Of all the Caribbean islands I’ve visited, Nassau Bahamas is where I’ve spent the most time. Not only is Nassau easy to get to, but in general, Bahamas travel is what I’m looking for in a Caribbean vacation.
In this Bahamas travel guide, we highlight credit card points to earn to book a trip, best time of year to visit, how to fly to the Bahamas, where to stay, places to visit, and common travel questions.
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Best Credit Cards to Use in Nassau Bahamas
My favorite credit cards are ones that earn transferable points. These are points that can be used to book award flights and hotel stays. Generally, I look to earn American Express, Chase, and Citi points with my purchases. The Amex Gold Card, Chase Sapphire Reserve, and Citi Premier Card are cards I use frequently.
You earn 4x points on dining and US groceries with the Amex Gold Card. The Chase Sapphire Reserve earns 3x points on dining and travel. With the Citi Premier Card, you earn 3x points at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, airfare, and hotels.
What is the best time of year to go to the Bahamas?
Ashlee and I have visited the Bahamas in January, July, and September. January is likely when you’ll see the most visitors. July and September are during hurricane season with September being less crowded, due to the school year.
October to March gets my vote of the best time of year for Bahamas travel. The weather is generally cooler with the rainfall and humidity lower than other parts of the year. This is the weather pattern we’ve found during our visits to other Caribbean islands.
How to Fly to Nassau Bahamas
One of the things I love about Bahamas travel is how easy the island is to access. From the eastern to the southeastern US, there are plenty of nonstop and one-stop options to get you to the Bahamas quickly. Nassau also has nonstop service from Canada, Europe, and Central America.
American Airlines flies nonstop from Charlotte, New York–LaGuardia, Philadelphia, and Miami. Bahamas Air flies nonstop from Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Orlando. Delta Air Lines flies nonstop from Atlanta and New York–JFK. JetBlue flies nonstop from Boston, Fort Lauderdale, Newark, New York–JFK, Orlando, and Washington–National. Silver Airways flies nonstop from Tampa. Southwest Airlines flies nonstop from Baltimore. United Airlines flies nonstop from Newark.
Where to Stay When Visiting Nassau Bahamas
The Grand Hyatt Baha Mar is the points hotel I recommend. It’s where we got married but I also think it’s the best points hotel on the island. Top 2 Best Hotels in the Bahamas to Book with Points gives you a full run of your points hotel options. The Atlantis Bahamas is a Marriott property you are likely to see in your points hotel searches.
Breezes Resort Bahamas, Hotel Riu Palace Paradise Island, and Warwick Paradise Island are all-inclusive resorts you can book. In addition, the Rosewood Baha Mar is a luxury property next to the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar to check out.
Places to Visit in Nassau Bahamas
Nassau Straw Market, Arawak Cay, Jaws Beach, Royal Blue Golf Club, and the Fish Fry are places to check out during your Bahamas travel. The Straw Market is fun to walk around in and the Fish Fry has incredible Caribbean food.
If you’re not looking to venture out and are staying at the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, there’s plenty to do at the hotel. The resort has several pools, beach access, a massive casino with a sportsbook, restaurants, a golf course, jet ski rentals, and a spa.
Common Nassau Bahamas Travel Questions
Is it safe to travel to the Bahamas 2020?
At the time of this writing, the State Department lists The Bahamas as Level 3: Reconsider Travel. This is one of the best resources for review The Bahamas travel restrictions. International Air Transport Association is another resource to reference before booking Bahamas travel.
What should I avoid in the Bahamas?
The “Country Summary” on the Bahamas State Department page highlights areas to avoid in The Bahamas. Bahamas travel COVID restrictions can be found on the State Department and IATA websites.
What to know before traveling to the Bahamas?
Bahamians are friendly, Caribbean food is delicious, and generally, the vibe is laid back. These are all aspects of Caribbean life I’ve come to appreciate during our trips to different islands including our Bahamas travel.
Conclusion on Nassau Bahamas Travel
October to March is generally the best time to book Bahamas travel. The US offers nonstop flights from cities across the eastern seaboard and southeast. Points hotels are limited, however, the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar is an incredible resort to consider booking. When you’re on the island, the Straw Market and Fish Fry give you that local feel you’re looking for.
What do you think of this Bahamas travel guide? What other Caribbean islands do you recommend? Please let me know in the comments below or by sending me an email on my contact page.
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