Blue Lagoon Island
Nassau, Blue Lagoon Island
With its stretch of white sands fringed by coconut palm trees and lush rainforest, Blue Lagoon Island—also known as 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 spend the day taking it easy on one of the island’s beaches.
The basics
The private Blue Lagoon Island feels worlds away from Nassau’s bustle—in fact, it can only be reached via boat or ferry. Blue Lagoon Island tours include an all-inclusive beach day and a Blue Lagoon Island Segway tour, with friendly dolphin encounters and swim sessions with sea lions available for an additional fee. Meanwhile, the island’s aqua park will entertain the kids, and the whole family can enjoy water sports like sea kayaking, tubing, and scuba diving.
Things to know before you go
Snacks and drinks such as fruit punch are available on the island, but budget-minded travelers may prefer to pack a picnic.
Those traveling to the Bahamas on a cruise can book shore excursions to Blue Lagoon Island.
Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Amenities including showers, beach chairs, and changing stations are available at the island’s beach.
How to get there
Blue Lagoon Island is located 3 miles (5 kilometers) from the northeast coast of Nassau (about 20 minutes by boat) and can be reached by regular ferries from nearby Paradise Island. Ferries depart from Paradise Island Ferry Terminal, located under the Paradise Island Bridge. The last ferry from Blue Lagoon Island back to Paradise Island is usually before sunset. Make sure to check the return ferry schedule when you arrive at the island.
When to get there
Regular private, ticketed ferries run throughout the day from Paradise Island. To beat the crowds, and heat, go early. Most travelers spend anywhere from a few hours to a full day on the island. The last ferry from Blue Lagoon Island back to Paradise Island is usually at 4pm, so plan accordingly.
The best islands in the Bahamas
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.
Ways to explore
The private Blue Lagoon Island feels worlds away from Nassau’s bustle—in fact, it can only be reached by boat. It’s worth booking an all-inclusive day trip to make the most of your visit and take advantage of the round-trip transportation. Upon arrival, you can relax on the beach, swim in the turquoise sea, or opt for a more active excursion, with kayaks, snorkeling gear, and more available to rent.
Blue Lagoon Island also offers kid-friendly attractions, such as an inflatable aqua park, plus opportunities for wildlife viewing and encounters.
Accessibility
Unfortunately, Blue Lagoon Island is not readily accessible to wheelchair users.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Sun protection, towels, cash or credit cards
What to wear
Wear your bathing suit and water shoes, and bring cover-ups or lightweight layers to wear after your beach visit.
Not allowed
Outside food and drink, metal detectors, coolers, fishing equipment
Amenities
Lifeguards, gift shops, food and drink options, bathrooms and showers
Address
The only way to access Blue Lagoon Island is via its own boat services. If you’re on a cruise, you’ll be picked up at the Nassau Cruise Port; everyone else is picked up at the Paradise Island Ferry Terminal.
Driving
There is no way to drive to Blue Lagoon Island. To get to the Paradise Island Ferry Terminal, you’re best off taking a taxi, as parking is limited on the island.
Public transportation
From Downtown Nassau, you can take the ferry from Prince George Wharf to the Paradise Island Ferry Terminal. Cruise ship passengers will be able to walk to their pick-up spot.
Best times to visit
Blue Lagoon Island activities typically last half a day, and are timed to cruise-ship schedules; consult the calendar for more timings when booking.
Best days to visit
Activities at Blue Lagoon Island are typically hosted daily. Expect weekends to be more in demand.
Best months to visit
While winter is the high season in the Bahamas, it’s also when attractions are likely to be most crowded. Consider the autumn or spring shoulder seasons instead.
Special events
Blue Lagoon Island offers a wide range of programs, from adult-only beach days to wildlife encounters—consult its website for more.
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