If you’re cruising to The Bahamas, Nassau will likely be on your itinerary. The most popular Bahamian destination is the Nassau cruise port. When in Nassau, visitors love to stroll the local shops right at the cruise terminal and all along Bay Street.  But after a little shopping, it’s always a good idea to wind up on one of Nassau's spectacular beaches by mid-day. As you plan for your trip, here’s a look at some of the best beaches to visit in Nassau.

A perfect beach day is one filled with bright sunshine, warm breezes, and an endless horizon; and Nassau does not disappoint.   If Nassau is one of your ports of call, there are several beaches located in and around the port city that you should consider fitting into your schedule.  Some of the best beaches in Nassau are:

Balmoral Island

Your cruise ship will dock in Nassau on New Providence Island in the Bahamas.  Just to the north of New Providence Island lies a small private island full of fun and surprising adventure called Balmoral Island. A quick ferry ride of approximately 30 minutes that leaves out of Nassau will take you to this private oasis.

Balmoral Island is a Beach Club destination, where you can enjoy activities, sunbathing, and lunch.  Here, you can swim with dolphins or interact with stingrays.  You can also rent paddle boards, kayaks, and snorkel gear, or you can play with water toys and inner tubes.  If relaxing is your goal, then you will feel right at home lounging on the beach chairs under a shaded umbrella. 

Blue Lagoon Island

Another small private island just off the Coast of New Providence Island, approximately three miles and a 40-minute ferry ride from Nassau will land you on the beautiful shores of Blue Lagoon Island.  On Blue Lagoon Island, you can swim in the turquoise water or walk the beautiful sandy beaches. 

Or if you’re feeling more adventurous, you can rent an aqua bike, paddle board, or kayak.  There are guided snorkeling tours and inflatable bounce parks.  Be sure to visit the Dolphin Encounter where you can view bottlenose dolphins and sea lions interacting and playing in their natural habitat. 

Atlantis Resort

Atlantis is located on Paradise Island, which is approximately a 25-minute ride by taxi or shuttle from where the cruise ship docks in Nassau.  When you think of Atlantis, some things that probably come to mind are Aquaventure, Water Park, Golf Course, or Casino.  But, did you know Atlantis also offers nearly 5 miles of beautiful, pristine beaches to explore?

One of the best ways to experience beach time on Paradise Island is by purchasing the Discover Atlantis and Beach Break excursion offered by Norwegian.  You won't have to worry about arranging transportation to and from, and you will be escorted to a private section of the beach with a lounge chair and beach towel.  A relaxing beach day with no worries is in store at Atlantis.

Junkanoo Beach

Junkanoo Beach rounds out the best beaches in Nassau because of its convenience for cruisers and proximity to the cruise port.  If you're looking for a more affordable option, this would be a good choice as you don't have to buy a day pass to access or pay for transportation if you are willing to walk. Just a short 15-minute walk from the cruise dock, you can be sunbathing on the beach in no time!  One of the perks to Junkanoo Beach is that it is not usually very crowded.  However, during spring break, this beach tends to be quite festive and lively.  There are public restrooms and a place to get drinks right on the beach.  

You can easily add one of these beach destinations to your itinerary by purchasing a shore excursion that covers transportation and some activities.  Nassau is the perfect destination to enjoy a beach day where you can lounge, play, or explore all that The Bahamas have to offer. On the beautiful beaches of Nassau, there is sun, sand, and beautiful water- a combination that equals complete happiness.