Whether you’re searching for the perfect souvenir of your time in The Bahamas, browsing for gifts for family and friends back home, or simply looking to treat yourself, Nassau Paradise Island is full of fun shops, luxurious boutiques, and one-of-a-kind craft markets. With tons of variety, you’ll be able to pick out the ideal treat for yourself or someone else no matter what your price point. In fact, with so many options to choose from, your biggest challenge may be fitting all your purchases in your luggage! You may be familiar with the world-famous Straw Market in Nassau, but there are plenty of other places to purchase unique Bahamian treasures. Here are just a few of the must-see shops and markets in Nassau Paradise Island.
Genuinely Bahamian – For an authentic taste of The Bahamas you can enjoy long after you’re back home, check out Genuinely Bahamian, whose selection is sourced from traditional Bahamian recipes and local island ingredients. Here you’ll find jams, jellies, sauces, rum cakes, candies, and other edible treats. You can also browse designer fashions, art, and many other unique Bahamian treasures.
Doongalik Art Gallery – Established in the 1970s by the late cultural activist Jackson Burnside III and his wife Pam Burnside, Doongalik Studios is an art museum that promotes The Bahamas as not only a vacation destination, but an established contemporary art district as well. The studio features an ever-changing collection of works by Bahamian artists. Doongalik is open Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Craft Cottage – Adjacent to Doongalik Art Gallery, Craft Cottage showcases some the most unique, locally made gift items you’ll find anywhere. There are usually a handful of local artists present, so don’t be shy – feel free to strike up a conversation about their work!
Bahama Art & Handicraft – Located in a restored home just five minutes away from Paradise Island, Bahama Art & Handicraft is a treasure chest of island-made souvenirs, crafts, and artwork that reflect Island life and culture. Stop by Bahama Art & Handicraft Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
My Ocean – Discover soaps, candles, ceramics, and bath and body products at My Ocean, the brainchild of Bahamian artist Tanya Klonaris Azevedo. You’ll notice while browsing that each product is influenced by the ocean and has been developed with sustainability in mind. There’s also a My Ocean at the Nassau airport for last-minute shopping. Visit My Ocean Monday-Saturday from 9:30-5:30 and on Sunday from 8:30-4 p.m.
Bahamas Craft Centre – Shop for authentic Bahamian crafts such as Junkanoo art, wood carvings, straw work, and conch jewelry at the Bahamas Crafts Centre, a mini-Straw Market located on Paradise Island. Be prepared to test your bargaining skills and to see local artisans working their magic! The Centre is open daily from 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Marina Village – Located next to Atlantis Paradise Island, Marina Village is home to more than 20 designer and retail shops, plus casual dining, ice cream, and coffee to fuel your shopping spree! In addition to shopping for everything from resort wear to rum cakes, Marina Village has a lively, fun vibe and frequently hosts live entertainment. Unwind after a day of shopping with a stroll along the nearby Marina at Atlantis, where you’ll see magnificent luxury yachts from around the world.