Skip the Expensive Excursions and Experience the Real Bahamas!
Stepping off your cruise ship in Nassau doesn’t have to drain your wallet! Forget those pricey shore excursions – the most authentic Bahamian experiences are often completely FREE or cost next to nothing. I’ve rounded up 15 amazing things to do that are either totally free or crazy cheap during your port stop in Nassau.
Before diving into these hidden gems, check out our complete Nassau Bahamas Cruise Ship Port Guide for everything you need to know about this popular cruise destination!
1. Climb the Historic Queen’s Staircase
- This jaw-dropping 66-step limestone staircase was hand-carved by slaves in the late 1700s
- Just a 15-minute walk from where your ship docks
- The lush, shaded pathway feels 10 degrees cooler than the streets (perfect escape from the Caribbean heat!)
- Awesome photo spot that’ll make your Instagram followers jealous
- Zero admission fee – save those dollars for rum drinks!
2. Score Epic Views at Fort Fincastle (Without Paying a Penny!)
- Perched on Bennett’s Hill with INSANE panoramic views of Nassau
- Built in 1793 and shaped like a paddle-wheel steamer (random but cool)
- FREE to explore the grounds and snap pics of Nassau Harbor
- Most cruise tourists have no clue this place costs nothing to visit
- Perfect spot to see Paradise Island without paying Paradise Island prices
3. Chill at Junkanoo Beach – Steps From Your Ship!
- Crystal-clear water and soft sand just 15 minutes from your gangway
- No taxi needed – your feet can get you there!
- Bring your own towel from the ship and swim for FREE
- Beach bars if you want a cold Kalik beer or Bahama Mama
- Perfect for a quick beach fix without blowing your budget on excursions
4. Taste Free Rum at John Watling’s Distillery
- Housed in a gorgeous 18th-century estate near downtown
- They’ll welcome you with a killer piña colada sample
- Tour the distillery and learn how they make their small-batch rums
- FREE tastings that’ll make you forget about those $15 cruise ship cocktails
- Walking distance from port = no taxi fare!
5. Snap Pics at Parliament Square’s Pink Colonial Buildings
- Those iconic pink government buildings are just 5 minutes from your ship
- Home to the Senate, House of Assembly, and Supreme Court
- Awesome photo backdrop that screams “I’m in the Bahamas!”
- Queen Victoria statue gives major historical vibes
- Zero cost for a serious culture fix
6. Soak Up Culture at the Straw Market (No Purchase Necessary!)
- Watch local artisans weave straw into bags, hats, and souvenirs
- The vibrant chaos is an experience itself – sounds, smells, colors!
- Strike up convos with vendors about traditional Bahamian crafts
- Perfect place to practice your haggling skills (even if you don’t buy)
- Free cultural immersion right on Bay Street
7. Get Sugar-High on Free Rum Cake Samples
- The Bahamas Rum Cake Factory hands out GENEROUS tastings
- Try multiple flavors: traditional, banana, pineapple, chocolate
- Staff shares fun stories about this Bahamian treat
- Walking distance from cruise port
- Sugar rush without spending a cent!
8. Discover the Octagonal Library (Former Colonial Jail!)
- This unique pink building was a jail in 1797 before books replaced prisoners
- Check out old maps and historical artifacts inside
- Cool architecture that most cruise passengers walk right past
- Free entry and air-conditioning (sweet relief on hot days)
- Located near Parliament Square – easy to include in your DIY walking tour
9. Ride the $1.50 Jitney Like a Local
- Colorful local buses cost less than a bottled water on your ship
- See non-touristy neighborhoods and beaches
- Chat with friendly locals who often share insider tips
- Drivers sometimes act as unofficial tour guides
- Cheapest sightseeing tour in Nassau – period!
10. Catch Free Cultural Shows at Pompey Square
- Named after a slave who led a rebellion (total badass)
- Often hosts impromptu music and dance performances
- Relax by the fountain and people-watch
- Great spot to rest your feet after walking around
- Right near the port for easy access
11. Check Out the National Art Gallery’s Outdoor Sculptures
- The exterior grounds feature awesome Bahamian art pieces
- Sculpture garden showcases works among native plants
- That bright yellow colonial building is a photo op itself
- Harbor views from the amphitheater area
- Perfect cultural stop without the admission fee
12. Experience Real Bahamian Life at the Fish Market
- Watch fishermen bring in and clean their daily catches
- See conch preparation in action (those huge pink shells!)
- Amazing photos of colorful fishing boats and seafood
- Glimpse local commerce away from tourist traps
- Zero cost for an authentic slice of island life
13. Find Peace at The Retreat Garden National Park
- Stunning 11-acre botanical garden with the world’s biggest private palm collection
- Shaded paths through lush tropical plants
- Spot native birds and butterflies
- Free entry to this tranquil escape from cruise crowds
- About 2 miles from port (perfect if you’re up for a longer walk or quick jitney ride)
14. Marvel at Christ Church Cathedral’s Gothic Beauty
- Stunning Anglican cathedral from 1841 with magnificent stained glass
- Spectacular mahogany interior
- Peaceful spiritual space away from shopping madness
- Open to visitors during non-service hours
- Easy walking distance from your ship
15. Catch an Epic Sunset at Rawson Square
- Prime harbor views just steps from where your ship docks
- Comfortable seating areas to rest your feet
- Watch the sky turn brilliant orange and pink
- Sometimes features changing of the guard ceremonies
- Perfect end to your Nassau adventure before heading back to the ship
Don’t waste your precious port time (or money!) on overpriced excursions when Nassau offers so many amazing free experiences within walking distance of your cruise ship. These 15 hidden gems let you experience the REAL Bahamas – from historical sites and cultural hotspots to natural beauty and local life.
What’s your favorite free thing to do in Nassau? Drop a comment below and help your fellow cruisers have an amazing port day without breaking the bank!
Ready to plan your perfect Nassau port day? Don’t miss our complete Nassau Bahamas Cruise Ship Port Guide for even more tips, tricks, and must-know info!
