On your first visit, soak up Nassau's colonial culture in the narrow streets of the old town with buildings dating to the 18th century. Then head to popular Cable Beach to relax on its white sands. Come back to take part in fun events at the Dolphin Encounters oceanarium. Then hang out with the upmarket crowd and A-list celebrities at Paradise Island.
Experience first-hand the difference between the narrow streets of Nassau's old town, lined with pastel-coloured colonial buildings and clapboard shops, and the new bustling waterfront. Cruise-ship passengers swarm around the duty-free shops of Bay Street, which runs east heading towards Paradise Island. Visit the traditional Straw Market which is also popular, selling straw hats, bags and souvenirs. Follow the sightseeing trail westwards from the Georgian architecture of Parliament Square to the evocative Pompey Museum. Here you'll get an insight into the history of the islands set in a former slave auction site.
Visit the restored splendour of Villa Doyle that houses the Bahamian collections of the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas. You'll get a taste of carnival fever among the masks and costumes on show at the Junkanoo Museum, dedicated to this annual spectacle. Feel the sand between your toes on shelving Cable Beach, and take a guided tour of Atlantis, the out-of-this-world resort on Paradise Island.
Only the brave will want to book a place on a shark-feeding dive off the coast of Nassau. There's more peaceful snorkelling at Cabbage Beach on Paradise Island. Alternatively, take part in the interactive programme at the Dolphin Encounters oceanarium. If fishing's your thing, you'll love soaking up the sun out at sea on a bonefishing trip (game fishing for sport) with local fishermen.
