Princess Cays Bahamas: A Hidden Gem in the Caribbean Sea

Have you ever wanted to escape to your own private island paradise but didn’t want to travel too far? Well, just 50 miles east of Nassau in the Princess Cays Bahamas lies Princess Cays, a secluded oasis owned by Princess Cruises that’s waiting to transport you to tropical bliss. You’ll feel the warm sand between your toes and the gentle sea breeze on your face as you gaze at the crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounding the island. 

Welcome to Princess Cays, the Private Island Paradise

Welcome to your own private island oasis! Just a quick boat ride from Nassau, Princess Cays Bahamas offers the secluded beach escape you’ve been dreaming of.

As soon as you step off the tender boat, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to paradise. Soft white sand, swaying palm trees and the turquoise blue Bahamian sea stretch as far as the eye can see. There are over a mile of pristine shoreline and plenty of loungers and hammocks to claim as your own for the day.

Want some adventure? Sign up for activities like snorkeling, kayaking, volleyball and more. You can even rent your own private cabana. The kids will love the playground and beach toys.

When you’ve worked up an appetite, head to the open-air buffet. Fresh seafood, BBQ and tropical fruits are all on the menu. Or grab a snack from one of the food trucks. The signature cocktail of the day comes with an umbrella and bragging rights.

As the sun dips below the horizon, sway to live calypso music. A bonfire lights up the night sky. This secluded paradise is all yours – until the tender whisks you back to the ship. But Princess Cays will stay with you, a perfect island memory to escape to until your next visit.

How Far Is Princess Cays From Nassau?

Princess Cays is only about 30 nautical miles or 35 miles from Nassau, making it an easy day trip destination for cruise passengers and Bahamians alike.

Located on the southern tip of Eleuthera Island, the private beach resort of Princess Cays offers an idyllic island getaway without the long journey. In fact, the short distance between the two places means you’ll be lounging on the beach in no time.

Most cruise lines offer shore excursions to Princess Cays, whether you want to book an organized tour or simply make your own way there. The resort operates a ferry service that shuttles visitors back and forth between the port in Nassau and the island throughout the day. The ride over is usually less than an hour, giving you plenty of time to soak in the sun and sea.

Once on the island, you’ll find a picturesque stretch of beach with swaying palms and turquoise waters. There are also opportunities for activities like beachcombing, kayaking or paddle boarding, volleyball, and snorkeling the colorful reef just offshore. If you work up an appetite, barbecue fare and tropical drinks are available right on the beach.

The real highlight of Princess Cays is its proximity to Nassau. You get the secluded island vibe without venturing too far. And when you’re ready to head back, the city’s many attractions are just a short ferry ride away. For a quick beach getaway or cruise port adventure, the oasis of Princess Cays is the perfect place to spend a day in paradise.

Top Things to Do in Princess Cays Bahamas

Princess Cays is a private island paradise with plenty to keep you entertained for a day. Here are some of the top things to do during your visit:

Relax on the Beach

With over a mile of white sand beach and turquoise blue waters, soaking up the sun is a must. Find a spot to plant your lounge chair and umbrella, slather on some sunscreen and get lost in a book or just gaze at the sea. If you start to feel warm, take a dip in the refreshing ocean or grab a tropical drink from one of the beach bars.

Go Snorkeling or Kayaking

The reefs around Princess Cays are teeming with marine life. Rent some snorkel gear or a kayak and explore on your own or join a guided tour. Paddle around secluded coves and inlets while watching tropical fish swarm below. You may even spot a sea turtle gliding by!

Check Out the Nature Trail

For a bit of light adventure, hit the nature trail that winds through the interior of the island. It’s an easy 1-mile hike that will give you a glimpse into the native flora and fauna. Look for herons, egrets and other bird life among the mangroves and keep an eye out for lizards darting across the path. The trail ends at a scenic lookout point with panoramic views of the sea.

Visit Pelican Beach

On the opposite end of the island from the main beach area lies Pelican Beach, a more secluded spot only accessible by shuttle bus, bike or scooter. The calm, shallow waters make it ideal for young children and the beach is usually less crowded. Rent a cabana for the day and truly unwind in your own private paradise.

A day at Princess Cays Bahamas passes by quickly. But with gorgeous scenery, activities for all interests and a laid-back vibe, you’ll leave wishing you had more time in this island oasis.The perfect complement to a cruise from Nassau, Princess Cays is Caribbean relaxation at its finest.

. Ride the Banana Boat

If lounging on the beach isn’t adventurous enough for you, hop on the banana boat for an exciting ride. This giant inflatable banana-shaped raft pulls up to six people and zips through the waves, twisting and turning. Hold on tight – you’re sure to get soaked!

. Go Paddleboarding

For a fun core workout with a view, rent a paddleboard and explore the coastline of Princess Cays. Paddle through mangroves and over reefs, stopping to snorkel whenever you like. The calm, shallow waters make it perfect for beginners and pros alike.

. Dine at the Beach Shack

After a day of sun and adventure, refuel at the Beach Shack, an open-air beach bar and grill. They offer classic Caribbean fare like jerk chicken, fish tacos, conch fritters and tropical cocktails. Grab a table in the sand and watch the sunset over the turquoise sea. A perfect ending to a perfect day in paradise.

Best Beaches in Princess Cays Bahamas

Princess Cays offers some of the best beaches in the Bahamas, with over a mile of white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Here are a few of the highlights:

Private Cabanas Beach

If you want to escape the crowds, rent one of the private cabanas along this beach. You’ll have your own personal slice of paradise with lounge chairs, umbrellas, and waiter service. It’s the perfect setup for a romantic getaway or family fun day.

Mermaid Beach

With its secluded cove and shallow, calm waters, Mermaid Beach is ideal for families with young kids. The little ones can splash and play without worrying about big waves. It’s also a popular spot for snorkeling, as tropical fish like to gather near the rocky outcroppings. Pack a picnic lunch, build a sandcastle, go for a swim—you can do it all at Mermaid Beach.

Sunset Beach

As the name suggests, this west-facing beach provides a stunning backdrop for watching the sunset. Find a secluded spot in the sand, cozy up with your sweetheart, and enjoy the show as the sun sinks below the horizon, painting the sky with orange and pink hues. The golden light reflecting off the water will take your breath away.

With three amazing beaches to choose from, you’ll want to spend at least a full day exploring all Princess Cays has to offer. Whether you’re looking to relax, play, or simply soak in the beauty, Princess Cays delivers an island getaway you won’t soon forget. The secluded cays are only a quick tender ride from your cruise ship, but you’ll feel worlds away in this Bahamian paradise.

FAQ: Princess Cays Bahamas

Princess Cays is located just 30 nautical miles or about 35 miles (56 km) north of Nassau, Bahamas. The cay is situated within sight of the Bahamian capital but feels like a secluded paradise. Many cruisers visiting Nassau take a quick day trip to Princess Cays to experience a taste of the Out Islands.

How do I get to Princess Cays from Nassau?

The only way to access Princess Cays is via cruise ship or private yacht. Several major cruise lines offer port calls to Princess Cays, including Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, and of course Princess Cruises. If you’re staying in Nassau, you can book a cruise that visits Princess Cays or look into day cruise excursions from Nassau to the private island.

What is there to do at Princess Cays?

Once you arrive at Princess Cays, you’ll find a picturesque beach with activities like:

• Swimming and sunbathing along the white sand shoreline
• Renting wave runners, kayaks, paddleboards and snorkel gear to explore the turquoise waters
• Joining a guided snorkeling tour to view tropical fish and coral reefs up close
• Taking a beachfront yoga class or partaking in other wellness activities
• Dining at open-air buffets or food trucks offering Bahamian specialties like conch fritters, fish tacos and rum cake

How long do ships stay at Princess Cays?

Cruise ships typically dock at Princess Cays for 6 to 8 hours, arriving in the morning and departing in the late afternoon. This gives passengers plenty of time to enjoy beach activities, watersports, lunch and some downtime in the sun. But the hours can vary between sailings, so check with your specific cruise itinerary for the scheduled docking times at Princess Cays.

Conclusion

After a day enjoying everything Princess Cays Bahamas has to offer, you’ll head back to the ship relaxed, recharged, and with memories that will last long after your tan fades. While Nassau may be just a few miles away, the secluded beaches and laid-back vibe of Princess Cays feel worlds apart. If you’re looking for an easy tropical escape that combines natural beauty with creature comforts, you really can’t beat a day at this private island paradise. So next time you set sail for the Bahamas, be sure to leave some room in your schedule for a little rest and relaxation on the soft white sands of Princess Cays Bahamas.