National

Western Esplanade Beach Bar Faces Closure Over Chairs & Umbrellas

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Located on the far right of Western Esplanade Beach, it’s hard to miss the sea of red umbrellas that has become a landmark for both tourists and locals, but now, the future of It Is What It Is Chippies Beach Bar is uncertain.

Published

1 month ago

July 29, 2026

Delvardo Emmanuel

On Wednesday, we visited the beach and spoke with manager Reece Chipman, who says he immediately contacted officials at the Bahamas Public Beaches and Public Parks Authority seeking an explanation for the notice.

Reece Chipman – Manager, It Is What It Is Chippies Beach Bar

“ I said to them, “Well, can you put something in writing so that we would know not only the infraction, but we also wanna know what policy there is that we are not guided by or that we’re not following.””

Chipman says he never received the clarification he was seeking.

He maintains the business employs more than 15 people, many of whom rely on their jobs to support their families.

He also argues that the impact extends beyond his staff, saying taxi drivers, tour operators, and other small vendors benefit from the hundreds of visitors who stop at the establishment each day.

Reece Chipman – Manager, It Is What Is Beach Bar

“ We have asked the Authority to allow sufficient time for back-to-school arrangements so these persons could make sure their children are in school properly. Of course, to no avail because we get a letter telling us we have to be off this beach by tomorrow.”

However, the Bahamas Public Parks and Public Beaches Authority sees it differently.

Executive Chairman Jamahl Strachan says the business’ permit only authorizes the sale of food and drinks, not the rental or use of beach chairs and umbrellas.

Jamahl Strachan – Executive Chairman, Bahamas Public Parks and Beaches Authority,

“ There are vendors, other vendors on the beach, who make their living off of renting lounge chairs and umbrellas. So he is now cutting into their livelihoods by offering this service…because it does not come under his permit…”