With its stretch of white sands fringed by coconut palm trees and a lush rain forest, Blue Lagoon Island—or Salt Cay—provides an idyllic escape from the crowds of Nassau, offering everything you’d expect from a tropical island. Bring the whole family along for some fun in the sun, or take it easy for a day of pure beachy bliss on Blue Lagoon Island Beach.
The private Blue Lagoon Island feels worlds away from Nassau’s bustle—in fact, it can only be reached via boat or ferry. Tour options include an all-inclusive beach day and a Blue Lagoon Island Segway tour, with dolphin encounters and swim sessions with sea lions available for an additional fee. Meanwhile, kids will be entertained by the island’s aqua park, and the whole family can enjoy water sports like sea kayaking, tubing, and scuba diving.
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Snacks and drinks such as fruit punch are available on the island, but budget-minded travelers may prefer to pack a picnic.
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Those traveling to the Bahamas on a cruise can book shore excursions to Blue Lagoon Island.
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Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
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Amenities including showers, beach chairs, and changing stations are available at the island’s beach.
Blue Lagoon Island is located 3 miles (5 kilometers) from the northeast coast of Nassau (about a 20-minute boat ride), and can be reached by regular ferries from nearby Paradise Island.
Regular private, ticketed ferries run throughout the day from Paradise Island. To beat the crowds, go early. Travelers spend anywhere from a few hours to a full day on the island.
Blue Lagoon Island is just one of the more than 700 islands that make up the Bahamas. Other popular day-trip destinations include the Exumas, a string of islands known for sailing, diving, and snorkeling; the Biminis, a remote cluster of islands close to Miami known for big game fishing; and the Abacos, a popular sailing and swimming destination.