Nassau is the capital city of the Bahamas and is the largest city and commercial center of the Bahamas, an archipelago of 700 islands. Nassau is located on New Providence Island, one of the two main Bahamian islands. The city dominates the New Providence Island and its satellite island, Paradise Island, which are joined by two bridges. Nassau’s proximity to the United States, 50 miles off the shore of Florida, adds to its appeal. The renowned Atlantis Resort also adds the attraction of this tropical destination.
Nassau features an attractive harbour and busy port. It is one of the most popular cruise ports in the Bahamas and Caribbean. This vibrant yet easy-paced city features a blend of old world and colonial architecture, affable locals, and an inviting tropical climate and natural beauty. Nassau features a tropical monsoon climate with relatively consistent temperatures year round.
Downtown Nassau is the hub for all activities and thousands visit daily to shop, dine, and sightsee. Particularly popular is the Bay Street thoroughfare that runs parallel to the shore, a portion of which features a high concentration of boutiques and shops. Also featured are the historic landmarks of the Vendue House, which now houses the Pompey Museum, and the Christ Church Cathedral. Other attractions include the Pirates of Nassau Museum, Nassau’s famed pink government buildings, the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas (featuring Bahamian art from the pre-colonial era to the present), Fort Fincastle (built in 1793), and an underwater observatory of the Coral Island Marine Park.
Another compelling Nassau attraction is Cable Beach, with its golden sands. It is considered the hotel district of Nassau. It boasts five enormous hotels, two of which are all-inclusive, and many tantalizing dining options. Visitors will discover that there are two kinds of beaches in Nassau. There are “activity beaches” that are adjacent to the hotels, resorts and casinos where one can enjoy water sports such as parasailing, snorkeling, and windsurfing. Nassau also offers “secluded beaches” that offer the opportunity to truly unwind and explore.
A visit to this magical island oasis will truly leave you refreshed and revitalized.
Nassau travel tips
Language spoken in Nassau
English Currency and exchange used in Nassau
Bahamian dollar. US dollars are widely accepted.
Voltage in Nassau
110V (same as Canada and US)
Weather in Nassau
The average temperature in Nassau is 29 degrees Celsius (85 degrees Fahrenheit) with seasonal fluctuations of 3 – 5 degrees depending on the month. While on vacation in Nassau, most months of the year visitors should pack clothes for swimming and warm weather. While the average temperature in Nassau makes this an ideal vacation destination we recommend that you apply plenty of sunscreen, drink lots of water and relax.
While on vacation in Nassau
Sunwing suggests the recommendations below while traveling on vacation to Nassau to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable holiday.
Resort Check-in Information
Please have your Sunwing hotel voucher ready for check-in at the hotel's reception. Based upon your arrival and check-in time, it is possible that your room may not be ready. Pack your bathing suit, shorts and sunscreen in your carry-on so that you can enjoy the facilities until your room is available.
Welcome Briefing
Our welcome briefing provides valuable information on Nassau, your hotel services, money exchange, shopping, and excursions. We will also inform you about the departure procedure and answer any questions you may have. Make sure to attend yours.
Help in Destination
Your friendly Sunwing destination representative is available in Nassau should you require assistance. Please check the Sunwing Vacations information boards or binders located in your hotel for a schedule of when your Sunwing destination representative is available.
Drinking Water
It is recommended that you drink bottled water while in Nassau. Most hotels offer bottled water in your hotel room and can also be purchased in the hotel's shop and in grocery stores. The ice and drinking water served in the hotels are generally made from purified water.
Long Distance Calls
Long distance telephone charges in Nassau can be quite expensive. It is recommended to make a collect call or use your calling card. Service charges may apply when calling from your hotel room.
Safety Deposit Boxes
Please use your safety deposit box for all your valuables, cash and travel documents. Some hotels in Nassau provide safety deposit boxes free of charge while others may require a nominal fee. You will be required to pay a penalty fee if you lose the key.
Resort Safety
Traveling to foreign destinations can be very exhilarating. Tourists must be aware that potential problems and risks to your personal safety could exist anywhere. Please use the same personal safety precautions and common sense on your vacation that you would at home e.g. apply sunscreen frequently, do not swim alone and do not display cash. Avoid venturing out alone and beware of dark or isolated areas.
Taxes and Tipping
Generally, taxes are automatically added to purchases. The tipping percentage is similar to that at home. If you receive good service, please express your gratitude and offer a tip.
Your Flight Home
Please check the Sunwing Vacations information boards or binders located in your hotel to reconfirm your flight from Nassau and its departure time. As a friendly reminder, make sure that you have packed your flight documents, medication, or any articles that you must have with you at all times in your carry-on luggage. Seat selection is on a first come, first serve basis at the airport, unless previously booked and paid for prior to your departure.
Documents needed to visit Nassau Canadian Citizens please click here Non-Canadian citizens please contact the Nassau consulate or embassy for information.
