The vibrant capital of the Bahamas, Nassau is also the country’s busiest port, set on the northern coast of the island of New Providence. This buzzing hub is home to the majority of the Bahamas’ population, and attracts a substantial cruise ship crowd, with its top-notch shopping, eateries and nightlife. Accommodation options range from simple beach cottages to expansive resorts and historic residences fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Whilst most of the best places to stay in Nassau are on the beach, we do have a particular favourite in the heart of the city, perfect for exploring.

Some of our Nassau collections:

• Top Nassau Resorts

Under British control from 1650, Nassau has a long and fascinating history of piracy and privateering. The Pirates of Nassau Museum is a fun place for children to delve into this turbulent past, whilst the National Collection of Bahamian Art at the National Art Gallery and the city’s abundance of street art will appeal to creatives and culture buffs. Don’t miss clambering up the Queen’s Staircase, connecting Fort Fincastle to downtown Nassau, or visiting the acclaimed Pompey Museum. The 18-acre Nassau Botanical Gardens are gorgeous, and you’ll find a vast array of restaurants, bars and shops in the city.

Venture to New Providence’s spectacular beaches for stretches of powder-white sand and stacks of fun water sports. Spend your days sailing, wind surfing, fishing, kayaking, swimming, snorkelling and diving with friends or family. The underwater sculpture garden at Clifton Heritage National Park is a particular highlight, as are the beaches of Paradise Island.

This is the lively gateway to the Bahamas for most travellers, so the best places to stay in Nassau have a tendency to fill up fast. Book your trip well in advance, especially if travelling during the school holidays.

The Best Places to Stay in Nassau

For Luxury

• The Ocean Club, a splendid Four Seasons resort, has been the ultimate Bahamian showstopper since it opened in 1962. Think seamless service, glorious style and heaps to see and do on the hotel's 45-acre estate. Play a round of golf or a game of tennis and laze about on the beach before chilling out at the spa or diving on the reef. Also boasting gourmet fare, this is a lavish choice for families or couples.

For Couples

• The Island House promises glorious Eastern interiors in a lush setting, ideal for wellness-focused couples. The Bamford Spa, fitness suite and yoga classes are a real highlight. When you're not at the spa, there's a 48-seat arthouse cinema, an eclectic selection of bars and eateries, an inviting pool and easy beach access. Book either a room or a self-catering apartment. Hip and romantic.
• Graycliff Hotel is set in a charming colonial building nestled within lush gardens. Pick this property for its opulent antique furnishings, including big four-poster beds, and rare in-town location. There are two outdoor pools, a gym and a spa, as well as an excellent Bahamian restaurant with vast wine cellars and a boutique cigar company. Old-school style for couples looking to explore Nassau town. Also a striking wedding venue.
• Ocean West Hotel is a ten-bedroom boutique hotel in a pink-painted residence. Stay here for the superb sea views, rooftop gym, refreshing pool and delectable Caribbean restaurant. A small, tranquil base for couples.

For Families or Groups

• The Cove Atlantis is a top-notch family resort with its own cinema, casino, beach, water park, 18-hole golf course, water-sports, art classes and more. A huge high-rise, the property promises a plethora of dining options, as well as smart bedrooms with impressive sea views. There are great kids clubs, too. Big, bold and full of activities.
• SLS Baha Mar is glitzy and glamorous, with fabulous cuisine, swish interiors and heaps to do. The adjacent 15-acre Baha Bay Waterpark and Beach Club are brilliant for both families and groups of friends, and the resort has a Vegas-style party buzz. There are dedicated kids' clubs as well as adults-only pools and events. Very good fun.

For Great Value

• Compass Point Hotel is a funky collection of brightly-painted beachfront apartments. Quirky and cheerful, with bold exteriors and white shutters, the 18 wooden hideaways include little kitchens, pretty sea-facing balconies and access to an outdoor pool, hot tub and cool oceanfront bar. There's a fantastic Bahamian/International restaurant onsite too. A sociable, affordable choice for couples, friends or families.
• Orange Hill Beach Inn offers 33 simple rooms, studios and apartments on a converted orange plantation close to the airport. A great value choice for independent travellers in search of self-catering facilities, or for families who can enjoy the pool, leafy grounds and relaxed restaurant.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Nassau?

• Fly to Nassau International Airport, the largest in the Bahamas, and travel to your hotel or villa by taxi. Most hotels will be happy to coordinate an airport pick up for you in advance.
• There's so much to see in the Bahamas! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel between November and mid-April for warm, dry weather. The hurricane season — July to October — is best avoided. The Christmas and New Year season is especially busy, so book your trip well in advance. Travel in late April or May for great hotel deals.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay on Andros Island.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the Bahamas.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Nassau