Traveling in Nassau: What to Do and Where to Go On Your Nassau Vacation

Overview

As a port city that used to be a major hub for transport between Europe and the West Indies, the Bahamas city of Nassau was once a haven for pirates and merchants. However, in the last fifty years, Nassau has become one of the largest tourist sites of the Caribbean. With a large international airport and the recent construction of the Paradise Island Bridge -- a bridge that connects the city with Paradise Island -- the number of visitors to the city each year has grown considerably. Beyond the distinct Caribbean attributes that Nassau shares with its island neighbors is its distinct colonial appeal. While much of the city has been modernized for tourist comfort, much of it also retains the architectural appeal of its late-1700s-early-1800s development, allowing its visitors to experience a vibrant mixture of both natural and man-made beauty.

Sightseeing Attractions

Paradise Island is perhaps the most popular tourist attraction of the city. With its modern comforts, white beaches, and turquoise waters, Paradise Island is aptly named. For a more historical outing, stroll the streets of Old Town. Here you’ll find an interesting array of colonial buildings, abandoned structures, and buildings painted in typical-Caribbean vibrant colors. To experience some of Nassau’s history as a port town, visit the Pirate Museum.

Outdoor Recreation

Most of the outdoor activities that occur in Nassau are water-related, naturally. Visitors can find ample opportunities for scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, and sailing. The main diving district is Coral Harbor; however, you’ll find long, deep reefs and drop-off walls on the southern coast and shallow reefs on the western coast. The premier spot for fishing is in the waters around New Providence where grouper, snapper, deepwater amberjack, blackfin tuna, bonito, and blue marlin fish species are common. Sailing is a common pastime among Nassau’s natives, and boats are available for rent at all of Nassau’s harbors.

Nightlife

If you’re interested in shopping, there is, of course, an ample selection of malls to choose from in Nassau. However, for a richer shopping experience, check out the Straw Market instead. The dining opportunities in Nassau are also internationally diverse; however, if you can afford to splurge on at least one expensive meal, you’ll want to visit a restaurant that prepares the island’s freshly-caught seafood. Most of these will be found of the waterfront. As far as drinking, Nassau is known as a spring break hotspot. Every hotel on Cable Beach has its own disco, but visitors should expect to pay a substantial cover charge wherever they decide to go. Nassau bars and nightclubs are steadily busy throughout the week.

Jessica Elliott is a freelance writer for Directory of Hotels.com – Hip Cool Hotels. For travel to this region, she recommends staying at any one of these fine Boutique Hotels in Nassau.