How Far Is Nassau, Bahamas from the U.S. Coast?

Nassau (New Providence Island) is ~180 miles (290 km) southeast of Miami. Not "off the coast"—the Bahamas are an independent nation, a separate archipelago east of Florida, north of Cuba.

Closest Points

• Bimini (westernmost Bahamian island): 50 miles (80 km) east of Miami. 20 min by plane, 2h by fast ferry.
• Grand Bahama (Freeport): 85 miles (135 km) east of West Palm Beach.
• Nassau: 180 miles (290 km) from Miami; 110 miles (175 km) from Freeport.

Travel Reality

• Flights: MIA→NAS 45 min (American, Bahamasair, Southwest). FLL→NAS 35 min. Dozens daily.
• Ferry: Balearia Caribbean (Fort Lauderdale ↔ Freeport, 3h). No direct Miami–Nassau ferry.
• Private boat: 4–6h from Miami to Bimini; 8–12h to Nassau. Clear customs at Bimini or Nassau.

Political Status

Bahamas = independent Commonwealth realm (since 1973). King Charles III = head of state. Own currency (BSD, pegged 1:1 USD), laws, immigration. U.S. citizens need passport. Not a U.S. territory.

So: close geographically, distinct politically. Nassau is a foreign capital 45 minutes from Miami by air.