Bahamas Sightseeing Guide

The centre of the Bahamas archipelago, New Providence is one of the smaller Islands; only 80 sq miles, yet it supports more than two thirds of the population. Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, Cable Beach and Paradise Island are the major tourist attractions.  

A strange mixture of the old world and contemporary world with its old fashioned architecture and an undeniable Caribbean charm blending with modern traditions, Nassau exudes a special charisma that makes it one of the most visited tourist destinations in the Bahamas.

 A visit to the Government House, a quaint pink draped structure, makes an interesting excursion. The Balcony house, the oldest wooden residential structure in Nassau, Christ Church Cathedral and the Lex House are also interesting examples of architecture of the bygone era. 

The Queen’s Staircase was built by over 500 slaves who laboured for 16 years before finally abandoning it in 1834, with the abolition of slavery. The 66 steps carved in the gorge like roadway through the limestone ridge south of downtown Nassau dates back to the 18th century.

The steps lead to Fort Fincastle, dating back to 1789, that interestingly enough is built is the shape of a ship’s bow. The highest point on the Island is the Water Tower besides the Fort. Climb to the top to admire the unusual shape of the Fort as well as the charming countryside.  

A perfect example of Southern colonial architecture is the Parliament Square. Ringed by government buildings on all sides including the Supreme Court, Secretary’s Office and the Assembly Houses, the centre of the square is dominated by a statue of Queen Victoria. Four times a year (first weeks of January, April, July, October), opening ceremonies are held at the Supreme Court based on the same lines of the opening ceremonies of the Houses of Parliament in London with wigs and mace-bearing pageantry. Entry is free for visitors.

Bay Street is the main shopping area in Nassau, bustling with shoppers in the morning, pretty deserted in the night except during the festival of Junkanoo. The street houses a number of duty free bargain shops that attract a number of tourists.

Near the Parliament Square is the Public Library that was at one point of time in history used as a prison. Dating back to 1798, the building houses an underground dungeon that is unfortunately no longer open to public.

 On the corner of George’s Street dating back to 1837, is the Christ Church Cathedral that has some of the most beautiful glass stained windows. The east windows of the Church depict the crucifixion, the Empty Tomb and the Ascension and are worth a see.

About a mile west of central Nassau lies Fort Charlotte, an 18th century remnant, built by Lord Dunmore. Impressive and daunting, explore the drawbridge, dungeons and the now waterless moat. There are daily tours organized by the local guides. Admission is free.

 A visit to Coral harbour, located on the 16-acre Silver Cay Island, makes for an interesting half – day. Reachable by a manmade bridge, Coral Harbour has winding canals that offer easy access to the sea. To admire the underwater paranoma of the sea, venture down the observatory tower. 

You can gaze at the excellent exhibit of reefs or simply gain an insight into the life of the fish and lobsters.  If you want to be a part of the underwater wildlife, hire a mask, snorkel and fins and explore the snorkelling trail off the small beach overlooking the Arawak Cay. 

Full of luxury hotels and casinos, Cable beach is a popular tourist spot especially at night when the dayglo lights are switched on. 

If you really want to get away from it all, venture on to the other side of the bridge leading to Paradise Island. Exotic and glamorous, the transformation of this Island from being used as a Pig Farm to one of the most sensational tourist centres has been quite miraculous. Exciting nightlife in one of its casinos or tranquillity if you desire, or a romantic moonlight dinner cruise - the Island offers you all that you could want at a holiday resort.

 Alert! There are a number of drug peddlers around, so it’s advisable to stick to the main centres during nighttime. Nassau is relatively less dangerous.