Nassau, Bahamas has an array of beaches, however if you’re traveling soon and want an idea of the best Nassau Bahamas beaches- this list is for you.
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Junkanoo Beach
The most popular and most convenient beach for tourists, especially cruisers. This beach is located conveniently within walking distance of the downtown Nassau area (13 minutes) and is a 6 minute drive from Nassau Cruise Port (depending on traffic). Margaritaville Resort is literally right next to Junkanoo Beach so if you’re looking for somewhere to stay in close proximity it’s a good choice.
Cable Beach
Known as the beach that caters to a few hotels/resorts such as Sandals Royal Bahamian, Baha Mar resorts and Breezes – Bahamians affectionally call this the Cable Beach strip that often you need to be staying at a resort to access. It’s about a 20 minute drive along West Bay Street heading west from the cruise port.
Goodman’s Bay
A childhood favorite of mine that also has a park and parking lot situated in front. Its a 15 minute drive from the Cruise Port along West Bay Street. Often there are vendors near by but also restaurants like Johnny Canoe are in walking distance.
Sandyport Beach
A 25 minute drive from the Cruise Port but a walk across the street if you are staying in the Sandyport area whether that’s a hotel or an Airbnb.
Cabbage Beach
This beach is located over Paradise Island (15 minute drive) and is a favorite for locals on Sundays and holidays. This beach is also surrounded on either side by resorts like Ocean Club, Atlantis, Warwick, Comfort Suites Paradise Island and more. You can also get a beachside massage here with a great view. There’s also a toll to pay once crossing the bridge ~$2 USD.
Love Beach
Love Beach is a 30 minute drive from the Cruise Port but some will say it extends along West Bay strip. My favorite part is the beach across the street from Orange Hill Beach resort which is a nice public beach with very little parking. Further down there are restaurants like Travelers Rest or Dino’s Conch Stand where the famous tropical conch salad was started. The sunsets on Love Beach are some of the most beautiful I’ve ever seen.
Nirvana Beach
In my opinion, one of the best Nassau Bahamas beaches that has several access points however there is the infamous Nirvana Beach Bar. To access the beach bar and use it’s amenities (restrooms, chairs etc.), there is a cover charge minimum $5 dollars per person. Do keep in mind, all public beaches in Nassau are free to utilize. Its about a 30 minute drive from the cruise port.
Jaws Beach
They say the 12B (bus) goes by here but to save some time it’s best to rent a car or get a taxi, especially if you’re stopping over on a cruise (40+ minute drive). The waters are crystal clear and it very close to Clifton Heritage Park where there are a number of activities to participate in (i.e. hiking, snorkeling and more). The beach garners its famous name as parts of the Jaws movie were filmed there.
Sea Wall – West Bay Street
When you drive along West Bay Street, there are several areas that have roadside parking where locals and tourists can access the inlets along the road. They’re usually not very crowded due to the lack of parking area. It’s a good idea to rent an airbnb in these areas to have a bit of a “private beach” feel. Give or take; its’ a 23 minute drive from the Cruise Port.
Montagu Beach
If you start to drive towards East Bay Street past the bridge about a 7 minute drive, you’ll end up at Montagu Beach where the historical site Fort Montague is located. Its a quieter beach however there are several restaurants/nightclubs and the Harbour Bay Plaza located nearby with stores/shops and more.
Yamacraw Beach
Towards the eastern end of the island is Yamacraw Beach which is a 20 minute drive and is astonishing at low tide. Often you can see kitesurfers out or persons walking out to sandbanks – that’s how low the tide can get.
Adelaide Beach
This beach is on the southwestern part of the island and is about a 41 minute taxi ride or drive from the Cruise Port. There are also several tours that include swimming pigs and other amenities.
A few other beaches to consider:
- Orange Hill Beach (aka Love Beach) -24 minute drive from the Cruise Port
- Saunders Beach -13 minute drive from the Cruise port
- Coral Harbour Beach-36 minute drive from the Cruise Port
General tips for beach-goers
Hurricane season is usually from May to November and is typically when beach weather is at its’ warmest. Temperatures start to fall around October into February where water temps can be chilly (high 60s to mid 70s).
Public transportation is viable via jitney system where most public buses meet in Downtown Nassau and have their own routes. You can access the routes here.
The ocean is vast and many sea creatures inhabit it so swimming is done at your own volition. Here are some tips in regards to safe maneuvering when swimming if you feel like you’re in a precarious position.
In order to maintain the beauty of Bahamian beaches, it’s requested that all visitors do their due dilligence and remove waste they may have brought with them to the beach in public trash receptacles.
