Beyond the beaches of Nassau & Paradise Island

Nassau & Paradise Island are often associated with their beaches, but there’s much more to the destination than a typical sun holiday. It combines history, food, activities, and events in a way that makes it easy to build a varied itinerary. In 2026, there are even more reasons to visit, including the Bahamas Culinary & Arts Festival at Baha Mar from 21st to 25th October.

Beyond the beaches of Nassau & Paradise Island

History and heritage worth exploring

Away from the shoreline, the islands offer a strong sense of place shaped by their past. Clifton Heritage National Park, on the western tip of New Providence, brings together coastal views with walking trails that pass the remains of Lucayan settlements and old plantation buildings, as well as an underwater sculpture garden just offshore. Closer to the centre of Nassau, the Queen’s Staircase is a simple but significant stop. The 66 limestone steps were carved by formerly enslaved people and still connect Fort Fincastle to the town below, offering a direct link to the island’s history.

Local cuisine and dining across the island

Food is another area where Nassau & Paradise Island stand out, with options that suit different moods across a single trip. You might start with something relaxed by the water, then head to Nobu at Atlantis for its well-known Japanese-Peruvian menu, or book a table at Dune at The Ocean Club for a more refined setting overlooking the sea. Over at Baha Mar, Carna delivers a modern steakhouse experience, while Graycliff Restaurant remains a landmark in its own right, known for both its history and its extensive wine cellar.

Time on the water and marine life

The surrounding water naturally plays a big part in any visit, and it’s easy to tailor the experience depending on how active you want to be. A day out with First Strike Charters might involve trying traditional line fishing or heading further out to catch species like snapper or marlin. If you prefer something more relaxed, snorkelling trips offer a closer look at the reefs and marine life just offshore. There are also more hands-on experiences, from interacting with cownose stingrays at Atlantis to visiting The Sanctuary at Baha Mar, where sea turtles and nurse sharks are part of a wider focus on conservation.

Water parks and active days out

For a change of pace, the water parks across Nassau & Paradise Island add a more energetic side to the trip. Aquaventure at Atlantis is one of the largest in the Caribbean, with slides, rapids and river rides that can easily fill a full day. Baha Bay at Baha Mar offers a slightly more laid-back setting right by the beach, while Fins Up! at Margaritaville, near Junkanoo Beach, mixes slides, a climbing wall and casual dining in a central location. It all ties back to the same idea: that this is a destination where you can do far more than just spend time on the sand.

To experience the famous Nassau & Paradise Island, contact your Travel Counsellor today.

A guide to Oceania Cruises’ newly refurbished Marina

10 June 2026

Oceania Cruises’ Marina is set to return following a full refurbishment, with updates planned across staterooms, dining venues, and public spaces. The work, scheduled for October 2026, focuses on improving comfort and bringing a more modern feel to the ship. If you’re considering a future sailing, here’s what you can expect from the updated Marina, and how it may shape your onboard experience.

6 reasons to add Finland to your travel wish list

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Finland is often linked with winter trips to Lapland, but there’s much more to discover across the country. From design-led cities to quiet lakes and coastal landscapes, it offers a different pace of travel that feels both refreshing and easy to explore. If you’re looking for a European destination that combines nature, culture, and something a little less expected, Finland is well worth considering.

Luxury retreats to reconnect with nature

08 June 2026

Travelling is about experiencing the world in its most authentic form, and with the growing trend of eco-consciousness, more people are seeking accommodation that offer both opulence and a more sustainable stay. Enter a new era of the luxury resort—a harmonious blend of comfort, elegance, and environmental stewardship. Here, we’ve chosen four outstanding luxury places that embody this ethos and cater to the most discerning traveller.