A Local’s Guide to Nassau & Paradise Island’s Cultural Side

What you'll find in this guide: 

• Where to start the day with a classic Bahamian breakfast (and what to order)
• Which two quieter beaches are great for snorkelling, picnics, and a slower pace
• The best natural stops for limestone trails, reefs, and sunken surprises
• Where to go for Junkanoo culture, and to explore Nassau & Paradise Island’s historic landmarks
• Three ready-made “hidden gems” itineraries to mix, match, and follow

The postcard version of Nassau & Paradise Island is all sugar-white sand and bright water. Stay a little longer, and the story gets better—breakfast spots Bahamians swear by, quieter pockets of shoreline, parks where history sits right beside the sea.

And who better to help you uncover the local favourites of Paradise than those who call it home? Our local storytellers bring the Bahamian spirit to life, sharing their favourite off-the-beaten-path experiences and inviting you to see the island through their eyes. Here’s how to spend a day (or a few) discovering Nassau & Paradise Island through a local lens.

Taste Authentic Island Flavours

If you want culture you can taste, begin in the morning.

For an authentic Bahamian breakfast experience, head to Nesbitt’s Restaurant & Lounge on West Bay Street. Every dish here tells a story, blending African, Caribbean, and European influences into vibrant flavours.

Want to see what makes Nesbitt’s a staple for locals and visitors alike? Join Nick as he takes you inside this beloved breakfast spot.
 

• Local tip: Order a traditional breakfast—steamed sausage and grits—and settle into a slower start to the day.

When evening rolls in, trade bustle for candlelit calm at Café Matisse, a culinary gem hidden inside a lush courtyard. It’s romantic without trying too hard, with Italian-inspired dishes, excellent service, and an inviting atmosphere. Take a look inside Café Matisse and see how it brings a taste of Italy to The Bahamas.

• Local tip: For a meal that blends Italy with the island, order ravioli all'aragosta—housemade ravioli filled with lobster and served in a light bisque sauce.

Find Quieter Shores

While Nassau & Paradise Island is famed for iconic beaches, some of the most serene spots sit away from the shorelines.

Love Beach is a local favourite for snorkelling when the water’s clear and calm. A protected coral reef sits just offshore, spanning close to 40 acres. With its crystal-clear waters and serene atmosphere, it’s far enough from the crowds that it still feels like a find.

• Local tip: Go earlier for the quietest water and fewer footprints.

If you’re after something more secluded, Cave Beach delivers limestone, grottos, and a sense of discovering a secret corner of The Bahamas. Bring water and a snack, settle into the soft sand, and embrace your slice of Paradise.
 

Explore Natural Wonders

From prehistoric forests to vibrant underwater worlds, Nassau & Paradise Island is brimming with opportunities to connect with nature.

For a glimpse of wilder Nassau, head to Primeval Forest National Park, where limestone trails wind past sinkholes and caves. It’s shaded, textured, and a welcome change of pace.

At Clifton Heritage National Park, history and nature meet. Walk paths that pass ancient Lucayan artefacts, plantation ruins, and coastal views. Just offshore, you’ll discover a vibrant underwater world featuring coral reefs, sunken film wrecks, and the Lady of Coral created by world-renowned artist Jason deCaires Taylor — the latest addition to our enchanting sculpture garden. Dive into what makes Clifton so special with Kelsey. 

For a quieter reset, visit The Retreat Garden, an 11-acre botanical haven tucked away in Nassau. This lush oasis boasts over 90 palm species, vibrant flora, and gently flowing streams. Wander winding paths beneath palms and flowering trees, and bring your binoculars to catch sight of the many birds that call this garden home. Explore The Retreat Garden with Star and see why it’s worth seeking out.

And for those seeking some solitude, be sure to visit The Retreat Garden, an 11-acre botanical garden tucked away in Nassau. This lush oasis boasts over 90 species of palms, vibrant flora, and gently flowing streams. Walk along winding paths, listen to the soft rustle of leaves, and bring your binoculars to catch sight of the many birds that call this garden home! Explore The Retreat Garden with Star and see why it’s a must-visit.

Journey Through Bahamian History 

To step into the colour and rhythm of Bahamian tradition, visit the Educulture Junkanoo Museum, where costumes, instruments, and multimedia exhibits bring the energy of Junkanoo to life year-round. Want to learn more? Hear from Star on what makes this tradition so special. 

For another window into Nassau’s past, visit Christ Church Cathedral, an enduring landmark in the city centre with generations of history in its stone, arches, and memorials. Step inside and take a closer look at Nassau through the ages. 

Your Itinerary: A Day of Hidden Gems 

Pick one flavour, one shoreline, and one story:

• Breakfast at Nesbitt’s → Love Beach snorkel → The Retreat Garden
• Primeval Forest → Clifton Heritage → Café Matisse dinner
• Junkanoo Museum → Cathedral visit → Cave Beach picnic

A Different Side of Paradise 

Every hidden corner you uncover—whether it’s a breakfast counter, a quiet beach or a heritage trail—brings you closer to the soul of The Bahamas.

When you’re ready to build your own day of discovery, explore our travel deals and find more inspiration from our local Bahamian storytellers—then come see why it’s always Better in The Bahamas.