Caribbean
Tourist scams in Bahamas
Habits that keep you safe
Money
- US dollars are accepted everywhere at the same value as Bahamian dollars.
- You do not need to exchange US dollars into Bahamian dollars for everyday spending.
- Agree on the total price before paying. Direct bargaining at the straw market is normal.
- Keep receipts, especially for expensive purchases.
- Treat a high cigar price as a reason to check authenticity, not as proof that it is genuine.
What travellers say about Bahamas
Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.
- Redditr/travel2026Bahamas (Nassau) scams and lies - PSA for low/middle income earners like meA visitor reported variable taxi and beach-drink prices and approaches offering free perks that led to expensive vacation-club sales pitches.Read on Reddit
- Redditr/bahamas2024Things to Watch Out for - Notes from First Time in BahamasA first-time visitor described taxi overcharging, undisclosed bill additions and pressure to tip beyond an included service charge.Read on Reddit
- Redditr/bahamas2024Scam?A tourist whose stolen phone was recovered with a taxi driver's help suspected a coordinated scam, while commenters largely considered the driver a helpful bystander.Read on Reddit
- Redditr/bahamas2024Credit card fraudA visitor reported two suspected fraudulent card charges after dining in Nassau, although the discussion did not establish who caused them.Read on Reddit
- Redditr/bahamas2025Is this legit?A poster questioned a Bahamas trip won through a mall drawing, prompting warnings about timeshare pitches and additional travel costs and fees.Read on Reddit
- Redditr/Scams2025[Bahamas] Another resort is trying to pay me for a presentationA vacationer reported being approached on a Bahamas beach with offers of meals, cash, car rental and accommodation in exchange for attending another resort's presentation.Read on Reddit
Questions
What shopping scam should I watch for in the Bahamas?
Counterfeit Cuban cigars. The vast majority sold as Cuban are fake, so choose a reputable, dedicated tobacconist.
What is the clearest visible sign of fake Cuban cigars?
A box with a glass lid. Cigars sold as Cuban in this packaging are fake.
How much do genuine Cuban cigars cost?
They cost upwards of $30 each. A $10 cigar sold as Cuban is fake. Paying more alone does not prove authenticity.
Where should I avoid buying cigars?
Avoid street sellers, markets and small shops combining cigar and liquor sales. Buy from a reputable, dedicated tobacconist.
Is direct bargaining at the straw market a scam?
Direct negotiation is normal there and is often humorous. Agree on a price before paying; bargaining alone is not evidence of fraud.
Can I pay with US dollars?
Yes. US dollars are accepted everywhere at the same value as Bahamian dollars.
Do I need to exchange my US dollars?
No. There is no need to exchange them for everyday spending. Many tourist businesses also give change in US dollars.
Are there safety concerns beyond shopping scams?
Yes. Violent crime is a problem in cities, especially Nassau, and includes sexual assaults on tourists. Gated tourist areas such as Paradise Island have tight security.
What should I do if I buy a counterfeit item?
Keep the receipt and packaging. Ask for a refund if it is safe. If you paid by card, contact your issuer about a dispute. Report suspected fraud to the police.
Reviewed by @snuck