Goodman's Bay Beach
Price
Free
Duration
2-4 hours
Best Ages
All ages
About
Goodman's Bay is the beach that Nassau locals don't want tourists to discover — and for good reason. This beautiful crescent of white sand on West Bay Street between downtown and Cable Beach offers everything families need without the crowds, vendors, and chaos of the tourist beaches.
The beach faces west into protected waters, which means the swimming is calm and gentle — ideal for young children. The sand is soft and white, the water is that signature Bahamian turquoise, and the big advantage over tourist beaches is the natural shade. Mature casuarina trees line the entire beach, providing dappled shade without having to rent umbrellas or bring your own.
Families can set up under the trees and have the best of both worlds: beach access and shade.
Behind the beach, a grassy park area offers space for picnics, ball games, and running around. There are some basic facilities (parking, limited restroom access) but no commercial services — no vendors, no chair rentals, no food stands. You need to bring everything yourself, but that's part of the appeal. No one will approach you trying to sell jet ski rides or hair braiding.
Goodman's Bay is primarily a community beach, popular with Bahamian families on weekends and holidays. The atmosphere is warm, social, and authentically local — a stark contrast to the tourist-heavy beaches on Paradise Island. During Junkanoo season (December-January) and Bahamian holidays, the beach hosts community celebrations with live music, food, and dancing that are genuinely special to witness.
Location-wise, it's about a 10-minute drive west of downtown Nassau or a 10-minute drive east of Cable Beach/Baha Mar, making it easy to reach from most Nassau accommodations. The Fish Fry at Arawak Cay is a 5-minute drive for lunch.
For families who want a peaceful, authentic beach day without spending a dollar, Goodman's Bay is the answer. Pack a cooler, bring beach toys, and plan to stay all morning.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Nursing / Changing
Not Available
Kid Meals
Not Available
Setting
Outdoor
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings for near-empty beach. Popular with locals on weekends and Bahamian holidays. Known for hosting Junkanoo events and community gatherings.
Wait Times
No wait. Ample parking and space.
Nearby Food
No on-beach food. The Fish Fry at Arawak Cay is a 5-minute drive east. Baha Mar resort restaurants are 10 minutes west on Cable Beach. Pack a cooler for the best experience.
Why Kids Love It
Goodman's Bay is the locals' beach that tourists rarely find, and that's what makes it special. The long crescent of white sand faces the calm western waters, and the swimming is gentle and safe for children. There are mature casuarina trees lining the beach that provide natural shade — a huge advantage over the shadeless tourist beaches.
Kids love the spaciousness — even on busy days, there's room to run, play, and build without being on top of other families. The park area behind the beach has grassy space for picnics and games. It's a community beach where Bahamian families come to spend their weekends, and the atmosphere is warm, relaxed, and authentic.
During Junkanoo season, this beach hosts community celebrations that are incredible to witness.
Pro Tips from Parents
- The casuarina trees provide natural shade — claim a spot under them and you won't need an umbrella
- This is a local beach, not a tourist beach — the vibe is authentic and relaxed
- Bring everything you need — no vendors, no restaurants, no chair rentals
- The grassy park area behind the beach is great for picnics and games
- On Junkanoo or holiday weekends, the beach comes alive with music and community gatherings — incredible cultural experience
What to Bring
- Packed lunch and drinks in a cooler
- Beach towels and chairs
- Sunscreen (though the trees provide shade)
- Beach toys and games
- Frisbee or football for the grassy park area
Cost Info
Free Admission
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
Completely free.
Bring your own everything — no vendors or rental services.
Tips to Save
- 100% free beach with parking.
- Bring all your own supplies.
- One of the most underrated family beaches in Nassau.