Where to Stay in Nassau
Bahamas
|Pop. 228K
|4 neighborhoods covered
Nassau at a Glance
4 categories
Top Tips for Nassau
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Take advantage of the local jitney buses (Route 10, 12, or 12A) for an affordable and authentic way to travel between Cable Beach and Downtown, but be mindful of their operating hours (roughly 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM).
Getting Around
Confirm taxi fares before starting your journey, as they are not always metered.
Watch Out For
Overpriced taxis: Always agree on a fare before getting in.
Solo Female Travel
Exercise increased vigilance, especially in less touristy areas and at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas and use reputable transportation. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash.
Hidden Gems in Nassau
Lesser-known spots the locals love
The Heritage Museum of The Bahamas
Discover the rich history and culture of the Bahamas through fascinating artifacts and exhibits, from pirate lore to colonial times. It's a small but insightful glimpse into the islands' past.
Frankie Gone Bananas
This is a local favorite for authentic Bahamian cuisine, especially their famous conch dishes. Enjoy fresh seafood and vibrant flavors in a casual, lively atmosphere.
National Art Gallery of The Bahamas
Showcasing contemporary and historical Bahamian art, this gallery offers a vibrant look at the creative spirit of the islands. It's housed in a beautifully restored historic mansion.
Queen's Staircase
FREEClimb the 66 steps carved out of solid limestone by slaves in the late 18th century, leading to Fort Fincastle. It's a significant historical landmark with a unique, dramatic feel.
The Poop Deck
A long-standing waterfront restaurant known for its fresh seafood and stunning harbor views. It's a perfect spot to enjoy a relaxed meal while watching the boats go by.
Fort Charlotte
FREEExplore the largest fort in the Bahamas, offering panoramic views of the harbor and surrounding islands. It features dungeons and former military barracks, providing a great historical walk.
What It Costs in Nassau
Daily budget per person in USD
๐ก50% cheaper than New York
USD 100/day
USD 250/day
USD 600/day
Where to Stay in Nassau
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Baha Mar15 min
- Cabbage Beach20 min
Pros
- +Stunning beaches with calm waters
- +Numerous high-end dining and entertainment options
- +Generally safe and well-maintained
Cons
- -Can be expensive
- -Limited local cultural immersion
Top stays in Cable Beach
Rosewood Baha Mar
$$$$Offers luxurious rooms, a pristine beach, and exceptional service.
SLS Baha Mar
$$$A stylish resort with a lively pool scene and diverse dining options.
Sandyport Beach Resort
$$A charming, smaller resort with a relaxed atmosphere and direct beach access.
The Melia Nassau Beach
$$Family-friendly all-inclusive option with multiple pools and dining venues.
Best for
Walk to
- Straw Market5 min
- Parliament Square10 min
- Pirates of Nassau Museum8 min
Pros
- +Central location for sightseeing and shopping
- +Access to local eateries and historical sites
- +Good public transport links
Cons
- -Can be crowded and noisy
- -Safety can be a concern after dark
Top stays in Downtown Nassau (Bay Street)
Graycliff Hotel
$$$A historic mansion offering elegant rooms, a famous cigar lounge, and fine dining.
British Colonial Hilton Nassau
$$Iconic hotel with waterfront views and a private beach, close to downtown attractions.
The Island House
$$$A stylish boutique hotel offering a sophisticated ambiance and excellent amenities.
Courtyard by Marriott Nassau Downtown/Convention Center
$$Modern hotel convenient for business travelers and those attending events.
Best for
Walk to
- Atlantis Aquaventure10 min
- Marina Village15 min
- Cabbage Beach (East)25 min
Pros
- +World-class entertainment and water park
- +Beautiful beaches and marina
- +High level of security within resorts
Cons
- -Very expensive
- -Can feel artificial and disconnected from local culture
Top stays in Paradise Island
The Royal at Atlantis
$$$$The iconic heart of Atlantis, offering access to all resort amenities and stunning marine habitats.
The Cove at Atlantis
$$$$An exclusive, luxurious section of Atlantis with private pools and sophisticated suites.
Warwick Paradise Island
$$$An adults-only, all-inclusive option with a beautiful harbor-view setting.
Comfort Suites Paradise Island
$$Offers Atlantis access at a more moderate price point, including breakfast and Wi-Fi.
Best for
Walk to
- Bahamas Craft Market15 min
- Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre20 min
Pros
- +More affordable accommodation and food options
- +Experience a more authentic Bahamian lifestyle
- +Quieter than the main tourist hubs
Cons
- -Less tourist infrastructure
- -Requires more reliance on transport to reach major attractions
- -Can feel less safe after dark in certain pockets
Top stays in Oakes Field / West Nassau
Sandyport Resort
$$A tranquil resort with apartment-style accommodations and a peaceful atmosphere.
The Poop Deck
$$Offers apartment rentals with a prime waterfront location and seafood restaurant.
El Greco Hotel
$A budget-friendly option with basic amenities and a convenient location.
Areas to be cautious
- Certain parts of Coconut Grove and Carmichael Road: These areas, particularly after dark, can have higher crime rates and are not recommended for tourists to explore unsupervised.
Insider tip: Take advantage of the local jitney buses (Route 10, 12, or 12A) for an affordable and authentic way to travel between Cable Beach and Downtown, but be mindful of their operating hours (roughly 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM).
Safety in Nassau
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Exercise increased vigilance, especially in less touristy areas and at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas and use reputable transportation. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash.
At Night
It is advisable to avoid walking alone in most areas after dark, especially outside of major resorts and well-lit tourist zones like Bay Street. Use taxis or resort transportation.
Emergency
919
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overpriced taxis: Always agree on a fare before getting in.
- 2Distraction theft: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded markets like the Straw Market.
- 3Fake tour guides: Ensure any guides or excursions are booked through official channels.
Getting Around Nassau
Transport, connectivity, and costs
โ๏ธ
Airport to City
Taxi: approx. 30-40 USD, 20-30 minutes. Ride-sharing is not officially available. Pre-booked shuttles are also an option.
๐ซ
Day Pass
Not applicable for jitneys; they are pay-per-ride. Taxis are metered or negotiated per trip.
Single: Jitney buses: 1.25 USD.
๐ถ
Walkability
Good TransitUber, Lyft
๐ถ
WiFi
Good25-50 Mbps
Public Transport
Jitney buses (Routes 10, 12, 12A) are the most affordable for travel between major areas like Downtown, Cable Beach, and some parts of the west. Taxis are readily available but more expensive. Ferries operate to Paradise Island.
Ride-share
Uber and Lyft are not officially available or reliable. Stick to taxis or the jitney buses.
Transport Tip
Confirm taxi fares before starting your journey, as they are not always metered.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Most hotels, resorts, and many cafes and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi to patrons.
Coworking
Limited dedicated coworking spaces. Some cafes are suitable for short work sessions. The University of The Bahamas might have options for students/researchers.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Jan, Feb, Mar
Hotels & Accommodation in Nassau
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Who Is Nassau Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-time Visitors
Provides easy access to historical sites, shopping, and the main cruise port, offering a classic introduction to the city.
Families with Young Children
Atlantis offers extensive kid-friendly activities, water parks, and marine habitats, ensuring entertainment for all ages.
Luxury Travelers
Features high-end resorts, beautiful beaches, and upscale dining, catering to those seeking comfort and premium amenities.
Budget Backpackers
Offers more affordable accommodation and dining options, allowing for a more local experience away from the main tourist prices.
Couples Seeking Relaxation
Provides a balance of beautiful, less crowded beaches and sophisticated dining and relaxation options.
About Nassau
Nassau may refer to: .
Frequently Asked Questions About Nassau
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Nassau Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel