Bahamas Wedding Guest Travel Guide 2026: Flights, Hotels, What to Wear & Packing Tips | Glenn Ferguson
Bahamas beach wedding with guests celebrating on white sand
WPIC-Certified Wedding Planner • Licensed Bahamas Marriage Officer • 24+ Years • 200+ Weddings

Bahamas Wedding Guest Travel Guide

Everything your guests need to know -- and everything you need to tell them. Flights, hotels, what to wear, what to pack, and what to expect. From someone who has coordinated 200+ destination weddings in Nassau and across the Bahamas.

The Quick Answer: What Do Bahamas Wedding Guests Need? A valid passport (renewed at least 3 months before travel), round-trip flights to Nassau ($200-$600 from most US cities), 3-5 nights at a hotel ($150-$700/night depending on budget), smart casual to semi-formal ceremony attire (no stilettos on sand), US dollars (accepted everywhere -- no currency exchange needed), and reef-safe sunscreen. Glenn Ferguson provides every couple with a customisable guest travel packet that covers all of this so your guests arrive prepared and relaxed.
For Couples & Guests

The Complete Guide to Getting Your Guests to the Bahamas

The number one concern couples share with Glenn before booking a Bahamas destination wedding is guest logistics. Will my guests actually come? How will they get there? Where will they stay? What should they wear? This guide answers every question -- whether you are the couple planning the wedding or a guest who just received a save-the-date. The information on this page is based on Glenn Ferguson's 24 years of coordinating destination wedding travel for couples from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Europe. According to the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Nassau and Paradise Island welcome approximately 1.5 million stopover visitors annually, with destination weddings representing one of the fastest-growing tourism segments.

Wedding guests celebrating on a Bahamas beach
Getting There

Flights to Nassau for Wedding Guests

How much does it cost to fly to Nassau for a wedding? Round-trip flights to Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau range from $200-$600 from most US cities. Miami and Fort Lauderdale offer the cheapest fares ($200-$400 round-trip) with flight times under 1 hour. New York, Atlanta, and Charlotte have frequent direct flights at $300-$500. Booking 3-6 months ahead typically saves 20-30% compared to last-minute fares.
Departure CityAirlinesFlight TimePeak SeasonOff-Peak
Miami / Fort LauderdaleAmerican, Bahamasair, JetBlue, Spirit50 min$250-$400$200-$300
New York (JFK/EWR)JetBlue, American, Delta, United3 hr$350-$500$300-$400
AtlantaDelta, American2.5 hr$300-$450$250-$350
CharlotteAmerican2.5 hr$350-$500$280-$400
ChicagoAmerican, United3.5 hr$400-$550$350-$450
Dallas / HoustonAmerican, United3.5 hr$400-$550$350-$450
Los AngelesAmerican, JetBlue (1 stop)6-8 hr$450-$650$400-$550
TorontoAir Canada, WestJet3.5 hr$450-$700 CAD$400-$550 CAD
LondonBritish Airways, Virgin (via Miami)11-14 hr$700-$1,000$600-$850

Swipe left to see all columns

Glenn's Tip: "I tell my couples to send their guests a list of recommended airlines and flight routes as soon as save-the-dates go out. Many airlines offer group booking discounts for 10+ passengers on the same flight. Also, guests flying from the East Coast should look at Bahamasair -- they often have competitive fares from Miami and Fort Lauderdale that don't appear on the big booking sites."
Which airport do guests fly into? Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau. This is the main international airport serving New Providence island, where Nassau, Cable Beach, and Paradise Island are located. For Out Island weddings (Eleuthera, Exuma, Harbour Island), guests typically fly into Nassau and connect via domestic flights on Bahamasair or charter services, or take a ferry.
Where to Stay

Hotels for Bahamas Wedding Guests

Where should wedding guests stay in Nassau? Nassau offers accommodation at every budget. Glenn recommends booking a room block at 2-3 hotels in different price ranges so guests can choose what fits their budget. Most Nassau hotels are within 15-30 minutes of popular wedding venues. Glenn negotiates group rates with partner hotels for his couples.
Budget-Friendly

Comfortable & Affordable

Comfort Suites Paradise Island -- walking distance to Atlantis, includes beach access. Clean, reliable, guest-approved.

Towne Hotel -- downtown Nassau, steps from Bay Street shopping.

Breezes Resort -- all-inclusive option on Cable Beach.

$120-$250/night
Mid-Range

Style & Comfort

British Colonial Hilton -- historic downtown Nassau, private beach, pool.

Warwick Paradise Island -- adults-only, all-inclusive, near Atlantis.

Hotel Riu Palace Paradise Island -- all-inclusive beachfront.

$200-$400/night
Luxury

World-Class Resorts

Baha Mar Grand Hyatt -- Cable Beach, multiple pools, casino, spa.

SLS Baha Mar -- boutique luxury, pool scene, exceptional dining.

Atlantis Paradise Island -- iconic resort, Aquaventure waterpark, marine exhibits.

$350-$900+/night
Glenn's Tip: "I always recommend couples offer at least two hotel options at different price points. Not every guest can afford $500 a night, and you don't want anyone to feel left out. I negotiate group rates at partner hotels -- typically 15-25% below rack rate for blocks of 10+ rooms. The savings alone often cover the couple's hotel costs. Ask me about current partner hotel rates when you book your consultation."
How far is the Nassau airport from the main hotels? Lynden Pindling International Airport is centrally located. Taxi to Cable Beach (Baha Mar, Sandals): 10-15 minutes, $25-$35. Downtown Nassau (British Colonial Hilton): 15-20 minutes, $30-$40. Paradise Island (Atlantis, Ocean Club): 25-30 minutes, $35-$50. Glenn arranges group airport transfers for wedding parties -- a shared shuttle is more affordable than individual taxis and ensures nobody gets lost.
Dress Code

What to Wear to a Bahamas Beach Wedding

What is the dress code for a Bahamas destination wedding? Most Bahamas weddings are smart casual to semi-formal. Women wear lightweight sundresses, maxi dresses, or dressy separates in summery colours. Men wear linen or cotton trousers with a button-down shirt -- a blazer is optional. Leave the stilettos at home; wedge sandals or dressy flats are the practical choice for sand. Breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, and chiffon are essential in Caribbean heat.
Wedding guests in smart casual attire at a Bahamas beach ceremony

Women -- Ceremony

Maxi dress, midi dress, or sundress in light, breathable fabric. Floral prints and pastel colours work beautifully. A light wrap or cardigan for evening ceremonies (December-April).

Wedge sandals, dressy flats, or go barefoot on sand

Avoid stiletto heels, heavy fabrics, all-black outfits, or white (unless the couple says it's fine)

Men -- Ceremony

Linen or lightweight cotton trousers with a button-down shirt (long or short sleeve). Blazer optional. No tie required unless specifically requested. Khaki, tan, light blue, and white are popular colours.

Loafers, boat shoes, or clean sandals

Avoid dark suits, heavy wool, jeans, trainers, or flip-flops

Welcome Dinner / Reception

Resort elegant. Women: cocktail dress or jumpsuit. Men: dress shirt with slacks or chinos. If the reception is at a resort restaurant, some venues require closed-toe shoes and collared shirts for men.

Check if the venue has a dress code

Avoid overly casual beach wear at formal dinners

Beach Days / Activities

Swimsuit with cover-up, shorts, tank tops, sundresses. Reef-safe sunscreen is expected (and increasingly required for water activities). A hat and sunglasses are essential.

Bring water shoes for boat excursions

Avoid wearing expensive jewellery in the water

Glenn's Tip: "After 200+ weddings, I can tell you the most common guest mistake is overdressing. This is the Bahamas -- elegant and relaxed go together. The second most common mistake is wearing brand-new shoes to a beach ceremony. Break them in first, or better yet, go barefoot. Sand between your toes is part of the experience."

Planning a Bahamas Wedding? Glenn Handles the Guest Logistics for You.

Custom guest travel packets, group hotel rates, airport transfer coordination, and a dedicated planning timeline -- so your guests show up happy and you stay stress-free.

What to Bring

Bahamas Wedding Guest Packing Checklist

What should I pack for a Bahamas destination wedding? Travel light. The Bahamas is warm year-round, so lightweight clothing dominates. Most hotels provide beach towels, hair dryers, and basic toiletries. The most important rule: always pack ceremony attire in your carry-on luggage. If your checked bag is delayed, you still have what you need for the wedding.

Carry-On Essentials

  • Valid passport (expires 6+ months out)
  • Wedding ceremony outfit
  • Prescription medications
  • Phone charger / portable battery
  • Sunglasses
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Cash / credit cards

Clothing (3-5 Night Stay)

  • Ceremony outfit + dressy shoes
  • 1-2 casual resort outfits
  • Swimsuit + cover-up
  • Light wrap or cardigan
  • Comfortable walking sandals
  • Water shoes (for boat/reef trips)
  • Sun hat

Toiletries & Extras

  • Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+)
  • Insect repellent
  • After-sun / aloe vera
  • Waterproof phone pouch
  • Travel-size wrinkle release spray
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Light rain jacket (summer weddings)

Leave at Home

  • Expensive jewellery (risk of loss)
  • Heavy winter clothing
  • Hair dryer (hotels provide them)
  • Beach towels (hotels provide them)
  • Wrapped wedding gifts (ship instead)
  • Full-size toiletries
  • Formal ball gowns / tuxedos
Practical Information

Currency, Tipping, Passports & Safety

Currency & Money

The Bahamian Dollar is pegged 1:1 to the US Dollar. US dollars are accepted everywhere -- you do not need to exchange currency. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. Smaller vendors and taxis may prefer cash. ATMs are available at the airport, hotels, and downtown Nassau.

Tipping
  • Restaurants: 15-20% (check if gratuity is already added)
  • Hotel porters: $1-2 per bag
  • Housekeeping: $2-5 per day
  • Taxi drivers: 15-20%
  • Tour guides / boat captains: $10-20 per person
Passports & Entry

All visitors need a valid passport. US citizens can use a passport book or passport card (card valid for sea return only). No visa required for US, Canadian, UK, or EU citizens for stays under 90 days. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond travel dates. Apply or renew 3+ months before your trip. See the Americans guide, Canadians guide, or UK citizens guide for country-specific details.

Safety

Tourist areas in Nassau, Paradise Island, and Cable Beach are well-patrolled and generally safe. Standard precautions: stay in well-lit areas at night, use hotel safes, take licensed taxis (identifiable by yellow plates), and don't display expensive jewellery. Resort areas have 24-hour security. According to the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, the tourism zones maintain dedicated police patrols year-round.

Do the Bahamas use the same electrical plugs as the US? Yes. The Bahamas uses the same Type A and Type B plugs and 120V electricity as the United States and Canada. UK and European visitors will need a plug adapter.
Can I use my mobile phone in the Bahamas? Most US, Canadian, and UK carriers offer international roaming in the Bahamas. Check with your provider about data packages before you travel -- roaming charges without a plan can be expensive. WiFi is available at most hotels and restaurants. Consider an eSIM or local SIM card for extended stays.
Beyond the Wedding

Activities for Wedding Guests in Nassau

A destination wedding is a mini-vacation for your guests. Glenn provides every couple with a guest activity guide featuring local recommendations and pre-negotiated group rates. Here are the most popular activities for wedding groups in Nassau and Paradise Island:

Snorkelling Excursion

Crystal-clear reefs just off Nassau with tropical fish, sea turtles, and coral gardens.

$50-$80/person

Swimming with Pigs

Day trip to Exuma to swim with the famous Bahamas swimming pigs at Big Major Cay.

$250-$400/person

Atlantis Aquaventure

Waterslides, lazy river, marine exhibits, and beach access at the iconic Atlantis resort.

$90-$180/person

Catamaran Sunset Cruise

Sail along Nassau harbour at sunset with drinks and music. Perfect for a welcome party.

$80-$120/person

Downtown Nassau Tour

Queen's Staircase, Fort Charlotte, Straw Market, and colonial architecture walking tour.

Free-$40/person

Rum Tasting

Sample Bahamian rum and learn about island distilling traditions at local distilleries.

$40-$70/person

Blue Lagoon Island

Dolphin encounters, sea lion shows, beach, and nature trails on a private island.

$80-$200/person

Jet Ski / Parasailing

High-energy water sports along Cable Beach or Paradise Island with group packages.

$80-$150/person
Glenn's Tip: "I've seen catamaran sunset cruises work perfectly as a welcome event the night before the wedding. It gets all the guests together, the vibe is relaxed, and it costs a fraction of a formal rehearsal dinner. I can coordinate group bookings with operators I trust -- the ones who actually show up on time and keep the drinks cold."
For Couples

When to Tell Your Guests What -- Communication Timeline

One of the most common mistakes couples make with destination weddings is communicating too late. Your guests need lead time to save, plan, and book. Here is the communication schedule Glenn recommends based on 24 years of coordinating guest travel:

8-12 MONTHS BEFORE

Save-the-Date

Include destination (Bahamas), approximate dates, and a note that detailed travel info will follow. Mention that a valid passport is required. This gives guests time to request time off, budget for travel, and renew passports. See our complete planning timeline.

6-8 MONTHS BEFORE

Wedding Website Launch

Create a wedding website with hotel block information, recommended flight routes, approximate costs, and a link to this guest travel guide. Include dress code guidance and an FAQ section. Glenn provides content for your wedding website.

4-6 MONTHS BEFORE

Formal Invitations

Send printed or digital invitations with RSVP deadline (at least 2 months before the wedding). Include hotel booking codes, group rate details, and the wedding website URL. Request RSVPs early so you can finalise vendor headcounts.

2-3 MONTHS BEFORE

Detailed Travel Packet

Send the full guest travel guide: arrival logistics, hotel check-in details, airport transfer schedule, wedding day timeline, dress code specifics, currency/tipping info, packing suggestions, and activity options. Glenn provides a customisable travel packet template for every couple.

2-4 WEEKS BEFORE

Final Details Email

Confirm airport transfer times, wedding day schedule (ceremony time, dress code reminder), welcome event details, and Glenn's contact number for on-island questions. Include local emergency numbers and the nearest hospital/clinic location.

Glenn's Tip: "The couples with the smoothest guest experiences are the ones who communicated early and often. I give every couple a customisable guest information packet that covers flights, hotels, what to wear, what to pack, and what to expect on the ground in Nassau. Your guests feel taken care of, and you don't have to field 50 individual text messages. The packet alone reduces 'what do I need?' questions by about 80%."
Special Situations

Cruise Ship Guests, Gifts & Travel Insurance

Can guests arrive by cruise ship for a Bahamas wedding? Yes. Nassau is a major cruise port with daily arrivals from Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Carnival, Disney, Celebrity, and others. Port stops are typically 6-10 hours, which is enough time for a ceremony and celebration. Glenn specialises in cruise ship wedding coordination and times everything to fit your ship's schedule. Note: the couple themselves must meet the 24-hour residency requirement to apply for a marriage license. Cruise guests attending (not marrying) face no restrictions.
Should I bring a wedding gift to the Bahamas? Most destination wedding couples prefer cash gifts, honeymoon fund contributions, or gifts shipped directly to their home address. Avoid packing wrapped gifts -- Bahamas customs may open packages for inspection. A card with cash or a gift card is the simplest option. Many couples set up online registries or honeymoon funds specifically to avoid gift-transport logistics.
Do I need travel insurance for a Bahamas wedding trip? Strongly recommended, especially for hurricane season weddings (June-November). A basic policy covering trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and lost luggage typically costs $50-$150 per person. Purchase insurance before any named storm develops -- most policies exclude named storms. Your credit card may offer basic travel protection; check before buying additional coverage.
What if a guest has mobility challenges? Glenn coordinates accessible wedding arrangements regularly. Beach ceremonies can use temporary walkways or accessible boardwalks. Resort venues like Baha Mar and Atlantis are fully wheelchair-accessible. Accessible hotel rooms should be requested at booking. Glenn ensures transportation and venue logistics accommodate all guests.
What Couples Say

Guest Experiences from Real Weddings

★★★★★

"Glenn organized our wedding with precision, professionalism, and flexibility. From start to finish it was perfect. For anyone apprehensive about getting married abroad -- don't be. Glenn had all the paperwork completed for our arrival and organized a priority wedding license at the government building before taking us to the beach for the wedding."

Stacey & Partner

Scotland -- Beach Wedding, Nassau

★★★★★

"In 31 days' time, Glenn managed to put together a dream Bahamas elopement for my wife and I. He was quick to respond, professional, and had a charismatic nature that always put us at ease. Glenn made the entire process, even on such a tight timeline, feel beyond easy."

Recent Couple

United States -- Elopement, Nassau

★★★★★

"Glenn provided us with the most beautiful ceremony on the beach with our family and friends. We absolutely loved everything that they did. Very professional but also became like family that day!"

Beach Wedding Couple

United States -- Group Wedding, Nassau

Questions Answered

Frequently Asked Questions from Guests & Couples

What is the weather like in the Bahamas for a wedding?
December through April offers the best conditions: 72-82 degrees Fahrenheit, low humidity, and minimal rainfall. May and November are warm shoulder months with occasional brief showers. June through October is warmer (80-90 degrees Fahrenheit) with afternoon showers and some hurricane risk (peak August-October). Even in summer, mornings and evenings are typically clear. See our month-by-month weather guide for detailed information.
How many days should I plan for a Bahamas wedding trip?
Most guests stay 3-5 nights. This allows a travel day, the wedding day, and 1-2 days to enjoy the Bahamas. The couple typically arrives 3-4 days before the wedding for the marriage license process. If you're flying from far away (UK, West Coast), plan an extra day on each end. See our planning timeline for the full schedule.
How should I RSVP to a destination wedding?
Respond as early as possible. Destination weddings require advance planning for group hotel blocks, vendor headcounts, and transportation. A prompt response (within 2 weeks) helps the couple negotiate group rates. If you cannot attend, decline early. If cost is a concern, let the couple know privately -- they may have budget-friendly accommodation options or can adjust plans.
Is it rude to decline a destination wedding invitation?
Not at all. Destination wedding couples understand that not every guest can attend. The commitment of travel and expense is significant, and no one should feel obligated. Most couples factor in a lower acceptance rate (50-70%) when planning a destination wedding. A polite decline and a thoughtful card or gift are always appreciated.
Should I book the couple's recommended hotel or choose my own?
The couple's recommended hotels typically offer group discount rates and are convenient to the wedding venue. Booking within the hotel block also helps the couple -- some venues offer free room upgrades or wedding perks when a certain number of rooms are booked. That said, if you find a better deal or prefer a different style, most couples will understand.
Can I extend my trip and make it a vacation?
Absolutely. Many guests arrive a day early or stay a few extra days to explore the Bahamas. Nassau offers beaches, diving, shopping, and restaurants. You can also take day trips to Exuma (swimming pigs), Eleuthera (pink sand beaches), or Bimini (crystal-clear waters, just 50 miles from Miami).
What happens if my flight is cancelled or delayed?
Travel insurance is the best protection against flight disruptions. If your flight is cancelled, contact the airline immediately for rebooking. Nassau is served by multiple airlines from most major US cities, so alternative flights are usually available. Glenn provides his phone number to all wedding guests so they can contact him directly with travel disruptions -- he helps coordinate backup plans on the ground.
Is the tap water safe to drink in the Bahamas?
Tap water in Nassau hotels and resorts is treated and generally considered safe, but many visitors prefer bottled water for taste. Bottled water is widely available and inexpensive. All restaurants and bars serve purified water and ice.
What if I have dietary restrictions?
Nassau restaurants and resorts are accustomed to accommodating dietary restrictions including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal. Inform the couple when you RSVP so they can notify the caterer or reception venue. Glenn coordinates dietary requirements with vendors as part of his planning service.
Do the Bahamas use the same plugs as the US?
Yes. The Bahamas uses Type A and Type B plugs with 120V/60Hz electricity -- identical to the United States and Canada. UK and European visitors need a plug adapter.
Can I get married in the Bahamas too? What does it cost?
Yes. Glenn Ferguson offers complete wedding packages from $1,495. As a Licensed Bahamas Marriage Officer and WPIC-Certified Wedding Planner, he handles everything from the marriage license to the ceremony. See the full cost breakdown for detailed pricing.
Who do I call if I want to plan my own Bahamas wedding?
Call or WhatsApp Glenn Ferguson directly at +1-(242)-395-8495. Glenn is a Licensed Bahamas Marriage Officer and WPIC-Certified Wedding Planner with 24+ years of experience and 200+ weddings. A 35% deposit holds your date, and Glenn provides a complete guest travel packet as part of every wedding package. You can also submit an enquiry online.
Your Wedding Planner

Why Glenn Handles Guest Logistics Better Than Anyone

Glenn Ferguson, Licensed Bahamas Marriage Officer and WPIC-Certified Wedding Planner

Glenn Ferguson is a Licensed Bahamas Marriage Officer and WPIC-Certified Wedding Planner (Wedding Planners Institute of Canada) with 24+ years of experience and over 200 destination weddings performed across Nassau, Paradise Island, Exuma, Eleuthera, Harbour Island, Bimini, and Abaco.

Glenn's dual credentials mean he serves as both your wedding planner and your legal officiant -- handling everything from guest hotel blocks and airport transfers to marriage license processing and the ceremony itself. His local relationships with hotels, tour operators, and transport providers mean your guests get better rates and smoother logistics than booking on their own.

Every couple who books with Glenn receives a customisable guest travel packet, group hotel rate negotiations, coordinated airport transfers, and Glenn's direct phone number for any on-island questions. Your guests don't need to figure anything out -- Glenn's team handles it. See why couples choose an independent planner over a resort wedding desk.

Ready to Start Planning?

WPIC-Certified Wedding Planner • Licensed Bahamas Marriage Officer

2026 peak season dates (December-April) are booking now. A 35% deposit holds your date. Glenn provides a complete guest travel packet with every wedding package -- your guests will thank you.

Bahamas Package Wedding -- Glenn Ferguson, Licensed Bahamas Marriage Officer & WPIC-Certified Wedding Planner

Nassau, New Providence, Bahamas • +1-(242)-395-8495WhatsApp

Licensed Marriage Officer credentials verifiable at bahamas.gov.bs

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