Home » Islands of the Bahamas – Paradise Island & Nassau

Islands of the Bahamas – Paradise Island & Nassau

“The isles of perpetual June.”
– George Washington

Paradise Island, Bahamas
Bahamas

Islands of The Bahamas

If you’re looking to get away from it all, the Islands of The Bahamas are a perfect escape. Located about 60 miles off the coast of Florida, the coral-based archipelago extends over 500 miles and consists of more than 700 islands. Explore Nassau, Paradise Island, Grand Bahama Island, The Exumas (Swimming Pigs), Andros, Bimini, Eleuthera, Harbor Island, and Freeport. Water visibility is one of the clearest in the world, making the Islands of The Bahamas an ideal destination for snorkeling, scuba-diving and shark-diving. The Bahamas sub-tropical climate, pristine beaches, posh resorts, gourmet restaurants, championship golf courses, thrilling water sports and fun recreational activities are guaranteed to make any event or vacation a memorable one. 

Nassau and Fun Attractions

Nassau, the capital city of the Bahamas, is located on New Providence Island. Rich in history and culture, Nassau is the most popular duty-free shopping destination in the Bahamas. It’s also a great walking city. If you want to see more of the island, rent a car, take a taxi, or hop aboard a jitney. Visit the nearby family-friendly Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island. It is one of the most amazing and exciting island resort destinations in the world. Atlantis is only a short taxi ride away and it makes a great day trip. Popular Nassau attractions include:

  • Nassau Straw Market
    The giant open-air flea market is one of the most popular, fun and best-known shopping areas in Nassau. We spent hours here browsing the stalls and shopping. Find everything from Bahamian gifts and souvenirs, to a selection of conch shell jewelry, wood carvings, t-shirts, and handmade straw hats and bags.
  • Ardastra Gardens, Zoo & Conservation Centre 
    The Zoo, located in the heart of Nassau, is home to beautiful Caribbean flamingos, the national bird of The Bahamas, as well as a variety of exotic and native wildlife.
  • John Watling’s Distillery – The Buena Vista Estate
    The distillery is home to John Watling’s Rum. 
    Take a complimentary tour of its historic home, The Buena Vista Estate. Enjoy a signature Bahamian Rum cocktail at the tavern.
  • National Art Gallery of The Bahamas
    View one of the largest collections of Bahamian art in the world at the National Art Gallery in Nassau. 
  • The Retreat Garden
    The 11-acre National Park and Botanical garden is a popular bird hotspot, filled with palms and rare tropical plants. 

Paradise Island

Paradise Island is located directly off the coast of Nassau. It’s about a three-hour plane ride from New York City and only 45 minutes from Miami. With miles of beautiful white sandy beaches and warm aqua waters, the island truly is paradise on earth. The bridge that connects to Paradise Island is about a mile from the center of downtown Nassau. You can also take a scenic water taxi ride. Boats leave Nassau every 20 minutes.

Atlantis, Paradise Island 

Atlantis, Paradise Island is based on the ancient mythical Lost Continent of Atlantis that sank without a trace over 11,000 years ago. It’s the world’s largest island resort destination. It’s also one of the most beautiful resorts we’ve ever seen – and the most popular in the Bahamas. Atlantis caters to all ages, especially “big kids!” You won’t believe how many fun things there are to do and see there. It’s home to the world’s largest open-air marine habitat with dolphins, manta rays and sea lions. Their huge water park features thrilling water slides, including a Mayan Temple “Leap of Faith” water slide. So much fun! There are also river rides, 11 pools, and gorgeous white sandy beaches. In addition, the resort has an 18-hole oceanfront golf course, a luxurious spa, numerous restaurants, bars and lounges – and the Caribbean’s largest casino.

Blue Lagoon Island – Swim with the Dolphins

Take a fun Day Trip to Blue Lagoon Island, featured in the hit movie “Splash.” It’s located approximately 25 minutes from Nassau and Paradise Island. The island is home to a Dolphin Sanctuary where you can enjoy touching, kissing, hugging, dancing and swimming with the dolphins. It was definitely the highlight of our Bahamas vacation. 🙂

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Book a fun Bahamas Snorkeling Adventure. Take an ATV Tour of Nassau. Go Swimming with the Pigs or the Turtles on a Tropical Island.

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The Best Time To Visit The Bahamas

The best time to visit The Bahamas is November through April. It’s also high season and the most expensive.

Summer (May thru’ October) is warmer and wetter. Most rain falls between June and October, however, showers are generally brief. During a June visit to Atlantis, Paradise Island, the weather was perfect for all of our 10 days.

Hurricane season peaks during late August-October.