Nassau: Pearl Island Reef Snorkeling & Beach Day with Lunch

The Coral Reef Waits 25 Minutes From Nassau

You board a ferry at Paradise Island Terminal and cross to Pearl Island in 25 minutes. Once there, you snorkel a protected coral reef with equipment and guide, paddle a kayak or stand-up board along the shore, relax on two beaches with provided chairs, eat a traditional Bahamian lunch, and visit the island lighthouse. Four hours on the island, then the ferry returns you to Nassau. Bring a swimsuit, sun protection, and a card for any extras.

Step-by-step itinerary

Snorkeling, Beach, and Bahamian Lunch

• Take scenic roundtrip ferry
• Explore lighthouse and walking paths
• Relax on two white-sand beaches
• Enjoy guided snorkeling tour
• Have traditional Bahamian lunch
• Use kayaks and paddleboards
• Swim in warm Bahamian water
• Return by boat to Nassau

The experience

The ferry leaves the East Dock at Paradise Island Terminal, and in less than half an hour you're stepping onto Pearl Island: no car rental, no navigation, just a boat and the water ahead. The snorkeling happens in a protected coral reef where the visibility is clear enough that you see the fish before you're even fully in. Your guide hands you the mask and fins, and then it's just you, the reef, and whatever's moving below the surface. The actual time on the island is four hours, which sounds short until you realize it's enough for the snorkeling, a kayak paddle along the shore, a dip in the warm water, and still time to sit in the shade with a drink before the ferry back.

Lunch is a real meal (BBQ chicken, fish fingers, peas and rice, coleslaw) served on the island itself, not reheated on a boat. You eat at a table with a view, and the fact that it's included means you're not hunting for a restaurant or paying extra when you're already hungry. After that, the island opens up. There are two white-sand beaches to choose from, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards waiting at the water's edge, and floating water mats if you want something between swimming and paddling. The lighthouse is there too, a short walk through the paths, and you can go up if the mood hits.

The island runs on card payments only, no cash, so bring a credit or debit card if you want anything from the gift shop or a drink beyond what's included. There are full bathrooms and fresh-water showers, which matters more than it sounds after a few hours in the salt water and sun. The round-trip ferry is part of the package, so you don't have to figure out how to get back to Nassau. The boat leaves on schedule and you're back on the mainland by late afternoon.

What’s included

• Round-trip ferry transportation from Nassau.
• guided snorkeling adventure with equipment.
• access to two white-sand beaches.
• kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.
• floating water mats.
• access to the iconic Pearl Island lighthouse.
• traditional Bahamian lunch.
• shaded decks and beach chairs.
• full bathroom facilities and fresh-water showers.
• on-site gift shop access.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 11:00

Book up to10h before

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (4 to 12 years) · Infant (under 4): free

GroupUp to 50

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.Operator's directions: “Your adventure begins at the Paradise Island Ferry Terminal, located at the East Dock right behind Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville on Paradise Island – just between the two bridges connecting Paradise Island and Nassau.”

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Moderate physical levelWheelchair accessibleAccessible transportStroller friendlyPublic transport nearbyNot for heart conditions

Operated by Pearl Island Bahamas

Is this one for you?Pick this if you want a full island day without renting a car or arranging your own transport and meals: the ferry schedule and included lunch mean you show up, board, and the rest is planned.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 12 years); Infant (under 4): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24h before the start.

How long is the ferry ride to Pearl Island?

About 25 minutes each way from the East Dock at Paradise Island Terminal.

What's included in the lunch?

BBQ chicken, fish fingers, peas and rice, and coleslaw, served on the island.

Can I bring my own snorkel gear?

Equipment is provided with the guided snorkeling tour, so you don't need to bring your own.

Is there a minimum age for snorkeling?

Yes, guests must be at least 8 years old to participate in the snorkel tour.

What payment methods does Pearl Island accept?

Credit and debit cards only. The island is cashless. Baby food and formula are exceptions to the no outside food rule.

How much time do I actually spend on the island?

Four hours, which includes snorkeling, lunch, beach time, and water activities.

Are there bathrooms and showers on the island?

Yes, full bathroom facilities and fresh-water showers are available.

Do I need to check in early?

Yes, check in 15 minutes before your booked departure time at the Paradise Island Ferry Terminal.