To you, it's paradise. To us, it's home. Our archipelago is made up of more than 700 islands and cays, each offering a completely unique experience. Before you dive into our crystal-clear waters, get to know what makes The Bahamas so special and how to make your next holiday in Nassau & Paradise Island your best ever.
Geography of The Bahamas
The Bahamas is a nation in the Atlantic Ocean, located near the coast of Florida – the closest island, Bimini, is about 50 miles off the coast of Miami. Nassau & Paradise Island are a bit farther out, about 180 miles from Miami. The Bahamas consists of more than 700 islands, of which roughly 30 are inhabited, and 2,000 cays. Our position in the Atlantic blesses us with a year-round tropical climate and incredibly diverse marine life.
Where is Nassau & Paradise Island?
Our capital city, Nassau, is located on New Providence Island, which is directly linked to Paradise Island by two bridges. Together, they form the heart of the nation – there’s always something happening in Nassau & Paradise Island.
Bahamian History & Culture
The Bahamas’ history is a fascinating one that spans exploration, piracy, and a journey to independence. The islands were originally inhabited by the Lucayan people and were the first landfall for Christopher Columbus in 1492. Over the centuries, infamous pirates made The Bahamas their home base, most famously the venerable Blackbeard. Today, there are plenty of ways to revisit the pirate years in Nassau & Paradise Island.
British loyalists fleeing the American Revolution settled throughout The Bahamas, bringing with them a plantation economy and enslaved people. This period in history resulted in the blend of West African and European traditions and culture that’s still evident throughout the islands today, most richly expressed through Junkanoo, a spectacular street parade celebrating the emancipation of slaves.
Quick Facts About The Bahamas
Get familiar with some Bahamian facts and important info before your trip – the adjustment to island time will be easier than you’d imagine!
Language:
In addition to standard English, which is spoken throughout the islands, you may hear some variations on Creole – specifically Bahamian Creole, an English-based Creole or Haitian Creole, a French-based Creole language.
Currency:
Bahamian Dollar (BSD), on par with the US Dollar. US currency is also widely accepted.
Cuisine:
Seafood lovers won’t want to leave without sampling our regional dish, conch, which is served warm in conch fritters and cold in fresh conch salad. And if you’re feeling thirsty, try one of our iconic cocktails, like the Bahama Mama or Sky Juice.
Weather
Our subtropical climate means The Bahamas enjoys warm, sunny weather year round – it’s said we have 330 days of sunshine every year!
Entry Requirements:
A valid passport is required to enter The Bahamas. You’ll also need to fill out and sign an immigration card upon arrival. Review entry requirements before your trip.
Tipping:
Tipping is customary for good service in The Bahamas, although some establishments have a mandatory 15% gratuity added to the bill.
Book Your Stay
Beachfront resorts, family-friendly suites, boutique hotels…your place in the sun awaits.
Explore Activities
Fill your days with guided tours, water adventures, culinary experiences, and cultural gems.
Plan Your Visit
See the latest deals from our hotel and resort partners to make planning your stay a breeze.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are looking for vibrant nightlife and entertainment in The Bahamas, the best options are concentrated in Nassau & Paradise Island.
Here are the most popular hotels to consider for your stay:
SLS Baha Mar: Known for its upscale nightlife and access to a world-class casino. Be sure to visit Skybar, an open-air rooftop lounge offering panoramic sunset views and world-class DJs, and Bond, a glamorous 10,000-square-foot VIP nightclub that keeps the energy high late into the night.
Grand Hyatt Baha Mar: Offers a massive casino floor and a wide variety of lively bars. A standout is Jon Batiste's Jazz Club, an immersive live music destination created by the Grammy-winning artist that beautifully blends New Orleans heritage with Bahamian culture.
Atlantis Paradise Island: Features one of the Caribbean's largest casinos and a variety of spectacular evening venues. Enjoy live bands and craft cocktails at the sophisticated Bar Sol, or dance the night away at Aura, an exclusive 9,000-square-foot VIP nightclub designed by Jeffrey Beers.
Margaritaville Beach Resort: Provides a fun, high-energy atmosphere with vibrant evening entertainment located right in the heart of downtown Nassau.
Yes, The Bahamas is home to several exceptional family-friendly resorts that offer extensive marine activities and water-based fun. Here are the top options for families:
Atlantis Paradise Island
- Marine Life: Features over 50,000 aquatic animals, marine exhibits, snorkeling in the ""Ruins of Atlantis,"" and shark feeding.
- Family Activities: Features Aquaventure water park, dolphin interactions, snorkeling, kayaking, and teen-only clubs.
Baha Mar
- Marine Life: Features ""The Sanctuary,"" where families can view stingrays, nurse sharks, and turtles.
- Family Activities: Features Baha Bay Waterpark with waterslides and a lazy river, plus a Kids Explorers Club for wildlife education.
The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort
- Family Activities: Offers a more luxurious, relaxed setting with easy access to beach water sports and kids' programming.
Beyond just water sports, these properties provide specialized amenities, including kid-friendly pools, interactive marine conservation programs, and direct beach access, to ensure your family enjoys the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
Yes, Nassau & Paradise Island in The Bahamas feature several premier accommodations that offer exclusive, private, or dedicated beach access for their guests. Here are the top resorts to consider for a secluded beachfront experience:
- The Cove at Atlantis (Paradise Island): Offers exclusive access to Cove Beach and Paradise Beach, two tranquil stretches of white sand with azure waters reserved strictly for guests of The Cove and The Reef.
- Sandals Royal Bahamian (Nassau): Features exclusive access to Barefoot Cay, a private offshore island complete with two secluded beaches, a beach club, and private cabanas.
- The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort (Paradise Island): Provides luxurious, direct access to a quiet, pristine section of the world-renowned Cabbage Beach, complete with dedicated beachside service.
- Baha Mar (Nassau): Properties like Rosewood and SLS offer private-feeling, dedicated sections along the iconic Cable Beach, featuring exclusive beach clubs and pools.
- Goldwynn Resort & Residences (Nassau): A luxury boutique property providing direct, uncrowded access to the pristine sands of Cable Beach.
Whether you are looking for a completely private offshore island or dedicated loungers on world-famous white sands, these resorts provide exclusive beachfront amenities for a relaxing, uninterrupted Bahamian getaway.
While travelling to Nassau & Paradise Island, you will find that most resorts do not operate their own complimentary hop-on, hop-off airport shuttles. Instead, most properties partner with trusted local transportation companies to provide seamless, bookable shuttle services from Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS).
Here are the best options for accommodations with integrated airport shuttle services or included transfers:
- Sandals Royal Bahamian: This adults-only, all-inclusive resort is one of the few properties that provides complimentary round-trip airport transfers for all registered guests.
- Atlantis Paradise Island (All Towers): Atlantis partners directly with third-party providers like Majestic Tours and Bahamas Experience Tours. Guests staying at The Royal, The Cove, The Reef, or The Coral can easily pre-book shared bus shuttles, private town cars, or SUVs directly through the resort's concierge or booking portal.
- Baha Mar (Grand Hyatt, SLS, and Rosewood): The Baha Mar complex allows visitors to pre-arrange private or shared airport shuttle transfers directly to their specific hotel.
Traveller Tip: If your chosen hotel does not offer a dedicated shuttle service, you do not need to worry. Lynden Pindling International Airport features a highly regulated, safe, and efficient taxi queue immediately outside the arrivals terminal, offering fixed, set rates to all major hotels and resorts in Nassau and Paradise Island.
Must-try Bahamian foods highlight fresh seafood and bold tropical flavors, anchored by the national dish, conch. Other include savoury peas and rice, spicy coconut-based sky juice (gin and coconut water), and the sweet, buttery guava duff dessert.
Must-Try Conch and Seafood
- Conch Salad: Raw conch marinated in citrus juice, onions, and peppers, served fresh.
- Conch Fritters: Deep-fried batter balls loaded with conch and veggies, often served with spicy dipping sauce.
- Cracked Conch: Tenderized conch battered and fried, often served with fries.
- Bahamian Rock Lobster: A spiny lobster tail typically grilled, broiled, or steamed in butter and spices (seasonal, Aug 1 – Mar 31).
- Bahamian Stew Fish: Fresh fish stewed in a tomato-based broth with celery, onions, and spices.
Signature Sides and Comfort Food
- Peas and Rice: Pigeon peas simmered with rice, tomatoes, onions, thyme, and coconut milk, providing a staple side dish.
- Johnnycakes: Sweet, pan-fried bread, historically a quick staple.
- Baked Crab: A mix of crab meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, baked inside the crab shell.
- Souse: A tangy boiled soup typically made with chicken, lime juice, onions, and chili peppers.
Desserts and Drinks
- Guava Duff: A sweetened dough rolled with guava pulp, boiled, and drenched in a rum or brandy butter sauce.
- Sky Juice (Gully Wash): A cocktail featuring fresh coconut water, sweetened condensed milk, and gin.
- Rum Cake: A rich, moist cake drenched in rum.
The best time to visit The Bahamas is generally from mid-December to mid-April. During this peak season, the weather is perfect for beach activities, with clear blue skies and comfortable daily temperatures averaging between 75°F and 80°F.
While Nassau & Paradise Island are beautiful year-round, here is how to choose the right time for your specific travel goals:
- For the Best Weather: Travel between December and April to enjoy dry, sunny days and escape the winter cold. This is the most popular time for travelers seeking the quintessential Bahamian sun.
- For the Best Value: Consider visiting during the ""shoulder season"" from mid-April to June. During these months, you can often find lower resort rates and fewer crowds while still enjoying warm, tropical weather.
- For Culture and Festivals: Visit in late December or early January to experience Junkanoo, the world-famous Bahamian street parade filled with vibrant costumes, rhythmic music, and incredible energy.
- For Divers and Anglers: The summer months (May through August) offer the warmest water temperatures and excellent conditions for deep-sea fishing and exploring the world’s third-largest coral reef.
The legal drinking age in The Bahamas is 18 years old. While on land, visitors over 18 can legally purchase and consume alcohol, though cruise ships, private islands, and some resorts often enforce a stricter minimum age of 21 while passengers are on board or at company-operated venues.