Fort Charlotte

If you like historical forts, see this one. It is by far the largest and covers 100 acres. Located on a hill overlooking the far west end of the harbour, Fort Charlotte commands an impressive view of Paradise Island, Nassau and the harbour - although all the land in front of it is reclaimed now.

Built in 1788 by Lord Dunmore the fort was named after the wife of King George III, Queen Saharia Charlotte. This fort has a moat, dungeons, underground passageways and 42 cannons, which have never been fired in an act of aggression. It is one mile west of downtown Nassau, just off West Bay Street. 

There is a fee for admission.

Bay Street - Downtown Nassau

Bay Street, the main street of the city of Nassau, is the premier shopping area for millions of tourists who visit New Providence every year. With  very colonial feel, this is the island's oldest thoroughfare and was constructed on reclaimed coastal land. The buildings lining both sides of Bay Street reflect the architecture of the country's history as a British port. Friendly police officers wearing attractive white uniforms provide great photo opportunities. Some of the stores found include such posh places as Gucci, Cole's, and Fendi There are also some excellent local shops featuring leather goods, brass, antiques, linens, beauty products, soaps, and perfumes There are also a number of high-end cigar shops to be found when shopping in Nassau Bahamas Bay Street market.

This is worth a stroll to see the pastel coloured local buildings and architecture. Also, the Straw Market is there. This used to be a bartering market for local straw products but has developed into a touristy, souvenir market. 

Visit the Exuma Islands (Deserted Beaches, Iguanas and Swimming Pigs)

Visit the most magnificent islands in the world. With sapphire-blue water everywhere, The Exumas are an exotic collection of little, mostly deserted islands. Here, nature outnumbers man, coastlines remain flawless and private homes play host to some of the world’s most famous stars. The Exumas truly are the ultimate escape. The Exumas are an archipelago of 365 cays and islands, beginning just 35 miles southeast of Nassau. Today, they’re divided into three major areas—Great Exuma, Little Exuma and The Exuma Cays. Each offers its own unique Bahamian experience. Great Exuma and Little Exuma are known for their laid-back surroundings, while The Exuma Cays act as a playground for the rich and famous, boasting numerous private homes, luxury resorts and beachside condos. 

The is where you can win in Thunderball Grotto. Located just west of Staniel Cay, this fantastic underwater cave system is great for snorkeling, diving and wading. The grotto got its name from the 1965 James Bond spy film "Thunderball," which was shot there. It was also the site of another James Bond film, "Never Say Never Again" in 1983, also based on the Thunderball novel. Or feed the Iguanas at Allan Cay - one of the few places you can still find these fearsome looking, yet gentle lizards. These friendly creatures welcome visitors bearing gifts of vegetables and other goodies. They are protected by law.

Then, of course, there are the Swimming Pigs. Just north of Staniel Cay on an island of their own called Big Major's Cay, live a drove of pigs. When visitors stop by to snorkel or swim at Big Major's Cay, they are greeted by the welcoming pigs.

The trips to the Exumas are full day excursions by speed boat from Nassau and make for very full and tiring days. In fact, to really enjoy these islands (and especially the pigs in the south) the best way is to fly. Some companies offering service include Exuma Escapes (http://www.exumaescapes.com) and Powerboat Adventures (http://www.powerboatadventures.com).

Blue Lagoon Island (and Dolphin Encounters)

Blue Lagoon Island is the ideal relaxation location and has Dolphin Encounters as part of it's complex.  To get there, you take their own boat from Nassau to the island. Once there, there is a beach, cafe and restaurant. Also, there is a a variety of water sports activities, including paddle boarding, snorkeling and underwater scooters.

Blue Lagoon Island, also known by its official name Salt Cay, is a natural island. Rich in local culture Blue Lagoon has been an interesting part of The Bahamas’ history for centuries. Additionally, it is now the home of the dolphins and sea lions of Dolphin Encounters where visitors can swim and experience Bahamas animal life first-hand.

This incredibly beautiful island has had a fascinating past and continues to be a great favorite with families and a wonderfully entertaining and educational cultural excursion suited for both children and adults.

Dolphin Encounters is a large, all-natural habitat for rescued dolphins and sea lions. It is a member of the International Marine Animal Trainers Association, (IMATA) and the prestigious Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums, confirming its status as one of the top marine parks in its field. Dolphin Encounters has transformed itself from a dolphin rescue project with two dolphins and three employees to one of Nassau’s foremost tourist attractions. Also the natural seawater lagoon has facilitated a very successful breeding program.

http://www.bahamasbluelagoon.com/about-bluelagoon.php

http://www.dolphinencounters.com