Are you traveling to the Bahamas soon and looking for what to do in Nassau for one day?
As once a stronghold of pirates, now the island is just a shell of what it was. The capital of the Bahamas is bustling with both the beauty from the old world and contemporary sophistication. Exploring the best things to do in Nassau Bahamas will take you on an exceptional journey to uncover the island’s vibrant history, art, cuisine, and nature.
With an array of captivating attractions, Nassau has successfully attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. However, there are only a limited number of travelers who realize where the real gems of this island are hidden. Luckily, with this travel guide, we will show you what to do in Nassau for one day.
Read on to uncover more about things to do in Nassau cruise port and beyond!
Go swimming with pigs on Pig Beach!
What to do in Nassau Bahamas
Tourists are easily charmed by pristine beaches and lavish resorts in Nassau. But there’s more to this city than meets the eye. Here are some insider tips on what to do in Nassau for one day:
Visit the Abandoned Lighthouse
Towering high on Paradise Island, northeast of Nassau, is an abandoned lighthouse. It has witnessed the evolution of Nassau from a once-upon-a-time pirate hub to the current worldly tourism destination.
Though it’s no longer guiding sailors home from their voyage, the Nassau Harbour Lighthouse is a monumental icon of the city. It will always light the way for Nassau’s bustling sea traffic. Adventure seekers who do not know what to do in Nassau for one day can journey to the westernmost point of Paradise Island. There, they will witness the Caribbean Sea from the eyes of the legendary lighthouse.
The abandoned lighthouse in Nassau Bahamas.
Splash Down at Aquaventure Waterpark
One day is never enough in Aquaventure. This 141-acre aquatic playground is packed with Atlantean-themed towers that come with adrenaline-pumping water slides, relaxing river rides, 20 swimming areas, 11 refreshing swimming pools, and more.
The adventurous waterpark is arguably one of the most sought-after things to do in Nassau cruise port; designed to invite all travelers for a multi-day water adventure.
Not to mention, this waterpark is surrounded by tropical gardens and four exotic beaches that make you not ever want to leave. So, after conquering all the water slides, why not relax and hang out at the private cabanas with your loved ones.
What to Do in Nassau for One Day: Nassau Beaches
While Nassau may look small on the map, this unassuming island is actually packed with more than 19 beaches, each with gorgeous stretches of white sand and crisp turquoise waters.
Venturing to Junkanoo Beach, Cove Beach, Love Beach, and Cabbage Beach are all a must since these are some of the most beautiful destinations in Nassau. But if you want to explore the off-the-beaten-path sun, sea, and sand, you can opt for the less touristy Jaws Beach or Aqua Beach. Even better, go on a beach-hopping adventure during your one day cruise to Bahamas and explore all of the beaches at one go.
Want to know what to do in Nassau for one day? Read on!
Tour John Watling’s Distillery
Rum fans rejoice! You no longer need to figure out what to do in Nassau for one day. John Watling’s Distillery brews one of the best rums in the Caribbean.
John Watling’s distillery is constructed in a historical Buena Vista Estate that dates back 300 years. It has been recently turned into what you see today: a rum distillery. Both rum lovers and history enthusiasts will truly appreciate the complimentary guided tour. It lets you explore the antiques on the property. And, at the end, rum tasting is on the itinerary during your day trip to Bahamas.
Go on a Nassau to Pig Beach Tour by Plane
One of the best things to do in Nassau is embarking on a short plane ride to the Exuma pigs.
This place is known as Big Major Cay, or Pig Island, and is considered one of the most important highlights of any Exuma Day Trips. Nothing can beat pigs floating around you in the crystal clear water of the Bahamas.
The Exuma pigs at Big Major Cay.
The Exuma Cays are a chain of 365 islands, cays, and islets in the out islands of southern Bahamas which are know for being extraordinarily secluded and authentic. Compared to Nassau, the Exumas are more beautiful and raw.
As you kick off your adventure at Pig Beach, don’t forget to save time for other Exuma Attractions in the vicinity such as:
- Compass Cay – swim with nurse sharks
- Thunderball Grotto – underwater cave and James Bond filming location
- Pipe Creek Sand Bar – pristine sandbar surrounded by crystal clear water
- Bitter Guana Cay – a little Jurassic Park where endangered iguanas live
- Underwater Plane wreck – an ex-drug running plane owned by Pablo Escobar
- Staniel Cay Yacht Club – the hub of fishermen, locals, and tourists alike
Check out the Pirates of Nassau Museum
Once declared as a “pirate republic” by infamous pirates such as Charles Vane and Calico Jack, Nassau’s pirate legacy can still be found until today in the Pirates of Nassau Museum.
This museum will turn your “Pirates of the Caribbean” fantasy to dream-come-true with its interactive pirate experience that resembles the 1716 chaotic pirate village. Get ready for some walking of the plank, looting, treasure hunting, and more pirate-inspired excitement.
Pirates of Nassau Museum is probably one of the most exciting things to do in Nassau Bahamas for the whole family. Especially if you are particularly interested in Nassau’s pirate history.
Go Shopping at the Local Straw Market
Despite being surrounded by countless high-end boutique shops, the Local Straw Market on Nassau’s Bay Street still manages to steal the spotlight with its vivid collection of the Bahamas authentic crafts and souvenirs.
From handmade woven hats, bags, and dolls to wood carvings and shell jewelry – you will find all sorts of interesting items to spice up your vacation wardrobe. Even better, the friendly vendors here are always willing to negotiate costs with you. Now, you know what to do in Nassau for one day if you want to test your bargaining skills.
Get a Picture at the Queen’s Staircase
Strolling along Fort Fincastle Historic Complex, you will eventually end up at Queen’s Staircase (also known as 66 steps). This staircase is carved out of solid limestone rock by slaves around 1790. It was named in honor of Queen Victoria, who reigned in Britain for 64 years from 1837 to 1901.
The tropical faunas that form a natural canopy at the top of Queen’s Staircase creates a perfect photo spot. We know you want to share your Bahamas vacation on the ‘Gram!
The Queen’s Staircase in Nassau, Bahamas.
Bahamas Cruisers: What to do in Nassau for One Day
Now, you should know what to do in Nassau for one day. Though, you may be realizing you might be short on time. Exploring Nassau with a Bahamas cruise may not allow you to fully uncover the charm of the Bahamas islands.
That is why we recommend you to embark on Bahamas Day Trips by plane with Bahamas Air Tours. It will take you to the stunning Exuma Cays on a Bahamas day tour. No more asking what to do in Nassau Bahamas as Bahamas Air Tours has curated the most lavish and exhilarating itinerary specially for you.
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