It’s one thing for an attraction to be popular with Bahamas tourists, but if it is loved by locals, too, then you know it is well worth visiting.
As long-standing locals, the team at Bahamas vacation rental management specialist Shore Concierge knows the best places that guests must not miss.
Here are some top attractions in Nassau and New Providence – where many of Shore Concierge vacation rental clients are based – that are loved by locals and tourists.
Atlantis Bahamas
This outstanding ocean-themed resort provides a choice of amazing adventures for guests. In its Aquaventure Water Park, you can take the 18-metre (60 feet) near-vertical Leap of Faith waterslide or a choice of four slides in the 120-foot Power Tower and afterward relax in the 1.6-kilometre (1 mile) Rapid River water ride. You can get close to nature by visiting 14 lagoons containing more than 50,000 aquatic animals or by swimming with dolphins. Sample the food in a choice of 21 restaurants at Atlantis and work off the calories in the 10,000-square-foot gym, six tennis courts or at the Ocean Club Golf championship course. For an extra touch of excitement, visit the casino.
Eat a conch salad in Arawak Cay
Eat just like the locals in the Bahamas and sample a conch salad in the Arawak Cay Fish Fry area. There you will find plenty of vendors offering the iconic Bahaman seafood dish, which pairs conch with onions, tomatoes and peppers.
Queen's Staircase
The Bahamas is filled with history and culture. One great example, which costs nothing to see is the famous Queen's Staircase at Elizabeth Avenue South in the Fort Fincastle Historic Complex. The 66 steps, as it is also known, were built from limestone by slaves in the 1790s and were later named after Queen Victoria. Just to note, there are now only 65 steps visible, as the bottom one is covered with asphalt. There is an extra reward for those who get to the top, as the 66 steps lead to Fort Fincastle, which was built at the same time as the steps by Lord Dunmore to protect Nassau from pirates. Guided tours usually take place from 8am-4pm. This provides wonderful views as does the nearby 126-feet tall Water Tower.
Bay Street shopping
If you are looking for a unique gift from a local craftsperson, artist or supplier, then take a stroll down Bay Street, which is close to the Queen’s Staircase. Some gifts are made before your eyes while you wait. Bay Street is also home to the popular Straw Market where you can buy straw-made products.
Houses of Parliament
In the centre of Nassau, lies the pink-hued Parliament Square, which includes the House of Assembly, The Senate, the Supreme Court and a statue of Queen Victoria. The historic buildings date back to around 1815. Today, the Bahamian Parliament still meets here. If you want to learn more about the history and culture of the region, visit Nassau’s collection of museums, including one focusing on pirates.
Clifton heritage national park
Clifton Heritage Park was established in 2004 and features birds, animals and marine life in a variety of ecosystems, including native coppice, cliffs, coastal wetlands, dunes, rocky shorelines, sandy beaches, coral reefs and underwater statues. Locals and visitors enjoy swimming, fishing, hiking, camping, snorkeling, birdwatching, and picnicking. You can also see old Lucayan villages and plantations and see where Jaws and Bond movies were shot.
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