Bahamas

1. Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre

The Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre has been a premier attraction in Nassau since it opened in 1937 as just the gardens. It expanded exponentially over the years and is now best known for its flamingoes, which were brought in the 1950s for breeding purposes as they were becoming rarer. Now there are over 200 animals for visitors to see; in addition to their world-famous flamingoes, you’ll come across pigs, lemurs, iguanas, snakes, parrots, peacocks, and many other species of birds, reptiles, and mammals. It’s a great place for the entire family to visit as not only will you be able to meet the animals and see them thrive, you’ll also get to see fun shows and participate in feedings - a guaranteed unique experience for all!

Chippingham Road, Nassau, New Providence Island, Bahamas, Phone: 242-323-5806

2. Balmoral Island

Experience the best of the Bahamas at Balmoral Island, a multifaceted private beach resort which is focused on providing a memorable, one-of-a-kind adventure for you and your family. You can spend your time there relaxing on the sun-kissed beaches, swimming in the azure waters, lounging by the swimming pool, or having a more unique experience encountering dolphins and stingrays. Snorkeling with the dolphins is a once in a lifetime opportunity and shouldn’t be missed. There’re tons of additional features such as games, a DJ, a boutique filled with souvenirs, several themed bars, and tons of food and drink for you to indulge in.

Balmoral Island, Nassau, Bahamas

3. Bahamas Map

Discover great beaches, towns and bays on this custom Bahamas map.

4. Clifton Heritage Park

Clifton Heritage Park was established in 2004 by the Clifton Heritage Authority as a means of preserving and displaying the rich and important history of the area and the groups who made an impact there: the Africans, the Lucayans, and the Loyalists. Over the years, the park has also become home to a number of outdoor activities which includes an extensive array of winding trails that will take you through a number of ecosystems like coastal wetlands, cliffs, rocky shorelines, dunes, and sandy beaches. You’ll also be able to enjoy fishing, swimming, snorkeling, boating, picnicking, camping, and bird watching.

South West Road, New Providence, Bahamas, Phone: 242-477-0978

5. Dolphin Cay Atlantis

Dolphin Cay Atlantis is an eco-tourist attraction which gives visitors an opportunity to safely encounter several marine animals in their natural habitat while also providing fun water sports and activities. You can play with sea lions, hang with the dolphins, or become a trainer yourself for a day. The amazing dolphin interaction includes 30 minutes of time in water, wetsuits, beach towels, and a personal photographer to take pictures of your memorable time. Other activities offered include Sunrise Fitness which offers a variety of exercise regimens such as power snorkeling and total core strengthening, snorkeling with the Ruins of Atlantis, paddle boarding, kayaking, and much more.

Paradise Beach Drive, Suite 39, Paradise Island, Bahamas, Phone: 242-363-2000

6. Fort Charlotte

Spanning nearly a hundred acres, Fort Charlotte is the largest of its kind in New Providence. The fort sits on a hill at the end of the harbor and provides a panoramic view of Paradise Island, Nassau, and the surroundings. The fort was built by Lord Dunmore in 1788 and comprises several dungeons, a moat, underground passageways, and forty-two cannons. There are several local tour guides which you’ll come across there who’ll be more than happy to take you through the fort, point out unique features, and give you a complete history. Depending on when you’re there, you may be also to witness a live performance featuring characters in period costumes, exhibits basket weaving techniques, and much more.

West Bay Street, Nassau, Phone: 242-302-2000

7. Fort Fincastle

Fort Fincastle was built in 1793 by Lord Dunmore, who was a colonial governor in the American colonies and the Bahamas. The fort, which is shaped like a paddle-steamer, is a popular attraction with visitors as it gives them unparalleled views of the Queen’s Staircase and the city of Nassau. There are daily guided tours of the limestone structure conducted by knowledgeable professionals who can give you an in-depth look at the fort, its history, and the role it played in Nassau’s past. It’s a wonderful place to spend the day with friends and family as you take in the lovely sights that surround you.

Bennet’s Hill, Prison Lane, Nassau, Phone: 242-356-9085

8. Lucayan National Park

Lucayan National Park was established in 1977 and is one of three national parks located on Grand Bahama Island. The park lets you explore their wetlands and sand dunes through extensive elevated walkways. The nature trails and boardwalks will take you through a variety of ecosystems and leads to a beach. There are several picnic tables scattered across the beach for you to relax on and enjoy a picnic. You can also explore their stunning underwater cave system, which is one of the largest in the world. Though swimming is not allowed in the caves, you can obtain a special permit to go diving in its unique waters.

Grand Bahama Highway, Phone: 242-352-5438

9. Nassau Straw Market

Nassau Straw Market is a traditional open-air market which is filled with a number of trinkets and souvenirs that are perfect for yourself or to take as gifts for friends and family back home. Take a stroll down the famous native Straw Market and experience one of the country’s oldest industries come to life. It’s common to see throngs of tourists looking through all the interesting items, bargaining with vendors, and just having a good time as they purchase unique handmade products. You’ll find people weaving straw into anything and everything such as hats, bags, jewelry, and much more.

W Bay Street, Nassau, Bahamas, Phone: 242-363-2000

10. National Art Gallery of The Bahamas

The National Art Gallery of The Bahamas is a world-class museum that collects, preserves, and exhibits historic and contemporary Bahamian art. It was the first institution of its kind in the history of The Bahamas and now has four spaces: the permanent exhibition, monthly interventions, and two temporary exhibition spaces. The museum is housed in a mansion built in the 1860s, the Villa Doyle, and is considered one of Nassau’s prized stately homes. Guided tours are held on certain days of the week by their knowledgeable and experienced staff and will take you through several different exhibits and displays before ending at the museum store where you can purchase items by local artisans.

Villa Doyle, West and West Hill Streets, Nassau, North Providence, Bahamas, Phone: 242-328-5800