Nassau has several transportation options, ranging from cheap public buses to fixed-rate taxis. There is no Uber or rideshare service. Getting around requires a little local knowledge but is manageable once you understand the systems.
On the Island
Jitneys (Public Buses)
Jitneys are Nassau's public bus system, privately operated minibuses running fixed routes at a flat fare of $1.25. They are the cheapest way to get around and used daily by locals. Key routes for visitors include the #10 (airport to downtown) and various routes along Bay Street and out to Cable Beach. Jitneys do not have fixed printed schedules. They run frequently during the day and you flag them down on the roadside. Service thins out in the evening and is minimal on Sundays. Pay the driver as you board; exact change is helpful but not strictly required.
Taxis
Taxis in Nassau are not metered. They operate on government-set fixed rates based on destination and number of passengers. This system is meant to prevent price gouging but can cause confusion. Key rules: always confirm the fare before you get in, ask to see the rate card if there's a dispute. Taxis are plentiful at the airport, cruise port, major hotels, and Atlantis. Expect to pay a premium compared to jitneys but it's the most convenient option with luggage or in a group.
Rental Cars
Rental cars are available at the airport and major hotels from international companies (Avis, Budget, Hertz) and local operators. Nassau drives on the left. If you're coming from the US this requires adjustment. Roads in Nassau proper are navigable but can be congested; New Providence island roads are generally good quality. A car gives you independence to reach the eastern and western parts of the island that jitneys don't serve well. Rates typically run $60–100/day depending on vehicle and season.
Between Islands and Cays
Water Taxi to Paradise Island
A water taxi runs between downtown Nassau Harbour (near the British Colonial Hotel area) and Paradise Island, offering an alternative to the toll bridge. Inexpensive and a pleasant short crossing.†
Ferry to Atlantis
A ferry service connects Nassau's Prince George Wharf area with the Atlantis marina on Paradise Island. Convenient for day visitors to Atlantis who don't want to deal with taxis or the bridge toll.
Mail Boats to Family Islands
For travel to Out Islands from Nassau, mail boats depart from Potter's Cay Dock, the dock that runs under the Paradise Island Bridge. Boats serve dozens of Family Island destinations on cargo-driven schedules. Passage is cheap but slow (12–18+ hours to most destinations) and the experience is basic. Check departure schedules at Potter's Cay directly or through the Dockmaster's office, as they are not reliably published online.
Practical Notes
- There is no Uber, Lyft, or any other rideshare operating in Nassau. Taxis and jitneys are your options.
- Tipping taxi drivers 10–15% is standard.
- Paradise Island is connected to Nassau by two bridges. A one-way toll applies when leaving Paradise Island back toward Nassau, approximately $1. Taxis include this in their rates.
- Scooter and bicycle rentals are available at some hotels and along Cable Beach; traffic in Nassau proper can be intense, so this is better suited to quieter areas.
- Cruise ship passengers docking at Prince George Wharf are within easy walking distance of downtown Nassau and the Straw Market. Atlantis requires a taxi or ferry.
Seeded from general knowledge as of 2026-06-08. Not yet compiled from verified sources.