With over 700 islands and 2,400 cays, The Bahamas is an alluring tropical destination with white-washed shores and luxurious accommodations. Located in the Atlantic, the mix of powder-soft sands and turquoise blue waters of the country’s beaches draws visitors in from around the world. The site of Columbus’s first landfall in the America’s, modern explorers are spoiled for choice in its outdoor adventures that include an array of swimming, snorkeling, and island-hopping excursions. From family-friendly accommodations to honeymoon hideaways, read on to discover the best resorts in the Bahamas.
The Cove Atlantis, Autograph Collection - Paradise Island
An upscale property with luxurious ocean suites, The Cove Atlantis, Autograph Collection on Paradise Island offers a memorable vacation experience. Located at the apex of Cove and Paradise beaches, guests have access to an adults only ultra-pool, outdoor gaming pavilion, two bars and 20 private cabanas. Guests are spoiled for choice in how they spend their days, as they can revel in the resort’s additional amenities that include golf courses, extensive on-site dining options that vary from Caribbean flavors to international cuisine, and spa services such as couple’s massages and steam rooms. Ranging from Ocean Suites to Penthouse Suites, those who upgrade for the more luxurious options will find dreamlike accommodations that feel like you’re floating over the idyllic blue waters of the island with breathtaking panoramic views.
Sandals Emerald Bay Golf, Tennis and Spa Resort - Great Exuma
Situated on a hillside overlooking the ocean, Sandals Emerald Bay Golf, Tennis and Spa Resort offers idyllic views of the sparkling Exumas waters. A secluded accommodation nestled within 500 tropical acres on a mile-long beach, the centerpiece of the resort is a half-acre, zero-entry pool with a dramatic fire pit in the middle. Boasting 249 spacious rooms, this all-inclusive resort features tennis courts, a modern fitness center, a zen garden, and an on-site spa. An 18-hole golf course offers views of Emerald Bay while sunbathing and scuba diving excursions are other popular activities. Offering a dizzying array of room choices, guests who want the ultimate luxury can book the Beachfront Butler Villa Suite with Pool, where French doors open up to a private pool and a master suite overlooks the Caribbean Sea.
Atlantis, Coral Towers, Autograph Collection - Paradise Island
A large property with over 600 guests rooms, Atlantis, Coral Towers, Autograph Collection on Paradise Island appeals to those looking for family-friendly accommodations. Guests are treated to rooms with indoor seating areas, bathroom toiletries, and private balconies, while the real highlight its the resort’s array of on-site features available. Home to a marine habitat, and the world’s largest outdoor aquarium, guests can explore the 200-million gallon water park with its series of slides, lazy river, and a 14-acre Dolphin Cay to swim with the dolphins. A variety of dining choices is available, from upscale to more casual fare, including pool bars and grills located around the resort.
Sandals Royal Bahamian Spa Resort & Offshore Island - Nassau
Once the private club for the Duke and Duchess of Windsor and even the Beatles, Sandals Royal Bahamian Spa Resort & Offshore Island is an alluring accommodation choice with a range of former celebrity guests. A romantic getaway destination, the resort is designed with couples in mind with a world-class spa, ten distinct restaurants, eight bars, seven pools and an array of land and water activities to indulge in. The resort’s standout feature is the private offshore island that can only be accessed by a ferry, while the luxury rooms are another highlight, featuring elegant decor and modern amenities. Organized events are in abundance for those who prefer to fill their daily itinerary, where activities like wine tasting, dance lessons, and scuba diving are popular.
One & Only Ocean Club - Paradise Island
An intimate accommodation choice on Paradise Island, the One & Only Ocean Club features 105 luxurious rooms and suites. Featuring flat-screen TVs, walk-in steam showers, additional beach accessories, and private balconies, rooms here are nestled within expansive manicured grounds that feature a romantic garden and white-sand beach. Wake up to free yoga classes on the oceanfront deck, or spend your afternoon playing a round of golf at the 18-hole course, while those looking for the ultimate relaxation will find the Balinese-style spa treatments at the on-site spa worth checking out. Sunset drinks at the on-site Dune restaurant is a must, as celebrity chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten offers guests an enticing menu of French-Asian cuisine.
The Cove Eleuthera - Gregory Town
Located around 50 miles east of Nassau on a secluded island, The Cove Eleuthera boasts 58 guest rooms, suites, and villas that offer 500-thread-count linens, flat-screen TVs and easy access to the pink-hued sands of the nearby beach. Just steps away from the luxury accommodations, guests will find a postcard-worthy beachfront infinity pool and an array of on-site eateries to dine in. Spend the day lounging on the coral sands or explore the underwater marine life on a snorkeling excursion. Island tours, yacht charters and other outdoor recreational activities such as paddle boarding and kayaking can be arranged with the concierge. An open-air sunset bar provides the perfect backdrop to end your evening, while the on-site spa offers luxurious treatments ideal for those who need to recharge.
Grand Isle Resort & Spa - Great Exuma
Sitting on a mile-long stretch of idyllic beach, the Grand Isle Resort & Spa is located on Great Exuma. Boasting a family-friendly, laid-back attitude, here guests will find plenty of places to unwind on this AAA Four Diamond Award property. Guests will find exquisite cuisine and luxury spa services in addition to outdoor adventures that include sports fishing, fly fishing, diving, and snorkeling. Lounge at the gorgeous infinity pool, soak up the sun on the secluded beach or play a round of golf at the on-site golf course. Dine at the poolside restaurant can catch live Bahamian music before retiring to one of the 79 spacious villas with fully-equipped kitchens, walk-in showers, and private balconies.
Old Bahama Bay Resort & Yacht Harbour - West End
A tropical oasis on West End, Old Bahama Bay Resort & Yacht Harbour is set on 225 acres of lush, beachfront grounds. Situated next to a full-service marina, here guests can choose from 73 spacious suites set in plantation-style villas with king, double and two-bedroom layouts. Rooms feature beautiful terraces with water views, along with kitchenettes and marble bathrooms. A beachfront tiki bar and nautical style restaurant offer a range of local and international cuisine, while a selection of indoor and outdoor activities are available for use, from the tennis courts and paddle boards to the pool table and Wii console. Treat yourself to an in-room spa treatment, or simply soak in your surrounding sand lounge under the shady palm trees at the white-sand beach.
Hotel Riu Palace Paradise Island - Paradise Island
A 24-hour all-inclusive resort, Hotel Riu Palace Paradise Island is located on the best beach of Paradise Island. Here guests will find plenty of spots to soak in the sunshine, featuring a swimming pool, swim-up bar, jacuzzi, solarium-terrace and a short walk to the pristine beach. An on-site buffet offers a variety of changing cuisine options, while a theme restaurant offers nightly entertainment in addition to a nearby sports bar. Couples massages and other treatments can be found at the Renova Spa, while an on-site convenience store provides a selection of wine for guests to enjoy from their private balconies. The 379 rooms and suites offer a perfect respite from the daily activities, where guests will find contemporary decor, stocked minibars, and 24-hour room service.
Breezes Resort & Spa Bahamas - Nassau
A three-pearl resort located on Cable Beach in Nassau, Breeze Resort & Spa Bahamas offers direct access to one of the island’s most popular beaches. Guests rooms are large and spacious, featuring colorful decor, flatscreen TVs and furnished patios with views of the ocean. Upgraded rooms offer a walking path to the beach directly from the room, while all guests can take advantage of the resort’s three freshwater pools, hot tub, volleyball net and a swim-up bar. Offering a “super-inclusive package,” guests will find the resort jam packed with activities to choose from, such as a flying trapeze, rock-climbing wall, and tennis courts. Travelers who want to keep the party going late into the night will find this location ideal, as guests can enjoy four on-site bars that offer a lively nightlife scene.
