Nassau Beaches by a local
Nassau beaches can range from completely touristy to restricted and not accessible. This is the first blog post in a series titled Beaching Season where I'll share local tips from a beach going master. This is what I look for in a beach.
As a seasoned beachgoer in Nassau, I’ve developed a keen eye for what makes a beach truly special. When you live in a paradise like the Bahamas, you learn to have high standards. Here’s what I look for when deciding on a beach in Nassau. I am a relaxing beach goer, I don't look for a myriad of things to do.
Ease of Access: First on the list; Nassau, the capital city of the Bahamas, has many of its beaches restricted due to gated communities. However, there are still some gems that locals frequent.
Cabbage Beach (Eastern Entrance): This beach was a staple for almost 20 years. With miles of sandy shore and rarely crowded, it was worth the journey over the bridge. Unfortunately, holiday crowds and littering have restricted access on weekends. Remember, keeping beaches clean is crucial – take back what you bring!
Private Path Access: We now visit a beach accessible through a locked gate. In the Bahamas, beaches are public up to the high tide water mark, but access can be restricted. One beach we love offers access through a vacant path, with the owner providing key access to local residents – a kind gesture that maintains the beach’s charm.
Orange Hill is not my favorite beach but i have to give credit where its due. It's blocked by a hedge of beach cabbage and the seclusion encompasses you even though its right off the road. The beach is long and just as easy to get to.
Shade: Finding shade on a beach can be challenging. Natural shade from casuarina trees can be double-edged as they shed needles. Walls and buildings offer some shade, but the sun’s movement forces you to keep shifting. Many bring tents, but I prefer sunblock, a rash guard, and a big straw hat. I always use SPF 70-100 because the tropical sun here is intense – don’t skip on sunblock!
Sand to Rock Ratio: This is a crucial factor. Some beaches look beautiful with reefs, but they’re not practical for beaching. For kids, these spots might be great for snorkeling. For me, I prefer white, sandy beaches with minimal rocks. Love Beach is a mixed bag – sandy near the shore but rocky further out. I rarely visit beaches with too many rocks.
Crowds: I avoid crowded beaches. A secluded beach with few people is my idea of heaven. Tourist-heavy beaches, where vendors are constantly trying to sell, are a huge turn-off. Some beaches in Nassau are like that, but luckily, there are still many spots that offer peace and quiet.
Conclusion: So, these are my criteria for the perfect beach in Nassau. Whether it’s ease of access, adequate shade, a sandy shore, or tranquility, these factors make all the difference. The Bahamas offers many beautiful beaches, and with a bit of local insight, you can find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the sun.