British Colonial Nassau Girls Trip Highlights

Facebook Tweet Pin LinkedIn

The age-old question when planning a girls trip is – are we looking to relax on the beach or fill our time with exploration and things to do? The British Colonial Nassau in the Bahamas solves this quandary by giving the best of both worlds. Located in the heart of downtown Nassau, the hotel also features a 300-foot private beach. Spend the morning on the beach, enjoy a lunch in one of their seven dining outlets then take the afternoon to explore downtown with your girlfriends.

View from the sandy beach looking toward the pastel yellow facade of the British Colonial Nassau hotel, featuring palm trees and blue and yellow patio umbrellas. — From sand to pool in minutes. The back of the British Colonial Nassau opens directly onto its private beach deck. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

Highlights

Best of Both Worlds: On-site pools and private beach for rest and water fun, plus easy access to downtown Nassau for shopping, culture and nightlife.
No rental car or taxi needed : Easily walk to downtown Nassau’s shopping, dining and cultural attractions.
Authentic Island Vibe : Feel like you’re really in the Bahamas, unlike a large resort where you’re isolated from the rest of the island.

Editor’s note: the writer was hosted.

Let us inspire your travels! Sign up for our newsletter now.

First Impressions of the British Colonial Nassau

Interior view of the renovated historic lobby at the British Colonial Nassau resort in the Bahamas showcasing plush white seating columns and a grand staircase. — The grand staircase in the beautiful lobby at the British Colonial Nassau is popular for photos for proms, weddings and reunions. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

The British Colonial is about a 20-minute taxi ride from the airport in Nassau and from the moment I walked into the lobby, I was mesmerized by the beautiful design and style. The staff is friendly and went out of their way to help with anything I needed (and yes, I was ‘that’ person who needed a new room key because I accidentally left mine in the room).

This hotel was renovated in 2023 and has a long history. Originally constructed in 1900, it was rebuilt after a fire in 1924, and its timeless elegance is evident everywhere in the building’s architecture and decor. There’s a rich historic legacy that’s apparent throughout the property.

A bright guest room at the British Colonial Nassau in the Bahamas featuring a bed with a white coverlet and three large windows overlooking the ocean and cruise ship harbor. — Waking up to this view every morning was my favorite part of my stay at the British Colonial Nassau. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

There are a variety of room options, mostly differentiated by bed configuration and view. City, garden or ocean views are available. The hotel has 288 rooms and 25 suites, all recently renovated. My room was an Ocean View King and included a tiled bathroom with glass shower, tub and light-up mirror. The centerpiece of the room was the beautiful view of the waterfront and cruise ships in port.

The room was a good size and I appreciated the long counter with drawers and small fridge, and the desk with plenty of space to spread my things out. The best part was that the bed faced the windows with that gorgeous view to wake up to every morning.

A few of my favorite things about the hotel:

Instead of a room key that you need a pocket or bag to keep with you, the British Colonial’s ‘key’ is a small tag on a ribbon bracelet that opens your door with a tap. Don’t be me – just leave it on your wrist and don’t worry about having to remember to take your key whenever you head out.
The British Colonial is located on the harbor near the Nassau Cruise Port and I was fascinated by the huge ships coming and going. They have to do a 180-degree turn either on the way in or the way out of the port, which is so cool to watch.
The pool deck and beach are just steps outside the hotel building, so there’s no long trek to and from your room.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Don’t put the key bracelet on too tight. The closure isn’t meant to slide up and down, so you’re pretty much stuck with however tight you make it initially. But, don’t go too loose – you want to ensure it stays on and that you’re not tempted to take it off and accidentally forget to put it back on, as I did.

Relax: Beach Vacation Vibes

The private white sand beach at the British Colonial Nassau in the Bahamas featuring lounge chairs umbrellas and ocean views. — The private beach is amazing whether you prefer to lounge in the sun or take a dip in the warm Caribbean waters (or both!). Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

The star of this hotel is the private 300-foot sandy beach, right out the back doors past the pools. It’s so nice to pull up a lounge chair and lie in the sun or splash in the clear Caribbean water only a minute’s walk from your hotel room. Chaises are plentiful and you can snag a group of them for you and your friends, either under a beach umbrella or not.

Why I love this beach:

Swim shoes are not necessary – wear them if you prefer, but the sand is soft, both on the beach and in the water.
There’s a clear swim section so you don’t have to worry about accidentally going out too far, especially with boats and ships coming and going.
You’d never know there’s a busy cruise port next door and downtown Nassau behind you. Obviously it’ll be louder the more people who are on the beach, but you’re really sheltered from the rest of Nassau. It really feels like a secluded resort.
Non-motorized water sports are available and free, including kayaks, pedal water bikes and canoes.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Don’t forget sun protection! There are beach umbrellas but there isn’t much natural shade in the beach and pool area.

Relax: Play or Soak in the Freshwater Pools

One of the oceanfront freshwater pools at the British Colonial Nassau resort in the Bahamas featuring luxury pool loungers and palm trees. — The curved lines of the pools and the shaded pod chairs make for a cool, breezy vibe on the pool deck. The deeper plunge pool is on the other side of the bridge on the far side. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

The two pools are connected but very different. The one-foot, zero-entry pool was wonderful to just hang out in to soak and listen to music or read. It would be a great option for hanging with friends and chatting while staying cool. The other pool is a plunge pool that incorporates a six-foot deep section. You can also relax in this pool, but while I was there it was always more crowded.

Pool highlights:

Chaise loungers and beach umbrellas are available, or you can rent a cabana with a daybed. There are also very cool pod chairs (rental reservation also required) that looked so comfy and give great shade.
Beach towels are provided in both the beach and pool areas. Both seemed to be well-stocked and towels were available any time I needed them.
There isn’t a swim-up bar, but the outdoor Red Pearl Bar & Grille is right on the pool deck.
There is no hot tub but you can get a day pass to the sister property next door (Margaritaville), which has hot tubs, a water park with lazy river and water slides.

Explore: Culture and History in Nassau

A pirate ship historical display in Pirates of Nassau in the Bahamas highlighting the islands legendary history as a pirate republic. — Enter if you dare! There is so much to see and learn at the Pirates of Nassau museum. Tours are self-guided so you go at your own pace. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

When you head out the front door of the British Colonial, you are right in the heart of downtown Nassau and just steps away from the cruise port and amenities there. And you don’t need a taxi or rental car to get to them!

In the 1700s, Nassau was known as a haven for pirates. And it’s impossible to ignore the city’s history of colonialism and slavery. You can still see and visit remnants of this history when exploring the area.

A few options are:

Pirates of Nassau : Less than two blocks from the British Colonial, this museum contains a self-guided walk through the city’s rich pirate history. There’s a life-sized replica of a pirate ship as well as artifacts and scenes with all things pirate-related. Takes about 45 minutes to an hour to experience, and well worth the visit. Test your pirate knowledge and see if you can answer all of the true or false questions correctly!

Interior view of a historic cathedral in downtown Nassau Bahamas highlighting detailed stained glass windows and traditional wooden pews. — The historic Christ Church Cathedral is definitely worth a visit to see the architecture and beautiful stained glass. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

Christ Church Cathedral : Originally built during the late 1600s to 1800s, this is still a functioning Anglican church and is across the street from the pirate museum. The public is welcome to walk through and admire the beautiful stained glass windows and historical architecture for free, although donations are welcome.

Looking down the historic Queens Staircase in Nassau Bahamas featuring brick steps flanked by carved limestone cliffs and tropical foliage. — All 66 steps of this stone staircase are steeped in history. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

The Queen’s Staircase : Just under a mile walk from the British Colonial, this historic, 66-step stone staircase was carved by 600 slaves in the late 1700s. At the bottom is a walkway between tall stone walls and a waterfall. It was named after Queen Victoria, who abolished slavery when she took the British throne. Fort Fincastle sits at the top of the staircase, but is currently closed for a restoration project. The stairs are free to climb.
Gregory’s Arch : This stone arch was built in 1852 and marks the edge of downtown Nassau, separating it from the area known as “Over The Hill”.

Parliament Square in downtown Nassau Bahamas featuring pink colonial government architecture and the historic Queen Victoria statue. — One of the most recognizable landmarks in the Bahamas – Parliament Square was built in the early 1800s. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

Parliament Square : The heart of the Bahamian government, these buildings are iconic for their pink and white architecture as well as the Queen Victoria statue in front. It’s located on Bay Street, just a short walk from the British Colonial.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Bring water! Nassau is warm and humid, year-round. Even if you don’t think you’ll need it, it’s important to hydrate as you explore. I very gratefully bought a bottle for $2 from a woman with a cooler at the top of the Queen’s Staircase.

Explore: Shopping and Food in Nassau

Exterior entrance of the World Famous Bahamas Straw Market in downtown Nassau featuring colorful Caribbean architecture and Junkanoo statues. — The Straw Market contains 400-500 vendors selling everything from wooden carvings to straw bags, t-shirts and other souvenirs. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

From artisans to jewelry stores and souvenir shops, there’s a lot to browse and buy within an easy walking distance from the British Colonial. The port itself has shops and dining options but if you prefer to stay in Nassau proper, you’re certainly not missing out. I did not eat at any of the close-by, offsite restaurants but there’s a Senor Frogs location as well as Lukka Kairi Waterfront Bar & Grill, just adjacent to the British Colonial.

Interior view of the Nassau Straw Market in the Bahamas showing local vendor stalls stacked high with handwoven bags and wood crafts. — Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it in the Straw Market! Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

Shopping spots of note:

The Straw Market is a huge artisan and souvenir market where many (many!) Bahamians sell everything from trinkets and gifts to hand-carved wooden items. It was easier for me to take the market in chunks, as it is a densely enclosed (and very warm) space. Some of the sellers can be a bit aggressive, but it was easy to simply say “No, thank you” and walk on.
High-End Boutiques and Jewelry Stores are located all throughout the downtown shopping district. You’ll find everything from Cartier and Rolex to Diamonds International.
Street vendors are also all around. I bought a beautiful hand-painted magnet at a stall where you could watch the artist at work.

Outdoor craft vendor selling authentic Bahamian conch shells and handmade shell jewelry in downtown Nassau, Bahamas. — The Queen conch is used for food (Conch salad is a staple!) as well as made into jewelry and art pieces. You can buy conch jewelry right from street vendors – and this one even included a free conch with jewelry purchase. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

SheBuysTravel Tip: Everything is negotiable, although I found the prices to be very reasonable anyway. Most vendors take credit cards but some only accept cash, so it’s a good idea to have a few Bahamian (or US) dollars on you. The two currencies are always equal in value so both are accepted.

Dine On-Site in Style

Smoked salmon toast served with fresh sliced avocado and edible orchid garnish at Tamarind Marketplace at the British Colonial Nassau. — The Smoked Salmon Toast at the Tamarind Marketplace was presented beautifully and looked so delicious! Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

Although all of downtown Nassau is right outside, you don’t have to leave the hotel for meals. From dinner and drinks to grab-and-go, they have you covered:

Tamarind Marketplace (breakfast-only) : Bright and open with great waterfront views, they have a menu to order from, as well as buffet and chef-manned station options. A mix of traditional and Bahamian dishes are available. The American was a delicious, familiar favorite for me and others in my group loved the Island French Toast and Green Goddess Quinoa Bowl.

A resort buffet with bowls of ramen noodles topped with half a soft boiled egg and purple orchid alongside fresh vegetable toppings at the British Colonial Nassau. — We were served a ramen, sushi and noodle buffet right on the beach. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

Sakana Noodle & Sushi Bar : Great for a quick meal, they offer sushi, ramen and noodle dishes. I’m not a sushi fan but loved the vegetable ramen and Soba noodles that we were served in a buffet right out on the beach. The noodles had just the right amount of spice to give a kick without being overwhelming.

Interior view of the Woodes Rogers Tavern at British Colonial Nassau with vaulted ceilings dark mahogany accents green velvet chairs and a long marble bar. — The Woodes Rogers Tavern is perfect for dinner, drinks or to enjoy the weekly Jazz Night! Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

Woodes Rogers Tavern : Martini bar with a wide selection of craft cocktails and wines, plus a dining menu. The dark wood decor gives a jazz age vibe, which is the ideal setting for their weekly jazz night every Thursday.
Fort Nassau Cigar Lounge : Outdoor cigar bar with Cuban cigars, rums and Caribbean-inspired light fare. We didn’t eat here but it looked cozy and a great way to unwind after a long day.

Pool patio at the British Colonial Nassau resort in the Bahamas, with bright teal lounge chairs wooden shade cabanas with draped white curtains and lush tropical landscaping. — Whether you are just hanging out on the pool deck or rent one of the poolside cabanas, you can order from the Red Pearl Grille menu right from your chair. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

Red Pearl Bar & Grille : Outdoor with a great view of the waterfront, they serve burgers, sandwiches and bowls. The fish tacos and smash burgers come highly recommended! Their classic chicken caesar salad was absolutely delicious too.
British Colonial Trading Company : Lobby coffee bar with light sandwiches, pastries and more to grab and munch on the go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the British Colonial Nassau an all-inclusive resort?

No, it operates on a standard European Plan (EP), meaning food and drinks are a la carte. This is actually a major perk for a girls’ trip here because it encourages you to explore. You can enjoy a casual beachside lunch at the Red Pearl Grille, but you aren’t “locked in” to eating every meal on-property when downtown Nassau’s incredible local food scene is right outside the front door.

Is the British Colonial Nassau safe for an all-girls trip or solo female travelers?

Yes. Because the hotel is a major historic landmark right downtown, it has excellent on-site security, a grand interior lobby and private beachfront access restricted to guests and day-pass holders. Plus, being on Bay Street means you don’t have to walk down dark, isolated roads to get to local restaurants or shopping. I never felt unsafe or uncomfortable walking by myself.

What is the “crowd vibe” like during the shoulder season?

Because you are traveling during the slower season, you bypass the massive spring break or winter holiday crowds. You won’t need to wake up at 6:00 AM to “save” beach chairs with a towel. I visited in early June and found crowds to be low and easily manageable.

Does the hotel have a spa on-site for a girls’ pampering day?

The British Colonial doesn’t house its own standalone spa, but it has a great workaround. Guests have seamless access to the St. Somewhere Spa, located right next door at its sister property, the Margaritaville Beach Resort (part of the same complex). You can easily book massages, facials and salon treatments just a two-minute walk away.

Are the beach water sports actually free?

Yes, all non-motorized water sports are completely complimentary for overnight hotel guests. Your group can grab kayaks, canoes and waterbikes right on the 300-foot private beach without paying an extra rental fee.

Can we rent private cabanas by the pool?

Absolutely. If your group wants an elevated pool day, you can rent private poolside cabanas. They come with dedicated shade, plush loungers, a snack basket and cold drinks.

Can we walk to local attractions from the hotel, or will we need to rent a car/take taxis?

Skip the rental car entirely! The hotel boasts a walkability score that is tough to beat in Nassau. You are just a 5-to-10-minute walk from the famous Nassau Straw Market, the freshly updated Nassau Cruise Port (which has great shopping and local vendors) and downtown historic sites. Taxis are easily available at the front entrance if you want to head to Paradise Island or the Fish Fry at Arawak Cay.

SheBuysTravel writers have been where you’re going. We share our ground-truth experience to save you time, money and energy, making your trips easier. Been There. Bought That. Since 2006.