Discover the Parks of Nassau & Paradise Island

When you think of Nassau & Paradise Island, the first images that probably come to mind are probably white sand beaches, shimmering turquoise waters, and tall leafy palm trees. But a visit to our parks will have you appreciating a whole other side of The Bahamas

The words “Primeval Forest” may conjure images of rainforests, dinosaurs, and lush groves of fauna… and this old-growth woodland is not too far off from that! (We can’t guarantee you’ll see any dinosaurs during your visit here, though.)

In Primeval Forest National Park, easily accessible by car, you will find boardwalks, stairs, and bridges winding through an untouched hardwood forest in the centre of New Providence.

The trees stretch to the sky and the forest’s signature limestone sinkhole caverns reach deep into the earth. Add to this The Bahamas’ humid, tropical climate and populations of endemic birds, insects, and reptiles, and a visit to this park begins to feel like a prehistoric time capsule.

Nestled in the heart of Nassau, you’ll find a stunning 11-acre urban park, which also happens to carry the honour of being the first national park established in New Providence.

The Retreat Garden is perfect for anyone looking to escape the city without having to travel a long way to do so. Here, there’s something that will appeal to anyone. Because of the assortment of exotic palms and tropical plants curated over a century, it’s become the perfect habitat for migratory and native birds. Bring your favourite bird-watching binoculars and see for yourself! Alternatively, if you’re looking for the perfect place to host a gathering, The Retreat Garden’s picturesque views and charming estate offer a charming backdrop  for weddings and private events.

For any and all animal lovers, Ardasta Gardens & Wildlife Conservation Centre is a must-visit spot when planning a trip to Nassau & Paradise Islands. Being the only wildlife conservation centre in The Bahamas, Arsasta certainly lives up to its name—ardua ad astra, Latin for “striving toward the stars.”

Ardasta started as a nature preserve in the 1930s, expanding to include wildlife in the 80s. It was considered a zoo back then, but as the population of rescued and rehabilitated animals exceeded 75%, it was rebranded into a conservation centre. In fact, Ardasta’s flamingo breeding program played a key role in restoring The Bahama’s Caribbean Flamingo population.

It’s the perfect spot for families —or anyone who is interested in wildlife and conservation efforts in The Bahamas — to spend a day.

In The Bahamas, ecology and history are often closely intertwined, and nowhere is this more evident than Clifton Heritage National Park.

The park offers heritage tours, which provide a comprehensive overview of the sobering and turbulent history of slavery in The Bahamas, as well as snorkelling tours, where you can peer into the vibrant underwater world of the island’s marine ecosystems.

This spot is ideal for people who want to spend the day on their feet, who love learning through doing, and who understand that the best way to comprehend the future of The Bahamas is to make sure we never forget the past. 

Located on the southern shores of New Providence, The Bahamian government established the Bonefish Pond in 2002 to protect one of the last remaining tidal mangroves in the region. Prior to this, the surrounding communities disposed of unwanted waste in the area, endangering the fragile ecosystem. Thanks to the efforts of various volunteer groups and organisations, today's Bonefish Pond area is nearly unrecognisable from how it looked 20 years ago.

Boasting over 1,000 acres of wetland, Bonefish Pond is a must-see spot. Above the water is home to numerous native and migratory bird populations. Below, hidden among the mangrove roots and seagrass, is a nursery for barracuda, bonefish, queen conch, and many more of The Bahamas’ beloved marine species.

Visitors can enjoy these wetlands safely and respectfully via the park’s boardwalks, ensuring this ecosystem is here for generations to come.

As you can see, there’s truly a spot for anyone here. Which park stands out to you? Are you eager to get your feet wet with a snorkeling experience or stroll through the wetlands on a boardwalk trail? Start planning your trip to Nassau & Paradise Island today to learn more about, and gain an appreciation of, all the natural green spots our island has to offer.