The Best Snorkeling Experience: Nassau, Bahamas Edition

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A picture of a statue under the water
Fora’s Take

Clifton Heritage National Park in Nassau is a fantastic destination for snorkeling fanatics. This location offers snorkelers a chance to explore man-made reef balls, statues, natural reefs and colorful fish, as well as the world's largest underwater statue, also referred to as “Ocean Atlas.” This statue is five meters tall, and weighs about 60 tons. The statue was created by Jason deCaires Taylor, an artist, photographer and diver.

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Where to stay in Nassau, Bahamas

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Things to do in Nassau, Bahamas

A picture of a trail from the gift shop to the Coral Reef Statue Garden.

trail from the gift shop to the Coral Reef Statue Garden

This destination is on the west side of New Providence Island on Nassau, on the Southwest Road. If you're arriving by cruise ship, you can take a taxi to Clifton Heritage National Park.

There is a $10 fee to explore the Coral Reef Garden, as well as a rental charge if you don't bring your own snorkel gear.

The Gift Shop employees will give you a wristband once you pay the required fee, and direct you to the Coral Reef Statue Garden. It is walking distance, located down the road near the beach area and is clearly marked by signs.

At the site, you will see a flag and a circle of buoys on the water to mark where the statue is located. On your way out to the big statue, you should see other statues.

If you’re not a strong swimmer, take a life jacket or rent a board — swimming out to the statue is not for the faint of heart. It’s roughly an 80-yard swim out to the statue and the drop-off starts about seven steps out into the water.

This is a very rare sighting, and not many people can say they have explored the Coral Reef Statue Garden. It's a unique and private snorkeling experience.

Beaches

Jaws Beach is a short walk from the park. It is one of the clearest beaches on the island and offers an array of sea life.

Places to eat & drink in Nassau, Bahamas

A picture of palm trees near the beach during daytime.

Some in-town options for lunch:

The Picnic Brunch: This restaurant is located right in front of the cruise terminals and offers a variety of international cuisines.

Athena Cafe: This restaurant is very close to the Picnic Brunch and is known for its Greek cuisine.

Senor Frog’s: Once you exit the ship, if you take a right down Woodes Rodgers Walk, you can locate this restaurant that offers Mexican cuisine. This restaurant is located closer to the water than others and has very vibrant colors.

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Bahamas. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Elizabeth Kaczka's guide, A Romantic Relaxing Guide to the Bahamas.