Tucked into the western edge of New Providence Island, Jaws Beach feels miles away from the buzz of downtown. Calm, shallow water makes it an easy spot to wade in, while shaded picnic tables tucked under casuarina trees invite a slow afternoon with local snacks. It earned its name from Jaws: The Revenge, filmed here in the late '80s, but these days, the only thing lurking offshore is a lazy current and a peaceful view. It’s one of the quietest beaches near Nassau, perfect for guests who want a no-fuss, no-crowds escape.

Just across the bridge from Nassau on Paradise Island, this beach lives up to its name with clear shallows, soft sand and postcard-worthy views in every direction. It's a favorite for swimming and sunbathing, thanks to its sheltered shoreline and calm conditions. For guests craving more than a beach towel and a tan, Paradise Beach offers easy access to Atlantis — home to world-class restaurants, beachside cocktails and the Aquaventure water park. Book the Aquaventure Oasis at Atlantis excursion to dive into high-speed slides, lazy rivers and marine life encounters, all just minutes from shore.

A short ferry ride from Nassau brings you to Blue Lagoon Island, an easygoing escape known for its calm, shallow waters and playful vibe. It’s a favorite among families thanks to its gentle surf, shaded hammocks and friendly marine life. Guests can get up close with dolphins and sea lions or grab a snorkel to spot tropical fish drifting through the shallows. Looking for something more adventurous? Join the Swimming Pigs & Sun Cay Beach Club with Lunch excursion to combine soft sands with a once-in-a-lifetime swim alongside the Bahamas’ most curious four-legged locals.

Stretching along the north shore of Paradise Island, Cabbage Beach offers long runs of soft sand where you’ll find as much or as little action as you like. The farther you walk, the quieter it gets — a welcome bonus for guests looking to escape the bustle. Along the more active sections, you’ll find jet ski rentals, parasailing and beach bars serving cold Kalik under the sun. It’s just a short taxi ride from the Nassau Bahamas cruise port, with beach chair rentals and shops nearby to round out an easygoing, self-guided day ashore.

Just a 10-minute walk from the Nassau cruise port, Junkanoo Beach delivers big island flavor without needing a plan or a taxi. Lined with colorful shacks serving grilled fish and rum punches, it’s a favorite among guests looking to stretch their time ashore. Play beach volleyball in the sun, browse handmade crafts or take in views of the harbor as ships come and go. The beach gets its name from the lively Junkanoo festival — a celebration of Bahamian music, dance and storytelling. It’s one of the easiest things to do in Nassau, Bahamas, if you want to step straight into the local scene.

Just 15 minutes from downtown Nassau, Cable Beach blends soft sand with an upscale edge. Home to several high-end resorts, it offers easy access to oceanfront dining, water sports and beachside service — all with a laid-back island pace. The water here is clear and calm, ideal for swimming or trying your hand at a paddleboard. Guests can reach the beach by taxi or local bus from the cruise port, making it a smooth pick for a self-guided day in the sun.

Step into the island’s past with a visit to the Queen’s Staircase — 66 limestone steps carved by hand in the 18th century. It’s one of Nassau’s most photographed sites! Then head to Fort Charlotte for panoramic harbor views or visit Fort Montagu, the oldest fort still standing on the island. Each stop reveals a new chapter of Nassau’s colonial past.

The Nassau Straw Market is packed with handmade goods — from handwoven straw hats to vibrant wood carvings — and a great place to meet local artisans. Marina Village, just across the bridge on Paradise Island, offers a more polished scene with boutiques, island-inspired fashion and waterfront cafés.

Atlantis is a destination in itself, with everything from luxury dining to a sprawling aquarium filled with sharks, rays and colorful reef fish. The Aquaventure water park features high-speed slides, a mile-long lazy river and miles of private beach. Book the Aquaventure Oasis at Atlantis excursion for all-day access to the resort’s top attractions.

From conch salad made fresh on the beach to smoky jerk chicken and guava duff, Bahamian flavors are bold, spicy and proudly local. Join the Authentic Bahamian Cooking Class to learn traditional techniques, or follow your nose to a food stand by the port. You’ll also find more delicious inspiration in our guide to 10 Bahamian Foods & Cuisines to Try.

Nassau’s shoreline delivers variety in every direction — peaceful retreats, lively hot spots and everything in between. With Princess, you’ll step into the best of it without the hassle. Guided excursions handle the details, from beach transfers to exclusive resort access, while the ship offers a seamless return to comfort and convenience at sea. A cruise to Nassau makes discovering the Bahamas as relaxing as the beaches themselves.