
Image courtesy of The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas
Few places are as synonymous with Caribbean vacations as the Bahamas, where gorgeous beaches, pleasant weather and relaxation await. We asked half a dozen Fora travel advisors for their picks for the top Bahamas resorts.
The best Bahamas resorts include Baha Mar and Atlantis, plus smaller properties throughout the islands
Resorts in the Bahamas can be grouped into two categories: major resort areas or complexes that feature multiple hotels representing different budgets, and smaller one-off properties ranging from small boutique hotels to traditional Caribbean beach resorts. When most people think of Bahamas resorts, they’re picturing Baha Mar or Atlantis: sprawling, largely self-contained resorts akin to small cities filled with dining, entertainment and relaxation options.
Small-scale resorts can be found throughout the Bahamas and offer a more laid-back and focused experience. They can still be self-contained, where everything you need for a fun vacation is facilitated on or by the resort, or they can provide a nice base for exploring the islands and their culture. We cover both types of resorts below.
Atlantis, Paradise Island

Image courtesy of Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas
Atlantis is one of the Caribbean’s most famous resorts. This expansive complex features four hotels catering to different types of travelers — plus a fifth near Atlantis’ accompanying marina — as well as a massive waterpark, plenty of dining options and entertainment for all ages.
“Atlantis is a true Bahamian icon,” Fora X Advisor Karyn Pavich said.
The entire property is built around Aquaventure, which features the legendary Leap of Faith waterslide, a nearly vertical 60-foot drop that rockets you through a transparent tunnel surrounded by sharks and other marine animals. There are also marine habitats where you can interact with dolphins, sea lions and rays — plus a lively nightlife scene that includes a teen’s club, a casino, live shows, an arcade and more.
The Reef and The Cove hotels both earned nods from Fora Advisors (see below). But Atlantis also hosts The Coral, an approachable option for families, and The Royal, a solid mid-range choice. All four hotels share immediate access to the shared resort amenities. If you prefer a more laid-back, private stay —- plus access to shared resort amenities — choose Atlantis’ Harborside Resort, near the Atlantis Marina, away from the main complex.
The Reef at Atlantis

Image courtesy of Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas
The Reef at Atlantis offers spacious suites and studios, along with a private beach and access to all of the amenities and attractions of the larger resort. It’s ideal if you’re looking for an extended stay, traveling with a larger group or simply looking for a homier island escape.
Fora X Advisor Joanna Johnsen highlighted the property’s convenient laundry facilities, exclusive Cascades Pool — a “tranquil retreat from crowds even during the busiest weeks of the year” — and the convenience of preparing meals in kitchenettes or full-sized kitchens: “A perfect solution for those with dietary restrictions or picky eaters.”
Fora Perks at The Reef at Atlantis include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The Cove at Atlantis

Image courtesy of Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas
The Cove, set between two Paradise Island beaches, represents Atlantis’ best accommodations and service. Choose from a variety of spacious, high-end suites, all with ocean views. Top options include elegantly decorated penthouses that comfortably sleep up to seven adults for extended stays while even entry-tier suites ensure premium comfort and space. The Cove is largely geared toward adults, but children are still welcome everywhere but the property’s exclusive, adults-only pool. Notably, The Cove also has the best beach access of any of Atlantis’ hotels.
“For a truly over-the-top and private experience, consider booking one of the beachfront cabanas,” Joanna added.
Fora Perks at The Cove at Atlantis include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Baha Mar, Nassau

Image courtesy of Grand Hyatt Baha Mar
Baha Mar is a massive resort area boasting just about everything you could want on a Caribbean vacation: easy access to glistening beaches, dozens of dining options, a family-friendly waterpark, a casino, spas, marine wildlife exhibits…
“Everyone knows Atlantis, but Baha Mar is the new, must-visit destination in the Bahamas,” Fora Advisor Sharon Tsui said. “No matter your preference, Baha Mar has the perfect stay for you!”
Baha Mar is comparable to Atlantis in many ways — it has similar activities and dining options — but there’s greater variety among the three on-site hotels. Grand Hyatt, though luxurious, is a great choice for families. SLS is a trendy, boutique-style hotel. And Rosewood Baha Mar is the resort’s most luxurious property. Contemporary design reigns in each, but otherwise each hotel has its own vibe.
“While nightlife is more subdued than Atlantis’ — outside of Bond Nightclub and the brand-new Jon Batiste's Jazz Bar — the resort’s focus on family-friendly luxury makes it an excellent choice for multigenerational travelers,” Karyn said of the Baha Mar complex.
Grand Hyatt Baha Mar

Image courtesy of Grand Hyatt Baha Mar
Grand Hyatt is Baha Mar’s flagship hotel. Per Karyn, it’s the best choice for families, and its central location within Baha Mar offers excellent access to all the resort’s shared amenities (the waterpark, restaurants, et. al.). Even the entry-level rooms are thoughtfully designed and comfortable, with plenty of space for small families. Top-tier suites include expansive ocean views, butler service and private balconies.
Fora’s Hyatt Privé partner perks at Grand Hyatt Baha Mar include a $100 hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Rosewood Baha Mar

Image courtesy of Rosewood Baha Mar
You’ll find the majority of Baha Mar’s best rooms, restaurants and amenities at the Rosewood. Though well placed within the main resort, Rosewood Baha Mar feels secluded. It has a private beach, elevated service and a complimentary kids’ club. It also grants you access to all the shared amenities of the greater Baha Mar property. The overall design of the hotel is notably more refined than the more laid-back, beachy aesthetic of Baha Mar. You still feel like you’re on a Caribbean island, but the rooms and hotel corridors are chic and bespoke — nothing feels cookie cutter.
“Rosewood Baha Mar offers a tranquil refuge and luxurious escape from the vibrant energy of the main Baha Mar resort complex,” Joanna said. “Think twinkle lights strewn through the trees, beautiful koi ponds and unrivaled dining.”
Options include Café Boulud, a sophisticated French restaurant (don’t miss the martini and caviar nights) and a traditional afternoon tea experience at Symbols of the Bahamas.
Fora’s Rosewood Elite partner perks include welcome amenities, daily breakfast and an upgrade whenever possible.
SLS Baha Mar

Image courtesy of SLS Baha Mar
SLS is the most energetic and hip of the three Baha Mar hotels — it’s much less family-oriented than the others, and caters primarily to a young-adult crowd. It’s the best choice for adults who want access to all of Baha Mar’s amenities, but prefer a trendier space to retreat to. Karyn noted that the property has a lively pool scene and the best nightlife of the three hotels. Evenings are centered on the adults-only Privilege pool bar, a chic space with a heated pool and rentable cabanas, and the dance-centric Bond Nightclub.
Fora’s Accor Preferred partner perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Smaller Bahamas resorts and hotels
Atlantis and Baha Mar represent the Bahamas’ most famous resorts, but they’re hardly your only options. If you prefer a quieter stay — or want to explore beyond your resort — you may find that other properties in the Bahamas are more to your liking.
The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas (Paradise Island)

Image courtesy of The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas
Four Seasons’ Ocean Club offers VIP-level accommodations and service, plus complimentary access to all of nearby Atlantis’ attractions. The larger resort is barely five minutes away by car, but in staying at The Ocean Club, you’re choosing world-class accommodations and amenities in a refined package — with fewer crowds.
“I love The Ocean Club for a luxe multi-generational getaway,” Fora X Advisor Farrah Fan said. “This classic, elegant resort offers both sophistication and family-friendly appeal.”
For larger families, Farrah recommended the three-bedroom villa: “It’s perfect for a seamless multi-gen experience, and connecting room options provide added flexibility.”
Though Atlantis is at your fingertips, The Ocean Club’s attractions and amenities leave little to be desired (perhaps minus Atlantis’ Aquaventure). The smaller property hosts a world-class spa with treatments inspired by local culture. Elevated dining options take you around the world, with restaurants serving a mix of Caribbean and international cuisine. And a bevy of onsite activities — from snorkeling to sunbathing on a private beach — plus excursions throughout the Bahamas, keep adults and children entertained.
“Four Seasons’ Ocean Club is my top pick for couples who want a serene, high-end beachfront experience away from the hustle and bustle of Atlantis,” Joanna said. “This is a great compromise for those who want a taste of Atlantis and the fun of the casino, while still enjoying that signature Four Seasons experience.”
When you book Four Seasons with Fora, you’ll enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits.
Sandals Royal Bahamian (Nassau)

Image courtesy of Sandals Royal Bahamian
Sandals Royal Bahamian has a similar vibe to Baha Mar — they’re both located on the same stretch of coast in Nassau — but with some key differences. First, the Royal Bahamian is much smaller in scale than the Baha Mar resort. This lends it fewer options (restaurants, entertainment, room types), but an overall quieter, laid-back scene. Second, the Royal Bahamian is all-inclusive: Your room, activities, meals and airport transfers are included in one rate. While this resort certainly has enough to keep you happy, there’s not quite as much to do here compared to Baha Mar. And third, the Royal Bahamian is an adults-only resort with a focus on couples. However, though most experiences, rooms and meals are curated for couples, groups are welcome here.
The Cove (Eleuthera)

Image courtesy of The Cove Eleuthera
The Cove Eleuthera is a secluded, boutique resort on the small island of Eleuthera, known for its quiet resorts and greater emphasis on local culture. If you’re seeking an intimate escape far removed from the high-energy hustle of Baha Mar and Atlantis, choose The Cove Eleuthera. Its contemporary villas and suites blend natural materials sourced from around the islands with modern amenities (private infinity pools, homey but sophisticated décor, Nespresso makers). Most villas and rooms offer unobstructed views of the ocean and surrounding tropical scenery.
Unlike the sprawling, casino- and waterpark-filled complexes of Baha Mar and Atlantis, The Cove favors tranquility, tailored service and immersive experiences such as sunset yoga, private boat charters and organic dining sourced from the resort’s garden. Expect a slower pace and authentic connection to the Bahamas here.
Fora Perks at The Cove Eleuthera include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Bonus: Explore beyond the major Bahamas resorts on Nassau and Paradise Island
Bahamas resorts prioritize comfort and rejuvenation, but don’t discount venturing outside of their manicured grounds. Of the Fora Advisors we polled for their resort picks, most recommended exploring.
“No trip to the Bahamas is complete without venturing beyond the resorts,” Karyn said. “The most famous tour is the Swim With the Pigs experience in The Exumas — an unforgettable adventure that includes visiting iguanas, swimming with nurse sharks and snorkeling at Pablo Escobar’s sunken plane.”
Karyn added that “island-hopping is a breeze, with quick flights to The Exumas, Eleuthera and Harbour Island, known for its pink-sand beaches and charming boutiques.”
Bahamas resorts and travel FAQs
Read on for more info on Bahamas resorts and travel.
Which months are best to go to the Bahamas? Are hurricanes a consideration?
December to April bring warm, dry weather and less humidity, but higher prices and more crowds. May to early June offer slightly warmer temperatures and some rain, but better rates and fewer crowds. Hurricanes are indeed a consideration. The season runs from June 1 to November 30, with the highest risk of storms between August and October. Direct hits are rare, but travel during this period can be risky — travel insurance can potentially mitigate this risk, however (see if travel insurance is worth it).
How much does a trip to the Bahamas cost?

Image courtesy of Rosewood Baha Mar
You can expect to pay anywhere from $1,400 to $2,500 per person for a weeklong stay at mid-range properties, or at least $2,500 to $7,000 per person for a week at luxe properties. This does not factor in flights, which vary dramatically in price depending on your origin. Other important factors to consider include whether you’re staying at an all-inclusive or normal resort, plus your choice of experiences.
Do you need a passport to go to the Bahamas?
Yes. You will need a passport to visit the Bahamas, whether you’re visiting by flight or by cruise.
What languages are commonly spoken in the Bahamas?
English is the official language of the Bahamas and the most widely spoken, both inside and outside the major resort areas. You’ll likely have no trouble communicating with locals anywhere in the Bahamas. Bahamian Creole — an English-based dialect of Creole — is also commonly spoken, followed by Spanish and a Haitian dialect of French.
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