Nassau and Paradise Island Local Tips

While you can exchange your cash for colorful Bahamian money at a rate of 1:1, everyone in the Bahamas accepts American dollars.

Families who can’t afford Atlantis should check prices at the nearby Harborside Villas and Comfort Suites, since guests get access to the resort’s waterslides and aquarium. The casino and restaurants are open to the public.

The ultra-luxe Bridge Suite at Atlantis, which connects the two Royal Towers, has been in the media as costing $25,000 per night — but in truth, the suite is almost never sold, instead being given to high rollers at the casino. If you want it and don’t gamble, ask when you arrive; if it’s available, you might score it for a few thousand.

Visitors heading to Paradise Island can hop aboard a water taxi for $3; it leaves every 30 minutes from the Straw Market and can be ideal when rush hour clogs the bridge.

Many people who approach to sell t-shirts, braid your hair or put you on a jet ski will rip you off unless you bargain aggressively. If you don’t feel comfortable with that tactic, just buy from established shops.

Driving in Nassau is on the left side of the road.

Hotel check-in time is generally 3 p.m. and check-out time is 11 a.m. If you expect to arrive before check-in time, plan to have a swimsuit and change of casual clothes handy, as most hotels have a luggage and changing room for early arrivals. The same applies with late departure flights.