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Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge
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Landmark
The Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge is a critical transportation link connecting the city of Nassau to Paradise Island. Originally known as the Paradise Island Bridge, the structure was renamed in 2012 to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Bahamian independence and to honor the legendary Bahamian-American actor Sir Sidney Poitier. The link actually consists of two distinct bridges: an older one carrying northbound traffic and a newer span for southbound vehicles. The high arched design of the bridge provides a sweeping panoramic view of Nassau's harbor and the expansive luxury resorts on Paradise Island, including the famous Atlantis complex. Sir Sidney Poitier was the first Black actor to win an Academy Award for Best Actor, and he maintained strong ties to his Bahamian heritage throughout his life. The bridge stands as both an essential piece of tourism infrastructure and a monument to national achievement and pride.
- Location: Bahamas
- Top sights: Nassau Stadium · National Archives of the Bahamas · Imperial Arena
- Nearby: Sandy Point (21 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 23 | 23 | 25 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 25 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 38 | 33 | 40 | 61 | 127 | 162 | 130 | 154 | 164 | 119 | 68 | 40 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge is a public road bridge that can be crossed anytime on foot or by vehicle. A separate pedestrian walkway gives a lovely view of the water.
Typical hours
The bridge is open 24/7 with no set hours. As it's a major thoroughfare, watch out for traffic when stopping for photos.
Photography
Photography is possible anytime from the bridge and nearby waterfront areas. Sunset shots are especially popular, when light illuminates the bay and the Nassau skyline.
Time needed
A quick photo stop on the bridge takes about five to ten minutes. Those who walk the entire bridge and enjoy the view should allow 15 to 20 minutes.
Combine with
The bridge connects Nassau to Paradise Island - combine your visit with a day trip to the Atlantis resort and beaches. The historic centre of Nassau with Rawson Square is also a short drive away.
Getting there
The bridge is on the main road linking Nassau and Paradise Island, accessible by car and on foot. Parking is available on Paradise Island near Atlantis resort or in downtown Nassau.
Insider tip
The best time for a photo stop is early morning around 7 AM, when traffic is light and the light is convenient. Afterwards you can have a leisurely breakfast on Paradise Island.
Geography
Facts
- The bridge was renamed in honor of Sir Sidney Poitier in November 2012.
- It provides the primary access route between Nassau and the resort island.
- The system consists of two bridges built respectively in 1967 and 1998.
- A toll is required for all vehicular traffic crossing onto Paradise Island.
- The bridges feature a high clearance to accommodate marine traffic in the harbor.
- Sidney Poitier's parents were tomato farmers on Cat Island in the Bahamas.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Which places does the bridge connect?
It connects Nassau (New Providence) with Paradise Island.
Is there a toll fee?
Yes, there is a fee for vehicles heading toward Paradise Island.
Can you cross the bridge on foot?
Yes, there are sidewalks, but the incline is quite steep.
Why is it named Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge?
It was named in honor of the famous Bahamian-American actor.
Is the bridge illuminated at night?
Yes, it provides a beautiful sight over the water at night.
Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge: where is it located?
Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge is located in Bahamas.
Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge: what is there to see?
Highlights include Nassau Stadium, National Archives of the Bahamas, Imperial Arena.
Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge: why is it worth visiting?
The Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge is a critical transportation link connecting the city of Nassau to Paradise Island.
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History & landmarks
Saint Matthew's Anglican Church
The oldest surviving church building in the city of Nassau.
Dundas Centre for the Performing Arts
A distinctive building that serves as the heart for theater and culture in the Bahamas.
Fort Fincastle
A historic fort on Bennet's Hill, shaped like a paddle-wheel steamer.
Queen's Staircase
A historic staircase in Nassau, carved out of solid limestone and featuring 66 steps.
Royal Victoria Hotel Ruins
The remains of the Bahamas' first luxury hotel, built during the American Civil War.
Shirley Street Post Office
A prominent government building that provided postal services for the downtown area.
Supreme Court of the Bahamas
A classic colonial building serving as the highest judicial center of the Bahamas.
Rawson Square
The center of downtown Nassau, often the gateway for cruise ship passengers.
More places
Gun Hill Lighthouse
A historic lighthouse offering panoramic views of the island.
Blackbeard's Tower
The ruins of a watchtower reputedly used by the pirate Blackbeard.
Aquaventure at Atlantis
A massive water park on Paradise Island featuring high-speed slides, a lazy river, and over 20 swimming areas.
Marine Habitat at Atlantis
One of the largest open-air marine habitats in the world, home to over 50,000 marine animals from over 250 species.
Atlantis Aquaventure Water Park
A massive water park on Paradise Island with thrilling slides and rides.
The Retreat Garden
A national park managed by the Bahamas National Trust, housing one of the world's largest private collections of rare and exotic palms.
Cabbage Beach Fort Ruin
The small ruins of an old Spanish or British fortification at the eastern end of Paradise Island.
Fort Montagu
The oldest surviving fort on New Providence.