The Bahamas : Safety by City
The Bahamas - safety as a country Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas, which is a member of the British Commonwealth.
Nassau is also the largest city in the Bahamas.
Apart from the source of the greatest enjoyment in the Bahamas – (water! beaches!), you can enjoy some of the more cultural aspects of this city.
If you take a walk around Old Town, you’ll run into an interesting mixture of abandoned buildings and bright Caribbean structures.
If you decide to explore just a bit more, you’ll learn that you can run away from the typical tourist areas in a second.
Walk ten minutes uphill to find pink Parliament Building, boasting a statue of an enthroned Queen Victoria out front.
The Bahamian beaches in Nassau are perfect for water sports, kiteboarding, kayaking, snorkeling, deep-sea fishing, bonefishing, wave runners, island boat tours, wild dolphin excursions, and even shark encounters.
And the best part about the water – it’s like warm bath water all year round.
Warnings & Dangers in Nassau
OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
The city of Nassau isn't too safe to visit with its high murder rate, but if you apply safety and precaution measures, it should minimize the risk of getting hurt.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
Be very careful when using public transport. Taxi drivers might try to overcharge you since the cabs in this country are not metered. Remain vigilant on public transport since that's where pickpockets operate.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
Pickpockets are, of course, common, and this city is ridden with both petty and violent crime, though this time, the accent is on violent crime. Still, you should never carry all your money in the same place, and be aware of your surroundings at all times.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
When it comes to natural disasters, The Bahamas suffer from hurricanes during the hurricane season that lasts from 1 June to 30 November. Tourists are advised to monitor local and international weather updates.
MUGGING RISK: HIGH
Violent crime is extremely common in Nassau. The country is ridden with violent crime, and armed robberies, kidnappings, and murders are extremely common, usually not affecting tourists though violence towards foreigners has been on an increase during the past couple of years.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
Even though there haven't been any terrorist attacks in Nassau's recent history, they shouldn't be ruled out so remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times.
SCAMS RISK: LOW
Bear in mind that taxi drivers may try to overcharge you, since cabs in Nassau are not metered, so always agree on the price before getting in, and avoid getting into unlicensed cabs. Also, some tour guides, including boat operators, may ask for a tip on top of the agreed price upon the completed job.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Nassau isn't the safest destination for solo female travelers. Women have reported catcalls and sexual harassment while walking on the streets of this city. If you are a female solo traveler, you are advised to reject rides from strangers or taxi drivers who appear unlicensed. Be sure to avoid remote streets, both during day and night, and do not flash your belongings or handle money in public. Stay out of the streets at night and be vigilant for any possible dangers at all times.
So... How Safe Is Nassau Really?
The biggest problem for Nassau, crime-wise, isn’t the petty crime or the violent street crime: it is the murder rate.
Like everywhere else, there are areas in Nassau, that are best avoided.
Such areas are the “Over-the-Hill” area south of downtown, which is the poorest part of Nassau, and tourists are advised to avoid it.
The statistics for the year 2007 weren’t encouraging: 42 recorded murders.
Then three years later, in 2010, the murder count was 96.
The police suggest that the highest number of these murders are fuelled by competition in the illegal drug trade, and related to drug trade or gangs, but there’s also domestic violence that ends with a murder.
This may not affect tourists, but what does is the general increase in violent crime in the recent past, so visitors are advised to exercise caution.
When it comes to these shocking crimes, most of the serious crimes committed in the Bahamas occur precisely in Nassau.
It is noted that the increase in violent crimes between 2009 and 2015 is partly focused on tourists since many of them were targeted at tourists visiting the city.
There were also instances of an armed robbery at more remote locations, where tourists have no business going anyway, but it is important to mention it as a possible danger.
Many tourists reported being mugged, some of them even in front of a hotel.
You can expect the Bahamian police to be of little help.
How Does Nassau Compare?
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Nassau | 47 |
| Freeport | 62 |
| Grand Bahama | 64 |
| Harbour Island | 68 |
| Phnom Penh (Cambodia) | 61 |
| Niagara Falls (Canada) | 87 |
| Calgary (Canada) | 82 |
| Buenos Aires (Argentina) | 60 |
| Vancouver (Canada) | 82 |
| Cordoba (Argentina) | 61 |
Useful Information
Visas
Some countries are required to apply for The Bahamas' visa, while many countries other than the US and Canada, are required to present a valid passport which must be current up to your travel period. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need a visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.
Currency
There are two valid currencies in Nassau: United States Dollar and the Bahamian dollar. You can find plenty of banks with ATMs in the major tourist centers, and cities, but bear in mind that they can be rare or nonexistent on the Out Islands.
Weather
The climate in Nassau is subtropical and the best time to visit is between September and May when the temperature averages 21-24°C. Keep in mind that more northerly islands are around 5° cooler than the southern islands. The rest of the year is a bit warmer, with higher humidity in the summer months when the temperatures vary between 27 and 29° C.
Airports
Lynden Pindling International Airport formerly referred to as Nassau International Airport is the largest airport in the Bahamas. It is located in western New Providence island near the capital city of Nassau.
Travel Insurance
Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Nassau, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.
Nassau Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | 26 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 30 | 32 | 32 | 33 | 32 | 30 | 28 | 27 |
| Low °C | 18 | 18 | 18 | 20 | 22 | 24 | 24 | 24 | 24 | 23 | 21 | 19 |
| High °F | 79 | 79 | 81 | 82 | 86 | 90 | 90 | 91 | 90 | 86 | 82 | 81 |
| Low °F | 64 | 64 | 64 | 68 | 72 | 75 | 75 | 75 | 75 | 73 | 70 | 66 |
The Bahamas - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Freeport | 62 |
| Grand Bahama | 64 |
| Harbour Island | 68 |
| Nassau | 47 |
Atlantis going down
Hi just writing a review on the time I spent at The Reef. I arrived like I usually do I asked for an SUV we went to the market to purchase spring water (Dasani) and some snacks for the kids. We checked in the check-in was pretty fast.
We were escorted to our rooms. Upon arrival to the room it was very warm I assumed it was because the room may have not been in use a day or 2. The air conditioner in the room was broke the refrigerator was broke not getting cold, the TV in the bathroom was broke fuzzy no signal, no radio was in the room and the tv was old not dated which meant my phone could not connect to the tv to play free movies I had downloaded but I would have to pay for movies provided by the hotel for $14.99 newest movie was “US”.
I called down and spoke with a manager who sent staff up later staff said the air conditioning was broke and suggested I go to a new room I did not want to move to a different floor because the kids and I were unpacked.
I suggested a room adjacent to the hall or not too far on the same floor. The manager said that there was nothing he had but did suggest I upgrade to a different room for $50 more a night I was soo tired and exhausted that I just said ok, not to mention I had already paid $2100 in advance for my room. The Atlantis resort is going down to shambles I have been coming to the resort frequently since I was 18 flying in on Paradise Airlines when the airport was on Paradise Island before the bridges and the royal, reef and cove yes that long when it was owned by Merv Griffin and the airport was back where the ocean club is.
I even purchased stock with the holding company that owns and manages The Atlantis and I was told by my accountant that I should sell because the Atlantis is in Jeopardy of the worst. The food has gotten horrible all the restaurants sell the same food which is all garbage and you are charged ridiculously high prices and tax which I never mind in the past because the food was sooo good.
The food is bad the rooms are old and falling apart the resort charges a separate resort fee of $67 daily plus tax of $12 daily for attractions which I have never paid before must be new and I never let my children entertain the rides because of how old and wore down the water park is. The lagoon is smelly and nasty. I feel bad for the little boy that never came back up from the lagoon again that was hidden. Miami is not looking bad at all. At least I’m safer and accounted for in the States. The Bahamas is not the Caribbean and people need to know that, The Bahamas is The West Indies.
The Atlantis is up for sale and buyers are turning it down due to so many problems that need to be fixed. My 9yo daughter asked me what does it mean when I say the staff are not like they use to be and I simply explained the best way I could I said if you have a substitute teacher that is very nice and lets you and your friends do what you want because she’s not on staff there she’s just there temporarily will you treat her differently and my daughter was honest and said I may do things I wouldn’t do if my permanent teacher was there and I said that’s kind of how the staff are they are not as attentive as they usually are and it’s because they know the Atlantis is up in the air with no potential buyer. Brookfield is fed up and ready to sell ASAP.
Staff is not as attentive as they were in the past I could count maybe 4x I saw a guard at the entrance to the elevator. A guard was always there and at the entrance. I have never had a problem with the fee because I’ve always said I pay for my children and me to be safe and now that has changed.
I just kept thinking what if something like This happened to me when I was younger my family is okay but not wealthy and they would be left to think I killed myself that’s terrible. I felt so bad for her I could remember myself being there that young at the Atlantis because I could get peace of mind and I didn’t have to pay duties/taxes at the Gucci or Fendi Shop. I will not go back and if I do it may be at the Baha Mar but that’s another story because Nassau is the worst island in the Bahamas with killings every day hopefully the security is better.
I heard the water park at Baha Mar will be done before the year is out and I’m told it should be better than the Atlantis. We will see. All I can say is be safe travel with friends and family when going to the Atlantis and don’t ride the jet skies they are not regulated by the Resorts but by the locals and The Who knows the last time they were serviced. Be careful and ask questions it’s your right.
The killing happened at The Royal Towers on the 3rd floor in 2018 and I was there that year in June 2018 and after a day we were moved to The Cove because of a bad plumbing problem at the Royal Tower I don’t remember which floor I was ok but sheesh I couldn’t believe what I read and to think I was there with my family a month after a homicide. Shame on you Atlantis.
Its normal to check.out the complex before you go travelling to the Atlantis?
Bahamas very safe
Just saying if anyone is reading this and thinking that the Bahamas is super unsafe it is very safe. As long as you aren’t being an idiot and putting yourself in dangerous situations you will be fine.
Very Safe for Tourists
The Bahamas is VERY SAFE for tourists. Honestly, Gang crimes and murder rates have NOTHING to do with tourists and are especially NOT happening in touristy areas. The only things tourists should worry about is petty scams and rain.
You gotta follow some rules though…
I have been to Nassau twice, would not say no to another visit.
To keep things on the safe side I think having someone accompany you would be safer, especially if you’re venturing outside after dark.
As with most other places, especially when it comes to islands, crimes against tourists are very rare, more so near hotels or resorts.
I have to say, I never felt unsafe here and I’m generally not the type to be extra protective of my wallet or other belongings. Downtown Nassau benefits from a lot of police officers patrolling and the East Bay Street – Downtown route is rather safe.
All water-related activities are fun and quite decently priced but if you’re a woman traveling solo I would skip it altogether since not all ‘companies’ are regulated, you don’t really know who you’re dealing with. We went on a snorkeling tour which was fun but the whole atmosphere was rather amateurish and the boat we got there with, well, I’m glad we got out of it alive.
You have to stop by “The Daiquiri Shack”, they make the best drinks and the whole area is ok for any tourists as it’s located near two hotels. If you’re a big snacker or you just want to hit the local grocery stores to buy random stuff be prepared to overspend, the prices here are surreal!
The “Over the Hill” area is branded as a place where you go if you wanna get in trouble, I never went past that point.
During my stay I saw no unpleasant incident except for the shock I had when I tried to buy a statue that would have looked lovely above my fireplace. I will place cab drivers in the same category as these guys love ripping people off. I just did what my dad does: I went around asking several drivers for their fees and went with the lowest one.
Fair
I stayed at a hostel between cable beach and love beach, here right now (Viking Hill). Didn’t get toilet paper, a towel, a pillow, a induction of facility, my room under construction, ceiling leaking. Had to put towels and bowl down. Taxis expensive. Beaches rocky unless at big hotels. Tropical storm, most excisions cancelled. The good part diving with Sharks ❤️🦈. Dilly Dally walking tour in the rain, better than in room. Bohemians I’ve met sincerely nice. Although, I got yelled at and cursed at by a homeless man in downtown Nassau, but as long as he didn’t touch me, I’m good. by the hostel good spots to hang, travelers rest and spot next door. Bus situation is much cheaper than taxi. Didn’t know of murder rate, but be safe use your brain.
Bahamas was a huge let down, go someplace else
I will NEVER go back. It was the absolute worst vacation of my life.
Stayed at the Riu, which is a run down all- inclusive resort on Paradise Island. Most staff were not very friendly, though to be fair there were those few that did treat the guests liked welcomed visitors- this was absolutely the exception in our experience.
The rooms at the Riu rooms were not well-kept, crumbs, dust hair everywhere & smelled strongly of mold/ mildew. The beds were very uncomfortable, pillows teeny/tiny squares. Plumbing in bad shape, HVAC needs to be overhauled as the mold/mildew smell was strongest when it was on. The pool was OK, when intoxicated people were not vomiting in it.
The beach area is patrolled by many aggressive vendors who will constantly bug you to buy something. It was very hard to relax.
The Riu did not have an ATM, most taxis only took cash & were VERY pricey. The Riu did not consistently offer the advertised accommodations (not a daily pool side BBQ as advertised, coffee/snack bar not really open-during advertised hours), food was meh and super salty. Had to book the specialty dining 2 days in advance.
Honestly, this particular resort was staffed by people who didn’t seem to care about the paying customers. I’ve never been to a hotel where the majority of the staff were so unfriendly.
Nassau was nuts- it was dirty, trash strewn everywhere, & full of extremely aggressive vendors. However, we did enjoy the pirate museum.
This vacation was so bad we left the country early. We will never go back.
bahamas is not the place you think.
so far have been here for a day and a half and are staying in a gated community. first day we arrived the catcalls started immediately to my girlfriend the second we left the airport to go outside. the taxi driver we got (fully licensed with yellow plates) decided to go get “gas” when he brought us to the middle of no where. where many vehicles and men approached the cab. i closed the windows and doors and everyone left once i did that. the driver returned and i had looked at the gas guage and it was at a quarter tank…didn’t even put gas in it. when ended up at our location after a very stressful and unpleasant cab ride around the backside of the island. the driver had no reason to do this. other than well what we can all assume to be either some sort of setup that they tried or some really really weird coincidence. the people downtown nassau are great people. other people…not so much. very hostile feeling when in public. never felt “safe”. yes. i’m aware every city in the world has its crime and it’s problems. but here. just felt different. felt like we didn’t belong. like we were unwelcome and they were just playing us. extremely scary to see what happened to us. the driver even left the keys in the ignition and left the car running and opened the passenger door where my girlfriend was sitting. insisting on the men leave the vehicle to get something to eat. just weird. not having a great time so far. i don’t know if i did something wrong but. it just feels very negative here