Attractions Nearby Nassau, Day Trips and Excursions

(Nassau / Paradise Island, New Providence, Bahamas)



Photo showing the coastal attractions of nearby Blue Lagoon IslandThe Bahamas is basically one huge archipelago and there are almost unending options for getting out and exploring these 'Out Islands'. Boat trips go off in every direction from Nassau and Paradise Island, and you can also fly to some of the bigger island attractions by way of Nassau's airport.

Nassau is an ideal place to base yourself if you enjoy solitude, although do consider the possible excursions and make time to head to the likes of the Great Exuma group, where there are quieter beaches and much more besides. Eleuthera and Great Abaco are also popular choices, while closer to home is the Blue Lagoon Island, which has many side attractions that really do appeal to all ages.


Further picture of Blue Lagoon Islands

Blue Lagoon Island

Many of the islands in the Bahamas will require you to take a plane ride or lengthy boat trip. Blue Lagoon Island, however, is a mere 30 minutes away and is paradisiacal. Although this is a private island, tourists can visit and enjoy its natural beauty. It is so-named as the island actually sits in a lagoon surrounded by coral cays. Snorkelling, shopping, eating and partying are all pastimes.

Great Abaco Island

Great Abaco is one of the larger islands of the Bahamas and is north of Paradise Island. This island has a stunning coastline and plentiful scuba diving options, not to mention fewer people than on Paradise Island, while the principal city of Marsh Harbour offers all of the necessary amenities. Treasure Cay is another highlight, with perfect sands and water. Other notable attractions and destinations on Great Abaco include Cherokee Sound, Cooper's Town, Rocky Point, Sandy Point and also Winding Bay, while close by, a number of additional islands (cays) are just a short boat trip away, such as Castaway Cay, Elbow Cay and Moore's Island.

Great Exuma Island view

Great Exuma Island

Great Exuma lies to the south-east, amid a group of smaller islands known for their unspoilt beauty. There is the odd tourist development here and you can fly in by plane, yet it is like chalk and cheese with Paradise Island and Nassau. Exuma highlights include the adjacent Stocking Island, which is to be found just across from George Town and is home to the famous Salt Stone monument, as well as the Hurricane Hole - a popular spot for cave diving. Stocking Island functions as the capital of Great Exuma and comes with a natural harbour, some pristine beaches and beautiful coral reefs.

San Salvador Island / Watling Island

The island of San Salvador is located to the east of Paradise Island, where it boasts windswept beaches and some secluded spots, as well as much historical interest. San Salvador was purported to be the island that Columbus hit first in the chain and visitors will find attractions such as the cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana) and the vaunted Devil's Port (Puerta del Diablo). The latter provides great hiking and unbeatable island views. There are also a number of sandy beaches and reefs in shallow-water, perfect for avid snorkellers.

Image of Gregory Town, on the Bahamas island of Eleuthera

Eleuthera

Eleuthera Island is the long, skinny island off to the east of Paradise Island and Nassau, being around 80 km / 50 miles away. This tranquil island remains virtually untouched by hectic tourism and comes with incredibly blue water. The snorkelling here is particularly good and there are also settlements with good facilities, such as Governor's Harbour and Tarpum Bay. For wreck divers, the Devil's Backbone wreck is a major attraction, while if you prefer fashion shopping, hop across to the exclusive boutiques on Harbour Island, where famous supermodel Elle MacPherson lives.

Image of the Fresh Creek area of Andros, nearby Nassau

Andros

Located roughly two hours away from Nassau by ferry and directly to the west, Andros is by far the biggest of all the Bahamian islands and offers an assortment of unique geographic attractions. Scuba divers have been flocking to Andros for many decades, to marvel at the 'Tongue of the Ocean' barrier reef, which is amongst the largest on the planet and quite breathtaking. The Fresh Creek area is especially close to New Providence and offers two pleasant hiking trails, which are based just off the Queen's Highway, close to the Small Hope Bay Lodge. In south Andros, the Tiamo Resort leads the way in ecotourism, with its beachfront cottages and sustainable-living ethos.