Things to do in Nassau for the adventure-hungry traveller

If you want a side of excitement with your suntan...

There's no denying that the Bahamas' famed white beaches are absolutely worth flying over for, but there's a lot to do in Nassau that goes beyond a sun lounger. As the capital of the sun-drenched region, it's teeming with things to do if you're in the mood for a more active holiday. (Not that we don't love lying about with a Piña Colada in hand.)

We’ve done the digging and rounded up three thrill-seeking highlights in the region below. And if you’re feeling the travel bug, you can always head on over to BA.com to book a flight to ocean paradise. We’re just saying, a flight goes out five times a week to Nassau from Heathrow Airport...how much annual leave do we have left again?

Brave the Shark Wall

(Photo) ©Bahamas Ministry Of Tourism

If you're looking to get some use out of your old PADI certificate and you don't scare easily, Nassau is the ultimate shark diving destination. With several dedicated scuba centres, most guided diving tours will take you to Shark Wall or one of three other shark hotspots. You'll be accompanied by a professional shark feeder who'll coax the predators out of their hiding places with bait - don't panic when they get too close for comfort...

Ride the waves

This isn’t your standard boat trip. Head out to Ship Channel Cay to join Powerboat Adventures, where you’ll hop on board a speed boat and live out your aquatic The Fast and the Furious fantasies. The thrilling tour will zip you around a stunning private island at speeds as high as forty miles per hour (so hang onto your hat) and eventually drop you off on Ship Channel Cay’s crystal shores. Once you’ve recovered from your windswept journey, you’ll take things slow with a Nassau-style barbecue lunch and thrill seekers will also have the opportunity to snorkel with nearby reef sharks.

Join the Junkanoo celebrations

These bold national carnivals give the likes of Rio de Janeiro a run for their money. The popular consensus is that it dates back to times when slavery was still rife in the region and enslaved people were given three days to party as hard as they could. The main Junkanoo Carnival takes place on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day, but throughout the year you can definitely expect dance troupes dressed in bright costumes, sick rhythms beaten on traditional Goombay drums and elements of the world-famous Junkanoo Parade sweeping a path around your hotel or through the streets. Not there at the right time? You can always head over to the Junkanoo Museum to get a taste of the festivities - bring your dancing shoes, you’ll want to join in.

Images ‘Courtesy Of Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board’