Nassau: Perfect Destination for Bahamas Beach Vacation

Perched beneath a palm tree, feet buried in sparkling sand and a fruity concoction of a cocktail in your hand. And yes, there is a little pink umbrella in your drink, too. It’s the quintessential image of tropical paradise, and nowhere on Earth is it more alive than in the Bahamas.

Photograph courtesy of FotoDawg by, CC BY

Perched beneath a palm tree, feet buried in sparkling sand and a fruity concoction of a cocktail in your hand. And yes, there’s a little pink umbrella in your drink, too. It’s the quintessential image of tropical paradise, and nowhere on Earth is it more alive than in the Bahamas.

But as a debatably Caribbean nation of more than 700 islands, cays and islets, just where do you venture in this sun-soaked sanctuary? With breathtaking beaches and gorgeous coral reefs for snorkeling, the capital city of Nassau on the island of New Providence provides a compelling answer.

Planning a trip to Nassau begins by selecting the right resort or hotel. Whether you’re looking for a chic, ultra-posh stay, an old-world beach vibe or a mega resort with all the amenities like Atlantis on Paradise Island, Nassau boasts options to suit any taste and budget. Fortunately, finding the perfect resort in Nassau is easy when you consult a travel guide on where to stay.

If you prefer your sightseeing shaken, not stirred, check out the British Colonial Hilton Hotel. You may recognize the hotel’s iconic towers and molded reliefs from the Sean Connery-era James Bond film “Never Say Never Again.”

Beyond the sun, sand and world-class hospitality, Nassau knows how to party. And every night there is a party. From laid-back lounges to beachside bars to pulsating dance clubs, fun hangs are abounded to accommodate every desire’s decibel level.

Located at the Nassau Straw Market, famed party bar chain Senor Frog’s offers drink specials and a welcoming tropical atmosphere. If mingling with the locals and visitors is your thing, check out The Daiquiri Shack for its lively vibe and heavy-handed pours of the namesake drink.

Sometimes you just want to dance. If that’s the case, Bambu has you covered. An open-air dance hall overlooking the harbor, Bambu brings the feel of Ibiza or South Beach to Nassau with bumping mixes of house music hits.

And following that evening of dancing, a horse-drawn carriage ride through the town will give you the chance to relax and kick your feet up while soaking in the local charm. Your chariot will trek by some of Nassau’s elegant, colonial-style buildings, many of which house government offices and courts.

Fort Charlotte, built in 1788 when pirates ruled the area, is well worth the visit for its sweeping vistas of Paradise Island and Nassau Harbor.

The shorefront stretching Bay Street is the place to go if you’re looking for that special souvenir or shopping for beautifully-made local crafts and clothing. Experience Bahamian culture at its best as you explore the colorful boutiques, and bargain with friendly vendors at a straw market. As an extra bonus, many of the shops lining Bay Street are duty-free! You can even purchase a bottle or two of fine Bahamian rum to enjoy back home as you reminisce about your wonderful Caribbean getaway.

Of course, it’s expected that visitors will work up quite an appetite after all this sightseeing and shopping. It just happens that close to Bay Street is the epicenter of Nassau’s culinary scene.

Goldie’s Conch House serves up must-try authentic Bahamian cuisine. Here you can sink your teeth into fritters, conch salad, snapper or jerk chicken while washing it all down with an ice-cold Kalik. Drop by La Caverna to get a taste of the island’s take on Italian favorites like pizza and lasagna or go Greek at Olives Meze Grill with gyros, paninis and a variety of Mediterranean-style grilled seafood.

When you take a Nassau vacation, you’ll understand why this island jewel is a paradise destination for millions of annual visitors. And the good news is getting there is more cost-friendly than you may think. In fact, many affordable air and cruise ship packages from Jacksonville to Nassau are available for the savvy bargain hunter.

Article by Anna Santini