Cyran’s Guidebook
Entertainment
Atlantis Resort is a must visit place when visiting Nassau. You can find water parks, aquarium, restaurants, high end shopping, casinos, bar and clubs.
27 locals recommend
Paradise Island
Atlantis Resort is a must visit place when visiting Nassau. You can find water parks, aquarium, restaurants, high end shopping, casinos, bar and clubs.
Bahamar is a must visit place when visiting Nassau. You can find water parks, restaurants, high end shopping, casinos, bar and clubs.
72 locals recommend
The Baha Mar Casino & Hotel
1 Baha Mar BlvdBahamar is a must visit place when visiting Nassau. You can find water parks, restaurants, high end shopping, casinos, bar and clubs.
Sightseeing
The Queens Staircase, commonly referred to as The 66 Steps, was hewn out of solid limestone rock by slaves between 1793 and 1794. It provided a direct route from Fort Fincastle to Nassau. These steps were later renamed in honor of Queen Victoria, who reigned in Britain for 64 years, from 1837 to 1901.
Because the pathway that leads to the steps has been paved, the bottom step is buried under the asphalt, so there are now only 65 steps visible.
59 locals recommend
Queen's Staircase
Greenwich StreetThe Queens Staircase, commonly referred to as The 66 Steps, was hewn out of solid limestone rock by slaves between 1793 and 1794. It provided a direct route from Fort Fincastle to Nassau. These steps were later renamed in honor of Queen Victoria, who reigned in Britain for 64 years, from 1837 to 1901.
Because the pathway that leads to the steps has been paved, the bottom step is buried under the asphalt, so there are now only 65 steps visible.
The Versailles Gardens on Paradise Island comprise a spectacularly lush multiterraced landscape set in a rectangular design which is about 75 feet wide. The gardens extend approximately a quarter of a mile from the Ocean Club to the southern edge of the island, overlooking the waters of Nassau Harbor. Throughout the length of Versailles a stone path covered in Bermuda grass connects the terraces and demarcates Versailles into two mirrored halves. Handlaid rock ridges extend to the east and to the west of this path. These ridges are composed of reddishtan flint rock and grey sandstone, which over time has acquired a rusty grey facade. These ridges provide the basis on which richly colored purple Bougainvillea stand, evenly trimmed in a boxcut hedge design.
13 locals recommend
The Cloister
The Versailles Gardens on Paradise Island comprise a spectacularly lush multiterraced landscape set in a rectangular design which is about 75 feet wide. The gardens extend approximately a quarter of a mile from the Ocean Club to the southern edge of the island, overlooking the waters of Nassau Harbor. Throughout the length of Versailles a stone path covered in Bermuda grass connects the terraces and demarcates Versailles into two mirrored halves. Handlaid rock ridges extend to the east and to the west of this path. These ridges are composed of reddishtan flint rock and grey sandstone, which over time has acquired a rusty grey facade. These ridges provide the basis on which richly colored purple Bougainvillea stand, evenly trimmed in a boxcut hedge design.
Government House, located on a 10 acre estate, stands on Mount Fitzwilliam and is the official residence of the Governor General of The Bahamas.
It dates back to 1801 and this imposing pink and white building on Duke Street is an excellent example of the mingling of Bahamian British and American Colonial architecture.
The graceful columns and broad, circular driveway recall the styles of Virginia and the Carolinas.
In front of the building is the statue of Christopher Columbus. This statue was imported from London in 1830 by Governor James Carmichael Smythe in honor of Columbus Landfall at San Salvador in 1492.
7 locals recommend
Government House
Duke StreetGovernment House, located on a 10 acre estate, stands on Mount Fitzwilliam and is the official residence of the Governor General of The Bahamas.
It dates back to 1801 and this imposing pink and white building on Duke Street is an excellent example of the mingling of Bahamian British and American Colonial architecture.
The graceful columns and broad, circular driveway recall the styles of Virginia and the Carolinas.
In front of the building is the statue of Christopher Columbus. This statue was imported from London in 1830 by Governor James Carmichael Smythe in honor of Columbus Landfall at San Salvador in 1492.
At the Clifton Heritage National Park, you can find remnants of the historical and cultural legacy of three important groups that had an impact on the country: the Lucayans, the Loyalists and Africans.
Managed by the Clifton Heritage Authority, Clifton Heritage Park was established in June 2004 to preserve this important area for the use and benefit of the people of The Bahamas, and the Park officially opened its doors in April 2009.
A walk along the winding trails throughout the park will reveal a variety of ecosystems, such as native coppice, cliffs, coastal wetlands, dunes, rocky shorelines, sandy beaches, and offshore coral reefs.
Local fauna includes songbirds, wading birds, seabirds, and other wildlife. You can enjoy swimming, fishing, hiking, camping, snorkeling, birdwatching, and picnicking in the Park, plus the Sacred Space is perfect for wedding ceremonies and spiritual retreats, and the panoramic views from the cliffs provide perfect photo opportunities.
The Park is closed for all activities after dark except boat launching and pickups. Organized Adventure Tours, EcoTours, and Heritage Tours are available.
80 locals recommend
Clifton Heritage National Park
South West RoadAt the Clifton Heritage National Park, you can find remnants of the historical and cultural legacy of three important groups that had an impact on the country: the Lucayans, the Loyalists and Africans.
Managed by the Clifton Heritage Authority, Clifton Heritage Park was established in June 2004 to preserve this important area for the use and benefit of the people of The Bahamas, and the Park officially opened its doors in April 2009.
A walk along the winding trails throughout the park will reveal a variety of ecosystems, such as native coppice, cliffs, coastal wetlands, dunes, rocky shorelines, sandy beaches, and offshore coral reefs.
Local fauna includes songbirds, wading birds, seabirds, and other wildlife. You can enjoy swimming, fishing, hiking, camping, snorkeling, birdwatching, and picnicking in the Park, plus the Sacred Space is perfect for wedding ceremonies and spiritual retreats, and the panoramic views from the cliffs provide perfect photo opportunities.
The Park is closed for all activities after dark except boat launching and pickups. Organized Adventure Tours, EcoTours, and Heritage Tours are available.
Activities
Located in the heart of Nassau, this unique attraction is home to the well-trained, world-famous marching flamingos. Its mini zoo has more than two hundred mammals, birds, and reptiles that are nestled in over four acres of plush, tropical landscape.
Open: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Last Admission - 4:00 p.m.) / Closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year's Day.
Flamingo Showtimes (daily): 10:30 a.m. / 2:15 p.m. / 4:00 p.m.
Lory Parrot Feedings (daily): 11:00 a.m. / 1:30 p.m. / 3:30 p.m.
Prices:
Adults $16.00 / Children $8.00 / Infants (3 and under) Free
106 locals recommend
Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Center
Chippingham RoadLocated in the heart of Nassau, this unique attraction is home to the well-trained, world-famous marching flamingos. Its mini zoo has more than two hundred mammals, birds, and reptiles that are nestled in over four acres of plush, tropical landscape.
Open: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Last Admission - 4:00 p.m.) / Closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year's Day.
Flamingo Showtimes (daily): 10:30 a.m. / 2:15 p.m. / 4:00 p.m.
Lory Parrot Feedings (daily): 11:00 a.m. / 1:30 p.m. / 3:30 p.m.
Prices:
Adults $16.00 / Children $8.00 / Infants (3 and under) Free
Cabbage Beach has 2 miles (3 kilometers) of soft white sand, crystal-clear water and countless resorts, bars and restaurants lining the shore. The near end of the beach is busy, with a lively atmosphere and plenty of activities to occupy the family. The far, northwestern end of the beach is more isolated. Those looking to escape the crowds will love this section of Cabbage Beach, where a more relaxing beach experience can be enjoyed.
Cabbage Beach is a destination for those who love watersports. At the popular resort end of the beach the offshore waters are buzzing with Jet Skis and boats towing parasailers. Rent your own gear or hire a driver from one of the many beachfront operators for hours of fun. Lessons are offered and tandem boats with a driver are available for first timers. Crash through the small waves that roll across the water for an exhilarating ride.
Swim between the designated flags under the gaze of the Atlantis resort’s lifeguards. Cabbage Beach is known to have unpredictable conditions, particularly during the winter; inexperienced swimmers are advised to remain alert.
Indulge in an afternoon of sunbathing, the most popular activity at Cabbage Beach. Rent deck chairs from a resort or look for a bargain with a beachfront vendor. It’s easy to spend the whole afternoon on the sand, with vendors regularly stopping by to offer drinks, snacks and umbrellas.
Cabbage Beach is located on Paradise Island and is accessible on foot, by taxi or by boat. The beach is just a short walk away from Nassau’s harbor precinct. The beach is public and open daily. While there are no facilities at Cabbage Beach, buying a drink at a beachfront bar will give you access to its restroom.
38 locals recommend
Cabbage Beach
Cabbage Beach has 2 miles (3 kilometers) of soft white sand, crystal-clear water and countless resorts, bars and restaurants lining the shore. The near end of the beach is busy, with a lively atmosphere and plenty of activities to occupy the family. The far, northwestern end of the beach is more isolated. Those looking to escape the crowds will love this section of Cabbage Beach, where a more relaxing beach experience can be enjoyed.
Cabbage Beach is a destination for those who love watersports. At the popular resort end of the beach the offshore waters are buzzing with Jet Skis and boats towing parasailers. Rent your own gear or hire a driver from one of the many beachfront operators for hours of fun. Lessons are offered and tandem boats with a driver are available for first timers. Crash through the small waves that roll across the water for an exhilarating ride.
Swim between the designated flags under the gaze of the Atlantis resort’s lifeguards. Cabbage Beach is known to have unpredictable conditions, particularly during the winter; inexperienced swimmers are advised to remain alert.
Indulge in an afternoon of sunbathing, the most popular activity at Cabbage Beach. Rent deck chairs from a resort or look for a bargain with a beachfront vendor. It’s easy to spend the whole afternoon on the sand, with vendors regularly stopping by to offer drinks, snacks and umbrellas.
Cabbage Beach is located on Paradise Island and is accessible on foot, by taxi or by boat. The beach is just a short walk away from Nassau’s harbor precinct. The beach is public and open daily. While there are no facilities at Cabbage Beach, buying a drink at a beachfront bar will give you access to its restroom.
Located just three miles northeast of Nassau, Blue Lagoon Island (also known as Salt Cay) is home to dolphins and sea lions at Dolphin Encounters, but it also offers everything that you would want on a private island getaway. You can swim in a hidden lagoon with clear blue water, snorkel right off the beach and see coral reefs teeming with numerous species of tropical fish, sunbathe on white-sand beaches surrounded by coconut palm trees, and walk through lush natural vegetation that is the habitat for nesting birds.
You can purchase a package that includes round-trip boat transfer to Blue Lagoon Island, lunch, free access to the Inflatable Aqua Park, plus use of the facilities, beach sports and game equipment. Water sports equipment is also available to rent: paddleboards, kayaks, clear bottom kayaks, water bikes, underwater scooters, and snorkeling gear.
CONTACT INFORMATION
RESERVATIONS
Toll Free: (866) 918-9932
Email: info@dolphinencounters.com
29 locals recommend
Salt Cay
Located just three miles northeast of Nassau, Blue Lagoon Island (also known as Salt Cay) is home to dolphins and sea lions at Dolphin Encounters, but it also offers everything that you would want on a private island getaway. You can swim in a hidden lagoon with clear blue water, snorkel right off the beach and see coral reefs teeming with numerous species of tropical fish, sunbathe on white-sand beaches surrounded by coconut palm trees, and walk through lush natural vegetation that is the habitat for nesting birds.
You can purchase a package that includes round-trip boat transfer to Blue Lagoon Island, lunch, free access to the Inflatable Aqua Park, plus use of the facilities, beach sports and game equipment. Water sports equipment is also available to rent: paddleboards, kayaks, clear bottom kayaks, water bikes, underwater scooters, and snorkeling gear.
CONTACT INFORMATION
RESERVATIONS
Toll Free: (866) 918-9932
Email: info@dolphinencounters.com
Much of the pirate “golden age” was centered around the Bahama Islands, with the major commercial hub being Nassau. The town was home to a rough harbor precinct, with unruly sailors and pirates swigging rum, fighting on the docks and gambling in the taverns. The Pirates of Nassau Museum offers an exciting glimpse into the lives of the real Pirates of the Caribbean. Have hours of fun and entertainment as you move through the museum’s replica pirate ship and the rooms below. The museum has steadily grown to be one of the most popular attractions in the city.
Upon arrival, a jovial pirate will greet your party and lead you aboard the Revenge. The huge replica ship bears all the signature features of 17th-century pirate ships, including weaponry and flags. Follow your guide through the museum, or take a self-guided tour to discover the historic relics recovered from ships sunk during battle. Intricately engraved swords, pistols and cannons are highlights of the museum.
Information is provided in English throughout the museum and is aimed at both adults and children. For hours of entertainment, help your children get started answering a series of true or false questions that run throughout the museum, many with answers that will surprise even the most educated historians. Read about the reason so many ships were defeated by pirates in the region and hear the tales of savagery that emerged from the era. Learn about the range of flags flown during battle and the different meanings each held.
End your museum visit with a stop at its excellent gift shop, a good place to find souvenirs to take home.
The Pirates of Nassau Museum is open daily and an admission fee applies. Visitors staying in Nassau will be able to reach the museum on foot; it’s just a short distance from the city harbor. Those coming from farther afield will find street parking in the area.
33 locals recommend
Pirates of Nassau Museum
George StreetMuch of the pirate “golden age” was centered around the Bahama Islands, with the major commercial hub being Nassau. The town was home to a rough harbor precinct, with unruly sailors and pirates swigging rum, fighting on the docks and gambling in the taverns. The Pirates of Nassau Museum offers an exciting glimpse into the lives of the real Pirates of the Caribbean. Have hours of fun and entertainment as you move through the museum’s replica pirate ship and the rooms below. The museum has steadily grown to be one of the most popular attractions in the city.
Upon arrival, a jovial pirate will greet your party and lead you aboard the Revenge. The huge replica ship bears all the signature features of 17th-century pirate ships, including weaponry and flags. Follow your guide through the museum, or take a self-guided tour to discover the historic relics recovered from ships sunk during battle. Intricately engraved swords, pistols and cannons are highlights of the museum.
Information is provided in English throughout the museum and is aimed at both adults and children. For hours of entertainment, help your children get started answering a series of true or false questions that run throughout the museum, many with answers that will surprise even the most educated historians. Read about the reason so many ships were defeated by pirates in the region and hear the tales of savagery that emerged from the era. Learn about the range of flags flown during battle and the different meanings each held.
End your museum visit with a stop at its excellent gift shop, a good place to find souvenirs to take home.
The Pirates of Nassau Museum is open daily and an admission fee applies. Visitors staying in Nassau will be able to reach the museum on foot; it’s just a short distance from the city harbor. Those coming from farther afield will find street parking in the area.
Introduce yourself to the colorful visual culture of the Bahamas at one of the largest collections of Bahamian art in the world. The National Art Gallery of the Bahamas is housed in a refurbished 1860s villa. The two-story gallery showcases significant works from local painters, photographers and sculptors. Regular temporary exhibits bring work from around the Caribbean to Nassau and the on-site library is a great place to discover rare books on local history. Widely considered the most important gallery in the Bahamas, the National Art Gallery is a must-see spot for anyone with an interest in art or local culture.
Approaching the gallery, you will notice its stunning exterior. The building was once the villa of the local chief of justice and features a grand ballroom and a wide balcony with ocean views. Climb the steps to the entrance to see its stately interior, considered one of the finest examples of colonial architecture in Nassau’s Old Town.
Discover the National Collection of Bahamian Art that occupies the gallery’s ground floor. The impressive collection features work by some of the best-known artists in the country, including Max Taylor, Amos Fergusson and Brent Malone. See delicate ceramics, haunting photographs and fascinating historical paintings as you make your way through the permanent collection.
Upstairs, find a collection of international art and spaces dedicated to temporary exhibitions. Stunning landscapes by Winslow Homer are among the highlights. The American artist spent time in the Bahamas in the 1880s and painted a series of watercolors depicting the local environment.
The National Art Gallery of the Bahamas is located in Nassau’s Old Town and can be reached on foot from many downtown locations. Free parking is available in the streets nearby and a bus serves the area. The gallery is closed Mondays and public holidays. An admission fee applies.
99 locals recommend
The National Art Gallery of The Bahamas
West Hill StreetIntroduce yourself to the colorful visual culture of the Bahamas at one of the largest collections of Bahamian art in the world. The National Art Gallery of the Bahamas is housed in a refurbished 1860s villa. The two-story gallery showcases significant works from local painters, photographers and sculptors. Regular temporary exhibits bring work from around the Caribbean to Nassau and the on-site library is a great place to discover rare books on local history. Widely considered the most important gallery in the Bahamas, the National Art Gallery is a must-see spot for anyone with an interest in art or local culture.
Approaching the gallery, you will notice its stunning exterior. The building was once the villa of the local chief of justice and features a grand ballroom and a wide balcony with ocean views. Climb the steps to the entrance to see its stately interior, considered one of the finest examples of colonial architecture in Nassau’s Old Town.
Discover the National Collection of Bahamian Art that occupies the gallery’s ground floor. The impressive collection features work by some of the best-known artists in the country, including Max Taylor, Amos Fergusson and Brent Malone. See delicate ceramics, haunting photographs and fascinating historical paintings as you make your way through the permanent collection.
Upstairs, find a collection of international art and spaces dedicated to temporary exhibitions. Stunning landscapes by Winslow Homer are among the highlights. The American artist spent time in the Bahamas in the 1880s and painted a series of watercolors depicting the local environment.
The National Art Gallery of the Bahamas is located in Nassau’s Old Town and can be reached on foot from many downtown locations. Free parking is available in the streets nearby and a bus serves the area. The gallery is closed Mondays and public holidays. An admission fee applies.
Also known as the Western Esplanade, this area joins the beach at Arawak Cay and Long Wharf, the two beaches near downtown Nassau which are just a few minutes walk from the cruise ship dock. Although a popular destination for spring breakers, on Saturdays you'll find Bahamians hosting cookouts and other fund-raising activities. This area has benches where you can relax and enjoy the sight of the ships accessing the harbour. You can even experience horseback and pony rides.
14 locals recommend
Junkanoo Beach
Also known as the Western Esplanade, this area joins the beach at Arawak Cay and Long Wharf, the two beaches near downtown Nassau which are just a few minutes walk from the cruise ship dock. Although a popular destination for spring breakers, on Saturdays you'll find Bahamians hosting cookouts and other fund-raising activities. This area has benches where you can relax and enjoy the sight of the ships accessing the harbour. You can even experience horseback and pony rides.
Shopping
Right in the middle of the high-end and boutique shops on Nassau’s Bay Street you’ll find the world-famous Straw Market. It’s home to handmade Bahamian crafts, gifts, souvenirs, and items such as hand-woven straw hats, bags, mats, dolls, conch shell jewelry, and wood carvings—and all available at very reasonable prices, especially if you’re good at negotiating!
86 locals recommend
Straw Market
West Bay StreetRight in the middle of the high-end and boutique shops on Nassau’s Bay Street you’ll find the world-famous Straw Market. It’s home to handmade Bahamian crafts, gifts, souvenirs, and items such as hand-woven straw hats, bags, mats, dolls, conch shell jewelry, and wood carvings—and all available at very reasonable prices, especially if you’re good at negotiating!
Nightclub
Craving an authentic local party scene? Look no further! Dive into an atmosphere teeming with locals, vibrant nightly DJ sets, delectable drinks, and scrumptious food. Open daily from 6pm-2am. Highly recommended for a true taste of the local vibe!
Unwnd Restaurant & Lounge
Craving an authentic local party scene? Look no further! Dive into an atmosphere teeming with locals, vibrant nightly DJ sets, delectable drinks, and scrumptious food. Open daily from 6pm-2am. Highly recommended for a true taste of the local vibe!
City advice
Getting around
Transportation
Renting a car or taxi is the best mode of transportation to get around the island.
Customs and culture
Friendly & Laid Back Culture
When visit The Bahamas you will realize the locals are very friendly and that most people are not in a rush to get things done, which we refer to being on “island time”. You will feel very relaxed.