Nassau New Providence, The Bahamas Travel Guide
Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) is a modern facility. It features separate sections for US departures/arrivals, international departures/arrivals, and domestic flights. Find duty-free shops, restaurants (international chains and local options), bars, currency exchange, ATMs, car rental desks, free Wi-Fi, and lounges.
Flight frequency increases, and prices are higher, especially around holidays. Book well in advance during this period. For finding good deals, explore resources like Dollar Flight Club for flight deal alerts and Skyscanner for comparing flight options.
Numerous direct flights from major US cities (e.g., Miami, Atlanta, New York) and Canada (Toronto, Montreal).
British Airways offers direct flights from London Heathrow, providing a direct link from Europe.
Bahamasair, Caribbean Airlines, Copa Airlines connect Nassau to various Caribbean islands and Central/South America.
Nassau's cruise port (Prince George Wharf) is downtown, providing easy walking access to attractions for cruise passengers.
Bahamas Ferries connect Nassau to other Bahamian islands for inter-island travel.
Private vessels must clear customs and immigration at designated Ports of Entry upon arrival.
Jitneys are privately owned minibuses operating on fixed routes. You can flag them down anywhere on their route and request to be let off. They are identified by route numbers in the front window. Nassau does not have metro, tram, or train systems. The main informal "hub" is downtown Nassau, especially around Bay Street and Frederick Street.
Jitneys generally operate from early morning (around 6:00 AM) until about 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM. Service becomes much less frequent or stops entirely after dark. During peak hours, they appear every 5-15 minutes. Off-peak and weekends may have longer wait times (20-30+ minutes).
Taxis are identified by "Taxi" signs and government-issued license plates. Drivers generally display their taxi license. You can hail them on the street in popular areas or find them at designated taxi stands (e.g., airport, cruise port, major hotels). You can also call for a pick-up. Always choose licensed taxis for safety.
Uber and Lyft do not officially operate in Nassau. Some local taxi dispatch apps exist but are not as widely used or reliable as major international ride-sharing platforms. Your hotel may recommend a local taxi service with an app or an easy booking system. Accessibility for travelers with mobility needs is limited; public jitneys are not accessible.
Taxis are readily available at main points of entry and tourist areas.
While formal ride-sharing like Uber is not available, other options exist for specific routes or tourist experiences.
Downtown Nassau and Paradise Island are very pedestrian-friendly, with sidewalks and scenic routes.
Some independent shops offer bicycle rentals, but dedicated lanes are limited, and road cycling carries risk due to traffic.
Guided historical, culinary, or cultural walking tours of downtown Nassau are available, or create your own with a map.
Major international rental companies like Avis, Budget, Hertz, Alamo, and Dollar are available at Lynden Pindling International Airport and some hotel locations. Local Bahamian companies also operate. Booking in advance is a good idea, especially during high season.
Motorcycle and scooter rentals are available from a few specialized rental shops in Nassau. Roads can be challenging, traffic heavy, and local driving aggressive. Helmets are usually needed. Only rent if you are an experienced rider comfortable with left-hand driving in busy traffic.
Drive on the left. Seatbelts are mandatory. Speed limits are posted, usually 25-45 mph (40-70 km/h).
Roads are generally fair on main roads. Some secondary roads can have potholes. Be wary of unmarked speed bumps.
Finding parking can be challenging and expensive in downtown Nassau. Many hotels and resorts offer parking. Avoid parking in residential areas without permission.
