Family Beach, past the Play-Play Pavilion, you'll find the entrance to the nature trail. If you continue straight instead of turning to the left to enter the trail, you can follow the path from the nature trail to the Goombay Cultural Center tram stop. If you're making your way back to Mabrika Cove and don't want to deal with other passengers on the winding boardwalk, it provides a less chaotic route to hop on the shuttle.

Can you stay overnight at Disney Lookout Cay?

Although the island of Eleuthera is inhabited, passengers are not able to stay overnight at Lookout Cay. The private destination itself has no hotels or other sleeping accommodations that would allow for overnight guests.

What's the typical Lookout Cay weather like?

The weather in the Bahamas is generally pleasant and warm all year, with average temperatures in the high 70s in winter and the high 80s to low 90s in summer. Expect the most rain in June, August and September.

Hurricane season , which runs from June to November, can affect weather conditions, with the most activity generally seen between August and October.

Shade, sunscreen (preferably one that's reef-safe ) and hydration are key to avoiding the damaging effects of the sun. Be sure to drink plenty of water, reapply sunblock and seek shelter if necessary. Protective clothing, sunglasses and hats are also essentials.

Can I see a Disney Lookout Cay map?

Passengers can request a paper copy of the Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point map at the information desk near the Goombay Cultural Center tram stop. Although it's available on the Disney Cruise Line app, it can be difficult to see on a tiny phone screen, especially in the bright sun.

Note that the map can also be cumbersome to read because each item is numbered instead of labeled, and you have to use a key to determine what's what.

Click here to view, download or print a larger PDF version of the map.

Have more Disney cruise questions? We can help:

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10 Things to Never do in Cruise Ports

A re you going on a cruise? It’s always a good idea to do your research so you familiarize yourself with the do’s and don’ts in cruise ports of call. You don’t want to get in harm’s way. Here are things to never do in cruise ports so your vacation goes smoothly and safely.

Things to Never Do in Cruise Ports of Call

1. don’t assume there will always be taxis.

It’s not a good idea to assume that you can easily hail a taxi or an Uber at the port. In some smaller ports, finding taxis can be difficult, which can lead to trouble. 

For example, during our British Isle Cruise, we docked at Cobh, which is a small town close to Cork and the Blarney Castle. We wanted to save some money, so we decided to get a cab to and from Blarney Castle instead of using the cruise shore excursion. We were able to get a taxi to Blarney Castle, but when it was time to come back to the ship, we couldn’t find any taxis. 

Uber kept canceling on us because there weren’t enough drivers available in the small town. I started to panic, but fortunately, we were eventually able to get an Uber back to the ship. 

However, if we hadn’t been able to get a ride, we would have been stranded at Blarney Castle, which was 38 minutes from the cruise port. This would have made us miss the ship! To be safe, it’s better to book a shore excursion from the cruise or through an independent tour operator like viator .

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2. Wear Your Cruise Lanyard

One of the things you should never do in the cruise port is to wear your cruise lanyard ashore. It can make you stand out as a tourist when you are off the ship. 

When you are out ashore sightseeing, shopping or at the beach, don’t wear your cruise lanyard. You will immediately look like a tourist and become a target for thieves and pickpocketers. 

I suggest keeping a low profile when you are on shore. You can store your keycard and other valuables in a secure pocket or bag. This way, you can avoid drawing attention to yourself and enjoy your shore excursion without any trouble. 

Check out: 16 Cruise Ship Embarkation Hack (How to Board the Ship Faster)

3. Miss the Ship

Similar to airplanes, cruise ships will not wait for you. If you miss the “all aboard time” you will have to find another way to get back on the ship by meeting your cruise at the next port! It’s a hassle and can be very stressful!

That is why when disembarking from the ship, it’s important to always check what time you need to be back on board. You can usually find the “all aboard” time in the daily planner and it will posted on a sign at the gangway. 

If you are forgetful, take a picture of the “all aboard time” sign and set an alarm on your phone. Also, make sure to check that your watch has the correct time since time zones can change. 

If you need to take a tender boat to the port, make sure you allocate enough time for it. Find out when the last tender departure time is, there is usually a sign near the tender gangway.

Check out: 10 Ridiculous Time Wasters to Avoid on a Cruise

4. Bringing Shells Back on Board

It’s important to remember that seashells, corals, flowers, plants, and even leaves are not allowed to be brought back to the cruise ship. Although it can be tempting to collect these items during your shore excursions, many cruise lines prohibit their guests from bringing them back onboard. 

For example, during a Caribbean cruise with my then 3-year-old son, he found a large leaf (as big as his head) on a beach in Dominica and wanted to bring it back to the ship. Unfortunately, the ship’s security wouldn’t allow it, and despite his tears, they couldn’t make an exception.

Check Out: How to Sleep Like a Baby on a Cruise (10 Tips from an Ex-Insomniac)

5. Forgetting Your Shore Excursion Ticket

In this day and age of e-tickets, shore tickets excursions are still printed on paper. Make sure you bring your tickets with you when you get off the ship to join your shore excursion. Whether it’s a cruise shore excursion or an independent tour, it’s safest if you have your tickets as proof. It will be a real hassle to have to go back to your cabin to retrieve your shore excursion tickets.

Check out: 9 Reasons Why I’m Skipping Port Days on My Next Cruise

6. Not Checking the Travel Advisory

You should always check with the US Department of State for the latest travel advisory of the places you are going to. Don’t assume that every port is safe. For example, the US Department of State has recently raised the advisory level for the Bahamas to Level 2 due to crime and water safety issues. Read about the new travel advisory: Beware Bahamas Travel Advisory Increases

If you’re going to a port where there is a travel advisory, just take extra precautions. Even in Europe where it’s common to fall victim to pickpocketers! I suggest using slash-proof bags like this anti-theft cross body bag because the strap and bag are slash-resistant and there is also RFID blocking so your card information is safe from identity thieves. 

7. Wear Expensive Jewelry & Designer Bags

Avoid attracting unwanted attention from potential thieves at the port. You don’t want to be a target! I suggest leaving your expensive jewelry and designer bags at home. 

Instead, you can bring some inexpensive accessories that match your outfits. This way, you can still look stylish and have fun without worrying about your belongings. It’s worth the peace of mind!

Check out: 11 Anti-Theft Cruise Tips that Every Cruiser Needs to Know

8. Leave Your Passport in Your Cabin

Always bring your passport down with you to the port. Don’t leave it in your cabin. Even though you can get in and out of the ship with your cruise card, you will still need your passport at the port. Some cruise ports will ask you to show your passport and/or cruise card to get back on the ship. It’s also a good idea to have your passport with you just in case you miss the ship and you have to fly to another cruise port to get back on the ship. 

Check out: I’ve Been on over 25 Cruises, Here are 17 Things I’ll Never Do on a Cruise

9. Drink too Much

One thing to never do at cruise ports is to drink too much. Many cruise ports, especially, the Caribbean cruise ports are surrounded by bars. Some shore excursions are party boats with unlimited alcoholic beverages. 

Although it may be tempting to spend the day drinking at popular places like Senor Froggy’s, it’s important to be careful. Drinking alcohol while being exposed to the sun can be a dangerous combination. Just be careful, because you don’t want to get too drunk that you miss the ship!

Looking to save money on your cruise? 21 Smart and Easy Ways to Save Money on a Cruise

10. Wing It if You are a Big Group

If you’re traveling with a large group, the last thing you want is to be stranded at the cruise port, unable to find transportation and wandering around aimlessly. It can be challenging to find taxis that can accommodate a big group, since you will need a van or multiple taxis. 

To avoid this, it’s always a good idea to pre-book shore excursions, either through the cruise or with independent tour operators. If you’re a large group, you should consider booking a private tour, since these offer a more personalized experience and allow you to explore destinations at your own pace. 

Plus, private tours may end up being the same price or even less expensive than the cruise shore excursions. A great platform to book tours is with viator . 

Check out: 9 Things I Wished I Knew When Planning a Large Family Cruise

Check out these cruise packing lists with free printables

Alaska cruise packing list

Caribbean cruise packing list

Mediterranean cruise packing list

Mexico cruise packing list

Bermuda Cruise Packing List

25 Things People Forget to Pack on their Cruise

42 Banned Items you can’t take on a cruise

Check out: 30 Unusual Things to Pack for a Cruise: Things You Didn’t Know You Need

The post 10 Things to Never do in Cruise Ports appeared first on Suburbs 101 .

Norwegian, Carnival and more cruise lines change itineraries due to Hurricane Beryl

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As Hurricane Beryl moves across the Caribbean, a number of cruise lines have changed itineraries in the area in an effort to avoid the storm.

▶ Norwegian Cruise Line altered nearly the entire itinerary for a week-long sailing on its Norwegian Breakaway ship that departed from Miami, Florida, on Sunday. The line canceled stops in Honduras, Harvest Caye in Belize, and Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico, according to a letter sent to guests that the line shared with USA TODAY. The ship will instead visit Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, St. Thomas, Tortola, and Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas instead.

“While we share your disappointment, these modifications were made with great consideration as your safety, and that of our crew, is always our number one priority,” the letter said.

The line similarly changed a week-long sailing aboard Norwegian Jade that left Port Canaveral on Saturday, replacing planned calls in Falmouth, Jamaica, Grand Cayman and Cozumel with San Juan, Puerto Rico, Tortola and Puerto Plata.

Was your cruise itinerary changed? Here's what to do next

▶ Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Liberty ship moved a planned Friday stop in Cozumel up to Tuesday. The vessel departed on a week-long cruise from New Orleans, Louisiana, on Sunday, according to CruiseMapper .

Carnival Horizon, which is sailing a six-day itinerary that left Miami on Sunday, will skip a visit to Grand Cayman on Wednesday.

“The safety of our guests and crew is paramount, and we are continuing to monitor forecasts and factor in guidance from the National Hurricane Center, U.S. Coast Guard, and the local port authorities to provide timely updates to our guests as more information becomes available,” spokesperson Matt Lupoli said in an emailed statement.

▶ Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Fantasy ship – which set sail on a week-long cruise from Port Canaveral on Saturday – will not visit Falmouth as planned on Wednesday. The stop will be replaced with a sea day .

The center of the storm is expected to “move quickly across the southeastern and central Caribbean Sea today,” passing near Jamaica on Wednesday and the Cayman Islands the following day, the National Hurricane Center said.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

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Top 11 Things to Do in Nassau

By Carnival Cruise Line

What to Do in Nassau, The Bahamas

• Take a Dive Trip
• Catamaran Sail and Snorkel
• Native Quest
• Pirates of Nassau Museum
• Ardastra Gardens and City Tour
• Climb the Queen’s Staircase
• The Straw Market
• Guided Island Tour
• Junkanoo Beach
• Saunders Beach
• Montagu Beach

The capital of The Bahamas has long been known as one of the top tourist destinations in the world. The beautiful beaches are no doubt one of its main draws, but there are plenty of other types of fun to be had in this Bahamian paradise. If you’re taking a cruise to Nassau , you’ll definitely want to look into some of the fun adventures you can find while docking in this historic town. Check out some of these activities to make the most of your cruise to The Bahamas .

Take an Adventure

A lot of activities in Nassau revolve around adventure. Here are some of the ways you can explore all the island has to offer.

1. Take a Dive Trip

If you’re into water adventures, head to Stuart’s Cove dive operation on the southwest side of the island. It is the perfect place to suit up and take a diving lesson, or if you are a more experienced diver , explore the open waters. Other options include doing wall dives using underwater scooters, piloting your own mini sub, or snorkeling. It’s a great way to explore the vast ocean; you can even safely dive with wild sharks!

2. Catamaran Sail and Snorkel

Take a ride on the beautiful Ocean Voyager , a sleek, 82-foot catamaran. It’s just the extra touch of adventure you need after you’ve spent a relaxing morning at the beach. The boat stops to let you snorkel over a beautiful natural reef before heading back to Nassau.

3. Native Quest

Native Quest is an adventure of a lifetime. It takes place at Fort Charlotte, where you team up in groups of 4-10 people and take a scavenger hunt throughout the fort. The game incorporates elements of Bahamian culture and you get free samples of local foods, drinks and treats while you battle with an opposing team.

Get Ready for Some Sightseeing

In addition to adventures, you’ll find plenty of sightseeing in Nassau. Here are just a few options worth checking out.

4. Pirates of Nassau Museum

The Pirates of Nassau Museum gives you a glimpse into the pirate history of the Caribbean. Nassau was a famous haven for pirates in the 18th century, and the exhibits here give you a taste of what it was like to live in the “Republic of Pirates.” You’ll find interactive exhibits and a great gift shop to pick up souvenirs.

5. Ardastra Gardens and City Tour

If you’re in the mood to check out some wildlife, take the Ardastra Gardens and City Tour . You can explore the beautiful grounds of The Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Center, which is home to hundreds of mammals, birds and reptiles.

6. Climb the Queen’s Staircase

Fort Fincastle can be reached by a 600-foot staircase known as the Queen’s Staircase. It was carved out of solid limestone between 1793 and 1794 and is a sight to behold in and of itself. The steps connect Fort Fincastle to downtown Nassau and are named in honor of Queen Victoria. It’s a great spot to stop and take photos; the Fort sits on the highest point of the island. You can even take a guided tour.

7. The Straw Market

If you want to take home some authentic Bahamian souvenirs, there’s no better place to visit than the Straw Market. Here you’ll find hundreds of local handicrafts, including the famous woven straw bowls that are such a strong part of Bahamian tradition. You’ll also find T-shirts, beaded necklaces and plenty of other island-themed souvenirs to take home with you.

8. Guided Island Tour

Take a scenic ADA tour that can accommodate three people and a guest in a wheelchair. You can enjoy the historic beauty and culture of Nassau in privacy of a private van. On this guided tour, you will learn about Bahamian history and culture as you travel through downtown Nassau. After a short drive over the historic Sidney Poitier Bridge, you’ll arrive at Paradise Island and learn how locals buy and sell their fresh seafood. You’ll also get to explore the Queen’s Staircase and do some shopping at the Straw Market.

Enjoy the Beaches

Last, but certainly not least, are the seaside activities you can take in while enjoying some of the world’s most scenic beaches.

9. Junkanoo Beach

Junkanoo Beach in downtown Nassau is one of the liveliest beach scenes you’ll find in The Bahamas. It’s close to the cruise port, so you can easily head over to the pier after an exciting day shopping or a lazy day lounging on the sand.

10. Saunders Beach

Saunders Beach is just west of downtown Nassau and is one of the local favorites for relaxing sun and surf, plus, there are great food stands on the weekend.

11. Montagu Beach

Montagu Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand and also home to Fort Montagu, built in 1741. It’s the perfect choice if you want to combine a morning of basking in the sun with an afternoon of exploring the fort.

Note: Onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining options may vary by  ship  and destination.

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Hurricane Beryl Hits Cruise Stocks

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Key Takeaways

• Shares of Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian fell Monday as Hurricane Beryl forces cruises to reroute.
• Hurricane Beryl, a Category 4 storm, is the strongest-ever Atlantic hurricane in the month of June.
• Royal Caribbean's chief meteorologist warned of a dangerous hurricane season in a post on social media platform X.

Shares of cruise operators fell Monday as a Category 4 hurricane forced ships to reroute in the Atlantic Ocean, a potential early indicator of a dangerous hurricane season this year. 

Hurricane Beryl, reportedly the strongest hurricane on record to ever hit the Atlantic Ocean in the month of June, made landfall Monday in Grenada.

Some cruises slated to visit Caribbean islands are being rerouted, according to reports citing emails sent to customers. That could become a pattern this hurricane season, Royal Caribbean ( RCL ) Chief Meteorologist Craig Setzer warned Friday in a post on the social-media network X.

“The deep tropical Atlantic is very much alive very early in the season, and unfortunately is likely a harbinger of things to come this summer & fall,” Setzer wrote. 

Royal Caribbean shares sank more than 1.5% in Monday afternoon trading, while Carnival ( CCL ) fell nearly 5%, and Norwegian Cruise Line ( NCLH ) dropped about 5%. 

Bloomberg. “ The Strongest-Ever June Hurricane Is a Dire Sign for Storm Season. ”

National Hurricane Center. “ Hurricane Beryl Public Advisory ."

Cruise Blog. “ Hurricane Beryl Disrupts Major Cruise Line Itineraries. Here Are the Major Changes So Far .”

X Platform. “ @CraigSetzer 3:25 a.m. June 28, 2024. ”

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Travel | Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas on its way…

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Subscriber only, travel | royal caribbean’s utopia of the seas on its way to port canaveral.

Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas departs the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France on Sunday, June 23, 2024 on its way for a July 11 arrival in Port Canaveral. (Courtesy/Bernard Biger/Royal Caribbean)

The second largest cruise ship in the world left the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France on Sunday and will arrive in Florida on July 11.

“The ship is coming straight to Port Canaveral from the shipyard so I think the first time we’ve had a ship come into the port, at least since I’ve been here,  that’s brand new straight from the yard,” said Port Canaveral CEO Capt. John Murray during the port commission meeting Wednesday. “So we’re really excited.”

The port has welcomed ships in their first year of service before, but usually after they make their debuts sailing Europe. The port is planning a community celebration for the ship’s arrival letting the public into Jetty Park to wave as it sails in along with a naming ceremony before the ship’s first revenue sailing on July 19.

“Royal Caribbean selected us for that honor of having the ship first, so we’re really excited and we want to do a good job with it,” Murray said.

Port Canaveral chalks up record month amid growing cruise demand

The new ship that will be taking over the short, three- and four-night Bahamas sailings from Royal’s Allure of the Seas, and Murray said that should continue to add to what has been a record-breaking revenue year for the port.

For the fiscal year that began in October 2023 running eight months through May 2024, the port has seen 622 ship calls with more than 5.1 million passengers, driving the port’s operating revenue so far to more than $128 million, which is nearly $3 million over budget.

“We’ll have to see how that evolves as Utopia comes on,” Murray said. “When that ship is up and running at full capacity it should really drive these numbers.”

Part of that is the notion the ship is being marketed as a destination along with its primary stop of Royal Caribbean’s private island Little Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, which has been renamed Perfect Day at CocoCay.

The sixth Oasis-class vessel, Utopia is only bested in size by this year’s Icon of the Seas, the first of a new larger class of vessels for the line that began sailing out of Miami in January. A sister ship to Icon, Star of the Seas, is headed for Port Canaveral when it debuts in 2025.

Utopia, though, is the first Oasis-class ship to use liquefied natural gas (LNG), a cleaner burning fuel that is part of the cruise industry’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions. Port Canaveral was the first port in North America to provide LNG power to cruise ships when Carnival’s Mardi Gras debuted in 2021. Disney’s Wish and the forthcoming Disney Treasure are LNG-powered as well.

With Utopia sailing year-round, it continues Royal’s strategy of parking two Oasis-class ships at the port as Wonder of the Seas will continue seven-night sailing as well.

Utopia of the Seas is slightly larger than Wonder of the Seas coming in at 236,860 gross tons and 1,188 feet long with 18 decks and a 5,668-passenger capacity based on double occupancy. Original ship in the class Oasis of the Seas was the largest in the world when it debuted in 2009 followed by 2010’s Allure of the Seas, 2016’s Harmony of the Seas, 2018’s Symphony of the Seas and 2022’s Wonder of the Seas.

All but Symphony have spent some time calling Port Canaveral home.

Entertainment revealed for Port Canaveral-bound Utopia of the Seas

Unique to the ship will be a themed restaurant venue called Royal Railway – Utopia Station that brings travelers on board a virtual train, a new bar called the Pesky Parrot and the longest version of the popular twisting dry slide, the Ultimate Abyss.

It has eight neighborhoods including the Boardwalk, Royal Promenade and Central Park with more than 20 dining options and more than a dozen bars and lounges.

Top-deck features include eight hot tubs, five pools, three Perfect Storm waterslides, a surf simulator, mini golf, climbing walls, zipline and the Splashaway Bay water play area.

Entertainment options feature three new original shows among its three main venues, the AquaTheater, ice skating rink and main stage in the Royal Theater.

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