5 Things to Know About Nassau’s Famous Straw Market

A trip to the straw market is on many people’s itinerary when they visit Nassau– whether it be via cruise ship, local tourists, or visitors from resorts on nearby Paradise Island. Visitors from all over the world hit up the straw market to browse the market for Bahamian souvenirs and unique finds.

The “straw” the market is named after is actually palm fronds. Local merchants gather here to sell woven products such as bags, hats, baskets, and more. However, you can find other souvenirs too- that aren’t woven such as jewelry, handbags, dresses, t-shirts, and hand-carved wooden figures.

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5 Things to Know About Nassau's Straw Market

1. This Place is Poppin'

There are more than 400 venders and entertainers on Bay Street. The vendors sell everything from food and drinks to hats, shirts, bags, handmade crafts, conch shell jewelry, and starfish. You’ll also find people that braid hair.

In recent years, a stage has been added to the facility. Local entertainers and brands break out their instruments and hit the stage to perform for visitors.

2. Straw Weaving is a Big Deal

For centuries, weaving and braiding straw has been a huge part of the Bahamian culture. Historically, locals would craft baskets to carry fruit and crops. They would also weave nets for fish traps.

After World War II, American tourists began traveling to The Bahamas. Since the 1940s, Bahamians have turned their traditional weaving and braiding goods into souvenirs.

You won’t believe how many straw weaved items you’ll spot at the straw market! You’ll find hats, pot holders, baskets, bags, and so much more!

3. Not All Goods Are Hand Made

While this is a great place to find handcrafted goods made by skillful locals, it’s important to point out that not everything here is handmade. Amongst the woven straw bags, baskets, and conch shell jewelry, you’ll find your typical souvenirs such as t-shirts, dresses, hats, magnets, shot glasses, towels, and other goods…made in China.

4. You're Expected to Barter

I get it, many of us aren’t comfortable with bartering. However, it is part of the local trade. The vendors at this insanely busy market expect you to barter with them. Don’t be shy when it comes to negotiating prices- if you don’t you’ll pay way too much for your purchases!

Not only can you negotiate for a lower price, but sometimes you can get them to throw in additional goods in order to seal the deal.

For many people, the thrill of the deal is part of the fun of visiting the straw market!

5. This Isn't the Original Market

The original straw market was an open-air market with a flea market vibe. The OG market took up a whole block on Bay Street. In 2001, the market burned to the ground. A temporary market was set back up, but it wasn’t until Hurricane Irene barreled through that Nassau looked for a more permanent market space.

In 2011, a concrete two-story building (with air-conditioning!) opened up for vendors to set up shop. The new, solid, building also still offers the same kitschy goods.

The Vendors

The vendors at the straw market are notorious for being aggressive…extremely aggressive. You will be hounded about hair braiding, purchasing bags, or booking a tour as soon as you’re in the area. Some may even get in your personal space and put items in your hand, trying to convince you to purchase them.

This can be intimidating, if you aren’t used to this aggressive sales-tactic. Don’t let this scare you. Simply give a polite, “No, thank you” and walk away if you are not interested.

At the end of the day, they are trying to make a sale, and you’re trying to score a good deal.

Forms of Payment

It is strongly recommended that you pay with cash while visiting the Straw Market. Vendors will accept US Dollars. Bring along some small bills and don’t be afraid to barter. In fact, it is expected that you do so.

There is a chance that your change will be given to you in Bahamian dollars.

The Bahamian Dollar and the US Dollar are equal to one another- $1 USD = $1 BSD

Visiting the Straw Market

The market is open 7 days a week from 8 am to 8 pm. If you are visiting Nassau via cruise ship, the straw market is within walking distance from the cruise port.

If you are staying at nearby Atlantis on Paradise Island, you can easily access the market via taxi or water taxi.