For the cruise traveler in search of all that the Caribbean can offer at its powdered sugar beaches edging turquoise waters, let’s explore the 10 best in Nassau, Bahamas.
Cabbage Beach
Two miles of coastline draw large crowds. There are ample eateries, chairs, tikis, and umbrellas for rent, and watersports just off the shore. It is beautiful, but space can be at a premium with multiple ships in port. The eastern side is less crowded; and there are big resort hotels close-by where you might catch a peek of the ‘rich and famous’ crowd.
Junkanoo Beach
Named for the raucous Bahamian parade, this beach is only three minutes (by foot) from the port. It’s a place for fun in the sun with bars, local fare served from shacks, many restaurants, music, drinking holes, WiFi, and the casual atmosphere of the tropical islands.
Cove Beach
Nestled in a tropical cove (hence the name), this is the spot for more solitude. There is world-class cuisine in the restaurants, which are open to the public. And, the popular yoga retreat welcomes drop-ins for their morning and afternoon sessions.
Yamacraw Hill Beach
This is the sunrise beach for locals and those looking for a bit of privacy. It’s a quiet place where shallow waters allow you to walk out from the shore for hundreds of yards during low tide. You can hunt for shells, or just sit and listen to the rustle of the Casuarina trees.
Adelaide Beach
This location is a visit back in time where the water is just right and safe for swimming. Located at the southern shore, far from downtown, means solitude. And getting there will carry you through rustic village surroundings. There are no facilities.
Caves Beach
If you’re looking for interested geology, this beach on the north side has limestone caverns along the shoreline. This location is not well-known amongst the tourists – perfect for quiet exploration.
Montagu Beach
For a bit of local history, this beach is located at the historic Fort Montagu. Built circa 1741, this is Nassau’s oldest fort whose purpose was to defend the island against invaders from the eastern harbor. Tours and interesting stories are available on site. You can also watch the boats pass through the busy harbor.
Love Beach
For kayaks and snorkeling coral reefs, this beach is your destination. Explore just off the shore or take a tour to the forty-acre reef a mile away. While the beach is quiet (nine miles from downtown), there are restaurants and bars on the main road close by.
Jaws Beach
Despite the name, there are no sharks, no amenities, and very few people on this calm, quiet piece of tropical real estate. There are rocky features, dock pilings, trees, and solitude at this western beach on the edge of Clifton Heritage Park. (FYI, one of the final movies in the series was filmed at this protected location.)
Saunders Beach
Lastly, get immersed in local food at this destination. Cookouts are a big thing here (for fundraising), where authentic fare will not disappoint. Also, enjoy the panoramic view from ‘go slow bend’. With a shopping plaza across the way, this beach is a great spot if you’re short on time for your Nassau, Bahamas shore excursion.
Angela is a professional freelance travel writer and published indie author – AngelaMinor.com
Image Credit: FotoDawg via Wiki Creative Commons 2.0
