Nassau is the center of all the action: the best shopping, entertainment, the most historic attractions plus some of the best beaches in the Bahamas. Enjoy fine dining, exciting nightclubs, luxurious spas, challenging golf courses and more. Bahamas attracts not only the affluent, but vacationers of every class and culture, especially from America. Things To-Do in Nassau
Shop for bargains along Bay Street, one of the leading duty-free shopping capitals of the world. Nassau shopping has become more upscale and now has a larger range of goods to choose from including china, crystal, watches, leather goods and perfumes. The straw market fronts onto Bay Street and is where you can bargain with the merchants for items such as hats, weavings, baskets, dolls and bags.
There are many fascinating historical sites as well as surfing, parasailing, jet skiing, cruising, diving, swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and sailing. Spend the day on a guided island or underwater tour and discover unique, exotic worlds. Take a horse-and-buggy ride through the streets of town or visit the casinos and elegant restaurants at some of the resorts.
There are several forts in Nassau, reminders of the days when the island was attacked by pirates. Of the 12 old fortifications on New Providence and Paradise Island, three—Fort Charlotte, Fort Fincastle and Fort Montagu—have a major historical interest and are worth a visit. There are also a few interesting museums, including the Pirates of Nassau.
Nassau Botanical Gardens - Within the confines of this 18-acre paradise, guests can explore some 600 plant species displayed in beautiful themed gardens. Rambling trails pass freshwater ponds filled with fish and water lilies, a cactus garden, and a large and colorful collection of orchids. There's a special area just for kids, and the gardens are popular for strolling and morning jogs. Combine a visit here with Ardastra Gardens Zoo and Conservation Center across the street.
Ardastra Gardens Zoo - This is New Providence Island's zoological garden. Privately owned, the zoo and tropical gardens are home to a variety of birds and animals, many of them endangered species. You can wander the tiney pathways through the lush tropical undergrowth, where you'll see the endangered Bahamian parrot, jaguar, assorted monkeys, racoons and other nocturnal animals. Ardastra is home to a flock of pink flamingos that are trained and perform daily for the public. They'll even pose with you for photos! The children will enjoy this.
Seaworld Explorer Semi-submarine - The Seaworld Explorer is a cruising, underwater observatory offering a guided marine tour. The term semi-submarine is a bit misleading. It is, in fact a large surface vessel complete with obervation deck, air-conditioning and shade canopy. It is unique because of its undersea observatory just below the main deck. A cruise aboard the Explorer takes you out from the dock on Bay Street, through Nassau's docks and on to the Sea Gardens Marine Park, where you'll get a close-up look at the undersea preserve.
Dolphin Encounters - Dolphin Encounters Nassau is home to 16 Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, including the internationally famous "Flipper." One of the most popular programs is "Swim With The Dolphins." Join the dophins in the water for fun activities. You will need to take along towels, swimsuit and sunscreen. This is one of Nassau's premier attractions and it is almost always sold out. Be sure to call and make reservations at least 24 hours in advance. www.dolphinswims.com
The Graycliff Hotel is a historic mansion situated just behind Government House in downtown Nassau. It houses one of the top restaurants in the Caribbean. The atmosphere at the hotel is one of private opulence and old-world charm. All guest rooms are comfortably furnished with dressing rooms and large bathrooms. There are lots of extras, including Jacuzzi, gymnasium, solarium, porches and patios. 
Radisson Cable Beach Resort is a family-oriented resort that can compete with any in the Bahamas or Caribbean. The Radisson has undergone a major renovation and now shares the casino with Nassau Marriott Resort. It is located on one of Cable Beach's finest stretches of sand. There are six specialty and gourmet restaurants. Comfortable guest rooms have great views of the ocean, beaches and grounds. Eighteen holes of golf, tennis and racquetball are available. There are three pools, three squash courts, 15 tennis courts,, Camp Junkanoo for the kids, baby sitting, a beauty salon, shops and a casino next door.
Wyndham Nassau Resort & Crystal Palace Casino -One of Nassau's finest, lavish, glitzy resorts, the Wyndham Nassau Resort offers a little bit of everything: watersports, fine dining, fast food, a fine beach, more than a dozen restaurants and bars, a huge pool, an upscale shopping mall and an 18-hole golf course. Add a little nightlife, a Las Vegas-style theater, the casino and you have more than enough entertainment on-site to keep you busy. Guest rooms have satellite TV, floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies with spectacular views of the beaches and ocean. It's more expensive than some of the other resorts, but you have more options at this resort to choose from.