Looking for the ultimate 1-day Nassau, Bahamas itinerary?
Nassau, Bahamas is a paradise island that not only has stunning beaches with picture-perfect turquoise waters and powdery soft sand, but a lot of activities and locations worth visiting. The Bahamas is made up of 700 islands and Nassau is the capital of them all, on New Providence Island. Nassau is bursting with history dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries in its pirate era, Caribbean culture and enough activities to keep you busy for a full day and wanting to come back.
When I think of Bahamas, I think of paradise with beautiful views, crystal clear turquoise waters, white sand as soft as a blanket, and endless beach resorts. Although it is one of the smallest of the Bahamian islands, it is the most populated bringing tourists in every day!
I was thoroughly ecstatic that this was our second to last stop whilst sailing a 14-night Transatlantic Cruise from Barcelona to Florida. I will share some of the things I got up to so you can decide what to do with your one day in Nassau!
Know before you go!
Money
The currency in the Bahamas is Bahamian Dollar, which is always 1:1 conversions with US dollar. They will accept USD but may give change in Bahamian coins.
Tip: Keep small bills on you.
Language
The official language in the Bahamas is ENGLISH.
Travel
There is currently a travel advisory in the Bahamas for high rates of crimes, muggings, fraud and assault. Use common sense and make sure valuable are secure, not on show if left in rental cars. Don’t walk alone at night and stay aware and alert.
Airport: Lynden Pindling International Airport
Transport
Taxi’s are widely available. Only take marked taxi’s and ask for the price before hand. Many are happy to wait at drop off location for the return trip. The Downtown area is accessible by foot so walking is another great way of getting around.
Here’s your Ultimate 1-day itinerary for a great day in Nassau, Bahamas.
The Queen’s Staircase
When you dissembark the cruise ship you will walk down a broadwalk into Festival Place. This is a secure area that has local vendors selling souvenires, food and other crafts. You will fins toilet and an information centre here if unsure what to do at this port stop.
Note: You will have to show your ID to get back into this gated area when heading back to the ship.
As soon as you leave the Prince George Wharf port gates, confidently walk past the hustling taxi’s and go left towards the town. I say confidently as it can be intimidating with the shouting and waving of excursion cards in your face. 20minutes walk to the staircase and you will see the 66 steps which are framed under lush gardens. You will be impressed to see the large tree roots very much exposed.
Whilst the stairs look great from a wander lust perspective, the history is that they were carved by slaves between 1793-1794 to create a direct route from Fort Fincastle to Nassau. It was actually known as “the 66 Steps” but officially changed to the Queen’s Staircase in honour of the reign of Queen Victoria who abolished slavery.
Fact: After paving the modern path that is below the steps, they paved over one step so it really is 65 steps now.
Fort Fincastle
Once at the top of the stairs and by-passing the regular joggers going up and down, you will see Fort Fincastle atop Bennett’s hill. This was built under the governorship of John Murray to protect Nassau. Not only will you see lots of vendors selling in their market stalls with souvenirs but, the views of downtown Nassau and the docked ship is breathtaking. Fort Fincastle can be explored for $1, however it was closed the day I went. After sipping on coconut water, which you can purchase at the top whilst taking in the views, it is now time to head for a long walk towards the Poitier Bridge. There were tour maxi taxis that are possible to book if you would rather not walk far.
Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge
Walking over the Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge is a great experience on foot and not quite the same in a taxi. If it is forecast to be hot sun, wear your sunscreen and shades because the Caribbean sun blazes hot!! We didn’t plan to be walking in the hot sun for long but it just happened. When you pass by the corner shops, why not try one of the sweet drinks you can only get out there like Goombay Punch which is a sweet soft drink full of fruity flavours. Seeing the world go by, you will get a sense of the laid-back Bahamian life. Once at the brow of the bridge, you will be able to see the cruise ships in the distance which brings the size into perspective. Head further over the bridge to see the approaching lavish villas that are famously rented by a-listers when in the Bahamas.
The Atlantis
Once over the bridge it is like discovering a new land! Walking straight ahead to the right you will see the Atlantis Bahamas getting bigger in all its glory. Admire the expensive looking yachts moored outside the entrance. For around $130-$200, day passes give you access to Aquaventure, a massive water park with thrilling slides and lazy rivers. Explore the wonders of the deep with access to marine exhibits, or simply relax on their pristine beaches. Alternatively if you don’t want to get wet, foodies can eat delicious meals and shoppers can browse luxury stores. While day guests enjoy these perks, hotel guests receive unlimited access to everything Atlantis offers, including water parks, aquariums, and exclusive events. The Atlantis Bahamas is sure to keep you busy for a day! I would like to try the Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island one day.
Back to Port Area
You can walk back to the port or save your feet and get a taxi. There are plenty options for taxis that wait outside of the Atlantis entrance. Note that there is no Uber or Lyft on the island.
Shopping on Bay Street
Get dropped off at Bay Street which is the main shopping street in Nassau. It isn’t too hard to find and all taxi’s know where it is! It is just outside the gated Festival Place area. If you’re shopping for jewellery this is the place to do it! There are also many souvenir stores, clothing stores, restaurants and cafes.
Straw Market
Go to the Straw Market next which has an entrance on Bay Street. It is the only place where you can negotiate the price. It is stuffed to the rafters with handmade items such as straw purses and hats, wood carvings, conch shell jewellery and so much more.
Back to the Ship
After you have soaked up the Bahamian sun, shopped till you drop and eaten your weight in Caribbean delicacies, it is time to head back to the cruise ship.
THESE ARE THE MUST-SEE SIGHTS AND ACTIVITIES WORTH IN THE BAHAMAS.
Paradise Island – with its luxurious resorts and endless sunshine.
Cable Beach – beach club scene.
The Queen’s Staircase
Pirates of Nassau Museum – learn about the swashbuckling days of the pirates.
Fort Fincastle – offering epic city views of Nassau.
Atlantis Aquarium – Adventure park and where over 50,000 marine creatures are waiting to meet you.
Nassau Straw Market – one-of-a-kind souvenirs to treasure forever.
Dolphin Cay – Swimming with these majestic creatures.
Fort Charlotte
Blue Lagoon Island – Have a close encounter with dolphins at the world-famous Dolphin Encounter program.
Glass-bottom boats – see the sea from under your boats
Jet boat excursions
Catamaran sailings paired with reef snorkelling
Deep-sea fishing
Beach days exclusive with private cabanas.
Swim with the pigs
Junkanoo Beach – A free beach.
DID YOU KNOW?
Nassau has been a backdrop for numerous Hollywood films such as James Bond, “Thunderball” to “Pirates of the Caribbean. The city’s unique charm has captivated audiences worldwide.
Do you have any favourite things to see and do in Nassau? I’d love to hear about them.
THIS POST IS ALL ABOUT THE BEST WAY TO SEE NASSAU BAHAMAS IN A 1 DAY ITINERARY.