Nassau, Bahamas, is an island paradise just a short flight away from much of the East Coast. Short travel times, easy customs, and relatively inexpensive flights make it suitable for a long weekend away, but there are enough activities to fill an entire week!
Whether searching for an adult-only, all-inclusive, mega beachside or something elegant and secluded, this guide to the Nassau Bahamas’ resorts will highlight the most luxurious resorts on this tropical island paradise.
Sandals – The Only Luxury All-Inclusive
Photo Credit: Jenn Coleman.
Sandals Royal Bahamian is Nassau’s only adult-only luxury all-inclusive. With ten specialty restaurants, a private island, water sports (including scuba diving), and bar service included, staying at Sandals is an attractive package if you want to avoid being nickeled and dimed during your vacation.
Daily activities and nightly entertainment will not only keep you busy but also keep the good times rolling. You can even add additional spa services and local excursions to supplement your luxury package. For the ultimate in romance and luxury, you can book a romantic candlelit dinner on the beach.
Atlantis – The Culinary Capital of the Caribbean
Photo Credit: Deposit Photos.
Atlantis is one mythical resort with five distinct hotels. No matter where you stay, you’ll have access to fabulous water parks and aquariums that cost up to $200 to visit as a day guest, but there’s so much more than that.
Atlantis is an epicurean destination known as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean. With its over 40 restaurants and three Michelin-starred chefs, no wonder it’s been nominated for the World Culinary Awards 2024. With day trips, a casino, five miles of beaches, and a spa nominated for the World Spa Awards 2024, you’ll never have to leave the property for a luxurious beach vacation.
The Ocean Club – A Four Seasons Resort
Photo Credit: Jenn Coleman.
The Ocean Club is a legendary Caribbean hideaway seeped in the luxury of the French Riveria. What sets the Ocean Club apart is its remarkable seclusion. A stunning infinity pool on the ocean-side bluff separates 35 acres of Versailles-inspired lawns and gardens from five miles of white sand beaches.
At the Ocean Club, you can be as active as you choose. You can wake up to breakfast on your private balcony before indulging in a treatment at the Balinese-style spa or head out for a round of golf at Ocean Club Golf Course, followed by an island adventure swimming with pigs or splashing with sea lions. No matter what you do, save room for one of Michelin-distinguished Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s signature dishes, or take the shuttle to Atlantis to spice up your night.
Baha Mar – The Caribbean’s Largest Casino
Photo Credit: Jenn Coleman.
Baha Mar is a sprawling seaside resort with three hotels, a 15-acre water park, and the Caribbean’s largest and most elegant casino. The resort’s nearly 40 restaurants and bars offer everything from white-glove elegance to party on the beach fun, and everything in between.
You can spend your days actively playing golf or tennis, relaxing in the spa, or taking off on an adventure from the Baha Mar dock. You can even try one of their unique animal experience, like feeding nurse sharks or practicing yoga with flamingos. At night, the spirit of Baha Mar comes alive with culinary delights and exciting casino games.
British Colonial – An Oasis in the Heart of Nassau
Photo Credit: Jenn Coleman.
At the British Colonial, history, culture, and sophistication combine seamlessly along the Nassau beachfront. Henry Flagler, of Florida fame, financed and built the original Colonial Hotel in 1901. It burned down in 1922, and The New Colonial was built on the site in 1924. Sir Harry Oakes purchased the hotel in 1932, reportedly after he was sent away for being underdressed, and renamed it the British Colonial Hotel.
Today, it’s an oasis in the heart of downtown Nassau with two outdoor pools, vibrant restaurants, and a private stretch of beach. It’s a perfect base for people who like their luxury combined with trips out on the town.
Goldwyn Resort and Residences – Timeless Glamour
Photo Credit: Jenn Coleman.
Goldwyn Resort and Residences features timeless glamour and luxurious leisure. It’s a chic, private retreat with easy access to the island’s vibrant daytime activities and nightlife just a short ride away.
The resort’s clean, artistic lines converge on the infinity pool, which overlooks a secluded section of white sandy beach. Privacy, simplicity, and tranquility are the hallmarks of the Goldwyn.
Island House – Lush Contemporary Luxury
Photo Credit: Jenn Coleman.
Island Hosue merges contemporary luxury with authentic island life. Unlike the other resorts in this guide, Island House guests must take a shuttle to their private beach. In return, they get a lush resort far removed from the beachfront fray.
The property features 30 rooms and suites, six rental apartments, private beach access, two restaurants, a cafe, a market, an art house cinema, a lap pool, a movement studio, squash courts, the TERN art gallery, and the Bamford Spa. It’s a boutique experience from top to bottom focused on your immersion into the local community and a symbiotic extension of the surrounding environment.
Parting Thoughts on Nassau Bahamas Resorts
Photo Credit: Jenn Coleman.
In general, Nassau Bahamas Resorts come in several flavors. Sandals, Atlantis, and Baha Mar are destinations unto themselves. Sandals is an adult-only, all-inclusive resort with the best scuba diving. Atlantis and Baha Mar offer everything from kid clubs and Barbie Beach to spas, golf, and white glove dining.
Island House and Goldwyn offer elegance and seclusion. In between are the Ocean Club and British Colonial. The Ocean Club grounds are secluded, but the golf access, activity packages, and Atlantis shuttle offer ample off-property activities. Likewise, the British Colonial’s location in downtown Nassau allows for unlimited excursions.
Pick your luxury and activity level and prepare for an island adventure you won’t soon forget…but could repeat year after year.