Nassau holidays

Best hotels in Nassau

Welcome to Nassau - a tropical wonderland in the Bahamas where vibrant culture meets pristine beaches, and every day is a new adventure. Imagine yourself strolling through streets lined with candy-coloured colonial buildings, sipping on a Bahama Mama as the sun dips below the horizon. Whether you’re here to dive into the azure Caribbean waters, uncover the secrets of a pirate past, or simply soak up the sun, Nassau holidays are packed with fun, flavour, and a dash of island magic. Ready to explore? Let’s dive in!

Things to Do

Jump headfirst into Nassau’s underwater wonders with some of the best snorkelling and deep-sea swimming spots in the Caribbean. Think vibrant coral reefs, mysterious underwater caves, and marine life that looks straight out of a travel reel. If you're more of a landlubber, the historic downtown area is your playground. Wander around Bay Street for some duty-free shopping, or haggle like a local at the Nassau Straw Market for unique Bahamian crafts and souvenirs.

Feeling peckish? Treat your taste buds to a feast at Arawak Cay, affectionately known as the Fish Fry. Here, you can indulge in mouthwatering conch fritters, savour the island’s famous rock lobster, and wash it all down with an ice-cold Kalik beer. For a dash of history, climb the Queen’s Staircase — 66 limestone steps hand-carved by slaves in the 18th century, leading up to the grand Fort Fincastle.

And if you’re visiting during the festive season, don’t miss the Junkanoo Festival. This is Nassau’s most vivid and rhythmic street parade, with elaborate costumes, hypnotic drum beats, and dancing that’ll make you want to join the fun. Need a break from the hustle and bustle? Take a short ferry ride to Harbour Island and bask in the rosy glow of its pink sand beaches. Golf lovers, prepare to be amazed by the Ocean Club Golf Course on Paradise Island, where stunning ocean views make every swing feel like a scene from a movie.

More Travel Guides

20°C - 32°C

Caribbean climate anyone? In Nassau, think endless sunshine and warm temperatures year-round. So swap your scarves for SPF, because things are heating up in this tropical paradise. And if you’re wondering about the optimal tanning months - visit between November and April!

9 - 10 hours

Nassau Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) is the oldest and largest airport in the Bahamas.

Map of Nassau

Nassau is best for…

Beach bums: Nassau is your ultimate sun-soaked haven, where powdery white sands and sapphire waters make it impossible to resist the lure of lounging by the sea. Whether you’re catching rays at Cable Beach or taking a refreshing dip in Paradise Island’s sparkling waves, beachside bliss is practically guaranteed.

History buffs: Immerse yourself amidst Nassau’s rich tapestry of stories and landmarks. From the intricately carved Queen’s Staircase to the swashbuckling exhibits at the Pirates of Nassau Museum, there’s no shortage of tales and treasures to bring the island’s past vividly to life.

Adventure seekers: For those with a thirst for excitement, Nassau is a playground of thrilling activities. Dive into vibrant coral reefs, zip through waterparks, or tee off on a stunning golf course with panoramic ocean views. There’s no end to the adrenaline-pumping fun that awaits!

Getting around Nassau

By Bus: Nassau’s bus system, known locally as jitneys, is a vibrant and budget-friendly way to explore the city. These colourful, shared minibuses run along set routes and are a great way to experience local life as you travel alongside Nassau’s residents. They might take a bit of a roundabout route, but they’re perfect for getting a genuine taste of the island’s daily life.

By Taxi: For a more direct and personalised experience, taxis are your go-to option. They’re ideal for getting you exactly where you need to be, whether it’s a beach, a restaurant, or a landmark. Just make sure to use licensed taxis — look for the official "taxi" sign — and always agree on the fare before you set off to avoid any surprises.

By Car: If you’re feeling adventurous, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Nassau and its surroundings at your own pace. While the island is fairly compact, traffic can be a bit unpredictable, so be prepared for occasional delays and keep an eye out for local driving habits.

By Ferry: For a scenic and enjoyable mode of transport, consider hopping on a ferry. It’s a fantastic way to visit nearby islands like Paradise Island or even make your way to the serene beaches of Harbour Island. Ferries are a leisurely alternative that adds a splash of island charm to your travels.

Fast facts for Nassau

Language: English is the official language, making it easy for holidaymakers to communicate and navigate.

Currency: The currency in Nassau is the Bahamian dollar.

Local time: Nassau is 5 hours behind the UK (GMT-5).

Fly to: Nassau Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) is located 13 kilometres from the downtown area of Nassau, the capital. It takes a swift 15 minutes to reach the centre by taxi.

Flight time from the UK: 9 - 10 hours

Tourist information: Further tourist information can be found at the Bahamas tourism website.

Visa/Health: Before you travel, check the latest advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.

Events in Nassau

Junkanoo Festival: If you’re in Nassau around December 26th or January 1st, prepare to be swept away by the electrifying Junkanoo Festival. This vibrant street parade bursts with dazzling costumes, infectious rhythms, and non-stop dancing that bring the city to life.

Nassau Music and Arts Festival: Held annually in April, the Nassau Music and Arts Festival is a treat for culture vultures. Expect a rich tapestry of live music, art exhibitions, and performances that showcase both local and international talent.

Bahamas International Film Festival: For film buffs, the Bahamas International Film Festival in December offers a chance to catch cutting-edge films from around the globe. Held in Nassau, this event highlights independent films and emerging talent, making it a fantastic opportunity to enjoy some cinematic gems in a beautiful setting.

Nassau safety and security

For up-to-date advice on travelling to the Bahamas, please visit the FCDO website.

Nassau weather

In Nassau, the tropical trade winds keep things delightfully warm and inviting all year round. With an impressive 300 plus sun-filled days annually, you can count on nearly constant sunshine to fuel your island adventures. From December to April, the weather is at its finest, with daytime temperatures comfortably nestled between 25 – 28°C — perfect for beach lounging and exploring.

Summer in Nassau brings a touch more heat and a splash of occasional showers, but don’t worry — these are usually brief and quickly followed by bright, clear skies. The weather is a bit more unpredictable during hurricane season (June to November), so while you might score great deals on accommodation and flights, it's wise to keep an eye on local forecasts. For the best balance of good weather and fewer crowds, plan your visit from late April to early June, when the island enjoys settled weather and a quieter, more relaxed vibe.