Nassau, Bahamas local guide

A jewel on a stunning island oasis where brilliant sunny days and warm evenings are a constant year-round. Where one can stroll through bustling city streets, museums and art galleries, buy wares made by locals, and sample authentic cuisine. Glistening turquoise waters entice you and a pristine beach offers peaceful seclusion. Come celebrate the sophistication of an era gone by in a distinguished, yet welcoming ambiance. It’s here at the British Colonial Hilton that your visions of an idyllic Bahamian getaway come to life. Opulent accommodations, anticipatory service, amenities, and adventure for even the most discerning traveler: this is your haven in the Bahamas. Discover it for yourself.

Things to do

Surrounded by shimmering waters on the edge of the island’s only private beach and just footsteps away from historic downtown Nassau, there’s much to do and see while at the British Colonial Hilton.  Walk to Bay Street and get your share of true Bahamian straw while you test your bargaining skills. Visit museums, galleries, and dine in one of our many charming restaurants.

Plan a day of adventure on the water—diving, snorkeling, or a boat ride to a nearby island. Visit some of the area’s most exciting attractions including Ardastra Gardens Zoo and Conservation Center, horseback riding, golf, or deep-sea fishing. Our concierge desk and service is ready to assist you in planning your excursions on and off the island.

Diving

> Visit our Diving page to discover why Nassau is one of the favorite sites for Scuba Diving

Nassau

Nassau is abundant with Bahamian history and culture. Here, just minutes from the British Colonial Hilton are many duty-free shops, restaurants, forts, museums, and more. Be sure to explore our capital city by participating in one of the many tours and special excursions.

Bay Street

Stroll through Bay Street in Downtown Nassau for duty-free shopping and a host of other shops.

Blue Lagoon Island Adventures

Enjoy a leisurely boat ride to this beautiful private island. Spend the afternoon relaxing, enjoying sports in and out of the water, live music, and other exciting activities.

Crystal Palace Casino

Try your luck at the Crystal Palace Casino located in downtown Nassau. Here you’ll have your pick of 400 slot machines, virtual table games and Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, Midi Baccarat, and more.

Discover Atlantis Tours

For an exciting afternoon that people of all ages will enjoy, come explore the lost Continent at Atlantis. Witness exotic marine species as they dart before you in this maze of chambers and corridors. Over 50,000 sea animals in 200 species can be seen.

Rawson’s Square

The gateway to the city of Nassau for cruise-ships, this shady piazza connects Bay Street to Prince George Wharf. Enjoy a little bit of history and be sure to check out the bronze statue of Sir Milo Butler, the first Bahamian governor. Horse drawn carriage rides and the open-air hair-braiding pavilion are a favorite among visitors.

Straw Market

See a variety of arts and crafts and other items made from straw at the world famous Straw market. Be ready to bargain for the best price, which is half the fun!

Water Tower

The highest point on the island, the Water Tower was built in 1928 and is 126 feet tall.  Visitors of all ages can travel to the top of the tower via an elevator or a long and winding staircase. Once you reach the top, you’ll be awed by the spectacular view of the island…be sure to bring your camera.

Sea Island Adventures

For those who love to snorkel—or those who’d love to try snorkeling, Sea Island Adventures offers a great experience on several coral reefs, just off the beautiful Rose Island Beach.

National Art Gallery of the Bahamas

A museum that showcases a national collection of paintings, sculpture, textiles, ceramics, and photos, the National Gallery of the Bahamas is the premier art institution of the Bahamas.

Dolphin Encounters

Come meet some of the world’s most gentle creatures on Blue Lagoon Island. Pet, feed, and swim with our family of bottlenose dolphins and learn fascinating facts about them as you observe them in our beautiful island setting.

Happy Trails Stables

Great fun and excitement for the whole family can be enjoyed at Happy Trails Stables. Enjoy horseback riding tours and more in Coral Harbor.

Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Center

Take a journey through Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Center and see hundreds of wild animals up close. Be sure to get there in time to witness the world famous marching flamingoes!

Stuart Cove’s Dive South Ocean

Snorkel and dive in some of the island’s most intriguing locations with Stuart Cove’s Diving. From shark dives, wall flying, reefs, and wrecks, there’s always something new and exciting to discover.

Bahamas Fast Ferries

Travel in air-conditioned comfort to the different islands in the Bahamas aboard Bahamas Ferries. Enjoy refreshments and the hospitality of the friendly captain and crew as you take the fastest mode of travel between the islands.

Island World Adventures

For an authentic Bahamian adventure, book a private charter or an island excursion with Island World Adventures.

Deep Sea Fishing with Brown’s Charters

If you love to fish, get ready for a thrilling experience. Sail with our professional crew and have an opportunity to catch wahoo, grouper, or even shark.

City and Island Tour

Hop on an air-conditioned bus for a tour around Nassau and Paradise Island. Tour guides offer an inside look at the history and culture of the Bahamas.

America’s Cup Challenge

Join the yacht crew and try your hand at some of the most exciting boating in the world.

Golf

Two different championship golf courses offer a challenging round for golfers of all levels.

Transportation

Rental cars and taxis are available on the island from several companies.

Currency

The Bahamian Dollar is the legal currency in the islands of the Bahamas and it is equivalent to the United States dollar. US currency, credit cards, and travelers checks are widely accepted throughout the islands.

Climate

The Bahamas boast a semi-tropical climate with temperatures ranging from the 70’s to the 80’s (Fahrenheit), water temperatures in the low 80’s during summer, and mid 70’s in the winter.