Nassau Paradise Island
Nassau and Paradise Island offer the ultimate sun-filled getaway, blending stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history for the perfect escape. With direct flights from many Ameircan cities, it’s easy to spend less time traveling and more time relaxing on white-sand beaches and exploring warm coastal waters.
The year-round sunshine and turquoise waters make a day at the beach unforgettable, whether you’re strolling the boardwalk, swimming, or simply unwinding with a book in hand.
With influences from Spanish, West African, and British cultures, Nassau and Paradise Island offer a diverse culinary scene to suit every taste, from street food to fine dining.
Nassau and Paradise Island are also rich in history and natural beauty, with countless activities and immersive tours led by local guides eager to share their island’s stories. Your adventure awaits, so come and experience the vacation of a lifetime! Visit our Website.
Dining
Nassau and Paradise Island is a culinary haven, offering a variety of celebrity chefs and five-star dining experiences that will excite any food lover. The island’s vibrant mix of cultures is beautifully reflected in its diverse cuisine, blending traditional Bahamian flavors with international influences to create something truly unique.
From exotic dishes that spark your adventurous side to comforting, familiar favorites, Nassau and Paradise Island has something to satisfy every craving. Whether you’re dining at a chic fine-dining restaurant or enjoying a casual beachside bite, the culinary experiences here are sure to leave you with lasting memories.
Quick Facts
Languages spoken: English.
Banking & Banking Hours: There are many international banks in Nassau and Paradise Island. While specific bank locations may vary, visitors can find ATMs from major banks like Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), Scotiabank, and FirstCaribbean International offering 24-hour service. Additionally, banks like Bank of Bahamas and BBM Bank Limited have branches in the area. Most banks are open Monday through Friday from 9:30am to 3:00pm, with slightly longer hours on Fridays.
Currency: USD or Bahamian Dollars – Bahamian Dollars are equivalent to USD
Climate: Sub Tropical
Dress Code: In Nassau and Paradise Island, the general dress code is casual and relaxed, especially for day-to-day activities and casual dining. For most restaurants, smart casual attire is appropriate, while more upscale venues may require resort elegant attire or more formal wear. When exploring the islands, you can wear comfortable clothing like shorts, lightweight pants, skirts, sundresses, t-shirts, and sandals.
Driving: Driving in Nassau and Paradise Island, is on the left-hand side of the road. Seat belts when driving a car in Bahamas are mandatory. The use of a mobile phone while driving is prohibited, with the exception of a hands-free system. You can drive with your valid American driver’s license up to 90 days. If you intend to stay longer in the country, you must obtain a Bahamian driver’s license. You should carry an international driving permit.
Electricity: In Nassau and Paradise Island, the standard voltage is 120v, and the standard frequency is 60 hz. Adaptors are not required.
Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time Zone (GMT-4); Daylight Savings time is observed in The Bahamas.
Activities
Beaches: Wander along the powder-soft sands, hunt for seashells, enjoy a horseback ride by the shoreline, or simply soak up the sun in paradise. You’ll find the beach of your dreams here.
Golf & Tennis: Picture yourself teeing off on one of our two championship golf courses, with stunning ocean and beach views surrounding you. Tennis lovers can also enjoy courts at many of the island’s hotels.
Watersports: Dive into our crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for boating, sport fishing, or simply floating above the vibrant coral gardens and marine life.
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Shopping: Whether browsing quaint shops, open-air markets, or luxury boutiques, you’ll discover everything from high-end gifts to locally crafted treasures—many duty-free!
Excursions: Explore the island’s rich history with walking tours of colonial landmarks, savor local flavors on food and drink tours, visit fascinating museums, legendary forts, lush gardens, and a colorful zoo.
Casinos & Nightlife: Try your luck at one of our two world-class casinos featuring table games, the latest slots, and international sports wagering. End your evening with the energetic vibes of our trendy nightclubs and live entertainment.
Travel Essentials
- Flight Info
- Entry Requirements
- Getting Married
- Local Events
- Medical
- Accessibility
- Brochures
- Sustainability
- Voluntourism
Flight Information
Traveling from the U.S. to Nassau Paradise Island is convenient, with nonstop flights available from numerous major cities. Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau serves as the primary gateway to the island. Airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, United, Southwest, and Silver Airways offer direct flights from various U.S. cities, including Miami, New York, Boston, Fort Lauderdale, Atlanta, and Washington, D.C.
For travelers from Raleigh-Durham, Avelo Airlines resumed direct flights to Nassau in June 2025, providing additional options for those in the region.
Delta is launching new seasonal nonstop service from Minneapolis – St. Paul to Nassau, Bahamas from Saturday, December 20th, 2025 to April 12th, 2026.
With these direct flight options, you can spend less time traveling and more time enjoying the beautiful beaches and attractions of Nassau Paradise Island.
For information on how to get to Nassau and Paradise Island from other gateways, click HERE.
Entry Requirements for Americans
Americans do not require Visas. Valid passports are required along with return or onward tickets; one page required for entry stamp.
All travelers to Nassau and Paradise Island are required to complete and submit an Immigration/Customs Passenger Declaration Form. The form is now available online and is required for entry to the island. Visitors can access the form at https://www.besw.gov.bs/TFBSEW/registration/registrationPage.jsp
For more information, see your Travel Advisor or follow this link: US State Department/The Bahamas
Getting Married
One of the most desirable honeymoon destinations in the world is also a favorite for sun-soaked tropical weddings of any size and budget, with settings and services that ensure a memorable experience for everyone.
To be wed on our islands, couples must be here for 24 hours prior to applying for a marriage license. The marriage license must be obtained at least one day prior to the wedding. Birth certificates and a notarized affidavit are required; if appropriate, you’ll also need divorce papers, a former spouse’s death certificate or parental consent, if under 18.
Cultural/Annual Events
World class entertainment, a myriad of culinary events including the Nassau Paradise Island Wine and Food Festival, sporting events and so much more…there is always something happening in Nassau & Paradise Island and, of course, you can’t miss Junkanoo…one of the Caribbean’s most celebrate and spirited carnivals.
PUBLIC AND/OR GOVERNMENT HOLIDAYS:
Nassau and Paradise Island observes the following holidays each year:
(Some services may be impacted with reduced hours, or there may be full closures on these days)
2026 Public Holidays
Thursday, January 1, 2026 – New Year’s Day
Monday, January 12, 2026 – Majority Rule Day
Friday, April 3, 2026 – Good Friday (Stores closed)
Sunday, April 5, 2026 – Easter Sunday
Monday, April 6, 2026 – Easter Monday
Monday, May 25, 2026 – Whit Monday
Friday, June 5, 2026 – Randol Fawkes Labour Day
Friday, July 10, 2026 – Independence Day
Monday, August 3, 2026 – Emancipation Day
Monday, October 12, 2026 – National Heroes Day
Friday, December 25, 2026 – Christmas Day
Saturday, December 26, 2026 – Boxing Day
Medical & Dental Information
Hospitals located on Nassau & Paradise Islands are as follows:
Princess Margaret Hospital
Shirley St, Nassau, Bahamas
Hours: Open 24 hours
Phone: +1 242-322-2861
Doctors Hospital
1 Collins Ave, Nassau, Bahamas
Hours: Open 24 hours
Phone: +1 242-302-4600
Emergency Dental Services on Nassau & Paradise Island:
Island Dental Centre: Phone: 242-328-1756
Universal Dental Centre: Phone: 242-322-1939
Comfort Smiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry: Phone: 242-323-4270
Premier Dental Group: Phone: 242-605-3368/3369
FOR DIVERS:
Divers should be aware that there is a hyperbaric chamber located in Lyford Cay, on New Providence Island. Learn more.
Accessiblity
Please ensure that your airline is aware of any special needs travel prior to departure from the U.S.
Airport Services
Nassau / Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS):
- Accessible parking in the short-term parking lots
- Accessible restrooms with wheelchair access are placed throughout the terminals
- Wheelchair Assistance: available at the airline counters
- Elevators and ramps are available
- To assist those with hidden disabilities, LPIA offers extra assistance through a Sunflower Lanyard visual cue. Learn more.
Transportation
Nassau/Paradise Island: Courteous Transfers & Tours offers private transportation for those with physical disabilities and include WC accessible vans for both airport transfers as well as sightseeing.
Email: courteoustaxibahamas@hotmail.com
Phone: 242-468-3900
For Accessibility information at hotels located in Nassau and Paradise Island please consult the hotel’s individual websites.
Sustainability
Key Sustainability Initiatives:
The Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board (NPIPB) and major resorts have partnered with several science-based organizations to protect the local ecosystem:
- BREEF (Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation): A leading organization focused on coral reef restoration and marine education. They manage the Coral Reef Sculpture Garden, which acts as an artificial reef and a snorkel-accessible art gallery.
- Bahamas National Trust (BNT): This science-based organization manages the nation’s 32 national parks, including the Primeval Forest National Park in Nassau, ensuring the conservation of Bahamian natural resources.
- Resort-Led Conservation:
- Baha Mar Foundation: Focuses on conservation and community education within Nassau.
- Atlantis (Blue Project Foundation): Works on coral restoration and marine animal rescue/rehabilitation.
Tips for Sustainable Travel in Nassau Paradise Island:
- Support Additive-Free Local Products: When exploring local spirits, look for authentic Bahamian brands that focus on traditional production methods.
- Avoid Single-Use Plastics: Many resorts (like Royalton) have switched to high-tech water filtration systems (Vero Water) to eliminate plastic bottles. Bringing a reusable bottle is highly encouraged.
- Engage with “Do Good” Programs: Some properties offer resort credits or incentives for opting into energy and water conservation measures during your stay.
Voluntourism
Volunteer Opportunities for Visitors
The Nassau and Paradise Island Promotion Board recognizes the growing desire for “voluntourism” and eco-conscious travel — particularly around marine conservation and food security. For those looking to integrate sustainability into their trip, there are several local organizations offering short-term or event-based volunteering opportunities to do just that:
- Environmental & Marine Conservation
- BREEF (Bahamas Reef Environmental Education Foundation): You can participate in the Volunteer Fish Survey Project. If you are a diver or snorkeler, you can collect data on fish populations using a standardized method and submit it to their global database.
- Beach Cleanups: Organizations like Keep Nassau Beautiful (and various resort-led programs) host scheduled cleanup events to keep the coastline free of litter and pollutants.
- Community & Social Impact
- Hands For Hunger: One of the most active volunteer organizations in Nassau. They focus on reducing food waste and hunger.
- Roles: Volunteers can help as Food Rescue Assistants, help in the warehouse, or participate in food box packing and garden maintenance.
- Bahamas Humane Society: Located in Nassau, they often look for volunteers to assist with animal care or education programs. They are especially active around “International Potcake Day” (September 16).
- Education & Heritage
- The Queen’s Staircase: Local maintenance and beautification efforts for this iconic landmark are ongoing.
- The Dignified Girl Project: Offers opportunities to help provide essential hygiene items and education to local adolescents.