Nassau Straw Market | Nassau

The Nassau Straw Market is a large, open-air marketplace located in downtown Nassau, Bahamas. It serves as a primary retail hub for local handicrafts and souvenirs.

Visual Characteristics

The market consists of a series of interconnected, open-sided structures with corrugated metal roofs. The primary construction material is wood, painted in various pastel colors. The interior is densely packed with stalls displaying goods. The overall footprint covers approximately 2,000 square meters.

Location & Access Logistics

The market is situated at Bay Street and Frederick Street in downtown Nassau. It is approximately 0.5km west of the cruise ship terminal. Ample public parking is available in multi-story garages within a 0.2km radius. Several local bus routes, including the #1, #10, and #12, stop directly on Bay Street adjacent to the market.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The market's origins trace back to the late 19th century, evolving from informal roadside vendors selling agricultural produce and crafts. The current structure was largely developed in the mid-20th century to consolidate these vendors. Its purpose has consistently been to facilitate the sale of local goods to tourists and residents.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can purchase hand-woven straw products, wood carvings, shell jewelry, and other locally made crafts. Haggling over prices is a common practice. Observing the artisans at work is also possible at some stalls.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the market complex. Limited shaded areas are provided by the roof structures. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong throughout the market. Food vendors are not typically located within the market itself, but numerous restaurants and snack bars are present on surrounding streets.

Best Time to Visit

The market is most active between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM, Monday through Saturday. Mornings, particularly before cruise ship disembarkations, offer a less crowded experience. The best time for photography is mid-morning when natural light is diffused.

Facts & Legends

A common practice among vendors is to offer a "Bahamian handshake" which involves a slight, almost imperceptible tug on the item being considered, intended to initiate a negotiation. The market is officially known as the Princess Margaret Market, named after the Queen Mother.

Nearby Landmarks

• Parliament Square (0.3km East)
• Pirates of Nassau Museum (0.4km West)
• Queen's Staircase (0.8km North)
• Fort Fincastle (0.9km North)
• National Art Gallery of The Bahamas (1.1km North)