Nassau, the capital of New Providence Island in the Bahamas, is a majestic, scenic adventure that you do not want to miss. This is one of the premier cruise sites in the entire world, and as a result, tourism to this island is growing every year. New Providence has become the priority of all of the political officials who control the region, because this pink-sand beach marvel is emerging as the number one hot spot in the Bahamas. Only about one hundred miles from Miami, New Providence, and Nassau in particular, is a wonderful choice to enjoy a glorious vacation.

The Ardastra Gardens, Zoo, & Conservation Park, features five acres of lush, tropical gardens and all kinds of exotic life. The pink flamingos, native to New Providence, were almost extinct in the 1940s when an endangered species program began on the island. Now, at the Ardastra Gardens, you can see these flamingos prosper in their natural form, and it is a refreshing tribute to mankind's increased awareness of nature, and attempting to help our fellow earthly inhabitants. Other fascinating life in the Gardens includes boa constrictors, macaws, honey bears, lemurs, and crocodiles. Gorgeous trees and flora are found everywhere. This is truly a magnificent place to visit. (Chippingham Road)

Blackbeard's Tower was a giant edifice used by notorious pirate Edward Teach in the 17th century. The view is magnificent, and by living here Blackboard could see all of the oncoming ships. Take a walk to the top of the tower and see for yourself! (Eastern Road)

The Pirates of Nassau Museum celebrates the "golden age of piracy," which took place from 1690-1720. Nassau was a lively pirate town and this little city recreates the bawdy days of swashbuckling and philandering. Dungeons, exhibits and more are all great fun. (King Street)

Bay Street is Nassau's premier international shopping location. Luxury goods, liquor, perfume, jewelry, cigars and china are available for duty-free shoppers. European goods can be bought at reasonable prices here on this street lined with picturesque, colonial buildings. For local handicrafts, souvenirs and bargains, stop by the Straw Market.

The areas surrounding Nassau are some of the most fabulous water sports centers in the entire world. Swim, snorkel, scuba dive, take boating trips, water-ski, and deep-sea fish to your heart's content. All of these sports and others are available every day of the year. Cable Beach is the most popular beach on New Providence. In addition to a magnificent beach, you can find a casino, restaurants, bars, and an arts bazaar here as well. From fresh fruit smoothies to ice cold beer, you can order any drink you want at one of the local stands. Merchants with arts and handicrafts are everywhere, and vendors with water sport equipment are at every turn. Paradise Beach is more secluded and peaceful, and is not as bustling and busy as Cable Beach. The water here is tranquil and wonderful for an afternoon swim.

Connected to mainland Nassau by a 600 foot bridge is the 685 acre Paradise Island. A complete tourist venue, Paradise Island contains a casino, aquarium, golf-course, and many dining and shopping opportunities for all. Here on the island you can visit the stunning Atlantis Hotel, famous for its striking architecture and wealth of indoor and outdoor activities.

Seaworld Explorer is a submarine excursion that holds about forty-five passengers per trip. This tour of the ocean is perfect for all tourists who are not avid snorkelers or scuba divers. Even if you enjoy these sports, this alternate perspective is quite fascinating. The submarine travels twelve feet beneath the waves, and you can see a plethora of marine life. (Deveaux Street)

Nassau was founded by the British in the mid-17th century as Charles Towne, but it was renamed Nassau after William III of Orange-Nassau in 1695. During the 18th century, it was a popular hideaway for pirates of the Caribbean, notably Blackbeard. Pirates dubbed Nassau the “Privateer's Republic”, and Blackbeard became its leader. With lawlessness rampant, the British appointed former privateer Woodes Rogers as Royal Governor and sent him to restore order. Rogers offered the pirates pardons from King George I, under the condition that they immediately mend their ways. Most of them accepted the deal, but Blackbeard and handful of other notorious pirates refused. By 1718, all the dissenters had either been driven out or killed.

In spite of the campaign against piracy, the British government still sanctioned privateering in the area, so attacks continued on Spanish and American vessels. Due to this, the Spanish attempted numerous invasions of Nassau during the late 18th century, burning down the small city several times. In 1776, Nassau was also captured and briefly held by American revolutionaries. During the Prohibition era (1919-1934) in the United States, smuggling scotch whiskey through Nassau became a lucrative enterprise for the Bahamas.

The official website for the Bahamas Island tourism industry