Nassau Cruise Port Guide: Top Things to Do During Your Visit

  Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products and services I trust.

Welcome to Nassau, Bahamas, one of the most exciting cruise destinations in the Caribbean! Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning an extended stay, this vibrant city offers a mix of history, adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. From stunning beaches and historic landmarks to thrilling excursions and local cuisine, there’s something for everyone.

In this Nassau, Bahamas Port Guide, we’ll explore the top 20 things to do, ensuring you make the most of your time in this tropical paradise.

1. Explore the Queen’s Staircase

The Queen’s Staircase in Nassau, a historic limestone passage carved in the 1700s — The Queen’s Staircase is one of Nassau’s most iconic historic landmarks, carved by enslaved people in the late 1700s.

Queen’s Staircase is one of Nassau’s most meaningful historic landmarks, carved by enslaved people in the late 1700s from solid limestone. The 66 steps were later named in honor of Queen Victoria, symbolizing the end of slavery in the Bahamas. Today, the staircase sits within a cool, shaded passageway surrounded by lush greenery, making it a peaceful stop just minutes from downtown. Visitors often pair it with nearby Fort Fincastle for an easy, walkable mini‑excursion that adds depth and history to a cruise day. It’s a quick visit, but one that offers powerful context and beautiful scenery.

For full details and tips, continue to the complete Queen’s Staircase guide.

2. Visit Fort Fincastle

Fort Fincastle in Nassau with limestone walls and panoramic harbor views — Fort Fincastle sits atop Bennet’s Hill and offers some of the best views in Nassau.

Fort Fincastle sits on one of the highest points in Nassau, offering a quick but worthwhile stop for cruisers who want a mix of history and scenic views. Built in 1793, the fort was designed to protect the harbor and still features its distinctive ship‑shaped structure, cannons, and limestone walls. Visitors can walk through the small interior, explore the lookout points, and enjoy panoramic views of downtown and the coastline. It pairs perfectly with Queen’s Staircase, located just below, making it an easy two‑in‑one attraction for a short visit. The experience is simple, inexpensive, and adds a meaningful historical layer to your Nassau day.

For full details and tips, continue to the complete Fort Fincastle guide.

3. Relax at Cable Beach

Cable Beach in Nassau with soft white sand and calm turquoise water — Cable Beach is one of Nassau’s most beautiful stretches of shoreline, known for calm water and soft white sand.

Cable Beach is one of Nassau’s most beautiful stretches of shoreline, known for soft white sand, calm turquoise water, and a relaxed resort atmosphere. It’s less crowded than the areas near the cruise port, making it a great choice for visitors who want a peaceful beach day without traveling too far. Many cruisers enjoy booking a day pass at one of the nearby resorts, while others simply head to the public access points for a low‑key afternoon of swimming and sun. The water here is typically clear and gentle, perfect for families or anyone who wants a classic Bahamas beach experience. It’s an easy, refreshing escape from the busier parts of Nassau.

For full details and tips, continue to the complete Cable Beach guide.

4. Discover the Pirates of Nassau Museum

Vintage nautical still life with rope, compass, and aged map representing Nassau’s pirate history — A vintage nautical still life evokes the era of pirates who once sailed through Nassau’s waters.

Pirates of Nassau Museum is a fun, immersive attraction that brings the Golden Age of Piracy to life right in the heart of downtown. The experience begins with a full‑scale pirate ship replica and continues through interactive exhibits, atmospheric sets, and stories of real pirates who once ruled the waters around the Bahamas. It’s family‑friendly, easy to explore at your own pace, and a great option for cruisers looking for something indoors, educational, and entertaining. Kids especially love the hands‑on elements, while adults appreciate the historical context woven throughout the museum. It’s an ideal stop before or after browsing the nearby shops and restaurants.

For full details and tips, continue to the complete Pirates of Nassau Museum guide.

5. Snorkel at Clifton Heritage National Park

Snorkeler swimming in clear turquoise water, reflecting the marine life and underwater experiences associated with Clifton Heritage National Park — Snorkeling in calm, clear water captures the natural beauty and marine life found along the shores of Clifton Heritage National Park.

Clifton Heritage National Park is one of Nassau’s most meaningful and scenic outdoor attractions, blending natural beauty with deep cultural history. The park protects important Lucayan, African, and Loyalist heritage sites, including restored villages, historic ruins, and interpretive trails that tell the story of the Bahamas across centuries. Visitors can explore rocky coastlines, quiet beaches, snorkeling areas, and the famous underwater sculpture “Ocean Atlas,” located just offshore. It’s a peaceful escape from the busy cruise port and a great choice for travelers who want a mix of nature, history, and light adventure. Guided tours add helpful context, but the park is also enjoyable to explore at your own pace.

For full details and tips, continue to the complete Clifton Heritage National Park guide.

6. Take a Day Trip to Blue Lagoon Island

Soft white sand and turquoise water along the shoreline of a calm tropical lagoon — Blue Lagoon Island is known for its soft sand and peaceful, sheltered lagoon.

Blue Lagoon Island is one of Nassau’s most popular day‑trip destinations, offering a relaxed private‑island experience just a short boat ride from the cruise port. The lagoon’s calm, shallow water makes it ideal for families, while adults appreciate the quiet beaches, hammocks, and shaded lounging areas. Visitors can choose from a variety of add‑ons, including animal encounters, water activities, and upgraded beach experiences, or simply enjoy a peaceful day by the water. The island feels far removed from the busier parts of Nassau, giving cruisers a refreshing escape with plenty of space to unwind. It’s an easy, well‑organized excursion that works for all ages.

For full details and tips, continue to the complete Blue Lagoon Island guide.

7. Visit Ardastra Gardens & Wildlife Conservation Centre

Pink flamingos standing together in a tropical garden setting, representing the wildlife experiences at Ardastra Gardens in Nassau — Pink flamingos are the signature attraction at Ardastra Gardens, known for their colorful presence and playful marching shows.

Ardastra Gardens & Wildlife Conservation Centre is a peaceful, family‑friendly escape just minutes from downtown Nassau. Known for its lush tropical gardens and close‑up wildlife encounters, the centre focuses on conservation and education, making it a meaningful stop for animal lovers. Visitors can stroll shaded pathways, meet native species, and enjoy the famous marching flamingos, one of the most charming and unique experiences in the Bahamas. The setting feels calm and intimate compared to busier attractions, offering a refreshing break from the cruise‑port crowds. It’s an easy half‑day outing that works well for families, couples, and anyone who enjoys nature and gentle exploration.

For full details and tips, continue to the complete Ardastra Gardens & Wildlife Conservation Centre guide.

8. Explore the Marine Habitat at Atlantis

Sea turtles swimming in clear turquoise water, representing the marine life seen in the exhibits at Atlantis — Sea turtles glide through clear water in the Marine Habitat at Atlantis, one of the resort’s most peaceful and memorable viewing areas.

The Marine Habitat at Atlantis is one of the largest open‑air marine exhibits in the world, featuring a network of lagoons, underwater tunnels, and beautifully designed habitats filled with sharks, rays, tropical fish, and rescued marine life. It’s an easy add‑on for cruisers visiting Atlantis for the day, offering a relaxing way to explore the resort without committing to the full waterpark experience. Guests can wander through shaded pathways, watch feedings, and enjoy close‑up views of marine species in environments inspired by the lost city of Atlantis. It’s family‑friendly, visually stunning, and a great option for travelers who want something immersive but not overly active.

For full details and tips, continue to the complete Marine Habitat at Atlantis guide.

9. Shop at the Nassau Straw Market

Entrance to the Nassau Straw Market with colorful stalls and signage welcoming visitors to the downtown shopping area — The entrance to the Nassau Straw Market leads into a lively maze of local vendors, handmade crafts, and Bahamian souvenirs.

The Nassau Straw Market is one of the most iconic stops near the cruise port, offering a lively mix of handmade crafts, Bahamian souvenirs, and local artistry. It’s a great place to browse wood carvings, straw bags, jewelry, and colorful island‑themed gifts while experiencing a bit of Nassau’s everyday energy. The market can be busy, but that’s part of its charm—vendors are friendly, bargaining is expected, and you’ll find everything from small keepsakes to unique handcrafted pieces. It’s an easy walk from the port, making it a convenient stop before or after exploring downtown. Even a short visit adds a fun, local touch to your Nassau day.

For full details and tips, continue to the complete Nassau Straw Market guide.

10. Experience Junkanoo Beach

Turquoise water and sandy shoreline at Junkanoo Beach near the Nassau cruise port — Junkanoo Beach offers calm water and a lively atmosphere just a short walk from the Nassau cruise port.

Junkanoo Beach is the closest beach to the Nassau cruise port, making it a popular choice for visitors who want sand and sea without arranging transportation. The atmosphere is lively and social, with beach bars, music, chair rentals, and plenty of activity throughout the day. The water is calm enough for swimming, and the views of the harbor and passing ships add a fun, cruise‑day vibe. It’s not the quietest beach in Nassau, but it’s convenient, budget‑friendly, and perfect for travelers who enjoy an upbeat scene. Many cruisers stop here for a few hours before exploring downtown or heading back to the ship.

For full details and tips, continue to the complete Junkanoo Beach guide.

11. Tour John Watling’s Distillery

Bartender pouring rum into shot glasses, representing the tasting experience at John Watling’s Distillery in Nassau — Rum tastings at John Watling’s Distillery offer a close‑up look at the craftsmanship behind their small‑batch Bahamian spirits.

John Watling’s Distillery offers a charming, low‑key look at Bahamian rum making inside the historic Buena Vista Estate in downtown Nassau. The property feels peaceful and traditional, with whitewashed buildings, shady verandas, and views overlooking the harbor. Visitors can take a short, self‑guided walk through the production areas, learn about small‑batch rum techniques, and sample the distillery’s signature spirits at the tasting bar. It’s an easy, relaxing stop that pairs well with exploring nearby attractions like the Queen’s Staircase or the Straw Market. Cruisers appreciate that it’s close to the port, free to enter, and doesn’t require a long time commitment.

For full details and tips, continue to the complete John Watling’s Distillery guide.

12. Swim with Pigs at Rose Island

swimming with pigs bahamas — Swimming with the pigs on Rose Island

Swimming with pigs at Rose Island is one of Nassau’s most popular and playful excursions, offering a fun mix of beach time, boat travel, and close‑up interaction with the island’s friendly resident pigs. The experience usually includes a scenic ride to a quiet stretch of Rose Island, where guests can feed the pigs, wade in the water with them, and enjoy plenty of time on a beautiful private beach. It’s a lighthearted, family‑friendly activity that feels different from the typical beach or resort day, and the setting is peaceful enough to make the outing feel like a true escape. Most tours also include drinks, lunch, or snorkeling, depending on the operator.

For full details and tips, continue to the complete Swim with Pigs at Rose Island guide.

13. Visit the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas

Exterior view of the historic Villa Doyle building housing the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas

The National Art Gallery of The Bahamas is the country’s premier visual arts institution, showcasing Bahamian creativity through a thoughtful mix of historical works, contemporary pieces, and rotating exhibitions. Housed inside the beautifully restored Villa Doyle, the gallery offers a calm, refined atmosphere that feels worlds away from the busy cruise port. Visitors can explore paintings, sculptures, mixed‑media installations, and cultural exhibits that highlight the stories, identity, and artistic evolution of the Bahamas. It’s an inspiring stop for travelers who enjoy museums, local culture, or a quieter break during their Nassau day. The surrounding neighborhood is also pleasant for a short walk before or after your visit.

For full details and tips, continue to the complete National Art Gallery of The Bahamas guide.

14. Try Bahamian Cuisine at Arawak Cay

Colorful restaurants and food stalls at Arawak Cay, known as the Fish Fry in Nassau — Arawak Cay, known as the Fish Fry, is one of the best places to try authentic Bahamian cuisine.

Arawak Cay—often called “Fish Fry”—is one of the best places in Nassau to experience authentic Bahamian cuisine in a lively, local setting. This colorful strip of restaurants and food stalls serves classics like conch fritters, cracked conch, grilled snapper, fried chicken, peas and rice, and sky juice. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with music, friendly vendors, and the smell of fresh seafood filling the air. It’s an easy taxi ride from the cruise port and a great way to add culture and flavor to your day in Nassau. Whether you want a full sit‑down meal or a quick taste of local favorites, Arawak Cay delivers a fun, memorable food experience.

For full details and tips, continue to the complete Arawak Cay guide.

15. Explore Love Beach

Love Beach is one of Nassau’s most peaceful and underrated stretches of shoreline, perfect for cruisers who want a quiet escape far from the busier downtown beaches. The water here is typically calm and clear, with offshore reefs that make it a great spot for casual snorkeling. The beach has a natural, laid‑back feel—no crowds, no loud music, just soft sand and turquoise water. Some visitors choose to relax at Nirvana Beach Bar for food, drinks, and chair rentals, while others enjoy the public access areas for a more secluded experience. It’s a wonderful choice if you’re looking for a calm, scenic beach day with a truly local vibe.

For full details and tips, continue to the complete Love Beach guide.

16. Take a Glass-Bottom Boat Tour

Many fishes silhouettes against the background of turquoise water under a boat with a transparent bottom

A glass‑bottom boat tour is an easy, family‑friendly way to experience Nassau’s marine life without getting in the water. These tours glide over shallow reefs, giving you clear views of colorful fish, coral formations, and sometimes even sea turtles or rays. Guides typically share fun facts about the local ecosystem, making the experience both relaxing and educational. It’s a great option for cruisers who want something low‑effort, scenic, and accessible for all ages. The boats are shaded, the ride is smooth, and the departure point is usually close to the cruise port, keeping the outing simple and stress‑free. Even if you’re short on time, it’s a memorable way to enjoy Nassau’s underwater world.

For full details and tips, continue to the complete Glass‑Bottom Boat Tour guide.

17. Visit Fort Charlotte

Stone walls and cannons at Fort Charlotte overlooking Nassau Harbor — Fort Charlotte is the largest of Nassau’s historic forts, offering panoramic views of the harbor.

Fort Charlotte is the largest of Nassau’s historic forts, offering a spacious, scenic look at the island’s military past. Built in the late 1700s, the fort features dungeons, cannons, underground passages, and sweeping views of the harbor from its elevated position. Visitors can explore the expansive grounds at their own pace or join a short guided explanation that brings the fort’s history to life. It’s a great choice for cruisers who enjoy historic sites, open-air walking areas, and panoramic viewpoints. The experience is calm, educational, and easy to pair with nearby attractions for a relaxed half‑day outing.

For full details and tips, continue to the complete Fort Charlotte guide.

18. Go Kayaking at Bonefish Pond National Park

Bonefish Pond National Park in Nassau, Bahamas

Kayaking at Bonefish Pond National Park offers a peaceful, nature‑focused escape from Nassau’s busier tourist areas. This protected mangrove ecosystem is home to juvenile fish, birds, and vibrant marine life, making it an ideal spot for travelers who enjoy quiet exploration and eco‑friendly activities. The calm, shallow water is perfect for beginners, and the winding mangrove channels create a serene, almost hidden‑world experience. Guided tours often include educational insights about the park’s restoration efforts and the importance of mangroves in the Bahamas. It’s a refreshing, low‑key outing that gives cruisers a deeper connection to the island’s natural environment.

For full details and tips, continue to the complete Bonefish Pond National Park kayaking guide.

19. Explore Nassau’s Historic Downtown

Pink building of Parliament House in Colonial architect style in Parliament Square. — The pink Parliament House, designed in classic colonial architectural style, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Parliament Square in downtown Nassau.

Nassau’s Historic Downtown is the heart of the city, blending colorful colonial architecture, lively local culture, and some of the island’s most iconic landmarks. Visitors can explore Parliament Square, the Supreme Court, Rawson Square, and charming side streets lined with pastel buildings and small shops. The area is compact and walkable, making it easy for cruisers to experience history, shopping, and food all in one outing. Highlights include the Queen’s Staircase, Government House, Christ Church Cathedral, and the bustling Straw Market. Whether you’re interested in architecture, local heritage, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, downtown Nassau offers a vibrant introduction to the Bahamas.

For full details and tips, continue to the complete Nassau’s Historic Downtown guide.

20. Take a beachside Pilates class at Salt Studio

A beachside Pilates class with Salt Studio is one of Nassau’s most refreshing wellness experiences, blending mindful movement with the calming backdrop of ocean views and gentle sea breezes. Classes are designed for all levels, making them accessible whether you’re a seasoned Pilates fan or trying it for the first time. The instructors are encouraging and attentive, helping you settle into a relaxed, grounded rhythm as you move through each sequence. The setting adds something special—soft sand, open sky, and the sound of waves create a peaceful environment that feels worlds away from the busy cruise port. It’s an energizing way to start your day and a memorable alternative to traditional beach activities.

For full details and tips, continue to the complete Salt Studio beachside Pilates guide.

Final Thoughts

Nassau offers an incredible mix of beaches, culture, history, food, and easy day‑trip adventures, and this attraction adds yet another layer to what makes the island such a memorable cruise port. Whether you’re exploring on your own or pairing it with nearby stops, it’s a simple, rewarding experience that fits smoothly into any itinerary. If you’re building out your Nassau day, be sure to check out the full list of top things to do for even more ideas and inspiration.

Hello! I'm Tanya