72 Hours In The Bahamas: Where To Stay, Eat, Spa & Explore

With its jewel-toned waters, sun-drenched charm, and vibrant culture, The Bahamas is a dream escape—whether you’re flying in for a long weekend or stopping in on island time. From storied hotels and decadent dining to swimming with pigs and indulging in a spa treatment like no other, this 72-hour itinerary is your ultimate guide to making the most of three blissful days in paradise. Ready to plan your island escape? Let’s dive into where to sleep, eat, caffeinate, and more. —Cassie Gill

Where To Stay

The British Colonial

Old Hollywood and British history come together at this elegant boutique property. The British Colonial has hosted some of The Bahamas’ most high-profile guests – including Sean Connery’s James Bond – since it was rebuilt in 1923 following a fire. More recently, the property was closed for two years to undergo a $50 million refresh top to bottom.

Guests are welcomed by the magnificent lobby, built in traditional colonial style around a grand staircase: ambiance is both timeless and romantic as one makes their way through the space, while the dark wood and dim lighting of the Woodes Rogers Tavern takes on a slightly more mysterious tone. 

The beachfront pool and restaurant are where this hotel truly shines: soak in the views of the emerald Caribbean over lunch before stepping down to the white sand beach for a dip in the ocean. Food at this hotel is fabulous, too: the daily breakfast buffet was well appointed, while lunch offered a selection of Erewhon-inspired healthy options and casual fare. Dinner takes an elevated approach with local classics such as creole calamari, fried local snapper and more. 

The hotel is in the center of Nassau, and within walking distance to nearby shops and cafes, as well as major historical landmarks.

Where To Eat

Goldie’s Conch House

You can’t visit the Bahamas without dining at Goldie’s in the famed Arawak Cay – a village also known as “The Fish Fry.” This place is so iconic that even Martha Stewart has raved about it on her old blog. Traditional Bahamian fare is on the menu here, including conch – a mollusk in a bright shell that’s native to the islands. The fish is served in several ways, but we particularly loved the conch salad which had a ceviche vibe. 

Graycliff Restaurant

Bahamian elegance is on full display at Graycliff, which was once a private home. Start your evening with a cocktail in the cozy Parlour, before moving to one of the Victorian inspired dining rooms or outdoor garden for a multi-course dinner. The menu is known for the restaurants’ delicious secret recipes that change seasonally, with favourites like lobster bisque, truffle gnocchi and a gourmet twist on surf and turf. For the winos: Graycliff is also renowned for their extensive cellar. After dinner, those inclined can enjoy a cognac and cigar in the Library. 

What To Do

Feed The Pigs

Jump on a boat excursion to Exuma Island, where you can experience the beauty of The Bahamas sans the bustle of Nassau. The quiet island is also home to nurse sharks, sting rays and, yes, the infamous island pigs. Visitors can swim and feed these friendly wild animals, which was a highlight of our first time to the island. A full lunch buffet is also part of the day trip with Powerboat Adventures classic American and Bahamian fare on the menu. 

Rum Tasting @ John Watlings

John Watling’s distillery is known as the “Spirit of the Bahamas.” Named for a pirate who sailed the region centuries ago, the name is now synonymous with some of the island’s best crafted rum. Take a tour of the properties’ colonial era Buena Vista Estate to soak in the history of the brand – which is deeply rooted in Bahamian tradition – before settling in for a 45 minute private tasting. We sipped on Pale, Amber, Buena Vista, Paradise, and Bullion, all ranging from light to citrusy. Guests can also bottle their own in the distillery for a fun keepsake.

Queen’s Staircase 

The Queen’s Staircase is named for the late Queen Victoria who ruled the United Kingdom from 1837 to 1901, and abolished slavery in the British Empire. The 66 steps were built by 600 slaves out of solid limestone rocks between 1793 and 1794 as part of the Fort Fincastle Historic Complex. At the foot, visitors will find The Tandem Falls waterfall — added in 1966 — and lush tropical plants. Today, the staircase is an important landmark of Bahamas history, representing resilience of people on the island. 

Where To Caffeinate 

Louis & Steen’s

This charming New Orleans-themed coffee spot is regarded as the best java on the island. The French Quarter’s charm was brought to life in the adorable cafe at the John Watling’s Distillery thanks to both the vintage aesthetic and jazz music playing. All the classics are on the menu but where Louis & Steen’s shines is the specialty drinks: we’re still dreaming of the creamy French vanilla lavender latte, however, the blondie white chocolate mocha and almond pistachio lattes also caught our attention. For the non-espresso fans, there’s matcha options, turmeric lattes, and plenty of food and pastry to choose from. 

Where To Spa 

The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort

For those looking for a little extra pampering, the spa at The Ocean Club should definitely be on the agenda. Nestled on the picturesque grounds of the property – once a former estate – the spa takes an non-traditional approach with luxe private villas. This Four Seasons spa is regarded for luxurious massage offerings, including one with heated coconut poultices used to alleviate tension, as well as their signature Bahamas Rhythm Massage. Plenty of other treatments play off traditional Bahamian traditions under the Ocean Rituals category, all designed to both relax and invigorate the senses. The spa is open daily from 10am-6pm.