The Bahamas is a stunning Caribbean archipelago of over 700 islands and cays, renowned for pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life. From the bustling capital of Nassau to the secluded Out Islands, this tropical paradise offers world-class diving, luxurious resorts, and authentic Bahamian culture.
Best souvenirs
Authentic items worth bringing home.
Handwoven Straw Baskets & Bags
Intricate baskets, hats, and handbags woven from silver top palm, a Bahamian tradition passed down through generations. Each piece is unique and showcases the skill of Bahamian artisans.
Price: $15-60
Where: Nassau Straw Market, Bay Street
Androsia Batik Fabric & Clothing
Hand-batik fabric produced exclusively on Andros Island using traditional wax-resist dyeing techniques in vibrant tropical patterns. Available as fabric by the yard or made into shirts, dresses, and accessories.
Price: $20-80
Where: Androsia Factory Store, Androsia Batik outlets in Nassau Straw Market
John Watling's Bahamian Rum
Award-winning rum distilled at the historic Buena Vista Estate in Nassau, available in Pale, Red, and Amber varieties. An authentic Bahamian spirit that makes a distinctive gift.
Price: $25-45
Where: John Watling's Distillery, Delancy Street, Nassau; duty-free shops at airport
Pink Conch Shell Jewelry
Necklaces, bracelets, and earrings crafted from the distinctive pink queen conch shell, the national symbol of the Bahamas. Look for artisan-crafted pieces rather than mass-produced imports.
Price: $10-50
Where: Nassau Straw Market, Rawson Square vendors, Harbour Island craft shops
Junkanoo Art & Masks
Colorful artwork, masks, and decorations inspired by the Junkanoo festival, featuring vibrant patterns and the iconic cowbell and drum motifs. Original pieces by local artists are available at galleries.
Price: $20-150
Where: NassauArt Gallery, Doongalik Studios on Village Road, Nassau Straw Market
Hot Sauce & Seasonings
Bahamian-made hot sauces, conch seasonings, and spice blends that capture the flavors of local cuisine. Brands like Zesty Z's and Bahama Mama are popular choices.
Price: $5-15
Where: Solomon's Fresh Market, Airport duty-free, Bahamian Brewery gift shop
Kalik Beer & Sands Beer
The Bahamas' own lager brands, Kalik and Sands, brewed locally and beloved by Bahamians. A six-pack or branded merchandise makes a memorable souvenir for beer enthusiasts.
Price: $10-25
Where: Supermarkets, duty-free shops at Lynden Pindling International Airport
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Nassau Straw Market
The Bahamas' most iconic market with hundreds of vendors selling handwoven straw goods, wood carvings, Androsia fabric, conch shell jewelry, and local souvenirs. Bargaining is expected and part of the cultural experience.
Where: Bay Street, Downtown Nassau
Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily (shorter Sundays)
Potter's Cay Dock Market
A lively waterfront market where local fishermen sell fresh catch and vendors offer conch salad, produce, and provisions. This is where mailboats depart for the Family Islands, giving it an authentic Bahamian atmosphere.
Where: Potter's Cay, under the Paradise Island Bridge, Nassau
Hours: 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily
Bahamian Craft Centre
Government-run craft centre showcasing authentic Bahamian arts and crafts by local artisans. Better quality and more original pieces than tourist market stalls, with certified local artists.
Where: Nassau Craft Centre, West Bay Street, Nassau
Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Monday-Saturday
Freeport International Bazaar
Grand Bahama's shopping hub blending duty-free shopping with international goods and local crafts. Features Androsia batik clothing, jewelry, perfumes, and imported goods from around the world.
Where: Mall Drive, Freeport, Grand Bahama
Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily
Dunmore Town Market (Harbour Island)
Small weekly market in the charming colonial village of Dunmore Town on Harbour Island. Local vendors sell fresh produce, homemade preserves, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
Where: Dunmore Street, Harbour Island
Hours: 7:00 AM - 1:00 PM Saturday
Shopping districts
Neighbourhoods known for retail.
Bay Street, Downtown Nassau
Nassau's main shopping street stretching from Rawson Square to the Straw Market, lined with duty-free jewelry shops, international brand stores, souvenir shops, and local businesses. The commercial heart of Nassau since the colonial era.
Best for: Duty-free jewelry, watches, perfumes, tourist souvenirs
Baha Mar Resort Complex
The Baha Mar complex on Cable Beach houses an upscale retail promenade featuring international luxury brands, local boutiques, and specialty stores. Part of the world-class resort campus with Rosewood, Grand Hyatt, and SLS hotels.
Best for: Luxury brands, resort wear, fine jewelry, unique Bahamian gifts
Marina Village, Paradise Island
Charming outdoor shopping village adjacent to Atlantis with boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and specialty stores. Features Starbucks, Bahama Breeze, and numerous fashion and souvenir shops in a waterfront setting.
Best for: Resort fashion, beach wear, gifts, dining
Harbour Island Village
The charming pastel-colored streets of Dunmore Town on Harbour Island are lined with independent boutiques, art galleries, and gift shops. Known for upscale island fashion, local art, and one-of-a-kind pieces.
Best for: Luxury boutiques, island fashion, local art, unique gifts
Port Lucaya Marketplace, Grand Bahama
A vibrant waterfront marketplace in Freeport/Lucaya featuring over 100 shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Great for duty-free shopping, Bahamian crafts, and live music on weekends.
Best for: Duty-free goods, local crafts, dining, entertainment
Malls & modern shopping
Air-conditioned, international brands, and food courts.
Mall at Marathon
Nassau's main shopping mall on Marathon Road featuring local and international brand stores, a food court, and everyday retail. Home to Bahamian chain stores and the popular Super Value grocery.
Hours: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Monday-Saturday, 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM Sunday
Crystal Court Shops at Atlantis
Upscale shopping concourse within the Atlantis resort featuring luxury brands such as Gucci, Coach, and Versace alongside resort boutiques and souvenir shops. Convenient for Atlantis guests and day visitors.
Hours: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily
Prince Charles Shopping Centre
Affordable everyday shopping center in Nassau's residential area serving local community needs. Features pharmacy, supermarket, electronics, and local clothing stores away from the tourist corridor.
Hours: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Monday-Saturday
Bargaining tips
Negotiate like a local.
Bargaining is expected and welcomed at the Nassau Straw Market and Potter's Cay vendors - start at 40-50% of the asking price
Be respectful and friendly when negotiating - aggressive bargaining is considered rude
Fixed prices are standard at mall stores, resort boutiques, and established retail shops
Buying multiple items from the same vendor gives more negotiating leverage
Late afternoon when vendors want to close deals can result in better prices
Comparing prices at several Straw Market stalls before committing often reveals variation
Customs & restrictions
What you can and can't take home.
Restrictions: Items made from sea turtles, certain corals, protected wildlife, and artifacts over 50 years old cannot be exported. Conch shells are permitted but check current regulations for quantity limits.
Tax Refund: No VAT refund scheme for tourists in the Bahamas. Prices shown are generally final prices with any applicable taxes included.
Duty Free: US citizens can bring back $800 in duty-free goods. Alcohol allowance is 1 liter per person over 21. All passengers returning through Nassau airport have access to duty-free shops in the international terminal.
Shipping: Most established shops offer international shipping. DHL and FedEx operate from Nassau for reliable shipping home. Fragile items like rum bottles should be professionally packaged.