New Providence, Bahamas

Discovering the Best of New Providence, Bahamas

New Providence is the most populous island in the Bahamas and the center of tourism in the country. With its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and historic landmarks, New Providence is a must-visit destination for any traveler to the Bahamas. Here are some of the island’s main attractions, food, beaches, scuba diving and snorkeling spots, architecture, and things to do.

Attractions and Landmarks:

Queen’s Staircase:

This 102-foot staircase was hand-carved from limestone by slaves in the late 18th century. It was named in honor of Queen Victoria and is a significant landmark in Bahamian history.

Fort Fincastle:

Located atop Bennett’s Hill, Fort Fincastle was built in the late 18th century and is a prime example of British colonial architecture.

National Art Gallery of The Bahamas:

This gallery showcases Bahamian art from the 19th century to the present day and is a must-visit for art lovers.

Nassau Straw Market: This vibrant market is located in the heart of Nassau and is the perfect place to buy souvenirs and locally-made crafts.

Culture and Food:

• Junkanoo: This is a Bahamian cultural festival that takes place on Boxing Day (December 26th) and New Year’s Day. It features street parades, music, dance, and elaborate costumes.
• Conch: Conch is a popular seafood in the Bahamas and can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes, including conch salad, conch fritters, and conch chowder.
• Bahamian rum: The Bahamas is known for its rum, with many local distilleries producing high-quality rums that are enjoyed both on their own and in cocktails.

Beaches:

• Cable Beach: This is one of the most popular beaches in New Providence, with crystal-clear waters and white sand. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
• Love Beach: This secluded beach is located on the northwestern coast of the island and is perfect for those seeking a quiet escape.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling Spots:

New Providence, Bahamas is a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling due to its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life. Here are some of the best spots for scuba diving and snorkeling on the island:

• The Andros Wall: This wall drops down to depths of over 6,000 feet and is known for its vibrant coral formations and diverse marine life, including turtles, eagle rays, and sharks.
• Stuart Cove’s Dive Bahamas: Stuart Cove’s Dive Bahamas is one of the most popular dive centers on New Providence, offering a range of dive sites and experiences for both beginners and experienced divers. The center also offers snorkeling tours for non-divers.
• The Blue Hole: The Blue Hole is a popular dive site on New Providence that features a deep underwater cavern with an abundance of marine life, including schools of fish, eels, and lobsters.
• The Tongue of the Ocean: The Tongue of the Ocean is a deep oceanic trench that runs along the eastern coast of New Providence. It is a popular spot for drift diving and is home to a variety of marine life, including sharks and rays.
• Love Beach: Love Beach is a great spot for snorkeling, with clear waters and an abundance of marine life, including colorful fish, rays, and sea turtles.
• Gambier Deep Reef: Gambier Deep Reef is a popular dive site on the western side of New Providence that is home to a variety of marine life, including sharks, stingrays, and moray eels.
• Goulding Cay Reef: Goulding Cay Reef is a shallow reef that is perfect for beginner snorkelers. It is home to a variety of colorful fish, sea fans, and coral formations.
• The Caves: The Caves are a series of underwater caverns and tunnels that are popular with experienced divers. The caves are home to a variety of marine life, including lobsters, eels, and colorful fish.

No matter which spot you choose for scuba diving or snorkeling in New Providence, be sure to follow safe diving practices and respect the delicate marine ecosystem.

Architecture:

• Government House: This Georgian-style building is the official residence of the Governor-General of the Bahamas and is open for tours.
• The Cloisters: This 14th-century French monastery was dismantled and shipped to the United States in the early 20th century. It was eventually reassembled on the grounds of the One&Only Ocean Club in Nassau.

Things to Do:

• • Visit the Dolphin Cay: This interactive marine habitat allows visitors to swim with dolphins and sea lions.
  • Take a food tour: Sample local Bahamian cuisine and learn about the history and culture of the island on a guided food tour.
  • Explore the Blue Lagoon Island: This private island is located just off the coast of New Providence and offers a range of activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, and beach volleyball.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit New Providence, Bahamas is between December and May, during the winter and early spring months. During this time, the weather is dry and pleasant with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s°F (24-29°C), making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

The hurricane season in the Bahamas is from June to November, with the highest chance of tropical storms and hurricanes occurring from August to October. Therefore, it is best to avoid traveling to New Providence during this time to avoid any potential weather-related disruptions to your trip. Additionally, keep in mind that peak tourist season in the Bahamas is from mid-December to mid-April, so expect higher prices and larger crowds during this time.

Best way to get around

The best way to get around New Providence, Bahamas is by renting a car or hiring a taxi. Here are some of the transportation options available on the island:

• Car Rental: Renting a car is the best way to explore New Providence at your own pace. The major car rental agencies such as Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Thrifty have outlets at the Nassau International Airport, and there are also local car rental companies available. Be aware that driving is on the left side of the road in the Bahamas, so be prepared for this if you are not used to it.
• Taxis: Taxis are readily available in New Providence, and they operate on a metered system. Taxis can be hailed on the street, or you can arrange for a pickup through your hotel or by phone. Taxis are a good option if you are not comfortable driving on the left side of the road, or if you just want to sit back and enjoy the scenery.
• Public Buses: Public buses are also available on the island, but they can be crowded and unreliable. They are cheaper than taxis and offer a chance to experience local life, but they may not run on a regular schedule and can be slow.
• Scooter or Bicycle Rental: Scooter and bicycle rentals are available on the island, but keep in mind that the roads can be narrow and crowded, making them less safe than other modes of transportation.
• Water Taxis: If you’re looking to explore the nearby islands, you can take a water taxi or a ferry. These are available from Nassau and can take you to places like Paradise Island or the Exuma Cays.

No matter what mode of transportation you choose, be sure to plan ahead and consider factors such as traffic, road conditions, and parking availability.

Conclusion:

New Providence offers a diverse range of cities and attractions that cater to different interests and lifestyles. From the historic city of Nassau to the luxurious resorts of Cable Beach and Paradise Island, visitors are sure to find something that suits their taste. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or culture, New Providence has it all.