Nassau: ATV Island Tour to Forts, Queen’s Staircase & Beach

Summary

Ride Nassau’s streets and coast to forts, history and clear water

You’ll drive your own ATV through Nassau with a local guide—stopping at historic forts, climbing the Queen’s Staircase, sampling Caribbean rum at a restored estate, and cooling off at a crystal-clear beach where you can actually see your toes underwater. Expect laughter, real stories from locals, and moments that stick with you long after you’ve rinsed off the salt.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was nervous about driving an ATV in Nassau — I’m not exactly the off-road type. But after five minutes on that Can-Am Outlander, something clicked. Our guide, Marcus, grinned when he saw me fumbling with the helmet strap (“You’re good, just tighten it like this”). The engine rumbled under me as we set out along the coast; you could smell the sea mixed with hot pavement and sunscreen. There was this salty breeze that kept catching my hair. I didn’t expect to feel so free — or to laugh so much at my own turns.

First stop: Fort Charlotte. It’s bigger than it looks in pictures, with these old cannons pointed out over the harbor. Marcus told us stories about pirates and British governors — he even pointed out some mansion across the water (“That one? Beyoncé stayed there once,” he said, maybe joking). The stone felt warm under my hand. Then we wound through town to the Queen’s Staircase — 66 steps carved by slaves centuries ago. The limestone was cool and damp, moss growing in cracks. There was a waterfall at the top, kids splashing their hands in it while their parents took photos. I tried saying “Queen’s Staircase” in Bahamian dialect; Marcus laughed — “Close enough!”

We cruised past Government House (pink walls shining in the sun) and stopped for rum tasting at this old estate that smelled like sugar and wood. Not gonna lie: I coughed on my first sip but then went back for more — it was smoother than I expected. Last stop was a beach so clear you could see your toes wiggle under the water; shells everywhere, sand soft as flour between my fingers. We all just stood there for a minute before anyone spoke.

I still think about that view from Fort Charlotte — sky wide open, ocean stretching forever. If you’re thinking about booking an ATV tour in Nassau, don’t overthink it. Just bring your license and let yourself get salty and a little sunburned.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Guided ATV tour of island sights

• Ride Can-Am Outlander 450 ATV
• Tour historic Fort Charlotte
• Visit Queen's Staircase landmark
• Pass by Government House
• Sample Caribbean rum blends
• Explore three-in-one Fort Charlotte
• Splash in clear water beach

Top questions

Do I need a driver’s license for this Nassau ATV tour?

Yes, all drivers must be at least 21 years old with a valid driver’s license.

What sights are included on this day trip?

You’ll visit Fort Charlotte, Government House, Queen’s Staircase, a rum distillery estate, and a local beach.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No lunch is included; however there is a rum tasting stop during the tour.

How long does the ATV island tour last?

The guided tour lasts approximately 3 hours.

Are helmets provided for riders?

Yes, helmets are provided for all participants.

Can passengers use cell phones while driving ATVs?

No—drivers are strictly prohibited from using cell phones while operating ATVs for safety reasons.

Is pickup included in this Nassau ATV experience?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are nearby.

Are there any health restrictions for joining?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health or pregnant travelers.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a Can-Am or Kawasaki ATV (with helmet), guidance from a professional local guide throughout each stop—from historic forts to rum tasting—and plenty of time to splash around at one of Nassau’s clearest beaches before returning to town.