Bucket List: Experiences for Friends Trips

Nassau & Paradise Island are the ultimate destinations for an unforgettable trip with pals. Thanks to a diverse set of activities, destinations, and events, you'll find something for the whole crew to enjoy. There's only one question you might have difficulty answering: "Where do we start first?" With so many possibilities, it's a common thought when planning a trip to Paradise. But we're here to help with a quick guide that covers the must-see destinations and must-do activities.

More than One Way to Make a Splash

Nassau & Paradise Island are an aquatic wonderland made for thrill-seekers and leisurely sightseers. If you and your friends are ready to amp up the adrenaline, head to Baha Bay at Baha Mar. Prepare for high-velocity slides like Devil's Backbone and Thunderball, or catch a wave at The Surf Simulator. Next, visit Aquaventure at Atlantis Paradise Island. 20 million gallons of H20 flow through this 141-acre water world, powering two heart-pounding attractions. You and your party can climb to the top of the Power Tower and brave a nearly 50-foot vertical plunge into darkness at The Drop, the winding aquatic rollercoaster at The Falls, and an inner tube ride through the white-water rapids of The Surge. The Mayan Temple features five more slides to test your courage, including The Leap of Faith's ominous near-vertical drop of 60 feet.  

Maybe high-octane and hair-raising adventures aren't your speed. Trade towering falls for a sightseeing excursion on an open-water boat tour. First Strike Charters offers spacious decks to lay out and soak up some sun, while Flying Cloud Catamaran Cruises will sail you and your friends through the crystal-clear waters of The Bahamas on a luxurious 57-foot catamaran. Pieces of 8 Tours will whisk you away to the pristine beaches of nearby Rose Island, while Barefoot Sailing Cruises offers all-day, sunset, and private dinner experiences. Each option will surely immerse your crew in the dramatic beauty of Paradise — at a leisurely pace.

Dinner Tours for Two Or More

To please the culinary enthusiasts in your group, choose from a wide selection of guided dining tours through an Island of flavour. Reserve your party's place on the Bites of Nassau Food Tasting & Cultural Walking Tour. This entertaining adventure brings you to six destinations, including local restaurants and unique specialty food stores. At the beautifully restored Buena Vista Estate, the John Watling's Distillery tour will take you through its historic grounds and into its famed distillery while letting you taste a collection of premium handcrafted rum. You can also experience the rum-running days of swashbuckling pirates at Rum-Runner's Passage. This tour invites guests to sample delicious treats and drinks at different destinations. Bahamian delicacies at Hillside House, decadent chocolates at Graycliff Chocolatier, and a variety of rum, cocktails, and dessert at John Watling's Distillery — this buccaneer-themed culinary tour is sure to awaken your palate. These dining-centric options only scratch the surface of possibilities at Nassau & Paradise Island.

Experience the Culture, Explore the History

Immerse yourself in the cultural fabric of The Bahamas by visiting historic attractions and landmarks. The Island is home to a vibrant art scene, one that's celebrated at the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas. Home to works by some of the Caribbean's most distinguished artists and emerging talent, this gallery is dedicated to educating, uplifting, and inspiring its visitors. The Heritage Village Artist's Studio at Graycliff connects guests with talented local artisans, allowing everyone to purchase original and local works of art. Each exhibit is made to showcase Bahamian art and craft while preserving the history and architecture of these spaces. History buffs can travel into the Island's past by visiting important landmarks. Take a self-guided exploration of three local Forts — Charlotte, Fincastle, and Montagu — and experience a unique combination of military history and scenic sightseeing. At Parliament Square and the Government House, you can walk the Island's political grounds while gaining insight into its rich history. There's no shortage of culturally significant experiences in The Bahamas, perfect for those looking for a deeper connection to their surroundings. 

Rejuvenate and Revitalize

Every day in The Bahamas doesn't have to be action-packed. If you and your friends are looking for a little (or a lot) of leisure time, you’re in luck. Nassau & Paradise Island are hubs for rejuvenating rest and relaxation, offering many ways to treat your mind and body. Mandara Spa at Atlantis Paradise Island blends Balinese healing techniques, traditional European therapies, and authentic Bahamian elements. Find some inner peace in two tropical rain showers, plunge pools, a steam and sauna room, and a state-of-the-art fitness centre. ESPA at Baha Mar features 30,000 square feet of luxurious spa space filled with sophisticated surroundings and revitalizing services. Advanced body treatments mixing Eastern and Western healing practices, world-renowned facials, and a diverse set of massages — there are near-infinite ways to achieve total bliss. Explore the full range of spas at Nassau & Paradise Island to find the perfect destination, one you'll visit again and again.   

Getting Around the Island

You and your party never have to worry about navigating Nassau & Paradise Island, thanks to plenty of transportation options. Once you've landed, you can easily find a taxi to take you to the resort. Select hotels and resorts also offer complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport. If you prefer to be in the driver's seat, renting a car is quick and easy. Once everyone has checked into their rooms and dropped off their bags, water taxis are ready to ferry you between Nassau & Paradise Island with a complementary waterfront view of Nassau Harbour. Jitneys, or buses, travel around downtown Nassau and Cable Beach throughout the day and only cost $1.50 per person — make sure to bring exact change!

It’s Better in The Bahamas

And there you have it — your starter guide to exciting activities, landmarks, and destinations on Nassau & Paradise Island. We have plenty of options if you're looking for even more inspiration. You and your friends can check out some curated itineraries and browse our current calendar of events to help create a trip that checks all the boxes for everyone in attendance. See you and your crew soon for an unforgettable vacation on Nassau & Paradise Island!