Pros:
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One of the Bahamas's all-inclusive resorts, this property is adults-only, so it's perfect for grown-ups seeking a fun-filled vacation sans screaming kids
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Your stay here includes meals, snacks and beverages, offering added value and fuss-free vacation planning
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Warm, friendly service
Cons:
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The rooms aren't as stylish as other properties on this list
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It could be hard to score dining reservations, especially during peak season
Hotel Riu Palace Paradise Island is one of several adults-only all-inclusive resorts in the Bahamas. The standard rooms here are junior suites equipped with dark wood furnishings, comfy beds, dark red accents and a balcony or terrace where guests can soak up the sea views. The beachfront resort has two swimming pools (including one with a swim-up bar), direct beach access and plenty of hammocks for lounging in the sun (just don’t forget to pack sunscreen)!
With a seemingly endless amount of entertainment offerings—think: windsurfing, scuba diving, kayaking and beach volleyball—it’s pretty much impossible to be bored here. Eventually, you’re bound to work up an appetite, and when hunger strikes, you can check out one of several eateries, including a steakhouse, a Japanese restaurant and scrumptious breakfast and lunch buffets. Before you skip town, hit up the on-site Renova Spa for a treatment followed by a sweat session in the sauna or a soak in the whirlpool bath.
Pros:
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A top pick for Bahamas all-inclusive family resorts, with beachfront accommodations
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Five restaurants and three bars offer a variety of food and drink offerings
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Complimentary activities, including pickleball, tennis and kayaking
Cons:
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Some rooms look a little dated
Breezes Bahamas is an all-inclusive resort ideal for families with older children (kids under 14 are not allowed). Guests can enjoy the resort’s fun-loving, laid-back atmosphere, which carries into amenities like a swim-up bar, several freshwater pools, kayaking, tennis and pickleball. Breezes resort in the Bahamas is located along Cable Beach, which is famous for its powdery white sand and turquoise waters.
In between activities, post up in one of the hammocks by the beach or spring for a treatment at the seaside Blue Mahoe Spa. Following an action-packed day, retreat to your room, which will have a marble bathroom, mahogany wood furnishings and floral-patterned curtains and bed skirts; some even have private patios and ocean views. And here’s an all-inclusive resort tip: Get your money’s worth on food and drinks. The property’s five restaurants and three bars offer something for everyone in the family, be it Italian, Asian fusion or casual poolside fare like burgers.
Pros:
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Though not as flashy as some well-known Bahamas resorts, this one has an authentic island vibe
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Kids under 12 stay free
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Residential-style rooms and suites are right near the beach and offer plenty of room to spread out
Cons:
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Despite the abundance of drinking and dining options on-site, the property is not all-inclusive
Sandyport Beach Resort in Nassau feels like a hidden gem among the island’s many flashy resorts and high-rise hotels. Sandyport’s residential-style guest rooms and suites are outfitted with colorful local artwork and bespoke Bahamian-made throw pillows; all accommodations have full kitchens or kitchenettes, while suites have Jacuzzis. All are housed within vibrant-hued villas, a short and scenic stroll away from the beach.
Speaking of the beach, the resort occupies a secluded stretch of sand that’s lined with hammocks for lounging. Guests are welcome to use the resort’s complimentary snorkel gear to spot majestic marine life in the ocean. Other amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, a children’s pool with water slides, tennis, basketball and shuffleboard. Take your pick of eight drinking and dining venues, some of which serve local favorites, like a made-to-order conch salad or golden-fried conch fritters.
What to consider when booking the best Bahamas resorts
“When searching for the best resorts, consider key factors like all-inclusive packages that cover meals, drinks, activities and entertainment for excellent value,” says Jim Campbell, CEO of Honeymoons.com. “Look for various amenities and activities such as water sports, golf, spas and entertainment to keep your vacation engaging. Ensure the accommodations are comfortable and luxurious, and choose a resort with a prime location near beaches and attractions. Special offers and promotions can also add significant value to your stay.”
Campbell also suggests reading guest reviews for insights into the resort’s quality and checking that the all-inclusive package covers your needs. Lastly, “compare different resorts based on their offerings, prices and special deals to find the best fit for your budget and preferences,” he adds.
Why you should trust us
Our team searched the Internet for the best Bahama resorts based on accommodations, amenities and proximity to the best site that the Bahamas has to offer. We also read hundreds of travel reviews to learn which properties are the best. We spoke with travel expert Jim Campbell, CEO of Honeymoons.com, to compile a list of the top features to consider when booking a Bahamas resort. Jim and his team have over 60 years of combined experience in planning the best trips.
How we chose the best Bahamas resorts
Compiling the best resorts in the Bahamas was not easy, to say the least—especially with so many incredible options. We started by combing through user reviews on Tripadvisor. Most of our picks have at least four stars (it’s worth noting that none are below three stars!), and most of the best Bahamas resorts had hundreds, if not thousands, of glowing reviews.
Since the Bahamas offers miles upon miles of gorgeous beaches, picking properties on or near the beach was important. In fact, all but one of our top picks, a boutique hotel a few minutes away from the sand, offered direct beach access.
We also looked for properties that offered added value through perks and amenities like water sports, all-inclusive drinking and dining, and free access to water parks. From family-friendly all-inclusives to incredible romantic resorts, these are the very best Bahamas resorts to visit for an incredible beach vacation.
FAQs
Which is the best Bahamas island to visit?
The Bahamas is home to nearly 700 islands, around 30 of which are inhabited. When deciding which Bahamas island is best for you, consider what kind of vacation you’re craving. New Providence is home to Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas. It’s also where you’ll find a ton of variety when it comes to hotels, bars, restaurants, activities, nightlife and attractions. Since it offers so much variety, it’s a great option for first-timers or those traveling with family or groups.
Beyond that, consider these A-plus vacation destinations:
- Andros: For a more secluded stay, go with an island like Andros. Despite being the largest island in the Bahamas, it remains (mostly) untouched, making it ideal for outdoor lovers and beach bums alike.
- Bimini: A quick 30-minute flight from Miami, Bimini offers beautiful beaches, great fishing opportunities and a thriving nightlife scene.
- Exuma: Also known the Exumas—it’s technically made up of 365 islands—this is a popular spot for day-trippers.
- Grand Bahama Island: Like Nassau, this island attracts families.
- Eleuthera: Come here for the pink-sand beaches and awe-inspiring natural beauty.
- Abacos Islands: This group of islands and barrier cays is renowned for its colorful coral reefs, dive sites and abundant marine life.
- Great Abaco: The main island, Grand Abaco has two international airports.
What is the best part of the Bahamas to stay in?
Experts say that Long Island and Cat Island are the best places to stay in the Bahamas due to their access to pristine beaches, dining and exploration options.
Do you need a passport for the Bahamas?
If you’re a United States citizen, you will need a passport when traveling to and from the Bahamas. The same applies to those traveling to the destination from other countries.