Why shell out a bunch of money in Nassau if you don’t have to? In this post, we’ll outline How to Spend a Day in Nassau Without Cruise Excursions!
Nassau has a bad reputation among frequent cruisers. In fact, many frequent cruisers choose to stay onboard the ship, rather than go out into port. Despite the fact that we’ve been to Nassau more times than we can count, we always get off the ship. Once you get past the seedy Straw Market, there is plenty to do with a day in Nassau without cruise excursions! Let’s explore what to do with a day in Nassau.
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How to Spend a Day in Nassau Without Cruise Excursions
Stroll Around Parliament Square
Parliament Square was originally built in the late 1700s and early 1800s by Loyalists from North Carolina to The Bahamas. The Colonial-influenced buildings have a touch of Nassau flair with their pink exteriors. The buildings include the House of Assembly, the Senate Building and the Supreme Court of The Bahamas. Be sure to snap a photo of the Queen Victoria Statue.
Visit Queen's Staircase
The Queen’s Staircase, also known as the 66 Steps, is a major landmark in Nassau. The rocks were chipped out of solid limestone by slaves in the late 1700s. These steps gave a direct route from Fort Fincastle to Nassau City- an area notorious for pirates.
The steps were later named after Queen Victoria after her role in ending slavery in the British Empire.
Explore Fort Fincastle
Fort Fincastle is located near the Queen’s Staircase. The battery protected the Nassau Harbor entrance from pirates. The fort was constructed of cut limestone on Bennet’s Hill in the late 1700s.
Despite the fort having 68 cannons, they never fired a shot. The fort also served as a lighthouse until 1817.
John Watling's Distillery
John Watling’s Distillery creates the small-batch rum known as the “Spirit of The Bahamas”. The distillery is housed in a historic home known as Buena Vista Estate. This estate was established in 1789 and overlooks the harbor.
After your tavern visit, pull up a stool and enjoy a cocktail in the tavern. The distillery is open from 10 am until 6 pm, seven days a week, except National Holidays.
Educulture Junkanoo Museum and Resource Centre or National Art Gallery of the Bahamas
Next, immerse yourself in the local art scene with either a visit to the Educulture Junkanoo Museum and Resource Centre or the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas. Of course, you could always visit both since they are located next to one another.
The Educulture Junkanoo Museum shares the history of Junkanoo and The Bahamas. The rooms feature costume pieces, traditional fabrics, music, and more. There are hands-on activities such as mask making, dancing, and more. It is open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 3 pm.
Next Door at NAGB (National Art Gallery of The Bahamas) they offer a unique look at Bahamian history and culture through the artworks of its people. The National collection includes paintings, drawings, photographs, and sculptures dating back to the turn of the 20th century to modern times. The museums is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am until 5 pm and Sunday from 12 pm until 5 pm. It is closed on public holidays.
Relax at Junkaoo Beach
One of the most popular beaches in Nassau is called Junkanoo Beach. It is less than a one mile walk from the cruise port. You can also easily get a cab to the beach.
The free beach boasts calm, clear, turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming or snorkeling.
There are plenty of spots to grab a bite to eat or a drink right on the beach. You can also rent lounge chairs, snorkel gear, and other equipment here. Public restrooms and showers are also available.
Shop on Bay Street
Bay Street is the hub of the tourist district. Here you’ll find a ton of shops, the Nassau Straw Market, bars, restaurants, and attractions all dotting the shoreline. Grab a bite at Captain’s Deck, or the nearby Señor Frog’s.
Hit up Nassau's Straw Market
This world-famous market is open 7 days a week from 8 to 8. It features numerous vendors that sell items ranging from conch shells to straw hats and souvenirs. They accept both USD and Bahamian Dollars.
Common Questions About Nassau...
Can I do these things if I book an excursion?
Honestly, it depends on how long your excursion is. Some excursions may only be 2 hours long whereas others can last nearly all day. You could easily do the Nassau Straw Market on your way back to the ship.
Do you need a passport to go to Nassau, Bahamas?
If you are flying into The Bahamas, then yes, you need a passport. However, if you are arriving via cruise ship you don’t necessarily need one. Although it is strongly recommend that you always travel with a passport, when traveling internationally, you can also cruise using a valid driver’s license and original birth certificate as proof of identity.
When you enter the port area, you may be asked to show your ID along with your sail and sign card.
Can I catch an Uber in Nassau?
No, The Bahamas don’t have Uber, or any rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft.
Do I have to book an excursion through the cruise line?
You absolutely do not have to book an excursion through your cruise line however, doing so does have it’s benefits.
There are several third party outlets, such as GetYourGuide that can offer the same, or similar, excursions for cheaper.
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