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The Bahamas is a wonderful place to vacation and a short flight from the East Coast of the United States (about 2.5 hours from New York). The Bahamas is a country made up of 700 islands spanning some 760 miles, but most US tourists fly into Nassau on the island of New Providence. Here (and on the adjoining Paradise Island accessible by a car bridge) there are so many great resorts, ones to fit every type of traveler and budget. With some many great hotel options, I was excited to be one of the lucky travel agents recently invited to tour Nassau with the Bahamas Tourism Board. On this trip, we toured eight different hotels giving me a much better idea of what properties would best suit what client. I am so excited to share these best hotels in Nassau, Bahamas with you!
As a travel agent and Bahamas Destination Specialist, I was invited to visit the Bahamas with the Bahamas Tourism Board. As always, all opinions are my own.
Where to stay in the Bahamas – Nassau and Paradise Island
I always thought Nassau was the name of the most visited Bahamian island, but Nassau is actually the town and New Providence is the official island name. Either way, this island is 21 miles by 7 miles. The international airport is located in the west (Closer to Cable Beach) and a very busy cruise port is located in downtown Nassau. In fact, prior to this trip, my only time in the Bahamas was via the Norwegian Getaway from New York City!
Paradise Island is a separate island, but is easily accessible from Nassau by a vehicular bridge.
This island is a popular vacation destination for many reasons. Besides its proximity to the Eastern US, temperate, and tropical climate, the Bahamian people are so warm and welcoming and this is a culture with a deep rooted history. The island is littered with high end restaurants, incredible duty free shopping and every island sport you can think of! Casino gambling is also legal in the Bahamas (no taxes on casino winnings, either) and is home to the largest casino in the Caribbean.
There is truly something for everyone on a Bahamas Vacation. There are amazing resorts for every type of traveler, and to fit every budget. On our recent visit with the Tourism Board, we toured seven properties, in addition to the hotel we stayed at, the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar.
On our tour I took extensive notes and a ton of pictures. I hope to summarize each property below to give you an idea of all the incredible options for your next Bahamas vacation. Of course, the best way to decide which property is best for you is to contact me here, and we can talk through what you are interested in and I can help plan your perfect Bahamas trip.
As a full service travel agent and Bahamas destination specialist, I’d love to get started planning your next Bahamian getaway. Click the banner below to get started.
The Best Resorts in Nassau Bahamas
Grand Hyatt Baha Mar
Size: Large
Cost: $$$$
Location: Cable Beach, 15-minutes from the airport
Amenities: Six pools, beach, 30+ restaurants, Largest Casino in the Caribbean, Kids’ club
Best For: Casino Gamblers, Families, Couples, World of Hyatt members, beach lovers, resort lovers
Summary: This is a large resort with a Vegas-Style Casino. The rooms are stylish and modern and the beach is gorgeous. With plenty of activities and restaurants, you would never need to leave the property! World of Hyatt members will enjoy their perks and point redemptions as this is a Hyatt property.
SLS Baha Mar
Size: Boutique. Resort within a resort. Full access to amenities at Grand Hyatt
Cost: $$$$
Location: Cable Beach, 15-minutes from the airport
Amenities: Two dedicated pool for SLS guests, beach, celebrity restaurants, Access to the Largest Casino in the Caribbean at the Hyatt, Sky Bar on the 21st floor, nightclub
Best For: Casino Gamblers, Families, Couples, beach lovers, boutique hotel lovers, millennials, long term stays, honeymooners, party crowd
Summary: At first, I felt like this property was more of an adults-only retreat, but after seeing the larger residences, families would also love a stay at the SLS Baha Mar.
Margaritaville Beach Resort in Downtown Nassau
Size: Small
Cost: $$$
Location: Downtown Nassau, walking distance from the cruise port
Amenities: Margaritaville Nassau has a small water park with mini Flow rider, lazy river, waterslides. There is a hotel tower and condo-style residences.Also a St. Somewhere Spa, great tropical chic theming and a Graycliff owned sky bar on the 10th floor.
Best For: Short stays – long weekend getaways, bachelor/bachelorette parties or friend groups. Cruise excursion day passes offered.
Summary: This new resort just opened in July 2021. I stayed here in November and really enjoyed it! The food was great, and there is incredible theming throughout the resort. There are all ocean view rooms with beautiful views and balconies. The resort has a small waterpark and pool which would be fun for a short stay. There is a small beach and the location is great for exploring downtown Nassau.
Melia Nassau Beach – ALL-INCLUSIVE
2021 UPDATE: This resort has not re-opened since the pandemic.
Size: Medium
Cost: $$
Location: Cable Beach, 15-minutes from the airport
Amenities: 3 pools (one is adults only, two are for families), beach, 5 restaurants, Kids’ club, tapas bar with evening entertainment, The Level – an upgraded experience within the resort, complimentary boat shuttle to Balmoral (private island)
Best For: Families, Couples, beach lovers, budget conscience since All-Inclusive
Summary: If you are looking for a family friendly all-inclusive in the Bahamas – Melia Nassau Beach is the only game in town. Unlike at some of the other ala carte resorts on the island, you won’t be hit with a huge food and drink bill at the end of your stay, as this is an all-inclusive property. The Steakhouse is an upcharge, but all the other amenities, food, and drink are included.
Island House
Size: Small – only 30 rooms on site
Cost: $$$$
Location: Lyford Cay – on the western most part of the island
Amenities: Pool, beach shuttle, Incredible fitness center with peloton bikes and a long list of studio classes, Squash Courts, lap pool, outdoor TRX, Complimentary Bike Rental, spa, Mahogany house restaurant, Cinema on site
Best For: Gym/Fitness travelers, boutique hotel lovers, off the beaten path travelers, those looking to retreat and relax
Summary: The Island House is a very unique property located on a quiet part of the island. Smartly decorated with local art, the Island House is a landlocked resort with gorgeous views of the Lyford Cay marina. Guests can take an on demand shuttle to Old Port Bay – a beautiful private beach with a bar in a gated community.
Graycliff Inn
Size: Small, 20 rooms
Cost: $$$
Location: in the heart of Nassau
Amenities: Chocolate Factory, Cigar Factory, Museum, the third largest wine cellar in the world, Culinary Academy, pool
Best For: foodies, history buffs, wine lovers
Summary: This unique property is located in a historical building. The Graycliff Inn has twenty rooms spread across the property and the restaurant is off the lobby.
BAHAMAS PRO TIP : Visiting Nassau on a cruise? Then head to the Graycliff for a meal, afternoon tea, or cooking class! There is also a day pass option for cruise guests!
Other Resorts in Nassau
Below I am listing ones I did not personally tour, but were mentioned by the Bahamas Tourism Board.
Sandals Royal Bahamian
This is an adults-only All-Inclusive. The Sandals brand is committed to a five star luxury all -inclusive experience. Having stayed at the Sandals Grenada, Grande Antigua and Royal Caribbean in Jamaica, I have experienced first hand this amazing brand. Sandals Royal Bahamian is the closest Sandals property to the mainland US, making it the perfect choice for a honeymoon or anniversary trip!
During 2021, this resort underwent a MAJOR renovation and is ready to welcome guests to its fully updated resort!
Rosewood Baha Mar
The Rosewood is the high-end boutique hotel located at Baha Mar. Rosewood guests have dedicated facilities but also access to the amenities at the Grand Hyatt.
Breezes Bahamas
Breezes Bahamas is a budget friendly all-inclusive for guests age 14 and up. This is a popular place for spring breakers and June graduation trips.
Best Resorts on Paradise Island Bahamas
Paradise Island is easily accessible from the Nassau airport. Technically its own island, Paradise Island is connected to Nassau by a vehicular bridge. On Paradise Island there are beautiful beaches and some gorgeous resorts. A little quieter and low key then downtown Nassau, its safe to walk around and explore the shops and restaurants. This area reminded me of Naples, Florida!
Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort
Size: High end, luxury property, small resort feel
Cost: $$$$$
Location: Paradise Island
Amenities: Three pools (one is adults only), beach, three restaurants (including one from Michelin Starred Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten), Martini bar, all rooms have butler service
Best For: Luxury traveler, spa lover, Families, Couples, honeymoons, destination weddings
Summary:
The Ocean Club is a gorgeous property exudes luxury. Guests can enjoy SUV service to anywhere on Paradise Island and can access the Atlantis water park. Beautiful gardens make the perfect location for a destination wedding.
Atlantis Bahamas
Size: Large
Cost: $$ – $$$$$ Depending on tower
Location: Paradise Island
Amenities: Aquaventure Waterpark, Marine Habitat, Casino, nightclubs, 21 restaurants, six hotel towers, beach, countless pools, kids club, teen club
Best For: With six distinct hotels on property, there is really something for everyone at the Atlantis Resort.
Summary:
The Atlantis is a mega-resort with activities for everyone! Highlights include the Aquaventure Waterpark, Dolphin Cay and Marine Habitat. All Atlantis guests have full access to the Aquaventure waterpark.
Booking an Atlantis vacation is definitely one that should ALWAYS be booked with an agent to guide you! I am an Atlantis Ambassador, meaning I have completed all the training to properly plan your Atlantis vacation.
My favorite towers at the Atlantis are:
The Reef
Cost: $$$$
Amenities: Close to the beach, all rooms have a kitchen or kitchenette, laundry service available, and a family pool exclusive to Reef and Cove guests
Best For: Families looking to have kitchen access during their stay, or who want a smaller hotel feel within the larger Atlantis Property
The Cove
Cost: $$$$$
Amenities: Close to the beach, access to adults only pool area and adults only restaurant (Sip Sip), all rooms have a living room, family pool exclusive to Reef and Cove guests
Best For: Adults looking for an adult-only experience, those who enjoy a more urban-sheik decor.
My Reef and Cove bookings may be eligible for the following select amenities:
$100 resort credit
Complimentary breakfast at Mosaics for two each day of your stay
A complimentary one category upgrade, subject to availability.
And my Atlantis clients get my expert guidance on creating the perfect Atlantis vacation for your family!
The other towers of Atlantis include: The Royal (Iconic), The Coral (good for medium budgets), The Beach (more budget friendly). These are also Marriott partner hotels (but remain independently owned).
BAHAMAS PRO TIP : Book a day pass to Atlantis – perfect for cruise passengers – Book A Day Pass or Cabana and enjoy the pool, spa, and amenities at a luxury hotel.
The Warwick – ADULTS ONLY, ALL-INCLUSIVE
Size: Medium
Cost: $$
Location: Paradise Island, on the marina side
Amenities: One pool, small marina beach, hot tub, five included restaurants, shuttle to Cabbage Beach
Best For: Adults looking for a budget all-inclusive getaway, group travel, perfect for bachelor or bachelorette parties
Summary: This a stylish and fun property where adults can get away from it all. The large lazy river pool and hot tub overlook the Paradise Island Marina. The hotel provides a shuttle to Cabbage Beach for those guests looking for a larger beach. The Warwick guests have a choice of restaurants and two bars on site.
Other Resorts on Paradise Island
Below I am listing ones I did not personally tour, but were mentioned by the Bahamas Tourism Board.
Comfort Suites Paradise Island. This property is part of the Comfort Inn brand, but a stay here comes with passes to Atlantis Aquaventure. From the Comfort Suites you can walk to Atlantis.
RIU Paradise Island. The RIU Paradise Island is located adjacent to the Atlantis property. This is part of the RIU Brand and is a budget friendly, adults-only, all inclusive hotel. I am also a RIU Hotel specialist!
Tips for visiting the Bahamas
- The official currency is the Bahamian Dollar, but USD are widely accepted. No need to change currency, although always best to bring small bills for tips and purchases.
- English is the official language of the Bahamas.
- In the Bahamas, cars drive on the left (an ode to being a former British colony) but some cars have steering wheels on the right (English and Japanese built) while some have steering wheels on the left (US manufacture).
- Spring for the ocean view or ocean front room, you won’t be disappointed.
- Nassau is a popular cruise port. The busiest ship day is Tuesday with 5 ships in town. Wednesday can be congested as well. This will mean more traffic in downtown Nassau, and remember that Atlantis opens its waterpark to cruise guests. Check out the full Nassau port schedule.
- Try the conch and Kalik beer.
- Airline passengers will clear US customs at the airport in Nassau upon departing the island. Allow extra time for this. If you have an arranged an airport transfer, you will be picked up at your hotel three hours prior to your flight.
- Passports ARE required for US citizens if arriving to the Bahamas by air. If you are arriving via boat (private or cruise ship), laws vary. Check here for more on documents required for travel to the Bahamas.
- Bahamas is a zika-free vacation, so the perfect spot for your next babymoon. As always, always check with your physician if you are concerned about Zika.
- While on Nassau, consider a swimming pigs day trip to the Exumas with Powerboat Adventures. I did this on my recent trip and it was awesome! Other popular Nassau tours include this food tour, Seahorse Catamaran Snorkeling Tour, or a day at Pearl Island.
- Be sure to reach out, as I am a Bahamas Destination Specialist, Atlantis Ambassador and can help you plan your perfect Bahamas vacation!
The Bahamas is a great place for your next vacation – I can’t wait to go back and explore more of the resorts!
What is your favorite Bahamas resort? Where would you like to stay on your next Bahamas vacation?
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Such a great and informative post! Now I’m at work dreaming of a vacation and not dreaming of working all day! LOL
Sorry! Yeah Id rather think about vacation all day
This place is amazing! You wouldnt even need to leave the Hotel on vacation for a great time. You had me sold on the casino bit.
thats what my parents like too!
This place looks so amazing! I would love to go to Bahamas!
Kileen
cute & little
It was so beautiful – the water! And easy to get to
Wow the Bahamas is simply stunning! That water looks so inviting. I neeeeedd to go already!
yeah there is no filter on these pics!
What an amazing overview of accommodations in the Bahamas! I would give anything to go to any one of them…like, yesterday! Thanks for all of the great info!
I was just in the Bahamas last week!! It was my first time and a lovely experience, though I could have benefitted from reading your post before my trip. 😉
where did you stay?
What a great resource! You’ve covered so many places. Pinning for future reference. I’m hoping to do a family trip in the coming years.
Water so stunning, their brilliant colors are visible even from outer space, you can see through the bottom .You cover each and every portion very clearly .I read it twice . Guide from Where to stay at Bahamas and Which are the top resorts to stay in Bahamas with Gallery Collections .Thanks
glad you liked the article And yes, that water is unreal!
Hi….I am trying to plan our wedding anniversary trip in December. I am looking for a secluded beachfront small romantic place. I don’t mind if we have to take a boat shuttle to somewhere but we will fly into Nassau. Any suggestions? Thank you!
Hi Dawn, thanks for reaching out – I sent you an email. I for sure have some ideas, definitely will depend on your dates for availability and budget too
Hi! My husband and I are wanting to stay at the Atlantis. We are looking at the Coral as it appears more mid range in price. We don’t need the most luxurious but also want to make sure we get the whole experience and don’t skimp. We want to go this August. You mentioned we should book through an ambassador. Do you still do that? How do you find one?
I am still a full service TA and atlantis Ambassador – I sent over an email!