Cruise Port Essentials: Exploring Nassau, Bahamas

The port of Nassau, (Prince George Wharf) is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world. It is located in the capital of the Bahamas, New Providence. There are local straw markets to explore here, delicious Bahamian cuisine to try, as well as nearby beaches and resorts. The port has a colorful, festive welcome center that resembles a Bahamian village. There is an abundance of shops and attractions — including the Bahamas Museum of Junkanoo. You can also try some island treats like coconut and pineapple tarts here.

Beautiful white sand beaches

Best time to visit/weather: The peak time to visit Nassau is April and May. The weather is beautiful with an average temperature of 80. It is perfect for beach days and attending local festivals, parades and cultural events. There are fewer crowds, because you avoid the peak tourist season, which is December–March. December to April has ideal weather, but it tends to be a busier season. June to November is the rainy season with an average of nine inches per month. The temperature ranges from 88–90 in the day and 73–76 at night. The Atlantic Hurricane season also runs during this time frame.

Transportation: If you take a cruise-sponsored excursion, transportation will be provided. Taxis are available in the Arrival Plaza that can take you to beaches, resorts, hotels or private island tours. The rates should be fixed, but always check to make sure before you leave the port. Public buses (Jitneys) run from 6 am – 7 pm and connect downtown Nassau to major attractions. They typically cost $1.50 per trip. There are also several car rental agencies at the port, as well as scooters and ATV rentals. Important reminder Bahamas drives on the left side of the road. Water ferries connect Nassau to Paradise Island, where Atlantis Resort is located. Always be aware that ship-sponsored excursions guarantee a timely return and you never want to be late if you go out on your own. The ship will not wait for you if you are late on your own.

Local Cuisine: Nassau’s local cuisine is a delicious blend of Caribbean flavors, fresh seafood, Caribbean and Bahamian specialties like conch fritters, peas and rice and guava duff.

Here are a few top restaurants recommendations:

• Crabs and Ting: Famous for seafood, located at Junkanoo Beach.

• Graycliff Restaurant: Upscale dining with Bahamian flavors.

• Poop Deck: A waterfront spot known for fresh seafood.

• Oh Andros: A local favorite for Bahamian comfort food.

• Athena Café & Bar: Offers a mix of Bahamian and Greek cuisine.

Nassau has some fun bars with plenty of options for tropical cocktails, waterfront views and local vibes. Here are some favorites:

• Sharkeez Bar and Grill: A casual spot with great drinks and ocean views.

• Señor Frog’s Nassau: A fun, party-style bar with music and dancing.

• Green Parrot Bar & Grill: A laid-back waterfront bar with a great atmosphere.

• Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Bahamas: Classic Island vibes with frozen margaritas.

Shopping: Nassau offers a great mix of local markets, luxury boutiques and duty-free shopping. I’ve gotten cute handmade straw purses here, as well as well-priced name-brand watches. There is a wonderful variety of items.

Top spots to shop

• Bay Street: The main shopping district with duty-free jewelry, designer brands and souvenirs.

• Straw Market: A must-visit for handmade Bahamian crafts, straw hats, bags and wood carvings.

• Marina Village at Atlantis: Upscale shopping with high-end brands and resort wear.

• The Mall at Marathon: Nassau’s largest mall, featuring local and international retailers.

• Bahama Crafts Centre: A great spot for Bahamian art and handmade goods.

Jewelry & luxury shopping

• Diamonds International Nassau: Known for duty-free diamonds, watches and fine jewelry.

• John Bull: Offers luxury brands like Rolex, Cartier and Breitling.

• Effy Jewelry: Specializes in unique gemstone designs.

Local & boutique shops

• JaDazzles Clothing & Accessories: A trendy boutique for fashion and accessories.

• Harbour Bay Shopping Plaza: A mix of local shops and specialty stores.

• Palmdale Shopping Plaza: Offers various retail options.

• Nassau is packed with exciting activities, whether you're looking for beaches, history, wildlife or adventure.

Here are some top things to do:

• Beaches & water activities

• Cabbage Beach: A beautiful white-sand beach on Paradise Island.

• Blue Lagoon Island: Dolphin encounters, snorkeling and kayaking.

• Aquaventure Water Park: A 141 acre water park with exciting slides, lazy rivers, and a variety of pools at the Atlantis resort.

Historical & cultural sites

• Pirates of Nassau Museum: Learn about the island’s pirate history.

• Queen’s Staircase: A historic limestone staircase with beautiful surroundings.

• Fort Montagu: The oldest fort in Nassau, with beautiful views.

• Parliament Square: The traditional center of the Bahamian government.

• Fort Charlotte: Built in 1788, it is complete with a moat, open battlements and even dungeons.

Wildlife & nature

• Ardastra Gardens & Wildlife Conservation Centre: You can visit flamingos and exotic animals.

• Clifton Heritage National Park: Nature trails and underwater sculptures.

• Powerboat adventures: Speedboat to a private island with stingrays and sharks.

• Aqua Shores Luxury Powerboat Tours: Snorkeling and sightseeing.

• Harbour Safaris: Boat excursions around Nassau, including wildlife encounters.

Unique excursions

• Swimming with Pigs Tour: Visit Exuma to swim with adorable pigs. (This is at the top of my bucket list)

• ATV Island Tour: Explore Nassau on an off-road adventure.

• Glass-Bottom Boat Tour: See marine life without getting wet.

Swimming with the pigs

Nassau has something to offer for everyone. This is just a sampling of the many activities and adventures that Nassau has to offer. You can have a wonderful day just strolling through the straw market and eating at a local restaurant, visiting a beautiful beach, viewing stingrays, sharks and even swimming with dolphins or pigs in the ocean. A day at Atlantis is always fun. There are water slides, fantastic pools, a marine habitat, predator lagoon, a variety of restaurants and a world-class casino.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, check out our Bahamas page.