Best Beaches in Nassau, Bahamas

When asked why they are visiting the Bahamas tourists are generally known to have one answer-the fabulous beaches!  In Nassau, Bahamas there are 17 inviting stretches of beaches each with its own unique character and assets.  It would be to difficult to pick one above another so the savvy tourist will just follow a footpath to the waters edge, kick off their sandals and give the sand a toe-wiggle test.  If that beach is what you want then go ahead and stake your claim.  Wherever you pick a beach the water temperature will be about 80 degrees.  The sand is fine grained and the water is such a spectacular aqua color that astronauts have been known to remark on it from space.  Here is a guide (by type of beach) to give you a chance to determine which beach (or beaches) you will visit-

• For Beach Strolls-Be sure to check out and explore Cable Beach.  This beach was so named because in 1892 the first Bahamas-U.S. telegraph cable was installed here.  This four mile stretch of off white sand is the longest on the island.  Along the beachfront resort hotels with their restaurants and bars offer refreshments and lively music.  This make for a perfect place to stop during your stroll.
• For Snorkeling-With just a 15 minute taxi ride west of downtown Nassau (tell your driver just off Love Beach) you reach the Sea Gardens.  This is a large shallow area of coral reefs and sea fans.  After exploring here join a boat excursion to a nearby reef or cay such as Blue Lagoon Island (also known as Salt Cay) with its seven beaches.  Also don’t pass up snorkeling at Athol Island National Marine Park.
• For the Best People Watching-Check out the scene on Cable Beach or Cabbage Beach.  These are both prime locations to see an eclectic mix of people engaged in all sorts of beach and water activities.  For celebrity spotting try the posh One & Only Ocean Club and the Atlantis Resort complex both front onto Cabbage Beach.
• For the Best Beachfront Dining- Be sure not to miss dining at the Dining Dune (at the One & Only Ocean Club) where the acclaimed chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten is executive chef.  His dishes blend French-Asian cuisine with Bahamian influence and are not to be missed.  In addition at Cable Beach, The Dolphin Grill (at the Radisson) is popular for fresh fare and great views.
• For secluded beach lounging-Try the Orange Hill Beach just beyond Caves Point.  This is a pretty spot that is usually deserted during the week.  A 15 minute taxi ride west will take you to Love Beach.  Known even among locals this is a romantic spot to share with a sweetheart.
• For all about Fun-Junkanoo Beach boasts a host of water activities for the action or thrill seeker.  Lots of rental outlets nearby will let you rent water toys like windsurfers, boogie boards or snorkeling equipment. In addition many families gather here making it an instant playground for kids of all ages.  This is a beach where there is really never a dull moment!

The beach loving tourist really can’t go wrong in Nassau, Bahamas. Any day of the year is a good beach day on Nassau. The air temperature is balmy year-round and more than 300 days a year are blessed with sunshine. Even the warmest days are cooled by trade winds off the ocean, so that the kiss of the sun feels ever so pleasant on the skin. Just remember the biggest caution of all: Don’t forget your sunscreen!