Skip to Content

15 Best Things to do in The Bahamas

15 Best Things to do in The Bahamas

This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.

Planning an escape to The Bahamas? You’re in the right place with us!

Every time we think about these islands, we picture turquoise water, soft sand between our toes, and that first sip of icy punch. What we love most is that The Bahamas can be as chilled or as adventurous as you want. We’ve had days of pure lazy beach time, then days packed with boat trips, snorkeling, and tracking down the best conch fritters in town.

In this guide, we’re rounding up the tours and experiences we’d happily recommend to our own friends and family. Your Bahamian adventure starts right here!

Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!

Food eaten on a food tour in Nassau Bahamas

The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!

Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this Nassau food tour. We explored vibrant streets, tasted Bahamian classics like conch fritters and guava duff, and soaked up local history at every stop. It was easily the best mix of culture and flavor

Check the 3,100+ five-star reviews and book this tour here!

Things to do in The Bahamas

1. Dive into Nassau’s history, forts, and views

The Queen's Staircase seen on a tour of Nassau Bahamas
The beautiful and completely hand-carved Queen’s Staircase
Chocolate eaten on a tour in Nassau Bahamas
These were some of the best chocolates I’ve ever had!
  • Duration: 2.5 hours
  • Time: 9:30 am or 1 pm
  • Highlights: Tour Nassau’s top landmarks, including the Atlantis Resort, sample rum cake and visit a chocolate factory, try the BEST piña colada at John Watling’s Distillery, learn about Nassau’s culture and history from a local guide
  • Inclusions: Hotel/port pickup and drop-off, A/C transportation, local guide, food and beverage samples, small-group tour
  • Rating: 4.7 stars (check 1,400+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

If you’re short on time but still want to experience the best of Nassau, this Nassau Island sightseeing tour is the way to do it! Over 2.5 hours, you’ll visit some of the island’s most iconic spots with a local guide. It’s the ultimate “taste of Nassau” tour (and yes, there’s actual tasting involved!).

Things kick off with a stop at the Bahamas Rum Cake Factory, where you’ll sample mini bites of their legendary rum cakes in flavors like piña colada, banana, and chocolate. Pro tip: grab a few to take home, they make great gifts (or snacks for later!). 

Next, you’ll head to the famous Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island. You’ll have 30 minutes to explore the beautiful lobby on your own and maybe even test your luck at the casino.

Then it’s on to the Queen’s Staircase, where you can climb 65 hand-carved steps to get some amazing views overlooking the city. But if climbing seems like too much, you can always ride in the van to the top instead. 

Next up was my favorite stop, the Graycliff Chocolate Factory! Here we sampled some melt-in-your-mouth chocolate before heading to John Watling’s Distillery to wash it down with a piña colada made with their famous local rum.

If you want an efficient way to explore all of Nassau’s highlights, this highly-rated tour is it. I mean, just look at the hundreds of 5-star reviews here

2. Taste your way through Nassau

Tru Bahamian Food Tours food eaten on a food tour in Nassau Bahamas
Yes, this food was as delicious as it looks! Photo credit: Tru Bahamian Food Tours
Tru Bahamian Food Tours conch fritters eaten on a food tour in Nassau Bahamas
Authentic conch fritters are amazing. Photo credit: Tru Bahamian Food Tours
  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Time: Multiple departure times throughout the day
  • Highlights: Taste your way through historic Nassau on a small-group walking tour, sample a variety of traditional dishes at local restaurants, sip on rum drinks, explore some of Nassau’s historic landmarks
  • Inclusions: Professional guide, five food samples, drinks, in-store coupons, recipe book
  • Rating: 4.9 stars (check 3,100+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

If you’re a foodie like us, then this food tour through historic Nassau should be at the top of your to-do list! 

This small-group tour combines mouthwatering Bahamian cuisine with Nassau’s rich history and hidden gems. Our guide, Lisa, made the experience unforgettable, sharing insider knowledge and local secrets along the way.

We started with a stroll through Nassau’s colorful streets, stepping off the tourist trail to discover landmarks like Parliament Square and the Governor’s Mansion. We even got exclusive access to the Government House grounds for a stunning view over Nassau Harbor.

The food was next-level. We sampled conch fritters, Bahamian mac ‘n’ cheese, and guava duff from five family-run eateries. Each stop had its own vibe, from cozy cafes to the upscale Graycliff Heritage Village, which was actually the Bahamas’ first 5-star restaurant!

The grand finale was John Watling’s Distillery, where we got to sip on handcrafted rum drinks while touring the Buena Vista Estate. It was the perfect end to a great experience. 

We love how this tour wasn’t just about the food, but also about Nassau’s culture and history. You’ll leave with a better understanding of this city and a full belly (so make sure you come hungry!). It’s also one of the highest-rated tours in Nassau with over 2,900 5-star reviews, so you know it’s worth the hype! 

3. Swim with pigs on Rose Island

A pig swims on Rose Island on a tour from Nassau Bahamas
What a cutie!
A pig swims on Rose Island on a tour from Nassau Bahamas 2
Look at him go!
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Time: 9:30 am
  • Highlights: Cruise out to a wildlife sanctuary, observe a variety of protected animals, take a dip in the water with the famous swimming pigs, relax on a private beach, enjoy a buffet lunch and an open bar
  • Inclusions: Professional guide, Bohemian buffet lunch, boat transportation, alcoholic beverages, lemonade, snorkel equipment ($10 USD deposit required)
  • Rating: 4.7 stars (check out the 1,200+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

If swimming with pigs is high on your travel bucket list (like it was on mine!), then you have to book this 6-hour excursion to Rose Island. It’s the BEST thing I’ve done in the Bahamas!

This tour takes you to a private slice of paradise where you’ll lounge on white-sand beaches, snorkel in turquoise waters, and, of course, meet the famous swimming pigs!

The day starts with a scenic 30-minute boat ride from Nassau to Rose Island. Upon arrival, you’ll have plenty of time to explore. You can relax in a hammock, sunbathe on the beach, or head straight for the animal sanctuary like I did.

We saw many animals, including royal peacocks and curly-tailed lizards. But the highlight was getting into the water to swim alongside the adorable pigs. Make sure you have your underwater camera with you because this is an experience you’ll want to share with your friends and family back home!

Besides the pigs, there are many other activities you can do on the island, such as a guided snorkeling tour, kayaking, or river tubing (just bring some cash for the rental fee). And once you’ve worked up an appetite, you can enjoy a delicious Bahamian-style buffet lunch.

And just when you think it can’t get any better, there’s also an open bar with unlimited drinks! It’s the perfect way to kick back and soak up the island vibes. This tour is very popular and tends to book up quickly, so make sure you secure your spot in advance.

4. Relax at Junkanoo Beach

Sign at Junkanoo Beach in Nassau Bahamas
There’s a lot to do!
Bailey-relaxes-on-Junkanoo Beach in Nassau Bahamas
But it’s also super relaxing

Junkanoo Beach is where you go when you want instant beach vibes without any effort. If you are staying in Nassau or hopping off a cruise ship, you can pretty much walk straight from downtown to the sand, grab a cold drink, and be in the water in minutes. It is lively, colorful, and a bit chaotic in a fun way, with music playing and beach bars serving up cocktails and snacks.

We think of Junkanoo as a “come as you are” kind of spot. You can rent a lounger, people-watch for hours, or wander a little farther down the shore if you prefer things a bit quieter. It is not the most pristine or remote beach in The Bahamas, but it is perfect for an easy beach day that does not eat up your whole schedule. 

It’s a great idea to go earlier or later in the day to dodge the biggest crowds, and don’t forget to bring some cash since smaller stands do not always take cards. It is also really easy to pair Junkanoo with the rest of your day. You can hit the beach for a swim, walk back into town for lunch and a bit of shopping, then circle back for sunset drinks!

5. Learn to cook real Bahamian favorites

A-person-cooks-with-a-pan-during-a-cooking-class-in-Nassau Bahamas
Learn how to cook real Bahamian food
Shrimp-and-Grits-eaten-during-a-cooking class in Nassau Bahamas
Yummy!
  • Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
  • Time: 10:30 am or 12:30 pm
  • Highlights: Combine a guided tour from Bay Street to the east end of Nassau, learn how to crack conch, cook a traditional 2-course Bahamian meal at Goombay House Cooking Studio
  • Inclusions: Guided Nassau sightseeing, 2-course Bahamian cooking class, lunch, beverages, use of all cooking equipment
  • Rating: 4.8 stars (check 70+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

Food is such a big part of The Bahamas, so learning to actually cook a Bahamian meal is a pretty special souvenir! This half-day cooking experience blends a bit of Nassau sightseeing with a relaxed, hands-on cooking class where lunch and cocktails are all taken care of. It is a fun way to break up beach time and come home with recipes, not just photos.

We really like how this tour mixes movement and time in the kitchen. You start with a guided ride from Bay Street out toward the east, with your guide pointing out landmarks and sharing stories that give more context to what you see in Nassau. It has that friendly feel of exploring with a local who knows all the little details.

Then it is on to Goombay House Cooking Studio, where the real fun begins. You’ll work at a double workstation, crack conch, and prepare a proper two-course Bahamian spread with a professional chef leading the way. The atmosphere is relaxed and social. You can chat, sip a drink, and still feel like you are learning genuine skills you can use back home.

This experience is ideal if you enjoy trying local food, like small-group settings, and want something a bit different from a standard tour. Everything from equipment to lunch and drinks is included, and free cancellation keeps it flexible in your plans.

6. Explore the Straw Market and Bay Street

Exploring the Straw Market and Bay Street is such an easy way to feel the buzz of Nassau without spending much. The Straw Market is a maze of stalls piled high with woven bags, sun hats, wooden carvings, jewelry, and all kinds of colorful souvenirs. 

Step back out onto Bay Street and you have a mix of duty-free shops, local boutiques, and casual cafes where you can grab a drink or a snack between browsing stops.

We like to treat this area as a slow wander rather than a serious shopping mission. In the Straw Market, prices are often flexible, so you can usually haggle a little with a smile if you see something you love. 

When you are ready for a break from the crowds, walk a street or two back from Bay Street and look for smaller cafes and takeaways. That is often where you will find more local food at better prices and a quieter, more everyday side of Nassau.

7. Glide along Nassau’s coastline on a Segway ride

People on segways in Nassau Bahamas
A fun way to see Nassau!
Fort Charlotte seen on a segway tour in Nassau Bahamas
Fort Charlotte
  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Time: 8:30 am, 10 am, 11 am, and 1pm
  • Highlights: Glide along Nassau Harbor on a Segway, explore Fort Charlotte inside and out, roll past Junkanoo Beach and the historic lighthouse views, cruise through Arawak Cay “Fish Fry,” and tuck into Bahamian bites like conch fritters
  • Inclusions: Hotel pickup in Nassau, Segway use and safety briefing, air-conditioned support vehicle, guided tour, light lunch with a drink, all fees
  • Rating: 4.9 stars (check 210+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

Segways and sunshine are a pretty fun combo in Nassau! Instead of shuffling along in the heat, you get to glide past the harbor, feel the breeze, and still tick off some of the city’s big historical sights. With hotel pickup, several start times, and lunch built in, this three-hour trip feels like a mini adventure that fits easily into your day.

We really like how playful the whole experience is. Rolling up to Fort Charlotte on a Segway feels a bit futuristic, then you park up and step back in time with a walk through the old moat, quarry, and interior of the fort. From there, the route hugs Long Wharf Beach and Nassau Harbor, with those “is this water real?” moments near Junkanoo Beach and views of the historic lighthouse.

The food stop at Arawak Cay’s “Fish Fry” is the cherry on top. You glide through the colorful strip, then head into an air conditioned spot for a tasty sampler plate of conch fritters, glazed wings, fish fingers, and a cold switcha. There is time for a quick freshen up before the last leg, and the small-group size keeps everything relaxed and friendly.

This is a brilliant pick if you want some sightseeing with a bit of personality, not another bus tour. You get history, views, and snacks, all without exhausting your energy, and free cancellation keeps it nice and flexible.

8. Take a sunset stroll along Cable Beach

Cable Beach at sunset in Nassau Bahamas
So pretty!

Cable Beach really knows how to put on a show at golden hour. As the sun starts to dip, the water turns extra glassy, the light gets that soft golden glow, and the palm trees along the shore suddenly look like they were placed there for a postcard shoot. 

Lots of visitors stay at the big resorts here, but you don’t need a room key to enjoy a simple walk or swim along the public stretches of sand.

Getting here is easy enough with a taxi or local jitney during the day, then you can just linger right through sunset. We suggest bringing a light cover-up or shirt, because once the sun goes down, the breeze can feel cooler, especially after a swim. 

After a busy day of boat trips, food tours, or sightseeing, a slow wander along Cable Beach is such a lovely way to hit pause. It feels special, romantic, and the best part is that it doesn’t cost a thing!

9. Follow the trail of Nassau’s pirate past

Pirate Jeep Tours a jeep sits on the beach on a pirate tour in Nassau Bahamas
This tour was a great way to learn about pirate history and see some amazing places. Photo credit: Pirate Jeep Tours
Pirate Jeep Tours the Fort Fincastle seen on a jeep tour in Nassau Bahamas
Fort Fincastle was the heart of some crazy pirate activity in the Bahamas. Photo credit: Pirate Jeep Tours
  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Time: 10 am or 2 pm
  • Highlights: Explore Nassau in a private jeep, learn about the history of piracy in the Bahamas, and visit notable landmarks
  • Inclusions: Private guide/transportation, bottled water, entry fees
  • Rating: 5 stars (check 1,200+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

Ahoy, mateys! If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about the real-life “pirates of the Caribbean”, then you must go on this private pirate jeep tour

Nassau has a rich history tied to the Golden Age of Piracy, and this tour brings it all to life with over six fascinating stops and tales of infamous buccaneers.

From the moment we climbed into our comfy, air-conditioned jeep, I knew this was going to be a fun day. Our local guide was a natural storyteller, blending pirate tales with history at every stop. 

We explored Fort Fincastle, built in 1793 to guard against pirate attacks, and admired its strategic design. The Queen’s Staircase was another jaw-dropping site. Its impressive 65 limestone steps were carved by hand and are rumored to have witnessed many pirate activities.  

But it was Graycliff Mansion that really stole the show for me. This iconic estate was once home to Captain John Howard Graysmith, a notorious pirate who was at the center of Nassau’s pirate action and left a mark on Bahamian history. 

Whether it’s spotting hidden caves, snapping photos of Nassau’s scenic coastline, or learning about the legends who once ruled these seas, this tour is a “treasure trove” of adventure. You’ll be able to check many of Nassau’s top landmarks off your list while enjoying private VIP treatment; it doesn’t get any better than that! 

10. Visit the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas

National Art Gallery of The Bahamas in Nassau Bahamas (2)
Photo credit: National Art Gallery of The Bahamas
National Art Gallery of The Bahamas in Nassau Bahamas (3)
Photo credit: National Art Gallery of The Bahamas

The National Art Gallery of the Bahamas was one of those places that surprised us in the best way! It sits inside a gorgeous historic mansion, and once you step in, you are surrounded by everything from traditional pieces to bold, contemporary works that feel very real and very Bahamian. 

The galleries are cool and air-conditioned (such a win in the midday heat), and the exhibits often touch on history and identity in a way that feels human and story-driven, not dry or academic. General entry is $10 Bahamian, which is about $10 USD, so it is an easy “yes” to add into your plans.

We like to have a quick look at their website or social channels before visiting, because you might time it with an artist talk, special exhibit, or evening event. Even if you are not usually a big “museum person,” an hour here can give you a much richer sense of The Bahamas beyond the beach towels and boat tours. 

It also fits really neatly into a day in downtown Nassau, so you can pair it with a wander through the streets and a relaxed lunch nearby!

11. Spend the day island hopping and snorkeling

Daniel and Bailey stand on a beach on a tour from Nassau Bahamas
This secluded secret beach was the highlight of the day
Daniel-snorkels-in-the-water-near-Nassau Bahamas
The water was perfect for snorkeling!
  • Duration: 9 hours
  • Time: 8 am
  • Highlights: Explore the Exuma islands on a day trip, interact and swim with the pigs on Pig Beach, see nurse sharks and Exuma rock iguanas
  • Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/drop-off, transportation, guide, lunch, snorkeling equipment, snacks, beverages, soft drinks/water
  • Rating: 4.6 stars (check 460+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

Craving the ultimate Bahamian adventure? This all-inclusive Nassau to Exuma day trip delivers from start to finish, with every detail taken care of so you can simply relax and enjoy the ride!

The day kicks off with a fast, scenic boat ride out to Allen’s Cay, home to more than a thousand endangered Bahamian rock iguanas. They’re surprisingly friendly, and it was so much fun feeding them while learning about the island’s conservation efforts. From there, you’ll zip over the turquoise waters to Ship Channel Cay, a private island that feels like your own slice of paradise for the day.

Everything is set up for an easy, all-inclusive experience: you can snorkel a vibrant reef with gear and guidance provided, watch a live conch salad demonstration, or join in on feeding the resident stingrays and sharks (yes, really, and yes, safely!). When it’s time to refuel, you’ll enjoy a full buffet lunch and drinks from the open bar, all included.

What we loved most was how well-paced the day felt. There was plenty of excitement, but also time to just lounge with a drink in hand and take in those picture-perfect Exuma views. The crew kept the vibe light, fun, and super welcoming from start to finish.

If you’re craving a high-energy escape from Nassau with plenty of jaw-dropping moments, this is the tour to book.

Why We Book Tours with Viator

Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:

  • Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
  • Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
  • Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
  • Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
  • Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.

Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.

12. Snorkel from shore at Love Beach or Goodman’s Bay

Bailey-poses-for-a-photo-at-Love Beach in Nassau Bahamas
Love Beach!

Snorkeling from shore at spots like Love Beach or Goodman’s Bay can feel like your own little DIY adventure. If you are a confident swimmer, you can usually slip into calm, clear water and start spotting small fish and sea life around the rocks and little reef patches without going far at all. 

All you really need is a mask, snorkel, and maybe fins, which you can bring from home or rent once you arrive. It is a relaxed, low-cost way to add some underwater time to your trip.

We suggest heading out earlier in the day, when the water tends to be clearer and less stirred up. Always have a quick chat with locals or lifeguards about the current conditions, and skip it if the sea looks rough. 

For a little extra comfort, you might pack a simple inflatable snorkel vest, especially if you are not completely confident in the water. And one big rule to keep in mind: avoid touching or standing on any coral so the reef stays healthy for the next visit.

13. Kick up some dust on an ATV

Daniel-and-Bailey-take-a-selfie-on-an-ATV-in-Nassau Bahamas
An ATV is the best way to explore the island!
Fort Montagu seen on an ATV tour in Nassau Bahamas
Fort Montagu is over 280 years old!
  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Time: 9 am and 1 pm
  • Highlights: Drive your own ATV or ride as a passenger along the coastline, visit Nassau’s top landmarks like the Queen’s Staircase and Fort Montagu, enjoy lunch on the beach
  • Inclusions: Local guide, ATV, helmet, lunch, bottled water
  • Rating: 4.7 stars (check 890+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

If you’re looking for an action-packed way to explore Nassau, this 3-hour ATV tour is it!

This guided tour takes you to some of Nassau’s most iconic spots, including Fort Charlotte, Queen’s Staircase, and the Caves of New Providence. Each stop comes with fascinating stories from your local guide, giving you a true taste of Bahamian history and culture.

The best part? You’re in control of your own two-passenger ATV! You can choose to drive or ride as a passenger (that’s what I do!) as you take in the sights around you. It’s the perfect mix of adrenaline and sightseeing. Plus, you cover much more ground on an ATV than on a traditional walking tour. 

If you don’t have any experience driving an ATV, don’t worry! The guides offer simple instructions to get you comfortable before you hit the road, and you’ll have all the safety equipment you need. 

Halfway through, you’ll stop for a delicious Bahamian lunch, which is the perfect chance to refuel, chat with other travelers, and soak in the island vibes. The lunch was delicious, and it was served right on the beach! Does it get any better than that?

This tour is perfect for adventurous souls and anyone who wants to see Nassau from a fresh perspective. We loved the mix of adrenaline, culture, and flavor, and we aren’t the only ones, just look at the hundreds of great reviews!

14. Design your own private day on the water

Daniel-on-a-deep-sea-fishing-tour-in-Nassau Bahamas
Got it!
Bailey-snorkeling-on-a-tour-in-Nassau Bahamas
Don’t forget to snorkel!
  • Duration: 4 hours or 8 hours
  • Time: 8 am, 9 am, and 1 pm
  • Highlights: Cruise on a 31-foot (9.5-meter) Bertram boat, choose from deep sea or inshore fishing, snorkel over reefs between catches, relax on quiet beaches, and enjoy a fully customizable private charter for up to six guests
  • Inclusions: Local captain and crew, private boat charter, all fishing gear, bait and tackle, snorkel equipment, bottled water and ice, onboard bathroom
  • Rating: 4.9 stars (check 90+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

Want to feel like the ultimate VIP? On this private charter aboard the 31-foot (9.5-meter) “Sitting Pretty,” you decide what your day looks like! Four hours of fishing fun, a full day of reef hopping and snorkeling, or a mix of both with lazy beach stops in between, it is completely tailored around you.

We really like the “choose your own adventure” feel. Once you meet the captain and crew, you chat through what everyone is keen on. That might be heading offshore to try for bigger fish, staying closer in for relaxed reef fishing, or building in plenty of swim and snorkel time over bright coral. The team brings local know how, all the bait and tackle, and a relaxed, friendly energy on board.

The boat itself is set up for an easy day out. There is a bathroom, snorkel gear in a range of sizes, and a cooler stocked with ice and bottled water, so you can just show up with your sunblock and snacks. With space for up to six guests, it feels like a proper private day on the water rather than a big group excursion.

This charter is ideal if you are traveling with family or friends and want something that feels personal, flexible, and a little bit “treat yourself.” You get to shape the itinerary, all the gear is included, and free cancellation keeps it stress free.

15. Rent a jeep to explore Nassau

Queen's Staircase in Nassau, Bahamas 1
Visit places like Queen’s Staircase!
Bowcar Rentals in Nassau Bahamas
Your sweet ride for the day. Photo credit: Bowcar Rentals
  • Duration: 4 to 24 hours
  • Time: Multiple starting times between 9 am and 1 pm
  • Highlights: Cruise around Nassau in an open-top 4×4, follow your own route with a handy “must see” flyer, stop at spots like Queen’s Staircase, Arawak Cay, Fort Charlotte, and the Caves, and enjoy total freedom to linger wherever you like
  • Inclusions: Insurance, Bluetooth stereo, local taxes, “must see” flyer with suggested stops
  • Rating: 4.8 stars (check 380+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

Some days you just want the freedom to explore on your own schedule, and this open-top 4×4 rental is perfect for that. Instead of following a set route, you get a rugged Jeep, a “must-see” flyer for inspiration, and the keys to your own little Nassau road trip. You choose how long you keep the vehicle, from a few hours to a full day, which makes it super easy to fit around other plans.

We really like how this turns sightseeing into a bit of an adventure. You can swing by big hitters like the Queen’s Staircase, Fort Charlotte, and Arawak Cay, then keep driving until you spot somewhere that catches your eye. The open top means you feel the breeze and see more as you go, and the Bluetooth speaker is such a fun touch for playing your own soundtrack as you cruise.

In our heads, this is the kind of day where you mix “must-see” stops with little side detours. Maybe you start with history at the fort, wander the Caves to imagine early island life, then reward yourselves with fresh seafood at the Fish Fry. Because it is just your group in the Jeep, you can linger longer, skip whatever does not appeal, and grab photos or snacks whenever the mood strikes.

This is a great option if you are comfortable driving and like the idea of exploring beyond the usual tour routes. You get flexibility, fresh air, and a lot of fun packed into one rental.

Related Read: Before you go, browse our complete list of the best things to do in Nassau here for more island inspiration.

Where to Stay in The Bahamas

Grand Hyatt Baha Mar hitel in Nassau Bahamas
Photo credit: Grand Hyatt Baha Mar

The Bahamas has no shortage of beautiful islands to choose from, but most travelers end up staying in Nassau, the country’s most popular and well-connected base. While it isn’t the cheapest destination, you’ll still find plenty of comfortable, stylish, and great-value places to stay—just keep in mind that the best spots here can book up early. If you see availability for your dates, it’s worth grabbing it so you don’t miss out on the place you really want.

Here are three solid options for every budget:

Luxury – $$$

Grand Hyatt Baha Mar is a fantastic hotel option for the luxury traveler. The rooms are modern and lavish, providing everything for an upscale stay. You can enjoy the 23 onsite restaurants, six pools, sea view rooms, spa, and private beach to make your stay even more relaxing.

Prices range based on room choice and season, but start around $500 USD per night. Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

Comfort Suites Paradise Island is a great choice for those with a mid-range budget! This hotel offers comfortable and modern hotel rooms, ranging from double rooms to king suites. It is located next to the Atlantis Paradise Hotel, which has amazing amenities, and guests at the Comfort Suites can use them! 

Prices start at $250 USD per night and can be reserved on Booking.com.

Budget – $

For the budget traveler, the Colony Club Inn & Suites is a comfortable stay that won’t break the bank. It’s located a little way out of the city center, but great if you have a rental car. They offer suite-style rooms with a kitchenette and patio, so this is a good option if you’re traveling with some friends.

Rooms start at $150 USD per night and can be booked on Booking.com!

For even more great options, check out all of the hotels listed for Nassau here!

AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code “DTRAVEL15”

What’s an eSIM?

An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card. Instead of buying a little plastic chip and swapping it into your phone, you just download it. It connects your phone to a local network in whatever country you’re visiting — no stores, no waiting, and no fiddling with tiny cards.

In simple terms, it’s the easiest way to get data and stay connected while traveling.

We’ve tested a bunch of eSIMs over the years, and after a few frustrating experiences, we’ve found our favorite — Airalo. It’s fast, reliable, and incredibly easy to use. You can set it up in minutes (even my mom managed it solo on her first try!), and the prices are some of the best out there.

💡 Bonus: We’ve got an exclusive 15% discount for our readers. Use the codes:

Thanks for reading!

Daniel-and-Bailey-take-a-selfie-at-a beach in Nassau Bahamas
Thanks for reading!

The Bahamas has a way of sticking with you long after you’ve rinsed off the saltwater. Whether it’s that first turquoise glimpse from the plane, the taste of fresh conch fritters, or a lazy afternoon drifting between beaches, these islands blend relaxation and adventure so effortlessly. We hope this guide helps you plan the kind of trip where every day feels memorable.

If you’re dreaming up even more tropical escapes, feel free to dive into our other Caribbean guides here. They’re filled with tours we genuinely loved, practical tips, and plenty of inspiration for your next getaway. Or scroll through some of our most popular blogs below to keep the island vibes going!

How to Spend FIVE DAYS in Turks and Caicos – The Best 5-Day Itinerary

10 Best Things to do in Key West, Florida

Where to Stay in Saint Martin: 7 Best Areas & Hotels