Don't need a big resort hotel?
by androsgal
If you have some time to stay in Nassau, and are not coming for just a few days at a big resort, you may be looking for a less expensive option where you can settle in. I'd suggest the Orange Hill Beach Hotel. It's clean, reasonably priced, and in the safe West Bay Street area, not far from the airport. We stay there a lot if we get stuck in Nassau trying to get to the Family Islands. The Casuarinas Hotel in Cable Beach is a bit scruffy, but it would do if you want to be closer to town. From the Casuarinas you can walk to the Cable Beach casinos or take the jitney (mini-bus) to downtown or Paradise Island.
Attractions I'd suggest for non-resort guests: Potters Cay where the fishing boats come in, Ardastra Gardens for the flamingos, Arawak Cay and/or the Straw Market for a tacky but fun taste of Bahamian street life, the Junkanoo (like Carnival) Museum, Atlantis on Paradise Island has a nice underwater walk-through aquarium. One of the colonial forts to pretend you're a pirate. Downtown Bay Street if you need a new watch, some cologne or perfume, etc. Ask your hotel about parasailing, tours, jet boats, etc, if that appeals to you. You might also check into the "People to people" program whereby you get to spend a day or evening with a Bahamian family.
HOWEVER, to know the real Bahamas, if you have the time, you have to leave New Providence Island where Nassau is located. Take a commuter flight (the opposite end of the airport from the international flights) to one of the other islands, which are so VERY different from Nassau. Most of the inter-island airlines have inclusive deals with Family Island (also called Out island) hotels. The Bahamas Fast Ferry system, which leaves from the base of the Potters Cay bridge in town, sails to many of the out islands and I think also has some trip-hotel deals.
On the island of Andros (my home and just a 15 minute flight), I can HIGHLY recommend Small Hope Bay Lodge. Family owned and run, so it's just you in a stone cottage right on the beach, all meals and drinks included. The sound of the wind off the water in the casuarina and palm trees.
Forum Posts
Where to stay in Nassau
by GUYON
I confess I am a bit puzzled. I am planning a stay in Nassau (Bahamas) from November 7 to November 13 coming from Miami.
I have not a precise map neither on my guide book nor on Internet and I wish to find a hotel which is close to Nassau City and on the beach.
Could you tell me where it must be ?
The hotels I find on internet are either expensive or signaled as dirty or not reliable.
Could you suggest me a good hotel matching the following requirements :
- on the beach
- with breakfast
- clean
- price less than 120$ per night for 2
Thanks a lot
RAY
Re: Where to stay in Nassau
by YVRDave
I don't think hotels in Nassau offer breakfast as a rule. The other requirements limit you as well. I can't find the site for this hotel but it comes close to all others.
CASUARINAS HOTEL
Re: Where to stay in Nassau
by YVRDave
This hotel is across the street from the beach but fills the other needs.
http://www.nassau-hotel.com/
Re: Where to stay in Nassau
by sabogg01
Have you thought about using a cruise line? Many depart from Miami and go to the Bahamas daily.
I am going on a cruise from Orlando to Freeport and Nassau for 5 days in January for only $279 per person which includes meals (As you were requesting) covers the hotel worry and its near the water :) We are sailing with Carnival but there are many other options out there. Perhaps if they dont have something leaving from Miami you could go to Orlando or Jacksonville. You may of course want to spend all of your time in Nassau which in this case a cruise wouldnt be an interest to you. :)
Re: Where to stay in Nassau
by amyhouston
check out this one, got good review too though I've never stayed there: http://www.orangehill.com/rooms.htm
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g147416-d151483-Reviews-Orange_Hill_Beach_Inn-Nassau_New_Providence_Island_Bahamas.html
Re: Where to stay in Nassau
by stimylady
the old nassau hotel is great and on beahch. has everything. not expensive. I havestayed there twice.
Things to do during the week while renewing my visa
by waysted
There to renew my US Visa so will be there during the week.. looking for accomodation and things to do while waiting for my visa processing.. arrive Sunday Nov 30 depart Wednesday Dec 3
Re: Things to do during the week while renewing my visa
by arnopg
Leave nassau and visit one of the family islands. Andros, Abaco, Eleuthera can all be reached by ferry from Nassau. No passport is required and you will see the real Bahamas.
Re: Things to do during the week while renewing my visa
by androsgal
If you have to stay in Nassau, I'd suggest the Orange Hill Beach Hotel. It's clean, reasonably priced, and in the safe West Bay Street area, not far from the airport. We stay there a lot if we get stuck in Nassau trying to get to the Family Islands. The Casuarinas Hotel in Cable Beach is a bit scruffy, but it would do if you want to be closer to town. From the Casuarinas you can walk to the Cable Beach casinos or take the jitney (mini-bus) to downtown or Paradise Island.
Attractions: Potters Cay where the fishing boats come in, Ardastra Gardens for the flamingos, Arawak Cay and/or the Straw Market for a tacky but fun taste of Bahamian street life, the Junkanoo (like Carnival) Museum, Atlantis on Paradise Island has a nice underwater walk-through aquarium. One of the colonial forts to pretend you're a pirate. Downtown Bay Street if you need a new watch, some cologne or perfume, etc. Ask your hotel about parasailing, tours, jet boats, etc, if that appeals to you. You might also check into the "People to people" program whereby you get to spend a day or evening with a Bahamian family.
Otherwise, I agree with the previous reply. Take a commuter flight (try Western Air) to one of the other islands, which are VERY different from Nassau. Most of the inter-island airlines have inclusive deals with Family Island (also called Out island) hotels. The Bahamas Fast Ferry system, which leaves from the base of the Potters Cay bridge in town, sails to many of the out islands and I think also has some trip-hotel deals.
On the island of Andros (my home and just a 15 minute flight), I can HIGHLY recommend Small Hope Bay Lodge. Family owned and run, so it's just you in a stone cottage right on the beach, all meals and drinks included.
