New Providence Island isn’t just about lounging on stunning beaches or exploring Nassau’s colorful streets. It’s also a fantastic place to get hands-on with local culture through workshops and classes. Whether you’re eager to master Bahamian cuisine, create your own candles, or learn traditional dance moves, this island offers unique experiences that go beyond typical sightseeing. We especially love the Authentic Bahamian Cooking Class for its small-group intimacy and chance to crack conch with a professional chef, or the Wine Maker Class at Bahama Barrels for an inside look at wine blending in an historic setting. These classes give you real skills and tasty souvenirs to take home.
If you’re visiting and want to get a true taste of Bahamian arts and flavors, these workshops are a perfect way to do it. Plus, most of them are limited in size or offer authentic local ingredients, making your experience more meaningful and memorable.
Quick Overview
On this list, you’ll find a variety of workshops and classes that cater to different interests and budgets. From culinary classes like the Bahamian cooking tours (Authentic Bahamian Cooking Class) and Downtown Nassau Saturday Cooking Class to craft workshops like candle making and mixology (Candle Making Class, Sip and Create Candle Workshop). Literary types and dance lovers can enjoy social dance classes (Social Dance Class with a Pro Instructor), while those interested in local spirits should check out the Authentic Bahamian Mixology Class (Mixology). For a creative outlet, candle-making and body care workshops provide fun, hands-on activities.
Now, let’s dive into each of these experiences and see what makes them stand out.
1. Authentic Bahamian Cooking Class
At number 1, the Authentic Bahamian Cooking Class offers an immersive experience that combines Nassau sightseeing with culinary skills. Starting with a guided tour from Bay Street to the east end of Nassau, you’ll see some of the island’s top sights and learn about local culture. The highlight is heading to Goombay House Cooking Studio, where a professional chef teaches you how to prepare authentic Bahamian dishes such as cracked conch, fried fish, or Bahamian peas and rice.
This class is designed for small groups—just 14 people—so you’ll get personalized attention and plenty of hands-on practice. After cooking, you’ll sit down to enjoy your meal alongside included cocktails, making this both a learning experience and a tasty meal. The instructor shares insightful commentary about Nassau’s history and food traditions, making your time here educational as well as delicious.
The value for money is notable, with a roughly 3.5-hour experience that includes sight-seeing, cooking, and dining—all for $135 per person. This is ideal for food lovers who want to deepen their understanding of Bahamian cuisine or travelers seeking a fun, social activity.
Bottom line: If you enjoy cooking or want a relaxed, interactive way to explore Bahamian flavors, this class hits the mark.
2. Wine Maker Class at Bahama Barrels
Number 2 on our list, the Wine Maker Class at Bahama Barrels offers an unexpected twist—blending your own wine inside the oldest church in the Bahamas. This experience is truly unique because it combines the historic ambiance of Graycliff’s chapel with the modern craft of winemaking.
Led by an experienced California winemaker with nearly 20 years of expertise, you’ll learn about grapes, tannins, acidity, and how different varietals combine. The class begins with tasting wines from around the globe, then moves into hands-on blending, where you create your own customized bottle. At the end, you take home a souvenir bottle with your personal label—an excellent keepsake or gift.
Guests rave about the instructor’s knowledge and humor; one reviewer notes, “Tia was amazing and funny, the experience was great.” At just around $67 for 1.5 hours, the class offers tremendous value, especially considering the skill level and takeaway. It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts or curious travelers eager to try something different.
Bottom line: For a fun, informative experience that results in a tangible souvenir, this class is a winner.
3. NEW! Authentic Bahamian Mixology Class on Paradise Island
Number 3 is the Authentic Bahamian Mixology Class on Paradise Island, which earns a perfect 5-star rating from its two reviews. This class is a lively 1.5-hour session that teaches you how to craft three signature Bahamian cocktails using local ingredients like passionfruit, tamarind, and goat pepper-infused syrup.
Held just steps from Atlantis Resort, the class combines skill-building with tasting. You’ll enjoy your cocktails alongside crispy conch fritters and savory pretzel burgers, all while hearing stories about Bahamian rum traditions. It’s a fun, interactive way to understand local flavors and spirits.
The class is suitable for all levels and perfect for travelers who want a quick, enjoyable immersion into Bahamian bartending. With a price of $139, it offers a comprehensive, hands-on experience that’s more about fun than formality.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in Bahamian spirits and love making cocktails, this class offers both education and entertainment.
4. Candle Making Class
Number 4, the Candle Making Class at Graycliff is an artsy activity, although it has mixed reviews with a 1-star rating. Still, it offers a creative outlet in the historic Graycliff Candle Factory in Heritage Village.
The class involves melting wax, choosing fragrances, colors, and styles, then creating personalized candles—coconut shell candles or sand candles. It’s suitable for all ages, especially if you’re looking for a memorable craft experience. The process is straightforward, and the setting is charming, though the reviews suggest the experience might be inconsistent. The ticket price is $53.90 for an hour of hands-on activity.
Bottom line: If you love DIY projects and want a unique souvenir, this craft can be fun, but check recent reviews to ensure quality.
$53.90 per person
5. Island Body Care Workshop Cruise Shore Excursion
Number 5 is the Island Body Care Workshop, a 2-hour class where you create products with genuine Bahamian botanicals like bougainvillea, sea grape, and wild sage. It’s designed for cruise passengers who want to take home authentic island souvenirs without fuss.
You’ll learn from a professional designer and produce personalized body butters, mists, scrubs, lip balms, and travel perfumes. The process is quick, and the products are ready to use right away—no curing time needed. This workshop offers a practical and creative way to connect with local ingredients, making it ideal for those who love DIY skincare and want a memorable keepsake.
Costing $85, it’s a good value for the quality and uniqueness of the products created.
Bottom line: For a fast, authentic local experience that results in usable products, this is a top choice.
$85.00 per person
6. Saturday Bahamian Cooking Class in Downtown Nassau
Number 6, the Saturday Bahamian Cooking Class in Nassau’s art district, offers a laid-back, hands-on cooking experience led by a passionate Bahamian chef. Over about 3.5 hours, you’ll prepare traditional dishes like conch fritters and guava tartlets in a charming outdoor courtyard.
The class is inclusive and adaptable, accommodating vegetarian, lactose-free, and gluten-free diets. It’s a great way to learn about local ingredients and culinary traditions while enjoying a lively, friendly atmosphere. The price of $149 provides excellent value considering the duration and the focus on authentic Bahamian cuisine.
Bottom line: If you love cooking or want a local culinary experience, this class combines education, culture, and delicious food.
$149.00 per person
7. Sip and Create Bahamian Candle Making Workshop
Number 7 offers the Sip and Create candle workshop, a 2-hour session emphasizing personalized, authentic Bahamian candles. You work with island botanicals like bougainvillea, sea grape, and wild sage to craft scents that tell a story.
This class is ideal for those who appreciate detailed, creative projects. Every candle is unique and infused with local flavors, making it a thoughtful souvenir. The process is relaxed, and the instructor shares cultural stories behind each ingredient. At $85, it’s an engaging activity for craft lovers and curious travelers alike.
Bottom line: For a meaningful, creative experience rooted in local ingredients, this workshop is a winner.
$85.00 per person
8. Social Dance Class with a Pro Instructor
Number 8, the Social Dance Class, is a one-hour private lesson suitable for singles or couples. You can learn popular dance styles like Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, or even Bahamian Goombay dance.
Led by a professional instructor, this class is perfect for those wanting to improve their dancing skills or just have fun trying something new. It’s a relaxed, engaging way to connect with local culture through movement. Priced at $75, it offers good value for a personalized, interactive experience.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in dance or want to boost your confidence on the dance floor, this class is a lively, enjoyable option.
$75.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Workshop or Class in New Providence Island
If you’re trying to decide which experience suits you best, consider your budget, interests, and schedule. Cooking classes like the Authentic Bahamian Cooking Class and the Saturday Bahamian Cooking Class are perfect for food lovers wanting hands-on learning. If you’re more into arts and crafts, the candle-making workshops (Candle Making Class, Sip and Create Candle Workshop) provide a creative outlet.
For those interested in beverages, the Wine Maker Class and Mixology Class combine fun and local flavors. If dancing or physical activity is more your style, the Social Dance Class offers a lively, social experience.
Always check recent reviews and consider how much time you want to spend. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular classes or limited-capacity activities.
Final Thoughts
From culinary adventures to creative crafts and dance lessons, New Providence Island has plenty to offer those eager to learn new skills or enjoy authentic local culture. For immersive experiences, the Authentic Bahamian Cooking Class and the Wine Maker Class stand out for their depth and unique settings. If you prefer quick, fun activities, the candle-making and mixology workshops provide memorable souvenirs and stories.
No matter what you choose, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these enriching experiences. So, pick one or two that excite you, and prepare for a more connected, flavorful side of Nassau.