The route development forum for the Americas
Nassau & Paradise Island, Bahamas
• 10 – 12 February 2025
Things to do in Nassau & Paradise Island
Our hosts have recommended the following activities for Routes Americas delegates to enjoy during your stay in Nassau & Paradise Island.
Trips to Bahamas Out Islands
Fly free from Nassau to your choice of 10 different out islands when you stay two consecutive nights!
Abaco, Eleuthera, Exuma, Bimini, Long Island, Cat Island, the Berry Islands, Andros, San Salvador, Acklins… 10 Bahamas Out Islands to choose from for a pre- or post-Routes Americas 2025 trip! Getting OUT of the office on a business trip and checking off a destination from your travel bucket list is always a challenge, so don’t let this opportunity pass you by! From the Abacos to San Salvador, this collection of unspoiled Bahamas islands cater to true connoisseurs of island life. A place where Bahamas beaches are pristine and secluded, resorts and hotels stand no taller than the surrounding palm trees, and the water shimmers in countless shades of blue. These laid-back islands are perfect for a relaxing pre- or post-Routes Americas 2025 break, or a thrilling fishing expedition, dive trip, or eco-adventure.
Stay two consecutive nights at a participating hotel and get one free round-trip airline ticket from Nassau!!!
Graycliff Chocolatier
A chocoholic’s dream can come true. At Graycliff Chocolatier guests learn how to make their own chocolates under the tutelage of the master chocolatier or they can simply indulge in these delicious gourmet chocolates. Gourmet chocolates and truffles are available for purchase at the boutique and select retailers throughout The Bahamas.
Graycliff Cigar Factory
Discover the detail behind the development of the Graycliff Cigar Company brand and our private label selection. This tour concludes with an insight into the numerous awards and accolades the Graycliff Cigar Company has won and a brief introduction to our many other facets, including the flagship five-star hotel and restaurant, our chocolate factory and museum.
Bahama Barrels
Create your own unique bottle of wine during a wine blending class at Bahama Barrels. An experienced California winemaker will provide information about what makes a great wine, including tannins, acidity, balance, and finish. Taste a variety of wines from around the world to get inspired, then blend your very own vintage and enjoy the perfect souvenir from a day at Bahama Barrels.
Tru Bahamian Food Tour
Discover The Bahamas one delicious bite at a time! All of our food tasting and cultural walking tours are led by passionate locals who will guide you to Nassau’s best restaurants and bars and introduce you to unique island flavors. Every tour includes fascinating history and cultural insights that you won’t find in your guidebook. Join one of our signature daily tours or request a private group tour to experience Nassau like never before. For more information contact: Tel: (242) 825-2759 or Email: info@trubahamianfoodtours.com
Stuart Cove's Dive Bahamas
Snorkeling
The Snorkel Bahamas Adventure takes you to an undersea extravaganza of living coral and tropical marine life. In just minutes you will be swimming with schools of colorful fish in the shallows of Nassau’s famous reefs, Hollywood movie sets, or mysterious sunken shipwrecks.
Each trip takes advantage of multiple and diverse underwater sites. You captain will choose two of the clearest and calmest locations to begin your snorkeling adventure. Then if the weather permits and your fellow passengers have the nerve – it’s off to snorkel with one of the most magnificent and misunderstood creatures of the sea – sharks! Sharks are one of the most fascinating marine animals you will ever see. Snorkel with your guide as the sharks swim calmly below you, or if you prefer, watch from the boat.
Your program includes complimentary round-trip transportation from your hotel, use of mask, fins, snorkel, and snorkel vest. Your boat comes with fresh drinking water and ice.
Diving
We decide on the specific site we will be diving on the actual dive day. This keeps us flexible and gives us an idea of what the best weather conditions are and what everyone on the boat would prefer to do.
Your program includes complimentary round-trip transfers from your hotel, and the use of tanks, weights, and weight belts. Your boat comes with fresh drinking water and ice.
*You will be required to present your certification card during check-in for the trip. Failure to comply may result in being excluded from participation.
How to book
For more information contact: Tel: (242) 362-4171 | Toll Free: (800) 879-9832 or Email: info@stuartcove.com
Blue Lagoon Island
One of the best beaches in the Bahamas can be found at Blue Lagoon Island, also known by its official name Salt Cay. Frequently called the “real” Bahamas, Blue Lagoon has been an interesting part of The Bahamas' history and is one of the most well-known of Nassau’s natural attractions and tours. Located just three miles from Nassau, it is now the home of the dolphins and sea lions of Dolphin Encounters and is owned by a local family. This incredibly beautiful island has had a fascinating past and continues to be the number one attraction in Nassau/Paradise Island for activities with families and is a wonderfully enlightening and educational excursion suited for children and adults alike.
Dolphin Encounter (with lunch)
In the Dolphin Encounter Program, each guest can expect a unique experience that brings you closer to an Atlantic Bottlenose dolphin than you ever dreamed possible!
Dolphin Swim (with lunch)
In the Dolphin Swim Program, you receive a unique, playful, educational interaction with these wonderful animals in beautiful turquoise waters of our natural ocean lagoon.
Sea Lion Encounter (with lunch)
For the very first time in The Bahamas, Dolphin Encounters is pleased to offer a thrilling new personal Encounter with California Sea Lions on the magnificent Blue Lagoon Island.
Beach Day (with lunch)
Swim the calm lagoon, relax on the beach, enjoy water sports, a grilled lunch, refreshing tropical drinks or just watch the coconut palms sway as you lounge in a hammock.
Bahamas National Trust
A comprehensive network of effectively managed Bahamian national parks and protected areas that is recognized as a powerful force for global biodiversity conservation which is supported and enjoyed by the public.
The Retreat Garden
Hidden away from the busy city of Nassau, The Retreat Garden is an urban green oasis in the heart of the capital. This 11-acre national park is an internationally famous garden of palms and rare tropical plants. Formerly a private home, the estate was the first national park in New Providence. The Retreat Garden is one of the best-known botanical gardens in the country and is a haven for migratory and resident birds. For more information: Email: bnt@bnt.bs
Bahamas Ferries
We offer a convenient day-away excursion with a vessel taking you to one of the most beautiful islands in The Bahamas: Harbour Island. With its pink sand and crystal-clear water, the island is the perfect location to soak up some sun, grab a bite to eat, and go for a quick dip in the sea. This excursion is made for those who may not have a lot of time to get away, but looking for a tranquil spot to unwind.
Strolling through Harbour Island, also known as “Briland” one is relaxed and charmed by the warm and friendly “Brilanders” and the quaint New England loyalist architecture (complete with white picket fences!). With its rose-hued sand, Harbour Island also features some of the most spectacular beaches in the world.
For more information: Phone: (242) 323-2166 | Email: info@bahamasferries.com
Ardastra Gardens & Wildlife Conservation Centre
In the heart of Nassau, more than four acres of lush tropical gardens are inhabited by a variety of animal species, including the national bird of The Bahamas, the Caribbean flamingo. The site of Ardastra Gardens & Wildlife Conservation Centre was originally designed by Jamaican horticulturalist Hedley Edwards in 1937. He named the gardens Ardastra, from the latin words ardua ad astra, meaning “striving towards the stars” because he felt that it depicted a ‘utopia of peace, beauty and tranquillity’. He developed the picturesque and exotic gardens as a nature preserve, later bringing in the endangered Caribbean flamingo from the island of Inagua in the 1950’s, developing what was to become a highly successful breeding programme. Over time, the birds were trained to perform for visitors and Ardastra became their permanent home.
In 1980, the gardens were purchased by Norman Solomon, whose passion for wildlife and conservation education inspired him to incorporate more animals into the gardens and create a boutique zoo. Today, thousands of visitors visit annually to marvel at the tranquil, restorative gardens; enjoy close encounters with our collection of over 135 animals; and admire the long-legged flamingo beauties National Geographic has called “Ballerinas in Pink”. The opportunity to enjoy this rare gem will be a highlight for visitors of all ages. Ardastra Gardens depends on philanthropic support from the public to meet its operating needs and to fulfill its educational and conserving missions.
For more information: Phone: (242) 323-5806 or Email: visitors@ardastra.com
Pearl Island
Located just eight miles from Nassau and one mile east of Paradise Island, Pearl Island is known for its warm, crystal-clear waters, stunning natural beauty, white-sand beaches, and its iconic Lighthouse!
Just a quick trip from the din of Nassau’s bustling waterfront, Pearl Island is a private getaway filled with unforgettable experiences and activities. From basking on powdery beaches, to thrill-seeking adventures like snorkeling, kayaking, and much more – you’ll find it all here.
For more information: Phone: (242) 698-9970
John Watling’s Distillery - The Buena Vista Estate
John Watling’s Distillery home to JOHN WATLING’S rum, the “Spirit of The Bahamas” offers complimentary tours at its home, the Buena Vista Estate, in Downtown Nassau. The historic Estate, founded in 1789 and overlooking the harbour, is the site where Bahamians hand-craft JOHN WATLING’S small-batch rums.
At the Estate, John Watling’s features a free production and museum-like tour, shopping and signature Bahamian cocktails at its tavern. Within walking distance from the cruise ship port in Downtown Nassau, John Watling’s Distillery is located on Delancy Street and is open from 10 am-6 pm, seven days a week (except for National Holidays).
For more information: Phone: (242) 322-2811 or Email: info@johnwatlings.com
Sandy Toes
Have you ever dreamed about escaping to a secluded island for a day? Located just 25 minutes by boat off the shores of Nassau Paradise Island, Sandy Toes Rose Island makes getting away from it all easy! Before you know it, you'll be soaking up the sun on an uninhabited private island. Start your full-day excursion with a welcome drink upon arrival, then spend the day enjoying a variety of amenities. Go for a dip with The Bahamas' world-famous swimming pigs, or snorkel or kayak on the sparkling turquoise waters. Enjoy a buffet picnic lunch, then relax in a hammock on the private beach. Be a true castaway for the day and partake in the beauty of Sandy Toes.
For more information: Phone: (242) 363-86372811
The Bahamas Museum of Junkanoo
The Bahamas Museum of Junkanoo is as vibrant, exciting, participatory and creative as the Junkanoo parade itself! Visitors are invited to explore the more than 300-year journey of a festival that started in West Africa and found a new home, here in The Bahamas. A festival that has evolved from a private defiance of dehumanizing effects of slavery, to a universal expression of community, exhilaration and renewal.
In this new self- guided Museum, Junkanoo is given the spotlight it deserves. Aimed at everybody from lifelong Junkanooers and parade sponsors to tourists, the Museum is a source of education for those who don’t know and a source of pride for those who do.
The Current: Baha Mar Gallery and Art Center
Much more than a vast collection of contemporary art, The Current: Baha Mar Gallery and Art Center is home to the ECCHO, the highly acclaimed Fairwind Exhibition, and one of the largest collections of Bahamian Art located in Nassau, The Bahamas. The Current’s goal is to provide a platform that positions Bahamian art on a global stage through captivating exhibitions, partnerships with local art collectors, artist residencies, dynamic tours, art lessons, workshops and talks. In addition, our boutique provides a cultural shopping experience with a variety of authentic Bahamian merchandise, as well as custom framing and fine art reproductions.
Ocean Activities
Nassau & Paradise Island's brilliant blue waters are perfect for exploring, and whether you choose to stay above the surface or dive below, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience! Hop on a fishing charter to reel in tonight’s dinner. Grab your snorkel and mask to peek at colorful tropical fish and haunting shipwrecks, or go a little deeper during a scuba-diving excursion. Or simply soak up the island views from the deck of a sailboat or a fun day cruise.
Mobile Food Tour
This island food tour is the first of its kind in the city of Nassau. Enjoy a mobile culinary tour, providing travelers with an amazing sensory experience through the taste, sights, and sounds of the island. Enjoy an authentic taste of Bahamian cuisine.
History, a variety of tourist offerings, and hidden gems throughout The Bahamas
- Experience the real Nassau through taste on a food tour around the island
- See important landmarks and points of interest
- Sample an array of options that represent the full spectrum of Bahamian dining
Powerboat Adventures
Enter the world of Powerboat Adventures: Board our high-speed powerboats for the most exciting trip of your life. A rush of adrenaline as you leave Nassau to swim with Exuma pigs, feed wild stingrays, sharks and iguanas… surrounded by spectacular views on your very own private Exuma island.
Step on board one of two custom built offshore powerboats for an exhilarating one-hour high-speed boat ride to the dreamy Exuma cays some 38 nautical miles away from Nassau. Hold on tight and feel the rush of wind in your hair as our boats slice through the crystal-clear Bahamian waters at 40mph and above to take you to your destination for the day.
The only Exuma trip that has it all!
- Our Own Private Island
- The Famous Exuma Swimming Pigs!
- Shark & Stingray Experiences
- Stunning Beach
- Huge Fresh Cooked Lunch
- Bahamian Conch Salad Show
- Open Bar – ALL FREE, ALL DAY!
- The Best of The Bahamas…
For more information: Phone: (242) 363-2265 or Email: desk@powerboatadventures.com
Historic Nassau City Tour
See the charm and beauty of the Historic City of Nassau and the old Fort built to protect it from invaders. See the Educulture Junkanoo Museum, The Straw Market, Bahamian Parliament, Arawak Cay, The Bahamas Rum Cake Factory, John Watling’s Distillery, Residential Areas, Water Tower, Law Courts, and other points of interest.
For more information contact: Tel: (242) 325-6848 or Email: info@leisuretours.com
The Pirates of Nassau
The Pirates of Nassau is a museum documenting the city of Nassau’s history as an 18th-century pirate base with replica pirate ships and exhibits. Join us in the heart of Old Nassau, which some of the most notorious pirates in the Caribbean called home.
For more information contact: Tel: (242) 356 - 3759 or Email: piratesofnassau@batelnet.bs
Nassau & Paradise Island are packed with history, culture, cuisine, and an energy unlike anywhere else in the world. Add a dash of friendly Bahamian spirit, over 300 days of sunshine per year, and those beautiful beaches, and you’ve got a travel itinerary packed with incredible experiences. Click here for our full listing of things to do while you are visiting the destination.