Getting Around Nassau. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Detailed Jitney Information

Jitneys provide an unique local experience. They are standard minibuses and are not wheelchair accessible. For navigating efficiently, always flag them down from the side of the road in your desired direction. It's a good idea to briefly confirm your destination with the driver before boarding.

When you wish to get off, simply tell the driver "bus stop please" or clearly state your destination. Having exact change is good as drivers may not have change for large bills. Avoid rush hour when jitneys can be very crowded. After dark, it's safer to opt for taxis instead of jitneys.

Jitney Tips & Facts

Flag down anywhere along the route.
Fares are flat rate, cash only, exact change preferred.
Operate roughly 6 AM to 7 PM; less frequent after dark.
Not wheelchair accessible.

Public Bus System

Jitneys are the main public transport. They offer an affordable way to travel.

Taxi Availability

Taxis are widely available, especially at tourist points and provide convenient door-to-door service.

Car Rentals

Rental cars offer independence but consider left-hand driving and traffic congestion.

Taxi Fares & Regulations

Fare Structure

Fares for taxis are regulated by the government.
Many popular routes, like airport to downtown, have fixed rates.
For other trips, fares are based on distance and number of passengers.

Payment & Tipping

Cash (USD or BSD) is the preferred payment method.
Some taxis may accept credit cards, but relying on it is not advised.
Tipping 15-20% of the fare is customary.

Vehicle Rental Comparison

Car Rental

Daily cost $50-$100+. Good for flexibility and comfort.

Scooter Rental

Daily cost $30-$60. Agile, but roads can be challenging.

Bicycle Rental

Daily cost $15-$30. Eco-friendly, but limited infrastructure.

Jitney Bus

Daily cost ~$1.25-$2.50. Most economical, but limited hours.

Walking & Cycling in Detail

Nassau offers good opportunities for exploring on foot in certain areas, and cycling for the more adventurous.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Downtown Nassau is highly walkable, with major attractions close by.
Paradise Island is very pedestrian-friendly, especially around resorts.
Cable Beach area provides walkable stretches along the main road and beach paths.
Historic sites like the Queen's Staircase are best explored on foot.

Walking Tour Options

Several companies offer guided historical, culinary, or cultural walking tours.
Self-guided tours are easy to create using a map and landmark information.
Downtown Nassau offers plenty of scenic routes for leisurely strolls.
Capture the charm of colonial architecture and street life on foot.

Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety

Dedicated bicycle lanes are limited in Nassau.
Cycling generally happens on the road alongside vehicles.
Always wear a Bicycle helmet for safety.

Cycling on main roads can be dangerous for inexperienced riders due to heavy traffic.
Avoid major highways or roads with fast-moving traffic.
Stick to quieter streets or resort areas if available for safer cycling.

Specialized Transportation & Accessibility

Tour Buses

Organized bus tours are available. No formal hop-on-hop-off service exists, but some tours offer flexible sightseeing.

Water Taxis/Ferries

The Paradise Island Ferry is a scenic way to travel between downtown Nassau and Paradise Island.

Accessibility Notes

Accessibility is limited. Public jitneys are not accessible. Many older buildings lack ramps or elevators.

Comprehensive Local Transportation Overview

A summary of the various ways to navigate New Providence Island, ensuring you choose the best option for your visit.

Jitneys: The Local Experience

Cost-effective for getting around main areas during the day.
Fixed routes, but flexible pick-up and drop-off points.
Service generally runs until early evening.
Not suited for travelers with mobility needs.

Taxis: Convenience at a Price

Wider availability, especially for evening travel or specific destinations.
Fares are regulated, and fixed rates exist for common routes.
Cash is preferred, but some taxis may accept credit cards.
Always confirm the fare and ensure the taxi is licensed.

Self-Drive & Specialty Options

Car Rental Freedom

Explore the island independently. Remember left-hand driving and potential traffic.

Best for extensive exploration.

Walking & Cycling Charm

Enjoy pedestrian-friendly areas like downtown and Paradise Island. Cycling needs caution due to traffic.

Ideal for short distances and immersion.

Water Transport & Tours

Ferries to Paradise Island and private boat charters offer unique perspectives and island connections.

Scenic and activity-focused travel.

Choosing Your Transport

Consider Your Itinerary

For downtown and nearby beaches, walking and jitneys are efficient.
For wider exploration, a rental car offers flexibility, despite traffic.
Taxis are good for convenience, especially at night or with luggage.

Budget & Comfort

Jitneys are the most budget-friendly option.
Taxis and rental cars offer greater comfort and privacy.
Always factor in the time of day and traffic conditions for efficiency.

Important Considerations

Driving on the left side of the road is different for many visitors.
Traffic in Nassau can be congested, especially during peak hours.
Some areas may have limited sidewalks for pedestrians.
Verify taxi fares before your journey begins.

Jitney service becomes sparse or stops after dark.
No formal ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft operate.
Accessibility for wheelchairs is limited on public transport.
Always choose licensed taxis and confirm their markings.

Final Local Transportation Advice

Your choice of local transportation can greatly influence your experience. Select options that best fit your budget, itinerary, and desired comfort level.

Exploring Nassau's beauty is easy with its diverse transport modes. Enjoy your journey!

Getting Around Nassau