Nassau Beach Resort Attractions

Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, offers a myriad of unique attractions, making it a major cruise stopover and tropical destination for discerning travelers and the site of luxurious Nassau all-inclusive resorts. Founded in 1656, Nassau is located on the island of New Providence and has had a rich history with English and African influences and even a colorful pirate history. Its natural tropical beauty and the diversity of its flora and fauna give Nassau many enchanting attractions. The Ardastra Gardens, a short walk from downtown Nassau, is a lush tropical zoo that houses more than 300 species of Caribbean animals in their natural environment. The zoo has a large aviary, the highlight of which is the flock of marching flamingos that perform three times a day. The Botanical Gardens, located just across the street from the Ardastra Gardens, feature winding pathways through acres of flowering shrubs and eighteen trees. The natural beauty of the gardens is accentuated by decorative ponds beneath a soothing tropical green canopy dotted with exotic orchids and bromeliads.

Nassau also has plenty of historical points of interest. The most notable is Parliament Square, which is located in downtown Nassau, not far from the Bahamas all-inclusive resort. The government of the Bahamas is housed in quaint buildings with flamingo-pink columns surrounding the statue of Queen Victoria that was erected on her birthday in 1905. Since Nassau was a vantage point in the Caribbean, there are several forts that were built to protect it from marauders Fort Charlotte, just east of Nassau, was completed in 1788 and covers more than one hundred acres. Its moat, drawbridge, ramparts, and dungeons evoke an image of an earlier age. Fort Fincastle is located just a short walk from downtown Nassau.

Completed in 1793, it served as a lookout post over the port. At the base of the Fort is the Queen’s Staircase, with its 66 steps carved into the limestone cliff by slaves two centuries ago. The 126-foot-tall water tower at Fort Fincastle is the highest point on the island and commands a spectacular view of New Providence Island and nearby islands. It can be accessed by a staircase or by elevator. A fun way to explore Nassau is in Surrey. You can rent a small horse-drawn carriage next to the cruise ship pier near Parliament Square for a 30-minute ride through downtown, led by a guide who will regale you with Nassau legends. Youngsters of all ages love the Pirates of Nassau, with its interactive exhibits highlighting the intrepid history of pirates in the Bahamas (for a time, Nassau was ruled by the notorious Blackbeard). Shoppers will love Straw Market, located near the downtown Nassau beach resort by the piers. Hundreds of street vendors offer handicrafts and many of the products, from hats and baskets to accessories and frames, are handmade on the premises.