We know that snowbirds like to travel – a lot! They even take mini-breaks while they're in their winter locations. 

So next time you are looking for a short break - perhaps with kids and grandkids, for an anniversary, or just to pamper yourself for a few days in a tropical paradise - look no further than Nassau & Paradise Island.

Nassau & Paradise Island has everything you could possibly want in a tropical getaway escape - beautiful beaches, idyllic weather, fabulous resorts and hotels, great golf courses, fine dining and casual island restaurants, tennis, pickleball - oh, and did we mention state-of-the-art casinos?

There really is everything here, all easily accessible in this charming – and safe - destination. There’s plenty of history and tradition here too - check out the rum distilleries, the iconic Straw Market, visit historic sites like Queen’s Staircase, and explore the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas. You’ll find Bahamian history and culture everywhere.

Spend your days on the spectacular white sand beaches with calm, turquoise waters that will take away all your stress. Go swimming, snorkelling, or simply relax with a good book and enjoy a tropical drink. 

At night, dine on fresh seafood and your choice of casual island cuisine and fine dining.

So easy to get to

Just a short flight from Eastern Canadian departure points with Porter, Air Canada and WestJet from cities such as Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal and Halifax, Nassau has always been a favourite mini-break destination for Canadians. Western Canadians can fly direct to Nassau from Calgary.   

And for Florida snowbirds, Nassau & Paradise Island is an hour away by air - perfect to celebrate special occasions, romantic escapes, family visits, golf getaways - or to try your luck in the casino!

Where to stay?

Nassau & Paradise Island has so many different resort and hotel options to choose from for your getaway – from spectacular resorts such as Atlantis Paradise Island and Baha Mar – each with its own waterparks, casinos and different hotel options within the resorts. 

There’s also The Ocean Club, a Four Seasons Resort; Sandals Royal Bahamian, an adults-only resort; and Margaritaville Beach Resort – to name a few.

You will also find secluded boutique hotels, family hotels, as well as affordable choices for those on a budget.   

Check out Nassau and Paradise Island hotels and resorts here. 

The dining scene

Foodies will discover that the Nassau & Paradise Island dining scene is a mix of Bahamian tradition, international cuisine, and elegant restaurants. For those who want to sample island cuisine - which is a blend of African, Caribbean and European - try rock lobster, cracked conch, conch salad, and peas and rice in some of the casual, open-air restaurants. 

In fact, a great way to immerse yourself in island culture and cuisine is to take a food tour. 

The major resorts feature elegant dining venues that offer refined service. Here you’ll find fresh seafood, global dishes and locally sourced ingredients.

Waterfront dining is everywhere, with many restaurants offering ocean views and live music in the evenings. You’ll find a choice of International cuisines - Italian, French, Asian fusion, and Mediterranean. 

Festivals

Nassau & Paradise Island host a vibrant calendar of festivals and events that showcase the rich cultural heritage, artistic talent, and culinary traditions of The Bahamas. For tourists seeking immersive experiences, these celebrations offer lively entertainment and meaningful connections to local life. 

The most iconic event is Junkanoo, a fabulous street festival that features colourful costumes, rhythmic drumming and dancing,  Junkanoo reflects centuries of Bahamian tradition and is a must-see for visitors. Junkanoo takes place in the early morning hours of Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. At midnight, the community comes alive with a colourful showcase of traditional music and dance and a joyous celebration.

The Nassau International Film Festival features global and regional cinema in an intimate setting, promoting emerging talent through screenings, panels, and networking events. Held in Nassau in early December.

Whether you're planning a winter escape or a summer adventure, Nassau and Paradise Island offer many unforgettable experiences at the island’s festival scene.

A golfer’s paradise

If you are looking for a golf getaway with the guys or the gals - or with that special person, Nassau & Paradise Island hosts two of the world’s finest golf courses. 

Ocean Club Golf Course

Designed by Tom Weiskopf, the Ocean Club Golf Course is an absolute masterpiece. An 18-hole, par-72 championship course with spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and Nassau Harbour. It's very popular so ideally book far ahead – priority is given to guests of The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort or Atlantis Paradise Island. 

Royal Blue Golf Club

The Royal Blue Golf Club, a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course at Baha Mar, is two courses in one. On the front nine, it's all rolling fairways with ocean views. The back nine is set in a dramatic limestone landscape and tropical vegetation.  It’s a course for everyone.

Mini Golf

For those travelling with grandkids – or just looking for some fun, Nassau & Paradise Island offers two mini-golf options. 

At Atlantis Paradise Island, there’s Good Lies Mini-Golf & Sports Bar, an outdoor course with a fun atmosphere. At Baha Mar, there's Mini Blue Miniature Golf – an 18-hole course that is perfect for families, teens, and couples. Both courses are a great way to have some fun, no matter your age or skill level.

Need a break from the beach?

Relaxing in the Bahamian sun is a must, but there’s plenty to see and do beyond the breathtaking beaches, where you will likely spend at least a part of your day. 

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn something about the Bahamian history and culture. Did you know there are forts in Nassau?  You can explore the forts of Nassau and take a history tour - there are fabulous seaside views at Fort Montagu and scenic hilltop views at Fort Fincastle. You’ll learn some history and take some amazing pictures. 

To learn more about the history, culture, and natural beauty of The Bahamas, head over to Clifton Heritage Park on the western tip of New Providence Island. Explore the beautiful hiking trails and discover the Island’s historic sites. The park also has beautiful beaches and waters that are perfect for snorkelling, where you’ll discover sunken shipwrecks and an underwater sculpture garden, so if you want to see these, bring snorkelling gear!

Looking for retail therapy?

Nassau & Paradise Island has you covered for all your shopping needs. You’ll find high-end designer stores, art galleries, local street vendors and markets and everything in between.  

The shopping in Nassau & Paradise Island is some of the best in the region, offering a vast variety of options for every taste and price point. 

The bottom line

Nassau & Paradise Island really is the perfect short getaway destination – unlike any other - it has everything you might want in a tropical, upscale, compact location. Easy to get to from Canada and Florida, it’s the perfect solution for special occasions or escapes.

The warm sunny weather, gorgeous beaches and fabulous hotels await - along with your favourite tropical drink. 

For more information, check out our Nassau & Paradise Island destination guide here.