10 of the best things to do in Nassau & Paradise Island

1. Spend a day at Atlantis Paradise Island

There’s so much going on at Atlantis Paradise Islands, we could do a top ten on it alone.

Purchase a day pass and let the family loose on the massive 141-acre water park at this iconic resort. There are slides galore, a twisting rollercoaster that ends in white-water rapids, an aquarium, snorkelling alongside tropical fish, swimming pools and miles and miles of white-sand beach.

On-site amenities include a golf course, a casino, and a slew of dining, drinking and shopping outlets.

2. Reconnect on Love Beach

Year-round sunny skies and water temperatures that hover around 27C mean beach time is on every Nassau & Paradise Island itinerary.

Couples looking to disconnect from life back home should stroll over to Love Beach. Though it’s just 20 minutes from downtown Nassau, it's far quieter than the other public beaches and arguably one of the most beautiful.

Perch here for the day with a special someone and bring your snorkelling gear. There are 40 acres of protected coral close by to explore together.

3. Feast on seafood at Arawak Cay

Nassau & Paradise Island is a major foodie destination, best known for its exceptional seafood.

Head over to Arawak Cay (also known as ‘Fish Fry’) on West Bay Street where authentic Bahamian restaurants serve traditional plates from the island. The most famous is the conch sea snails, served in the style of ceviche, in a salad or deep fried.

Other local specialities include rock lobster and guava duff for dessert. Tru Bahamian Food Tours offers food and culture tours so you can learn while you eat.

4. Climb the Queen's Staircase

All those Caribbean treats call for cardio. Get a quick hike in at the Queen's Staircase, a historic set of steps carved out of limestone in the 1700s.

It took over 16 years to complete and was named after Queen Victoria, who ruled the region and eventually abolished slavery in the country.

It’s surrounded by lush forest vegetation and serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the Bahamian people.

5. Meet the swimming pigs

If you’ve been researching the Bahamas and have social media, chances are the algorithm’s filled your suggestion grid with swimming pigs.

Thankfully, there are plenty of day excursions to go and meet them over on Rose Island, just a 25-minute boat ride from Nassau, or on Big Major Cay (aka Pig Island) a little further south.

The pigs roam free here, and their distinct patterns and colours are visible from afar against the clear blue waters.

Give them a pat, or better yet, swim alongside them. Now you’ll have your own reel to post.

6. Golf like a pro at the Ocean Club

Take a swing at the mammoth Ocean Club golf course, designed by the late, great golfing champion, Tom Weiskopf.

Nestled on the grounds of The Four Seasons, this 18-hole, par-72 course is spread across 7,100 yards of Paradise Island, with holes of varying challenge. Best of all, the views are jaw-dropping – you’ll struggle to keep your eyes on the game.

A golf shop, rental club and practice facility are also available.

7. Sip rum at John Watling's Distillery

Any (adult) trip to the Caribbean will involve rum, so embrace the good stuff with John Watling.

The downtown distillery is named after a pirate and set in a restored Buena Vista Estate, producing locally distilled rum that you can see made on a complimentary tour. At the end, there are optional tastings and a chance to purchase bottles to go.

Tip: stick around and explore the gardens outside. There are two acres of tropical green and century-old black olive trees.

8. Immerse in Junkanoo pride

Starting as a small and temporary celebration of freedom for slaves during Christmas time, Junkanoo eventually grew into a loud and proud parade celebrated by all.

It takes place on multiple days spread across the year, with dance, music and a rainbow of outfits lighting up Bay Street, Nassau.

Even if your trip doesn’t coincide with the events, a dedicated Junkanoo Educulture Museum will immerse you in the origins and traditions.

9. Explore nature at Clifton Heritage Park

Clifton Heritage National Park is a natural wonder packed with lush hiking trails and a multitude of bird and mammal species – but there’s more here than meets the eye.

Under the sea, you’ll also find the Sir Nicholas Nuttall Coral Reef Sculpture Garden, which contains the world’s largest underwater sculpture and a living art gallery. You’ll need to bring snorkelling gear to see it.

Jaws Beach, a filming location for Jaws: The Revenge (1987) is also at Clifton Heritage Park. Swimming is permitted, as great white shark sightings are highly unlikely along the shore.

10. Enjoy the ultimate couples’ massage at ESPA

Spas in the Bahamas are not like the spas we have back home. They incorporate traditional techniques with a local twist, fusing fresh ingredients and tropical elements to nourish the body.

The ESPA at Baha Mar is one of the island’s best places for pampering, boasting a 30,000-square-foot space with dreamy ocean views and plenty of rejuvenating treatments.

There are 22 private suites, so couples can enjoy ample space in privacy following a massage, facial, or full body detox wrap. You won’t want to leave.