Nassau Straw Market

The Nassau Straw Market is the most iconic shopping destination in the Bahamas, and whether you love it or find it overwhelming, it's a quintessential Nassau experience that most families want to check off their list. Housed in a covered building right on Bay Street — about a 3-minute walk from the cruise ship terminal — the market packs nearly 500 vendor stalls into a labyrinth of narrow aisles.

The market gets its name from the traditional Bahamian straw-weaving craft that's practiced here. The most authentic items are handwoven straw bags, hats, placemats, and dolls made by Bahamian artisans using techniques passed down through generations. These are the best souvenirs — unique, handmade, and genuinely local.

Beyond straw goods, you'll find T-shirts, shell jewelry, wood carvings, hot sauces, and every other souvenir imaginable.

For kids, the market is a treasure hunt. Let them pick a small budget ($10-15) and find their own souvenir — the act of choosing and negotiating is half the fun. Older kids can try haggling, which vendors generally enjoy. Start by offering 50-60% of the asking price and meet in the middle. It's expected and part of the culture.

The reality check: the market can be intense with young children. The aisles are narrow and packed during cruise ship hours (roughly 10 AM to 3 PM), vendors call out to you as you pass, and the atmosphere is chaotic. With toddlers in strollers, navigation is tough. The sweet spot is a quick 20-30 minute visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when crowds thin out.

The covered roof makes it a decent rain shelter, though it gets hot inside without much air circulation. It's free to enter and browse — you only spend what you choose to buy. Combine it with a walk down Bay Street to see the colonial architecture and local shops for a full downtown experience.