Let’s be real – your cruise ship is awesome, but those pristine Bahamian beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters? They’re calling your name! Don’t spend your port day hanging by the ship’s pool when paradise is just steps away. From exclusive private islands to local hotspots bursting with Bahamian culture, these beach experiences are 100% worth disembarking for!
Google Maps Link: Perfect Day at CocoCay
This private island paradise is exclusively for Royal Caribbean guests and seriously delivers on its name – it’s perfect! Why rush back to your ship when you can:
GETTING THERE: Super easy! Your ship will either dock at the pier or tender you directly to the island. No planning needed – just walk off your ship and you’re there in minutes.
INSIDER TIP: Head to Chill Island early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds, and don’t miss the free beach BBQ lunch (way better than going back to the ship to eat!).
Google Maps Link: Junkanoo Beach
Just a 15-minute walk from the cruise port, Junkanoo Beach is your no-fuss beach day solution! This lively spot offers:
GETTING THERE: Easy 15-minute walk west from Prince George Wharf. Follow Bay Street, then turn left on West Bay Street. You’ll see the beach on your right. Taxis charge about $5 if you don’t want to walk.
INSIDER TIP: The best beach chairs are set up near Tiki Bikini Hut – they include drink service and cost just a few dollars more than the standard rentals.
Worth the quick 3-mile taxi ride, Cable Beach gives you resort vibes without the resort price tag! This gorgeous stretch offers:
GETTING THERE: Take a taxi for $15-20 each way (tell them to drop you at the public beach entrance across from Starbucks) OR ride the #10 jitney bus for just $1.50 per person. Buses leave from downtown near the port every 15-20 minutes.
INSIDER TIP: The Social House Beach Bar lets non-resort guests use their restrooms if you buy a drink. Much nicer facilities than the public options!
Google Maps Link: Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau
Live that Jimmy Buffett lifestyle without the weeklong commitment! Book through ResortPass for:
GETTING THERE: Just a 10-minute walk from the cruise port. Exit the port area, turn right, and follow the waterfront past Festival Place shopping area. You’ll see the resort’s colorful exterior ahead.
INSIDER TIP: Book the earliest arrival time slot (usually 9am) to maximize your day. Many cruisers don’t show up until 11am, so you’ll have the pools and best beach spots almost to yourself for those first two hours.
Google Maps Link: Atlantis Paradise Island
The iconic pink palace offers day passes that are splurge-worthy! Your Instagram will thank you for:
GETTING THERE: Take a taxi ($10-15 each way) or the water ferry ($4 one-way, $8 round-trip) from the port. Water ferries leave every 30 minutes from Prince George Wharf and provide great photo ops of your cruise ship!
INSIDER TIP: The Beach Tower day pass is significantly cheaper than the Aquaventure pass but still gives you beach access. If you just want beach time and not waterslides, save $100+ per person with this lesser-known option.
Google Maps Link: Pig Beach, Exuma
Yes, swimming pigs are a real thing, and they’re AMAZING! This bucket-list experience includes:
Warning: These tours sometimes require a full day – check your ship’s schedule carefully!
GETTING THERE: Book through your GetYourGuide who’ll handle all transportation from the cruise port (usually a combination of van transport and powerboat).
INSIDER TIP: Bring cash for tips and a waterproof phone case. The pigs are most active and hungry in the morning, so book early departures if possible. They often nap during midday heat!
Google Maps Link: Green Cay, Nassau
Skip the artificial encounters and swim with turtles in their natural habitat! These beach/snorkel combos offer:
GETTING THERE: Book through operators like GetYourGuide who provide port pickup. Most tours last 4-5 hours total, including transportation.
INSIDER TIP: Green Cay has the most reliable turtle sightings in morning hours (8-11am). Bring an underwater camera, but never chase or touch the turtles – let them approach you for the best encounters!
Google Maps Link: Pearl Island, Bahamas
Want a private island vibe without the full-day commitment? Pearl Island hits the sweet spot:
GETTING THERE: Book through Pearl Island Bahamas or your cruise line. The ferry departs from the Paradise Island Ferry Terminal, a short taxi ride from the cruise port. The boat journey takes about 30 minutes.
INSIDER TIP: The last ferry back usually leaves at 3:30pm, but book the earliest morning departure (usually 9am) to maximize beach time before afternoon crowds arrive from the bigger cruise ships.
Google Maps Link: Arawak Cay Fish Fry
Beach vibes + incredible local food = perfect day! This colorful spot offers:
GETTING THERE: 30-minute walk west from the cruise port along West Bay Street, or a $7 taxi ride. You can also catch the #10 jitney bus headed west toward Cable Beach.
INSIDER TIP: Locals swear by Twin Brothers for the best conch fritters and Oh Andros for cracked conch. Visit during lunch (11:30am-2pm) when it’s less crowded but all stalls are open and cooking fresh!
Google Maps Link: John Watling’s Distillery
History buffs, this one’s for you! Mix beach time with culture at:
GETTING THERE: 15-minute walk from the cruise port. Head south on Parliament Street, then east on Shirley Street until you reach the Buena Vista Estate.
INSIDER TIP: Do the distillery first, then walk to Junkanoo Beach. Their signature cocktail “The John Watling” is strong enough that you’ll want beach time to recover! Ask staff about the secret tunnel that supposedly runs from the estate to the ocean.
Google Maps Link: Fort Montagu Beach
History meets beach day at this local favorite! Check out:
GETTING THERE: Take a 10-minute taxi ride east from the cruise port (about $10-15) or the #10 bus heading east from downtown.
INSIDER TIP: Visit the fort first (it’s small, only takes 20-30 minutes), then hit the beach. The local fish shack on the eastern end of the beach serves fresh conch salad for half the price of tourist restaurants downtown.
Google Maps Link: South Beach (Adelaide Beach)
The hidden gem most cruise passengers miss! This secluded spot offers:
GETTING THERE: You’ll need a taxi for this one – about 30 minutes from the cruise port and $25-30 each way. Arrange for pickup time with your driver or get the phone number of a reliable taxi service.
INSIDER TIP: There are no rental facilities here, so bring everything you need (towels, snacks, water). The Coral Harbour Beach Resort at the western end of the beach has a restaurant open to the public if you need refreshments.
Google Maps Link: Paradise Island Western End
Coming soon: Royal Caribbean’s newest beach club extravaganza! When it opens, expect:
GETTING THERE: Transportation will be included with day passes purchased through Royal Caribbean. The club will be located on the western end of Paradise Island.
INSIDER TIP: Royal Caribbean has announced that pre-booking will open in spring 2025. Members of their Crown & Anchor Society will get priority booking, so join their loyalty program before your cruise if you’re interested!
The Bahamas delivers beach experiences your cruise ship simply can’t match. From the perfect white sand that doesn’t burn your feet to water so clear you can count fish from shore, these beaches are what Bahamian dreams are made of!
Skip the crowded ship pool and grab your beach bag – adventure awaits just steps from your gangway. Whether you’re craving a party atmosphere, wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, or just a quiet stretch of sand, The Bahamas serves up beach perfection in every flavor.
Your ship will be waiting when you get back – sunburned, sandy, and full of stories about the day you almost didn’t leave the ship but SO glad you did!
INSIDER TIP: Bring your ship card, cash in small bills (for taxis, tips, and small vendors), and wear your swimsuit under your clothes to maximize beach time. Beach towels from your cruise ship are usually fine to take ashore – just don’t lose them or you’ll be charged!
GETTING THERE: Super easy! Your ship will either dock at the pier or tender you directly to the island. No planning needed – just walk off your ship and you’re there in minutes.
INSIDER TIP: Head to Chill Island early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds, and don’t miss the free beach BBQ lunch (way better than going back to the ship to eat!).
Google Maps Link: Junkanoo Beach
Just a 15-minute walk from the cruise port, Junkanoo Beach is your no-fuss beach day solution! This lively spot offers:
GETTING THERE: Easy 15-minute walk west from Prince George Wharf. Follow Bay Street, then turn left on West Bay Street. You’ll see the beach on your right. Taxis charge about $5 if you don’t want to walk.
INSIDER TIP: The best beach chairs are set up near Tiki Bikini Hut – they include drink service and cost just a few dollars more than the standard rentals.
Worth the quick 3-mile taxi ride, Cable Beach gives you resort vibes without the resort price tag! This gorgeous stretch offers:
GETTING THERE: Take a taxi for $15-20 each way (tell them to drop you at the public beach entrance across from Starbucks) OR ride the #10 jitney bus for just $1.50 per person. Buses leave from downtown near the port every 15-20 minutes.
INSIDER TIP: The Social House Beach Bar lets non-resort guests use their restrooms if you buy a drink. Much nicer facilities than the public options!
Google Maps Link: Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau
Live that Jimmy Buffett lifestyle without the weeklong commitment! Book through ResortPass for:
GETTING THERE: Just a 10-minute walk from the cruise port. Exit the port area, turn right, and follow the waterfront past Festival Place shopping area. You’ll see the resort’s colorful exterior ahead.
INSIDER TIP: Book the earliest arrival time slot (usually 9am) to maximize your day. Many cruisers don’t show up until 11am, so you’ll have the pools and best beach spots almost to yourself for those first two hours.
Google Maps Link: Atlantis Paradise Island
The iconic pink palace offers day passes that are splurge-worthy! Your Instagram will thank you for:
GETTING THERE: Take a taxi ($10-15 each way) or the water ferry ($4 one-way, $8 round-trip) from the port. Water ferries leave every 30 minutes from Prince George Wharf and provide great photo ops of your cruise ship!
INSIDER TIP: The Beach Tower day pass is significantly cheaper than the Aquaventure pass but still gives you beach access. If you just want beach time and not waterslides, save $100+ per person with this lesser-known option.
Google Maps Link: Pig Beach, Exuma
Yes, swimming pigs are a real thing, and they’re AMAZING! This bucket-list experience includes:
Warning: These tours sometimes require a full day – check your ship’s schedule carefully!
GETTING THERE: Book through your GetYourGuide who’ll handle all transportation from the cruise port (usually a combination of van transport and powerboat).
INSIDER TIP: Bring cash for tips and a waterproof phone case. The pigs are most active and hungry in the morning, so book early departures if possible. They often nap during midday heat!
Google Maps Link: Green Cay, Nassau
Skip the artificial encounters and swim with turtles in their natural habitat! These beach/snorkel combos offer:
GETTING THERE: Book through operators like GetYourGuide who provide port pickup. Most tours last 4-5 hours total, including transportation.
INSIDER TIP: Green Cay has the most reliable turtle sightings in morning hours (8-11am). Bring an underwater camera, but never chase or touch the turtles – let them approach you for the best encounters!
Google Maps Link: Pearl Island, Bahamas
Want a private island vibe without the full-day commitment? Pearl Island hits the sweet spot:
GETTING THERE: Book through Pearl Island Bahamas or your cruise line. The ferry departs from the Paradise Island Ferry Terminal, a short taxi ride from the cruise port. The boat journey takes about 30 minutes.
INSIDER TIP: The last ferry back usually leaves at 3:30pm, but book the earliest morning departure (usually 9am) to maximize beach time before afternoon crowds arrive from the bigger cruise ships.
Google Maps Link: Arawak Cay Fish Fry
Beach vibes + incredible local food = perfect day! This colorful spot offers:
GETTING THERE: 30-minute walk west from the cruise port along West Bay Street, or a $7 taxi ride. You can also catch the #10 jitney bus headed west toward Cable Beach.
INSIDER TIP: Locals swear by Twin Brothers for the best conch fritters and Oh Andros for cracked conch. Visit during lunch (11:30am-2pm) when it’s less crowded but all stalls are open and cooking fresh!
Google Maps Link: John Watling’s Distillery
History buffs, this one’s for you! Mix beach time with culture at:
GETTING THERE: 15-minute walk from the cruise port. Head south on Parliament Street, then east on Shirley Street until you reach the Buena Vista Estate.
INSIDER TIP: Do the distillery first, then walk to Junkanoo Beach. Their signature cocktail “The John Watling” is strong enough that you’ll want beach time to recover! Ask staff about the secret tunnel that supposedly runs from the estate to the ocean.
Google Maps Link: Fort Montagu Beach
History meets beach day at this local favorite! Check out:
GETTING THERE: Take a 10-minute taxi ride east from the cruise port (about $10-15) or the #10 bus heading east from downtown.
INSIDER TIP: Visit the fort first (it’s small, only takes 20-30 minutes), then hit the beach. The local fish shack on the eastern end of the beach serves fresh conch salad for half the price of tourist restaurants downtown.
Google Maps Link: South Beach (Adelaide Beach)
The hidden gem most cruise passengers miss! This secluded spot offers:
GETTING THERE: You’ll need a taxi for this one – about 30 minutes from the cruise port and $25-30 each way. Arrange for pickup time with your driver or get the phone number of a reliable taxi service.
INSIDER TIP: There are no rental facilities here, so bring everything you need (towels, snacks, water). The Coral Harbour Beach Resort at the western end of the beach has a restaurant open to the public if you need refreshments.
Google Maps Link: Paradise Island Western End
Coming soon: Royal Caribbean’s newest beach club extravaganza! When it opens, expect:
GETTING THERE: Transportation will be included with day passes purchased through Royal Caribbean. The club will be located on the western end of Paradise Island.
INSIDER TIP: Royal Caribbean has announced that pre-booking will open in spring 2025. Members of their Crown & Anchor Society will get priority booking, so join their loyalty program before your cruise if you’re interested!
The Bahamas delivers beach experiences your cruise ship simply can’t match. From the perfect white sand that doesn’t burn your feet to water so clear you can count fish from shore, these beaches are what Bahamian dreams are made of!
Skip the crowded ship pool and grab your beach bag – adventure awaits just steps from your gangway. Whether you’re craving a party atmosphere, wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, or just a quiet stretch of sand, The Bahamas serves up beach perfection in every flavor.
Your ship will be waiting when you get back – sunburned, sandy, and full of stories about the day you almost didn’t leave the ship but SO glad you did!
INSIDER TIP: Bring your ship card, cash in small bills (for taxis, tips, and small vendors), and wear your swimsuit under your clothes to maximize beach time. Beach towels from your cruise ship are usually fine to take ashore – just don’t lose them or you’ll be charged!
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