Fort Montagu

Fort Montagu, located at the Eastern entrance to Nassau Harbours, is a historic fort that offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the island’s past and enjoy scenic views

Fort Montagu Nassau is one of the three remaining Nassau Forts. While it may be the smallest of the three, its historical significance is arguably the greatest. That, combined with its impressive fortifications and cannons, makes it a site that all travelers touring the capital will want to check out.

Good to Know

Location: East Bay Street, the easternmost point of Nassau Harbour

How Long to Spend: 1-2 hours

TripAdvisor Rating: 4 stars.

Nearby Attractions: Potter’s Cay, Paradise Island, The Retreat Garden, Montagu Beach

Entry Fees: $2 per person [Correct as of 2023]

Fort Montagu Nassau: The Oldest of the Nassau Bahamas Forts

Fort Montagu is an excellent example of a surviving Nassau Forts in New Providence Bahamas,

Fort Montagu is the smallest of the Nassau forts.

Fort Montagu Nassau: How to Visit

Like many of the top attractions scattered around the island, Fort Montagu Nassau is easy to visit. However, it’s not as popular as some of the other destinations in the area, including the other Bahamas Forts, so you won’t have to worry about needing to make your way through throngs of people.

If you’re staying in or entering Nassau through the downtown area (as most travelers do), walking is one option to reach the fort. A walk from the cruise port or a nearby location will take you between 40-45 minutes.

Travelers looking to limit their sun exposure to when they’re at the beach can take a taxi, which will also cut down on time. Likewise, local buses are also an option, as are rentable scooters.

Once you arrive at the fort, you’ll be able to enjoy a tour of it between the hours of 8 am and 3 pm every day of the week.

Fort Montagu Nassau was strategically built at the Eastern entrance to Nassau Harbour on New Providence.

Fort Montagu Nassau protests the eastern entrance to Nassau Harbour.

Nassau Forts: Where Are They?

There are three remaining Nassau forts on New Providence: Fort Charlotte, Fort Fincastle, and Fort Montagu, the latter of which protected the eastern edge of Nassau Harbour. Fort Montagu Nassau is on East Bay Street, next to Montagu Beach.

If you’re unfamiliar with Bahamian history, the conflicts between European powers like Great Britain, Spain, and France often spilled out into other regions of the world, like the Caribbean. Fort Montagu Nassau, constructed in 1742, sought to cement Great Britain’s hold over the Bahamas.

Like the other Bahamas Forts, it also served as a deterrent to pirates, who frequently raided unprotected settlements. While it may have stopped pirates, in 1776, American revolutionaries invaded and occupied the fort in an effort to steal gunpowder.

Centuries later, all of that history makes the fort an exciting place to visit.

What to See

Despite its small size (particularly compared to other Bahamas forts like Fort Charlotte), Fort Montagu Nassau still has a lot to see.

Views of the Nassau Harbour

History aside, Fort Montagu Nassau offers some stunning views. While soldiers of the past may have been concerned with what they saw on the horizon, today you can enjoy the sight of boats cruising by without fear. Sunrises at the fort are also incredible.

Fort Montagu Nassau is a popular Nassau Bahamas Forts for visitors to enjoy the historical context of British rule in Nassau Bahamas.

You can walk out along the sea path during low tide to the edge of Nassau Harbour

The Fort Complex

Fort Montagu has tall walls and large cannons that make all of the Nassau forts famous. While it can be difficult to fully appreciate what you see, local tour guides do a good job of filling you in. From discussing the Golden Age of Piracy to sharing notable figures and battles, a tour of the fort complex is always exciting.

Montagu Beach

Montagu Beach is a beautiful public beach located next to Fort Montagu It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking to enjoy the sun, sand, and turquoise waters of the Caribbean.

Fort Montagu Nassau is right on the water at Montagu Beach

Fort Montagu Travel Tips

Know the hours: Many travelers have reported only being able to see the outside of the fort since the attraction was closed. Given that it’s not open for as long as some of the other Nassau forts, make sure you arrive before 3 pm to enjoy touring the inside, as well.
Accessibility: If you have mobility concerns, inquire about accessibility options to ensure a comfortable visit.
Local Recommendations: If the staff is knowledgeable and friendly, ask for recommendations about other nearby attractions, dining options, or points of interest.
Safety Precautions: Be cautious while exploring elevated areas, steep steps, and uneven terrain. Pay attention to any safety warnings.
Historical Context: Research the history of Fort Montagu before your visit. Understanding the fort’s significance will enhance your appreciation of the site.
Explore the surrounding area: Fort Montagu Nassau is fascinating, but you might find the nearby attractions even more exciting. From walking along Montagu Beach to enjoying fresh food and drinks at the nearby restaurants and bars, the area has a lot to see. For the most part, you should also be able to enjoy local prices.

Bahamas Forts: Dive Into the Country’s Colorful History

Even if you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the capital of the Bahamas, the historical sites are still worth checking out. While Fort Montagu Nassau may not be as expansive as Fort Charlotte or Fort Fincastle, it’s the oldest fort and has survived pirates, raids by American soldiers, and more.

Fort Montagu is one of the many Nassau attractions that offers respite from crowds of tourists. If you’re looking for more attractions that’ll take you off the beaten path, check out some of our other travel articles and browse our interactive Nassau map.