Rose Island is an idyllic private getaway off the coast of Nassau. Home to a coral reef and a lone beach bar, this tiny, tropical islet offers an exclusive setting for snorkeling and sunbathing on an 11-mile (18-kilometer) stretch of uninhabited, privately owned Bahamian beach.
A short, 25-minute boat ride east of New Providence Island whisks you away from crowds and ashore this intimate corner of paradise. Take a dip in the crystalline lagoon, sip a drink at the beachfront bar, or snooze in an oceanfront hammock. More active options include snorkeling, kayaking, and beach volleyball. If you’re interested in socializing, join in on the private island’s beach bar parties, for which party passes are available from various tour operators.
Full-day excursions to Rose Island usually include access to the pristine beaches, a buffet lunch or welcome drink, and most water sports. Guided snorkeling tours are available to explore the underwater world with the supervision of a guide, who points out the marine flora and fauna.
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Be sure to bring everything with you that you’ll need for the day, including sunscreen, bathing suit, towel, and a sun hat.
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Most guided snorkeling tours include use of snorkel gear.
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A Rose Island day trip is a great option for those wishing to escape the bustle and frenetic energy of Nassau.
Accessible by boat, Rose Island is located three miles (five kilometers) east of Paradise Island, which in turn lies directly off New Providence Island in the Bahamas. Most day trips to the island leave from Paradise Island Ferry Terminal, which is about 1.5 miles (2.5 kilometers) northeast of downtown Nassau and a 5-minute walk south of Paradise Island city center. The boat crossing takes about 25 minutes.
Most tour-goers from Nassau spend the entire day at Rose Island, so visitors can take advantage of all the activities and have plenty of time to lounge on the beach. The high season in the Bahamas, November through April, tends to be crowded but also has the best weather and low chance of rain. During this time, book your Rose Island excursion ahead of time.
Animal lovers will want to book a Rose Island tour that also stops at Pig Beach on Big Major Cay. This beach is famous for its swimming pigs, who will paddle out to greet any boat in search of snacks and human interaction. No one is sure where these non-native pigs came from, but they sure make for great photo ops!