Retreat Garden

Beautiful and historic Botanical garden that offers visitors the chance to explore diverse plant collections, serene landscapes, and cultural heritage.

If you’re looking for a Nassau destination that lets you appreciate the authentic natural beauty of the country, the Retreat Garden Bahamas might be your answer. With an extensive collection of palms and other plants, migratory and resident birds, and a unique history that stretches back decades, you’ll find the garden to be one of the top things to do in Nassau Bahamas.

Good to Know

Location: Eastern Nassau, Village Road

How Long to Spend: 1-2 hours

TripAdvisor Rating: 4 stars.

Nearby Attractions: Potter’s Cay, Paradise Island, Fort Montagu, Montagu Beach

Entry Fees: Adults: $12, Children under 12: $6 [Correct as of 2023]

Retreat Garden Bahamas: Visit the Retreat Garden Nassau

The Retreat Garden Bahamas has a unique colonial style Park Lodge administration office. Located in the heart of New Providence, Retreat Garden Nassau is one of the top things to do in Nassau Bahamas.

The natural beauty and history exhibited make the garden worth visiting.

The Retreat Garden Nassau: How to Visit

The Retreat Garden Bahamas has a central location that makes it easy to visit. If you’re staying (or passing through) Downtown Nassau or Paradise Island, a taxi will be the easiest way to get there. You can expect a ride of around 10-15 minutes.

If you’re trying to save money or are just feeling adventurous, consider hopping on a jitney bus to get to the garden. It might take a bit longer, but you’ll save money and will get to see more of the island. Bus #11 should take you right to the park and costs $1.25 to ride. Make sure to bring small bills, as Nassau bus drivers don’t usually provide you with change.

The unique foliage covered walkway with stone pillars at The Retreat Garden bahamas on New Providence island. One of the top things to do in Nassau Bahamas.

The Retreat Garden is one of the oldest Botanical Gardens in the Bahamas

Retreat Garden Bahamas: Where Is It?

One of the reasons why the Retreat Garden Nassau is a great option for anyone wondering what to do in Nassau Bahamas is because it has a central location. It doesn’t require a long taxi ride or a complicated transportation route to get there.

Found right in the eastern part of Nassau, the location of the Retreat Garden Bahamas makes it easy to visit no matter how short your time in the capital is. It also puts you in the perfect position to enjoy other Nassau attractions after your visit.

Potter’s Cay, for example, is a local spot to eat and is just a short car ride away.

What to See

While it won’t take you long to walk through the 11 acres of the Retreat Garden Bahamas, there’s still plenty to see inside.

The Botanical Gardens

Of course, the main highlight of the garden is the plants themselves. The site began as the private palm collection of an eccentric colonial resident in the 20th century. Today, as you walk through the trails, you’ll see palms from the Bahamas, Madagascar, Indonesia, and other parts of the world.

Retreat Garden Nassau features a unique collection of botanical gardens, landscaped lawns and rainforest. Looking for what to do in Nassau Bahamas? Then consider a trip to Retreat Garden bahamas.

Bird watching at the park is a great answer for anyone wondering what to do in Nassau Bahamas.

In addition to palm trees, the collection has grown to include other plant species as well. You’ll see evergreens and cycads and many species of tropical flowers.

The Bahamas is also home to many limestone sinkholes, and several of these are within the garden’s boundaries. The locals refer to these geological formations as “banana holes.”

The tropical foliage offers visitors a visual feast for the eyes!

Flocks of Birds

Fans of bird watching will be pleased to learn that the Retreat Garden Bahamas also features several species of birds. Some of these birds are year-long residents, while others pass through during certain months.

If you walk through the park quickly, you might miss the birds all around you. Take your time as you progress through the garden to ensure you notice the feathered friends in the trees.

The rainforest canopy of the Retreat Garden Bahamas is one the attractions in the many botanical garden walkways that meander across this Bahamas National Trust property.

What began as a palm collection has expanded into something more

The Retreat Garden Travel Tips

Consider taking the jitney: As mentioned, the jitney might take a bit longer than a taxi ride, but it’s also cheaper and a great way to see more of the island. Plus, buses are how the locals get around New Providence. When in Rome, do as the Romans do – including when it comes to transportation!
Bring a pair of binoculars: Even if you’re not an avid watcher, you’ll want to scan the trees for colorful birds regardless. If you can, bring a pair of binoculars, as they’ll make spotting colorful plumages much easier.
Wear close-toed shoes: The paths that go through the 11-acre park aren’t muddy, but they also aren’t paid. Wearing open-toed shoes, heels, or anything else not ideal for walking isn’t a wise decision. Donning a pair of close-toed shoes will ensure your feet stay comfortable.
Sun Protection: Protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and light clothing. Some areas of the garden might offer shaded spots, but it’s best to be prepared.
Insect Repellent: Depending on the time of year and location, insects could be present. Bring insect repellent to make your visit more comfortable.
Stay Hydrated: Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated, especially if you plan to spend a considerable amount of time exploring the garden.

Enjoy One of the Top Things to Do in Nassau Bahamas

Visiting the Retreat Garden Bahamas is one of the top things to do in Nassau Bahamas. With giant trees, sinkholes, and flocks of birds, the garden is an oasis you’d be remiss not to add to your Nassau itinerary.

Nassau has many sites like the Retreat Garden Bahamas that many tourists don’t know about. If you’re looking for more of these travel recommendations, make sure to browse our interactive Nassau Map and check out some of our other destination guides.