Many travelers visit Nassau for its beaches or simply treat it as a jumping-off point for the rest of The Bahamas. But the capital itself is home to a surprising number of attractions – from historical landmarks to vibrant beaches and cultural hotspots. So, what are the best places to visit in Nassau Bahamas?
In this post, we’ll be answering that exact question. From historical attractions to day trips and beaches, we’ll go over nine must do things in Nassau that travelers of all types will enjoy.
Read on to get started!
Places to Visit in Nassau Bahamas: 9 Nassau Attractions
1. Cable Beach and Baha Mar Resort
Cable Beach is one of the top beaches in Nassau.
Cable Beach is a picture-perfect beach around 20 minutes away from the city center, making it one of the best places to visit in Nassau Bahamas. It features soft white sand, turquoise waters, and a calm atmosphere ideal for swimming or sunbathing beneath palms.
Overlooking the beach is Baha Mar Resort, a sprawling complex that includes three luxury hotels and dozens of amenities. Among them is a waterpark, Baha Bay, which has exciting attractions like slides, rides, and a lazy river.
With so much to offer in one beautiful location, it’s easy to see why both Cable Beach and Baha Mar continue to top the list of must-visit places in Nassau Bahamas.
2. Old Town Historical Landmarks
Queen’s Staircase is a historical attraction in Downtown Nassau.
For a glimpse into Nassau’s rich past, head to the city’s Old Town. This historic core is walkable and full of cultural landmarks showcasing The Bahamas’ colonial history, pirate legacy, and unique architectural charm.
One of the best things to see in Nassau Bahamas is Queen’s Staircase. Carved into solid limestone and surrounded by tropical foliage, the site combines complex history with natural beauty. At the top is Fort Fincastle, a defensive structure built to defend Nassau from pirates and invaders.
From there, you can visit Parliament Square, where pink and white colonial buildings house the Bahamian government. A statue of Queen Victoria in the square further emphasizes Nassau’s colonial ties.
Visiting some of the Old Town historical landmarks gives you insight into The Bahamas’ rich past, while offering some of the top things to do in Nassau.
3. The Nassau Forts
Fort Fincastle is one of three Nassau forts.
If you’re looking for more historical places to visit in Nassau Bahamas, the forts are another great option. Each of the three tells played an important role in the country’s past.
The most well-known is Fort Fincastle, perched above Queen’s Staircase. Built in 1793 to defend against pirates, its unique shape, central location, and panoramic views of Nassau Harbour make it a top-rated stop.
Fort Charlotte, located near the western edge of Downtown Nassau, is the largest of the three. With its moat, dungeons, and underground passageways, it allows visitors to easily imagine life during colonial times.
The third fort, Fort Montagu, lies on the eastern end of Nassau. Built in 1741, it’s the oldest surviving fort on the island and offers a quieter but equally historic experience by the waterfront.
4. The Swimming Pigs and other Exuma Attractions
Exuma is home to some of the prettiest sites in the country.
While it technically requires you to leave the capital, one of the best things to see in Nassau Bahamas is the Swimming Pigs. Located in Exuma, day trips by plane can take you from Nassau to Staniel Cay (a nearby island) in as little as 30 minutes. Upon arrival, you’ll switch over to a boat and make your way to Pig Beach.
As your boat approaches their island home of Big Major Cay, expect to see several pigs swimming out to greet you. After tossing them pig-friendly foods, you’ll then get to hop in the water with them before exploring Pig Island. From feeding piglets to snapping selfies with the adults, Exuma is one of the best places to visit in Nassau Bahamas on a day trip.
Following your time with the Exuma Pigs, you’ll visit several other incredible attractions. The nurse sharks, underwater caves, and picture-perfect sandbars you visit are some of the must see places in Nassau.
5. Junkanoo Beach
Junkanoo Beach is a popular stop for cruise passengers.
Junkanoo Beach is one of the most convenient spots for sun, sand, and sea. Located near Downtown Nassau, it’s a lively place to soak up the local atmosphere.
The beach features an energetic yet laid-back vibe. Taking its name from the vibrant Bahamian festival, visitors to Junkanoo Beach lounge and sip tropical drinks, admiring the views of Nassau Harbour.
While not the most secluded beach in The Bahamas, Junkanoo Beach offers an excellent introduction to the island’s colorful culture and scenic coastline. That makes visiting it one of the must do things in Nassau.
6. British Colonial Beach
British Colonial Beach offers a quieter alternative to nearby Junkanoo.
Looking for a quieter option than Junkanoo Beach? Head over to nearby British Colonial Beach. Managed by the historic British Colonial Hotel, the beach is free of the crowds found at many other Nassau beaches. Its secluded yet central location makes it idyllic and one of the must see places in Nassau.
If you’re not staying at the British Colonial or Margaritaville’s nearby One Particular Harbour Hotel, you can purchase a day pass to access the beach.
7. Nassau Museums
The Heritage Museum is a popular stop in Graycliff Heritage Village.
Many travelers find the local museums to be some of the best places to visit in Nassau Bahamas. One standout is the Heritage Museum of The Bahamas, located right within Graycliff Heritage Village.
From the Lucayan people and colonial rule to piracy and independence, the museum walks travelers through the archipelago’s complex past. Inside, you’ll find fossils, pirate weaponry, and other fascinating artifacts.
Pirates of Nassau is another popular downtown museum. With several exhibits and a replica pirate ship, it offers a family-friendly look into the past.
Whether you’re a history buff or just a curious traveler, the Nassau museums make for an eye-opening experience. Visiting them makes for more of the top things to do in Nassau.
8. Bahamas Historical Society
Its collection makes The Bahamas Historical Society one of the best places to visit in Nassau Bahamas.
Another one of the best places to visit in Nassau Bahamas is the Historical Society. Run by a non-profit, the small but informative museum works to preserve the nation’s heritage.
The exhibits chronicle the different epochs of Bahamian history. Unlike some of the larger, flashier attractions in Nassau, the Bahamas Historical Society Museum offers a quieter and more intimate experience.
The Bahamas Historical Society is a great stop for curious travelers. It showcases the culture, struggles, and resilience of the Bahamian people.
9. Christ Church Cathedral
The Christ Church Cathedral is a stunning historic structure.
Located in the heart of Old Town, Christ Church Cathedral is one of the oldest and most significant religious sites in The Bahamas. Originally built in the early 1700s, the current Gothic-style structure dates back to the 1800s. It features soaring arches, historic plaques, and stunning stained glass windows.
Whether you’re religious or simply appreciate architecture and history, this quiet cathedral offers a peaceful break from Nassau’s bustle. Its central location also makes it an easy stop on a downtown walking tour.
Enjoy the Best Places to Visit in Nassau Bahamas
If you’re on the hunt for the best places to visit in Nassau Bahamas, you have many options. History, beaches, culture – the island nation’s capital has it all. Visiting any of the destinations listed above nearly guarantees a memorable Bahamas vacation.
One destination you’ll want to ensure you make time for? The Swimming Pigs of Exuma. Day trips by plane can take you from the capital to the Exuma Cays in 30 minutes. From there, you’ll make your way to Pig Island and numerous other tropical attractions.
Sign up for a Pig Island day trip with Bahamas Air Tours today!
Get your FREE Nassau & Paradise Island Guide
With beautifully illustrated maps and informative destination guides.
Browse Nassau Travel Guides
