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.
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.
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