If you’re headed to The Bahamas and want to bring back unique souvenirs, I’ve got you!
These islands are unlike anywhere else in the world, with ancient ruins, award-winning Caribbean beaches, and incredible food you can’t get enough of.
I fell in love right away, and you will, too!
From authentic and handmade to classic and cheesy, these are the top must-have souvenirs from The Bahamas:
If you’re reading this because you’ve already been to the Bahamas and forgot your souvenirs click here.
Do The Bahamas accept American dollars?
Yes, the Bahamian economy relies heavily on tourism from the United States, so the US dollar is accepted in the Bahamas.
Tip: Always confirm with businesses whether they accept US dollars before attempting to buy something, especially in more remote areas or with smaller vendors.
Should I carry cash for The Bahamas?
Carrying cash is always a good idea when traveling to The Bahamas.
Here are a few reasons to carry $$$:
- Cash is king. While credit and debit cards are commonly accepted in tourist areas, cash is still used exclusively in some smaller shop markets and for services like taxis or tips.
- Negotiation. In certain situations, particularly when shopping in markets or dealing with local vendors, cash can help you score better deals.
- Budget. Carrying a set amount of cash can help you stick to your budget and avoid overspending.
Always use caution when carrying valuables abroad, especially in touristy areas. Consider using a protective money wallet.
Read my Bahamas Carnival Cruise Review
Conch shell jewelry in The Bahamas
Conch shell jewelry is one of the most popular Bahamas souvenirs for women!
Conch, the national food of The Bahamas, is something you can’t visit the islands without hearing about (and eating!).
But, did you know that conch shells are also used to make jewelry? Pick up a conch shell bracelet or necklace while in the Bahamas.
Why is conch famous in the Bahamas?
Conch is famous in the Bahamas for a few key reasons:
-It’s a traditional pillar of Bahamian cuisine.
-Conch is abundant in the waters around the islands.
-The conch holds cultural significance and is even featured prominently in Bahamian festivals.
Where can I find conch shells in the Bahamas?
In the Bahamas, conch shells surround nearly every island. Since conch is a staple of Bahamian cooking, many restaurants and seafood markets also have fresh conch available, and you can often find discarded shells near them for free. Additionally, some souvenir shops and vendors sell cleaned and polished conch shells for tourists to purchase as souvenirs.
Wood Carvings
The Caribbean is known for its wood carvings, and you can find them all over the Bahamas. At the Straw Market, you can watch artists carve away while greeting you from their storefronts.
I got a cute little wooden cat from the Straw Market, and the creator engraved it for a few more bucks!
Talk about an unforgettable Bahamas souvenir.
Read more: 31 Fun Things To Do in Nassau, Bahamas
Batiks
You can snag brightly colored batik fabrics by the yard in The Bahamas, ready to be made into stunning clothes, linens, and accessories.
Keep an eye out for Androsia, a special kind of batik handmade on the island of Andros for over four decades and now available everywhere in The Bahamas. Androsia designs are inspired by local motifs like seahorses, corals, and hibiscus flowers, making them one of the best souvenirs to buy from The Bahamas.
Coconut Sculptures
Local artists transform coconut husks into one-of-a-kind sculptures of animals, sea creatures, and other classical Bahamas souvenir designs.
I love coconut sculptures because they make a striking statement, and you can get small ones that won’t take up much space in your suitcase.
Straw Bags or Hats
Weaving baskets, hats, purses, fans, and other goods from dried palm leaves is an age-old Bahamian handicraft, and you’ll see them everywhere. The Nassau Straw Market even gets its name from these traditional Bahamas souvenirs!
Pine Seed Dolls
This unique local craft uses cones from the native Bahamian pine tree found on certain islands. Artisans shape these cones into adorable dolls, each with a distinct personality.
These adorable and uniquely Bahamian souvenirs will really stand out in your collection!
Sea Sponges
Did you know that sea sponges have been a big deal in the Bahamas for ages?
Back in the day, fishermen moved to these islands to dive for sea sponges, the selling of which was once a booming business. You can still buy these unique souvenirs from various sellers throughout The Bahamas.
Plus, by supporting small businesses, you’re helping local families and snagging yourself a unique piece of Bahamian culture at the same time!
Handmade Fruit Jams
What if you could teleport yourself back to The Bahamas with a magic jelly?
Well, you could add a few jars of guava or pineapple-flavored local jams to your suitcase. Use them for cooking or embellish them into a charcuterie spread back home so your friends can snack on something while you gush about your Bahamas trip!
Read more: 28 Best Restaurants in Nassau
Graycliff Chocolate
Graycliff Chocolatier is a chocoholic’s dream come true! Learn how to make chocolates with a master chocolatier, or grab some sweet souvenirs.
You Might Also Like: 11 Best Hotels in Nassau Bahamas
John Watlings Rum
If you haven’t sampled the free tour of John Watling’s Distillery in Downtown Nassau, you’re missing out! You can still take home a bottle of rum from most grocery or souvenir stores in The Bahamas.
Rum Cake
Did you know that most of the world’s rum is distilled in the Caribbean?
If you’re thinking of bringing back some tasty treats from The Bahamas, you’ve gotta try their Rum Cake! Trust me, it’s so delicious you’ll be craving it all the time while you’re here and won’t want to leave without some.
That’s why rum-infused goodies are a big thing here. With the hot temperatures in The Bahamas, storing food can be a challenge, but adding alcohol and sugar to recipes helps preserve them.
T-Shirts
You can’t go wrong with a Bahamas souvenir shirt. When it comes to souvenir shirt shopping around the world, I find those made by Gilden or Hanes tend to be the best quality.
Magnets
Cheesy magnets will always be one of my favorite souvenirs, and I buy them everywhere I go.
I keep mine on my fridge, and they make me smile every time I get a snack (which is often).
These are the most popular souvenir magnets to buy from The Bahamas:
- Conch shell-shaped magnet (a classic must-have)
- Bahamian flag
- Nassau landmark (Queen’s Staircase, Parliament Square, or the Straw Market Bay Street)
- Beach, palm tree, or marine life
Shot Glasses
Shot glasses from Nassau or any Bahamian island make excellent souvenirs because they are small and won’t take up room in your suitcase.
Look for a shot glass with the Bahamian flag, a beautiful beach, or an iconic site like the Queen’s Staircase.
Luxury Jewelry
The Bahamas are known for excellent prices on fine jewelry, with Nassau having the most luxury shopping stores.
For that reason, luxury jewelry is one of the best Bahamas souvenirs to buy from Nassau.
The best luxury jewelry spots in Nassau are on Bay Street, just a stone’s throw from the cruise ship pier. Visit high-end shops like John Bull and Coin of the Realm (both in Nassau) to support local businesses!
Is it cheaper to buy luxury items in the Bahamas?
Whether luxury items are cheaper in the Bahamas depends on taxes, import duties, exchange rates, and local pricing. Duty-free shopping can help you save on some things, but prices may vary depending on the brand and product. Always weigh your options on a case-by-case basis.
The Best Bahamas Souvenirs on Amazon
Take the essence of The Bahamas home with authentic souvenirs found on Amazon!
This curated list of island-inspired treasures is the perfect way to find all the most authentic Bahamas souvenirs from Amazon, plus classics like t-shirts, magnets, mugs, and shot glasses.
