How to Spend One Day in Nassau, Bahamas: Best Things to Do, See, and Eat
- Adventures of Matt & Nat
- Mar 31
- 5 min read
With crystal-clear waters, vibrant pastel-colored streets, and people as warm as the Bahamian sun, Nassau is the very definition of an island paradise! From fascinating history and outdoor adventure to local flavors and breathtaking scenery, there’s truly something for everyone! If you’ve ever been here, then you know just how overwhelming it can be to decide what to do with your time, and that’s largely because Nassau is not only the largest city in the Bahamas but also home to the busiest cruise port in the entire Caribbean. But whether you’re visiting on a cruise stop or planning a quick island getaway, we’ve crafted the perfect one-day itinerary to help you experience the best of it all… from pirate lore and conch fritters to rum tastings, postcard-worthy beaches, and more. So lather on your sunscreen, slip on your flip-flops, and get ready for an unforgettable day in Nassau, Bahamas!
Check out our “Cruise Essentials” Amazon list for tips on what to pack for your cruise!
⬇️ Watch our “One Day in Nassau” travel vlog for a closer look at our visit! ⬇️
Planning more time in The Bahamas? Be sure to check out our other Bahamas blog posts! Whether you're heading to Paradise Island for some resort time or dreaming of those iconic swimming pigs, we've got you covered:
⬇️ For the best Tours and Experiences in Nassau, check out GetYourGuide! ⬇️
Our picks:
8:30 AM – Breakfast at Le Petit Gourmet
Start your morning at Le Petit Gourmet, a cozy café serving a wide range of hearty breakfast favorites, brunch classics, and made-to-order sandwiches. Whether you’re in the mood for their signature Guava French Toast (what we had), a loaded breakfast sandwich on a buttery croissant, or a fresh egg salad on focaccia, there’s something here for everyone. Their menu includes everything from pancakes and avocado toast to shrimp and grits, all served in a casual, welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for starting your day in the Bahamas.
Alternative Local Breakfast Spots:
▪️ The New Duff (139 W Bay St)
▪️ Louis & Steen's (Unit 2, One West Business Park, Windsor Field Rd)
10:00 AM – Pirate Jeep Tour
Next, dive into Nassau’s swashbuckling past with a Pirate Jeep Tour, one of the most unique ways to explore the island. You’ll cruise through Nassau in a custom, pirate-themed Jeep while your guide, dressed in full pirate garb, shares fascinating stories from the Golden Age of Piracy along with other fun facts and local legends! Along the way, you’ll visit some of Nassau’s most iconic sights, including the Queen’s Staircase, Fort Fincastle, the Graycliff, and John Watling’s Distillery… Just to name a few! The tour is part history lesson, part island adventure, and a great way to see multiple Nassau highlights in just a couple of hours.
Tours run at 10 AM and 2 PM daily. To learn more or book your Pirate Jeep Tour HERE!
1:15 PM – Lunch at Arawak Cay AKA “The Fish Fry”
By now, you’ve probably worked up an appetite—and there’s no better place to go than The Fish Fry, a vibrant culinary hub in Nassau, renowned for its array of colorful eateries serving authentic Bahamian cuisine. Here, you can indulge in local favorites such as cracked conch, fried snapper, and lobster tails, often accompanied by traditional sides like cornbread and mac and cheese. This lively strip offers a genuine taste of Bahamian culture, making it a must-visit for anyone visiting Nassau!
Some popular choices include:
▪️ Goldie’s Conch House (where we went)
▪️ Twin Brothers
▪️ Oh Andros
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask locals what they recommend, it’s often the freshest dish of the day.
2:40 PM – Sky Juice at Sky Juice King
No trip to Nassau is complete without trying Sky Juice, a local favorite made with fresh coconut water, condensed milk, gin, and a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg. Head to Sky Juice King, a laid-back spot where the drink is as authentic as it gets.
Fun Fact: Another name for this drink is "Gully Wash", but whatever you call it, it’s cold, creamy, delicious, and refreshing.
2:45 PM – Beach Time
Now that you’re fed and feeling festive, it’s time to kick off your shoes and relax by the water. Nassau is home to some stunning beaches, whether you’re looking for a quiet escape or somewhere with a little more buzz. We personally enjoyed Public Beach right next to Sky Juice King for its relaxed atmosphere and proximity to bars and restaurants. If you’re looking for more of a party vibe, check out Junkanoo Beach… a lively stretch popular with cruisers since it’s the closest beach to the port.
What to Bring: Swimsuit, towel, reef-safe sunscreen, and maybe a Sky Juice to-go.
4:15 PM – Explore Downtown Nassau
Wrap up your day with a little sightseeing and shopping in Downtown Nassau. Centered around Bay Street, this colorful district is packed with local charm, colonial-era architecture, and easy-to-access attractions—all within a short walking distance.
Notable Stops & Sights:
Straw Market – A bustling open-air market selling handmade straw crafts, souvenirs, and locally made goods.
Parliament Square – Home to pastel-pink colonial government buildings and a statue of Queen Victoria. A must-stop for history buffs and photo lovers.
Pompey Museum of Slavery & Emancipation – Located in the historic Vendue House, this small museum offers an important look into the Bahamas’ past.
Christ Church Cathedral – One of the oldest churches in Nassau with beautiful architecture and a peaceful courtyard.
Rawson Square – A central square often used for public events, bordered by palm trees and classic colonial facades.
Prince George Wharf Cruise Port Area – Not just for boarding your ship—this area features colorful murals, ocean views, and shopping stalls.
Pirate Republic Brewing Company – Grab a local craft beer at this fun, pirate-themed brewery just steps from the port.
Local Art Galleries & Boutiques – Keep an eye out for pop-up galleries and family-run shops featuring Bahamian artists and designers.
The Balcony House Museum (check opening status) – One of the oldest wooden residences in Nassau, occasionally open for tours or photos.
Note: If you're coming from the cruise terminal, all of these sights are within a 5-minute walk, making them perfect for wrapping up your day without straying too far from your departure point.
We hope that this guide has helped you make the most of your time in Nassau, and if it has, we hope you’ll consider following us on Instagram and subscribing to our YouTube Channel for more travel content!
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