atlantis travel tips

According to Amy Renee

Atlantis Tips, Tricks and Secrets

October 27, 2019 By: accordingtoamyrenee

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We have been fortunate enough to visit Atlantis , Paradise Island, Bahamas, twice, and have learned so many different tips, tricks and secrets while planning and on our amazing vacations.

Below are all of the insights that I like to share with family and friends that are going to (or interested in going to) Atlantis.

Looking for must have items for your trip to paradise, check out my post on essential items to pack for your trip to Atlantis.

Use points for your stay

Atlantis is part of the Marriott Autograph Collection Hotels and you can currently use points for your stay at some of the Atlantis hotels (we used Marriott Bonvoy points at The Royal during our stay). Bonus is that if you stay 4 nights utilizing Marriott Bonvoy points, the fifth night is “free.”

We have done this, and it is a great way to save money and use those hard earned rewards points!

There are several fees/taxes in addition to the room rate

Be sure to factor these fees when planning your vacation (and check to see if there are any hotel specific/other fees/taxes):

• VAT (taxes) – the rate was 12% during our stay and was added to all purchases, the resort fee, room rate, meals, etc.
• Gratuity – we found the gratuity of 15% to be automatically added to meals, and we were charged $20 per night at check out for “Royal Gratuity”
• Water park access (water slides, and 2 river rides…one lazy and one not so lazy)
• 11 swimming pools/swimming areas ( 2 of the pools/swimming areas are reserved areas)
• Paradise Lagoon
• Predator’s Lagoon
• Fitness center
• Movie theatre
• Marine Habitats
• Beach towels
• 2 bottled waters per night

Towels are provided

There’s no need to bring towels from home. They are available in abundance at one of the stands. We got towels both for the beach and the waterpark daily.

Bring lots and lots (and did I say lots) of sunscreen

We went through 5 bottles of sunscreen and probably could have/would have used another if we had it. Don’t risk sunburn by not putting on enough sunscreen and don’t break the bank by buying it onsite (the bottles were over $25 each).

Check out my post on What To Pack for Atlantis

Check the Atlantis website for deals

We were able to score an awesome deal on the dolphin encounter and the meal plan the first time we visited by signing up for the emails.

Look up the cruise ship schedules for the port of Nassau

This is a great way to plan your beach vs. water park days and times. The cruise ship passengers often book Atlantis excursions with options for the water park and/or the beaches. Knowing when there will be more cruise ship passengers helped when making our daily plans.

Dolphin encounter

This can be expensive, but my daughter really wanted to have this experience. I was able to find an awesome deal online that included a shallow water experience with the dolphins and kayaking. It was well worth it (and I found a great deal/promotion on the website), and a very unique experience.

Plan you transportation to and from the airport and the resort ahead of time

Not a fan of waiting for others to fill-up a shuttle prior to heading off to the resort or airport, take private transportation.

There are many different options, however, we have used Cheryl Bahamas Taxi twice, and highly recommend them. For a small fee, they will also make a grocery stop.

Food, Beverage, and Dinning Options

Stop for groceries.

Some items that we picked-up included bottled waters (the resort fee includes 2 bottles of water per night, but for 4 people in the sun, it is definitely not enough), bread, peanut butter, jelly, bananas, apples, cream for coffee (the rooms have coffee makers), crackers, small package of disposable plates and napkins.

This is a great way to have some of the comforts of home, save some (a lot) of money, and please any picky eaters!

The rooms have coffee makers

This is way a great (and affordable) way to start the day.

I personally NEED creamer in my coffee, and therefore a stop at the grocery store was a must.

Bring a collapsible cooler

We used this collapsible cooler last time and it was great.

We filled it with ice from the hotel’s ice machine and then added waters and the other items that needed refrigeration. They stayed cold for over 24 hours at a time (a slight inconvenience to drain and fill daily, but I’ll do anything for some cream in my coffee).

If you are staying at The Reef, the rooms have refrigerators. I did find out that you can rent a refrigerator from the resort (The Royal) for a daily fee (I heard various reports on the price, but they were $15-$20 a night).

The collapsible cooler that we brought was less than $30 and is portable, and is great for taking to the beach and pool…bonus!

Consider the meal plan

There are several factors to consider when deciding on whether to get the meal plan. You will need to crunch the numbers to see if it makes sense.

If you have children 6 and under, it might makes sense, as currently, children this age eat free with paid adults.

The first time we went to Atlantis, they had a special offer where children 11 and under ate free with paid adults and we purchased the plan. This ended up being a great deal for us!

We are all good eaters (including the kids), and we found that having the meal plan more than paid for itself.

Don’t forget about the buffet

Many of the restaurants require reservations. Having to make reservations in advance was difficult as we were unsure of when our days would start and end.

Having the option of eating the buffet for breakfast and/or dinner was such a relief. There were so many options and different live preparation stations each night.

We ate at Poseidon’s Table a few times for breakfast and dinner (we did enjoy Sunday brunch during our last vacation here).

This is a great choice for picky eaters as well!

Family style/affordable dining is available

Many of the dining options are family style and we found the following to be not only affordable (for Atlantis standards), but also tasty:

Marina Pizza – Large pizza and salad was less than $60.00

Kid’s meals – most of the dining options at Atlantis offer kid’s meals as well. We found these to be convenient and affordable (especially by the pool areas at lunch time), and portions sizes were perfect.

Offsite dining – while there is off-site dining options, we did not leave the property. We talked to several people that went to Margaritaville (walking distance), and The Fish Fry (requires taxi or type of transportation), and they enjoyed their meals at off-resort prices.

Bring an insulated cup with a lid

This is a lifesaver!

Anyone say hot COFFEE in the morning, and then cold adult beverages in the afternoon (well, maybe not quite afternoon, but at least after coffee).

Insulated cups are a great way to keep water and other beverages cold for the whole family while at the beach and waterpark.

Resort and Surrounding Area

While known for the aquaventure water park, the beaches are beautiful and shouldn’t be missed.

We spent a lot of our time at the beach.

We enjoyed our time at two different beaches, the more intimate Cove Beach and the busier Atlantis Beach.

Both were great and had their own benefits.

The Cove Beach has beautiful blue water with minimal waves/movement, chairs (many with sunshades), and great snorkeling areas.

The Atlantis Beach also has chairs (but very few with sunshades….however, the first time we were there, there were vendors that rented umbrellas), is busier, has vendors (like hair braiders), but my family really enjoys the fact that there are small waves, more fish, and the water is crystal blue.

Both beaches are amazing….it is the Bahamas after all!

Hair braiding is available on the Atlantis Beach by private vendors

My daughter loves to get her hair braided and looks forward to this when going on vacation.

I needed cash to pay, and did negotiate. I was able to negotiate the price by 30% and still felt good about the price paid and the service received.

Kid’s clubs

The resort has kids clubs for kids and teens.

When we were there, they had daily open house so you and your kids can check it out before going. We stopped by and it seemed like fun, but the kids did not end up going (we were all too tired by the end of the night!).

The casino reminds me of Las Vegas (which I love), but much more quaint and with a resort feel.

We participated in the slot tournament and it was super fun and quite the rush. We found the information in the Atlantean (which we picked-up in the lobby each day).

There is an underground tunnel between the hotels

Strangely, on our first visit, we did not go past the Marina outdoors, and the Casino while indoors.

During our second visit, we discovered that The Coral and The Beach are connected to the Casino (and therefore The Royal) by tunnels.

This was a great way to explore the other hotels and their amenities. The kid’s clubs, shops, theatre, dining, and many other amenities are in these hotels.

Check out my post on The Atlantis Resort

See awesome marine life at The Dig

Is an underground area that is home to beautiful marine life exhibits.

Somehow, we missed this great amenity on our first trip. It was such a hit this time that we visited it 3 times.

The kids (and I) particularly enjoyed staring at the eels and jellyfish….so cool!

Private Cabanas

We have not rented a private cabana, however, they seemed to be very well positioned and nice.

Be prepared to walk

Be prepared, you, and any little feet in tow, will be walking…a lot! There are shuttles between the different properties, but once in the waterpark and exploring within the main attractions, being prepared to walk is essential.

Shuttle between the various parts of the resort

There is a shuttle between the different parts of the resort.

We did not use the shuttle, however, I’m sure that it can come in handy for some families, especially those with young children, the elderly (the young at heart), and those with mobility issues.

There are so many benefits to planning ahead for your trip to Atlantis, and knowing as many tips, tricks, and secrets!

Yes, it can be expensive, but knowing these tips and tricks prior to your trip will help you get the most out of your budget and time so you can enjoy paradise with your family.

You can’t go wrong with a trip to Atlantis!

Check out my post on The Atlantis Resort and Essentials to Pack for a trip to Atlantis

If you have any questions, and/or have any other tips, tricks or suggestions, please be sure to comment below.

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Visit Atlantis Bahamas: Tips & Tricks You Need To Know

April 26, 2022.

Our family had an amazing Spring Break trip to Atlantis, Bahamas. It’s our second time visiting the beautiful Paradise Island (the first trip was pre-covid ) and I wanted to share some tips & tricks to help you with your future Atlantis, Bahamas vacation plans. I’m gonna start with a quick FAQ about travel requirements so that you can determine whether or not the destination is a good fit for your family, then we will get into the planning details. Also giving the tea on Airbnbs in Bahamas…

Current Bahamas Covid health + travel requirements.

Do yo need the Covid vaccine to travel to the Bahamas?

No, as of April 2022 the vaccine is not required. However any adults and children over 12 will need to provide a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of their scheduled travel date. Children under 12 are allowed to submit results from a rapid antigen test. All tests have to be through a verified lab. Home test results are not accepted. We did our tests at our local Walgreens. Click here for the most current Bahamas travel requirements and restrictions.

You will also have to test prior to returning to the states but most of the resorts have on site testing that are accepted by the airlines.

Do you need a Bahamas Travel Health Visa?

Yes, you do. As of April 2022 you will need a Bahamas travel health visa for each member of your family/trip party. The process is fairly simple to apply and you have to submit your negative Covid results as a part of the approval process (whether you are vaccinated or not). You won’t be allowed to enter the country/board your flight without and approved Visa.

The Bahamas travel health visa cost was $60 per person over age 12, so factored that into your budget. Click here to register and apply for your visa.

Do you have to wear masks while in the Bahamas?

Yes, yes you do when in public spaces (in the Airport and on flights as well). Removal was fine when in places like the beach/pool or while dining of course.

Do you need a passport to visit the Bahamas?

Yes, all family member will need a passport to enter the Bahamas. Start early to give yourself enough lead time so that they are ordered and delivered prior to your trip. If you currently have a passport be sure that it doesn’t expire within 6 months of your scheduled trip or you wont be permitted to enter. Now, let’s get to the FUN stuff…

Where to stay in Atlantis, Bahamas?

Whether you choose hotel or Airbnbs in Bahamas depends on your family style or vacation preference. We booked our latest trip at the last minute, so the flight prices were crazy and the hotel prices even crazier. James is vegan and our kids are picky eaters so we didn’t think the all-inclusive route would be worth the price tag. Airbnbs in the Bahamas was the way to go for both of our trips, each rental was located on Paradise Island (where Atlantis is).

Our Airbnbs in Bahamas were in a suite of villas that was an 7 min walk from the Atlantis resort. The location. has a restaurant located at the entrance, multiple pools and private beach access. We were also able to rent beach chairs/umbrella from local islanders for about $40 a day right outside of our Bahamas Airbnb.

When booking with AirBnb we try to stick to super hosts but if one isn’t available I’m okay with trusting 5 or more recent reviews (within last 6 months). If you have questions, ask. A good host is more than happy to answer any questions to help minimize confusion.

If you’re 100% prefer hotels over Airbnbs in Bahamas our top hotel choices are below. You can find deals/discounted rates when you use a service like Priceline or Tripadvisor.

The major benefit of going the hotel route is not having find alternate covid testing sites for the return trip home.

Hotels Located On Paradise Island

The Reef Atlantis $$$. They offer 1 & 2 bedroom suites and have a full kitchen option.

Comfort Inn Suites $. This is the best bang for your buck with budget + cleanliness.

Warwick Paradise Island $$

Hotels Just Minutes Away In Nassau

Baha Mar $$$

Margaritaville $$

*note that these locations will require a Taxi over to Paradise Island

Things to do in Atlantis, Bahamas?

If you are staying directly at the Atlantis resort access to amenities are all inclusive. They offer a ton of family friendly activities both indoors and out. The have a marine habitat with over 50k animals and you can book to swim with dolphins/sting rays or even release baby turtles. Their Aquaventure Waterpark, Atlantis water park featuring 18 water slides for kids 48 inches or taller, “river rides” for preschool-aged children and older, and 20 swimming areas. The resort also has 4 private beaches, a game room, a movie theatre (perfect for rainy days) and so much more.

How to access the Atlantis Resort + Aquaventure Waterpark if you are staying in a private rental?

For those doing private rentals you have two options to access the Atlantis resort. You can get Atlantis day passes starting at $125 per child and $250 per adult. However we went a more budget friendly route for both of our trips.

The Comfort Inn Suites Paradise Island is located right next to the Atlantis resort and booking a stay with them grants access to the Atlantis property (water park, marine habitat and beaches). This is a great hotel choice if you’re not a resort snob btw. Booking a 3 night stay, will give you 4 days of access to the Atlantis resort (same access that the Atlantis day passes would). Let’s do the math, shall we?

Four Atlantis day passes directly from the resort will cost about $2850 for 4 days of access. A three night stay in 2 bedroom suite at the Comfort Inn Paradise Island is roughly $1120 for those same four days of access. The fact that the Comfort Inn offers free breakfast and free covid testing for your return trip only sweetens the deal. So booking the Comfort Inn for Atlantis Day passes is absolutely the budget friendly win here. You do have to fully check into the hotel to get access to the Atlantis day passes. I did take a peak at the room to see how clean they were but we didn’t actually stay/sleep there.

Visiting Aquaventure Waterpark

The Atlantis property is huge so it’s helpful to grab a map. The Aquaventerure water park is on the furthest end of the property. There is a separate check-in process for Aquaventure alone, there they give you wrist bands and towel access so you don’t need to lug those around. They have lockers for rent to secure your phones and/or cameras too.

PRO TIP: Go to the water park early morning or late afternoon to secure chairs and avoid crowds. If you do go mid day, slide the pool attendants a good tip and they will secure a batch of chairs for you and the family. If you really want to splurge y ou can reserve private Cabanas in advance.

Of course visiting the beach (we did 3 beach days and 2 water park days). Our Airbnb provided a few sand toys but you can also buy them from one of the local shops on Paradise Island or bring them with you. If you have older children or are into water sports the island locals offered everything from jet skiing to parasailing to catamaran rides right on the beach behind where our Airbnb was located.

With the exception of a few restaurants we didn’t explore much beyond Paradise Island, so let’s talk dining options.

Where to eat in Atlantis, Bahamas?

Go to the grocery story first. You’ll thank me later. In a family full of picky eaters a grocery store run was imperative. We stopped before heading to our rental to grab breakfast foods, nonperishable snacks and the ever beloved PB &J. Our rental had a grill so we also grabbed hamburgers and hotdogs for a simple dinner (which came in handy the one night it rained cats & dogs). James is vegan (insert eye roll) so we bought a bunch of his favorite snacks in advance and packed them in a carry on suitcase. A guy has gotta have his seaweed right?

Our plan was to do breakfast at the rental (or Comfort Inn). Pack sandwiches for lunch at the beach or pool and then go out for dinner to help keep the food costs down. We stuck to this for the most part although we did end up ordering poolside lunch at the waterpark two days. All the walking and playing in the sun made the kids extra hungry.

If you aren’t able to taxi to the store for any reason they do have grocery delivery services on Paradise Island too. Expect for the groceries to be more expensive than they are here in the states. I haven’t seen prices like that since we lived in California. Even still, it was cheaper than doing a restaurant 3 meals a day for a family of five.

Family Friendly Restaurant Options In Atlantis, Bahamas

The Atlantis resort and surrounding properties have tons of restaurants to choose from. Quite a few of them take reservations and fill up pretty quickly so I would make dinner reservations in advance.

Special Family Dinner:

Chopstix or Cafe Martinique (both of these are located on Atlantis)

Casual Dinner Options:

Carmines, Frankies Gone Bananas, Murrays Deli and Lagoon Bar & Grill (lunch only). As well as Crusoe’s Restaurant (located at Comfort Inn) and Violas (located at the Sunrise Beach Resort); all are walking distance from the Atlantis property.

Off Resort Dining Options:

Fish Fry, Poop Deck, Baha Mar, Twin Brothers, Latitudes or Cafe Jonny Canoe and Margaritavilla. Also there is a Carribean spot “under the bridge”, the bridge that you take to get over to Paradise Island. You have to use a taxi to get to any of these locations so your driver will know exactly where you mean.

Tripadvisors restaurant reviews/ratings have never failed us when traveling, so feel free to look any/all of these places up before giving them a trip.

As with any trip you want it to be a trip of a life time. While photos and videos to capture those memories are important, remember to take time each day or full days to really live in the moment with your loved ones. Anyone thinking of going to the Bahamas soon? If so, I hope these tips are super helpful in making your trip a great one!

Share this:

Beautiful family and trip! You stayed at both the Air Bnb and Comfort Inn or did you just booked CI for the passes and whatnot? Or half the week at one and half week at the other. Please clarify.

Hi Chantae! Thanks so much and sorry that wasn’t clear. Confirming that we stayed at the Bahamas Airbnb the entire trip. We did have to fully check in to the Comfort Inn but only used them for the Atlantis day passes, free breakfast and covid testing to return home.

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The Secrets of Atlantis in the Bahamas

One of my best friends decided she wanted to celebrate her milestone birthday with a girls trip to  Atlantis Bahamas .  She has been such a good friend to me, I would have gone just about anywhere to help her celebrate.

The trip far exceeded my expectations and we all had so much fun! I didn’t want to leave the Atlantis Resort and I can’t wait to go back.  Whether you are planning a girls trip to Atlantis, going as a couple, or taking the whole family, I know you will enjoy it too.

If you are still trying to decide if an Atlantis vacation is right for you, wondering which hotel tower you should book, or what to do during your Atlantis trip, my Atlantis Bahamas guide has the information you will need, plus some tips to help save money.  These Atlantis tips and review are based on my personal experience.

Note: This post includes affiliate links.  See disclosure for more information.

COVID-19 Notice: Get the latest information about traveling to the Bahamas and Atlantis here . 

About Atlantis in the Bahamas

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The Atlantis on Paradise Island in the Bahamas is loosely themed after the mythical island of Atlantis mentioned in some of Plato’s works. In the end,  Atlantis fell out of favor with the deities and was submerged into the Atlantic Ocean.  You will notice ruins, temples and other marine decor around the property.

The resort was originally part of the Paradise Island Hotel and Casino, which was owned by Resorts International and opened back in 1968.

It was purchased by Kerzner International Limited in 1994, and opened as Atlantis Bahamas in 1998 once the Royal Towers were built.  In 2007, the Cove and the Reef opened.

Since 2014, Atlantis Bahamas has been owned and operated by Brookfield Hospitality.  Kerzner still owns and operates the other five Atlantis resorts around the world including Atlantis The Palm in Dubai, Atlantis Sanya in China; The Royal Atlantis Resort & Residences in Dubai, and Atlantis Ko Olina Resort in Hawaii.

You will never be bored at Atlantis, there is so much to do! Aquaventure , the Atlantis Bahamas water park area, has something for everyone.  We had no idea there were two areas that have water slides – Mayan Temple and Power Tower – until our last day.

There were a few scary slides that none of us were brave enough to go on like the “Leap of Faith.”  The “Leap of Faith” slide goes straight down into the shark tank, so it is not for the faint of heart.  You can check out the video I found on Youtube and see what you think of the Atlantis slide!

Right next to the “Leap of Faith” Slide, they have a little tamer (although still fast) slide called the “Serpent Slide” that you ride down on in a tube.  I went on a two-person tube with my friend.  The slide also goes through the shark tank.

Another friend followed us on the ride, but when we got to the end of the ride, an empty tube came out after us.  At first, I worried that she had fallen out of her tube. 

Actually, the lady helping everyone at the start of the slide let go of her tube before she could get in.  So she had to go back down and get a new tube before she could go on the ride.  Luckily the line was not too long.

It is a mile-long river where you go through river rapids, big waves, and even a water escalator (which was a little odd).  I could have stayed on it the whole day.  There are two person tubes that you can take on this ride too.  It is not as intense as some of the warning signs may make it out to be, but don’t try to carry a cocktail.

Additionally, there are 11 pools at Atlantis, so we didn’t get to try them all.  It was nice that there always were plenty of lounge chairs.  Our favorite was the Baths pool which is located close to the Cove.  It has a beach entry, waterfalls, and caves.  Plus in the afternoon there was a great DJ and dance area.

Also for those that like to swim for exercise, there is also a lap pool by the fitness center.  If you stay at the Cove or the Reef, you have access to the Atlantis adult-only pools.

There are two main ocean beaches by Atlantis.  We went to the one closer to the Cove as the water seemed calmer, although it did close at 3 pm for a private event the day we were there.  There is another beach on the lagoon with some water sports (snorkeling, paddle boats, and bikes) that I wanted to go to, but did not have time.

Atlantis is also almost like an animal sanctuary.  They have sharks and stingrays and turtles in the various lagoons on the property. 

They also have a fantastic aquarium called the Dig .  Visually the Dig is stunning and you can even snorkel inside the Atlantis aquarium.  They also have a dolphin encounter , where you can swim with dolphins.  My friends did that before I arrived and enjoyed it.

As you can see, Atlantis is a fun place for both adults and kids.  If you wanted, you could even do an excursion to Exuma to swim with the pigs . For more family-friendly vacation ideas, check out this list of the best islands to visit with kids .

Many people mistakenly think that Atlantis is an all-inclusive resort.  There are no all-inclusive packages but you can purchase an Atlantis dining plan.  Get details on the dining plan choices here .

While the options are not cheap, children 11 years and under do get to eat for free with the purchase of an adult Atlantis meal plan. You will have plenty of food options to choose from at Atlantis but most are overpriced as you might expect.

Lunches were reasonable, we usually grabbed something from one of the shacks by the pool.  I enjoyed the roti wrap that I had.

Dinners were expensive, but many of the restaurants had portions that were large enough to split.  Bimini Road was excellent and the best value.  The food portions were huge – especially the cracked conch, which was delicious.   They even had a live band the night we dined there.  It has since been replaced by Frankie Gone Bananas .

There are also lots of options for cocktails.  Atlantis has plenty of bars throughout the pool area and inside the resort too.  The pool bars all had cocktail menus and you could also customize your own frozen drink by choosing the fruits (strawberry, banana, and mango) and the alcohol.   Of course, you can also have frozen drinks without alcohol.

In the evenings, you can find plenty of different things to do.  One night we went to the comedy club (there was a $25 cover, which cannot be charged to the room).  We weren’t too impressed with the first comic we saw, but we really enjoyed the headliner, Andy Woodhull .  We decided to be brave and sit in the front row, so we got lots of attention.

Another night we went to the nightclub, Aura , which wasn’t too crowded.  We spent most of our time there on the dance floor since the DJ was playing a good mix of music.  If you get there early (before 11 pm) there is no cover charge. 

They alsho have several other bars, some that even have live music, a movie theater (no extra charge), and a casino with a sportsbook.

Atlantis Bahamas is a huge resort with several different towers (Royal Towers, Coral Towers, The Reef, The Cove). 

The Royal Towers are known as the “heartbeat of Atlantis.”  The Reef and the Cove have adult only areas and significantly more expensive than the other towers.  The Coral Tower has more affordable rates but is a little farther from the waterpark area.  There is also the Harborside Resort at Atlantis which is located not too far away in the Marina.

We stayed in the Royal Towers but I think next time I go, I might stay in one of the cheaper towers at the Atlantis resort.  I barely spent any time in the room anyway.  The room was nice, but I was disappointed when I realized that our balcony was barely wide enough to stand on.  Only a few rooms in the Atlantis Royal Towers actually have real balconies.

If you’re planning a trip to Atlantis, it can be hard to decide which Atlantis tower is best.  The table below is a brief rundown of the different properties with access to Atlantis.  I listed them in order from most affordable to most expensive to help you decide where to stay in Atlantis Bahamas.

When planning your budget you need to consider the Atlantis resort fee in addition to the room charge.  The resort fee includes 2 bottles of water, access to the gym, and wifi (note: Atlantis Bahamas wifi was not very reliable).

The Atlantis hotel grounds are absolutely gorgeous and well-maintained.  I enjoyed exploring especially early in the morning when it was quiet and the rest of the guests were still sleeping.  There is a lot to see and plenty of good Instagram -able spots.  I took lots of pictures of Atlantis, its one of the top places to go in the Bahamas .

It is a bit of a walk from any of the rooms to the pools and waterparks.  Carry what you need with you for the day, don’t expect to be able to go quickly back to your room to grab something.

We used the lockers by the waterpark to store our phone and other items while we were in the water.  It’s $10 well-spent.  The only problem is the lockers close early (around 5 pm most days we were there).

If you prefer not to walk, there is a free shuttle that runs around the resort (every 30 minutes) but we never used it.

While Atlantis can be expensive, you may be able to find promotions on their website and sometimes there will be special deals on Atlantis vacation packages.  If your plans are flexible, you will probably be able to get a better rate on Atlantis packages.  

You can also use Marriott points to book your stay, although you still will have to pay the resort fee for each person (check the fine print to find out the current fee).  Points cannot be used for The Reef.

Next time I go back, I will probably try a less expensive option like the Coral Tower.  If there aren’t any promotions or groupons, you can click here to check the prices and availability on hotels.com .  Hotels.com has a price guarantee so if you find a lower rate after you have booked, they will refund you the difference.   

If you are getting ready to pack for your vacation, you need to decide what to bring to Atlantis.  This depends on what you plan on doing. 

For the most part, casual clothes and flip-flops will be fine around the resort.  If you plan on going clubbing or visiting some of the higher end restaurants, bring some more stylish outfits and nicer shoes.  If you want to take advantage of the gym at Atlantis, pack your workout gear.

Be sure to bring several bathing suits (at least two) because you will probably be spending a lot of time in the water.  You will need a cover-up too.  Cover-ups (and shoes) are required in the lobbies and all indoor restaurants, lounges and public places.

Visiting Atlantis is definitely one of the best things to do on Paradise Island!  If you are visiting Nassau on a cruise or don’t have time to spend the night at Atlantis, you can also purchase an Atlantis Bahamas day pass although these are now extremely limited and a bit pricey!

An Aquaventure Water Park Day Pass includes unlimited access to the 141-acre Aquaventure Water Park plus all the pools and beaches.   You can also purchase experiences at Dolphin Cay or other water adventures.

If you are a group of 3-4, instead of booking Atlantis day passes, it may be more cost effective to book a night at the Comfort Suites Paradise Island.  Guests of the Comfort Suites (who have booked their stay in advance) can access Atlantis for free.  Check the prices for the Comfort Suites here , but be sure to add in the resort fees and charges for extra people when deciding if it will be cheaper than buying day passes for Atlantis.

The Atlantis day pass needs to be booked in advance as they do sell out.  Click here to get details, current prices, and availability.

In the Bahamas, Atlantis is located on Paradise Island.  You will want to book your flight to Nassau (NAS) and then you can take a taxi from the airport to the resort.  This is probably the most cost-effective and efficient way of getting from the Nassau airport to Atlantis on Paradise Island.

The taxi prices are regulated and will cost around $35 depending on the number of passengers and luggage.  The ride takes about 30 minutes. I found the taxi drivers in the Bahamas very friendly and professional, but if you prefer you can also book the airport transfers through Atlantis.  

Atlantis bus transfers are charged roundtrip per person.  The bus may make stops on its way to Atlantis.  They also offer more expensive options like limos or SUVs, which might make sense if you have a large party.  Airport transfers organized by Atlantis can be booked at the time you make your reservation.

Note: I would not recommend renting a car for your Atlantis vacation.  You would end up paying more for parking.  If you would like to explore Paradise Island or Nassau, you can hire a taxi.

Yes.  While it isn’t the cheapest place to stay or visit for a day, it has so much to offer that I still feel like it offers good value.  There aren’t many other places that can offer a waterpark, casino, aquarium, beaches, restaurants, bars, clubs, shopping, and more.

To wrap up, if you haven’t already been to Atlantis, you should plan a trip.  We had such a great time and left fantastic Atlantis Bahamas reviews.  It is the best place to stay in the Bahamas. Personally, I can’t wait to go back.

If you have been to Atlantis, I would love to hear about your trip.  Do you have any additional Atlantis resort tips? If you haven’t made it to Atlantis yet, what is stopping you?!

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• Be flexible with your travel dates so that you can take advantage of the deals for Atlantis vacations.
• There is something for everyone at Atlantis – waterpark, pools, beach, casino, aquarium, nightlife, and a comedy club just to name a few.
• Atlantis food options are expensive.  Bring breakfast and try to share plates to save money on food costs.
• Bring what you need with you for the day and use lockers.  It will save you the long walk back to your room at Atlantis.
• Make sure to go on “The Current,” you will thank me later!  It was my favorite ride in the waterpark.
• If you just have a day, purchase an Atlantis day pass in advance.  You can enjoy all the amenities!

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Last Updated on December 1, 2022

About the Author

Anisa  

Anisa is an experienced international traveler with extra pages in her passport and stamps from 41 different countries across 5 continents (and counting). She was born and raised in Texas. After a 13 year stint in NYC, she moved to England to live with her husband.

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How to Take a Day Trip to Atlantis Paradise Island in the Bahamas

The Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island is an entire tropical world unto itself. This Bahamian resort boasts casinos, underwater shark walks, and frolicking dolphins. As one of the most famous hotels in the Bahamas , the Atlantis also boasts multiple hotel towers and specific resort sections to accommodate a wide variety of guests' every wish. But, you don’t need to be a guest at the resort to visit this mega-resort. In fact, millions of visitors to Nassau take a quick taxi or water-shuttle ride to experience the resort's casinos and restaurants. From information on the top attractions to details about how to get there (and which day pass to reserve), read on for your ultimate guide to day-tripping to Atlantis Paradise Island.

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Attractions and Things to Do at Atlantis Paradise Island

There are 85 gaming tables, 21 restaurants, and 19 bars and lounges at Atlantis Paradise Island. However, while throwing down some cash on the craps tables or roulette wheel may satisfy some visitors, others—especially families—are drawn to the Atlantis' aquatic allure; specifically the resort's spectacular "lost world" themed water park, dolphin encounter program, beaches, and the underground mysteries of The Dig, a walk-through exploration of the Lost City of Atlantis. Day tickets for all of these activities can be purchased at Discover Atlantis Sales Centers located throughout the property.

Given the hordes of visitors to the Atlantis daily, it's not surprising that the resort limits access to some of these attractions—notably the Aquaventure pool and water park area—to preserve a premier experience for hotel guests. However, that does not mean that day-trippers can't visit the Atlantis attractions, including Aquaventure; you'll have to pay a bit for the privilege (and expect a significant markup on these prices if you buy through a cruise line).

• Dolphin Cay at Atlantis: Day visitors can swim and play with Atlantic bottlenose dolphins at the state-of-the-art, 14-acre habitat.
• Discover Atlantis Tour: This tour is best known to day-trippers, in part because it is sold as an excursion on cruise ships. Expert "Navigators" guide visitors through the ancient city streets of Atlantis during a visit to "The Dig," a faux-but-believable archaeological exploration of an 11,000-year-old lost continent. The attraction is full of interesting artifacts, along with great water effects and glimpses of exotic sea life, including piranha, moon jellyfish, venomous lionfish, and a resident manta ray. A Discover Atlantis Tour wristband allows visitors to explore The Dig and its exhibits as well as the Ruins, Predator, and Water’s Edge Lagoons—but not the waterpark.
• Atlantis Beach Day: The Atlantis Beach Day program provides all-day access to the Atlantis resort's exclusive white sandy beaches, with lounge chairs and towels provided. It also includes access to marine habitats and lunch at an outside venue.
• Atlantis Aquaventure Package : Day-trippers can purchase an Atlantis Aquaventure package that provides all-day access to pools, beaches, and Aquaventure, a 141-acre waterscape containing over 20 million gallons of water with water slides, and a mile-long river ride with high-intensity rapids and wave surges. The passes are only available to guests staying at partners of the Atlantis Resort. They can be purchased (on a restricted basis) at the Atlantis Adventures Desk at the clock tower in front of The Coral.

How to Get There

Paradise Island (formerly Hog Island) is a 685-acre island off the northern coast of Nassau, the capital of the island of New Providence. There is no public transport to take you to Paradise Island—the local bus system, the "jitney," will only take you as far as the ferry terminal, so your best bet is either to take a ferry or a taxi.

To access Paradise Island by water, hop aboard a 15-minute ferry ride from Nassau to Paradise Island. The ferry departs from Nassau Cruise Port from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and costs $3 for a one-way ticket. On your boat ride to Paradise Island, a guide will also give you a brief history lesson of the island and its many attractions. Once you've arrived on Paradise Island, it's a 10-minute walk from the ferry dock to Marina Village in Atlantis.

If you decide to rent a car, note that there is limited free parking available on Paradise Island (and limited spots are found near the public beach). The best alternative is to valet your vehicle at the cost of $16.75 per day. Whether you're driving or opting for a taxi, be prepared to pay the northbound one-way $1 bridge toll. In taxis, this will be on top of your metered fare—and the average cost for a one-way trip from Lynden Pindling International Airport to Paradise Island is about $35. Another alternative is to be dropped off along the coast of New Providence to walk across the bridge (an activity that is toll-free). Once you've arrived on the island, there's no need to rent a car, as visitors can easily walk the grounds and explore everything the hotel has to offer on foot.

Day passes are mandatory for all non-hotel guests at the Atlantis to experience Dolphin Cay, the waterpark, the marine habitat, and the beaches. The passes can be purchased (on a restricted basis) at the Atlantis Adventures desk, situated at the clock tower at The Coral. These passes have been known to sell out, so it's imperative to book online in advance. World Travel Holdings also sells day passes to Aquaventure, Atlantis Dolphin Cay, and the iconic British Colonial Hilton. These passes are marketed primarily to cruise visitors but can be an excellent add-on for anyone visiting Nassau.

• The Aquaventure pass includes admission to Aquaventure and The Dig, lounge chairs, and towels.
• Dolphin Cay experiences include a shallow-water interaction with dolphins.
• The British Colonial Hilton pass includes all-day access to the resort's pristine private beach and pool, snorkeling and kayaking, lounge chairs and towels, and a food and beverage credit.

Tips for Visitors

• There's more to Paradise Island than just the Atlantis, so be sure to explore the rest of the island. We suggest hiking to the Nassau lighthouse for gorgeous seaside views along the coast. Of all the waterpark attractions, the underwater shark walk is not to be missed—imagine a turquoise tunnel full of predators. (It's as scary and thrilling as it sounds).
• There is no visitor information center in Paradise Island, so make sure to consult downtown the tourist information available for visitors in downtown Nassau.
• If you're planning on staying for dinnertime, make a reservation in advance, as restaurants can become busy, especially in the colder months. Additionally, the resort will limit attractions during the peak busy season to preserve hotel guests' experience—a hindrance that won't be an issue for you if you're visiting during the off-season. If you're visiting in the off-season (summer and fall), expect fewer crowds—for the waterslides and the bars and restaurants, alike.
• If you're taking the ferry to Paradise Island, remember to bring cash. Although exact change isn't necessary, it's helpful as you will be expected to tip your tour guides, who provide colorful commentary and historical insight into the past and present-day iterations of Nassau and Paradise Island.

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Atlantis Bahamas Review 2024 + Travel Guide

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, meaning if you make a purchase through the link, I earn a small commission without any extra cost to you. This helps keep my content free, thank you!

We recently spent a week in The Bahamas to celebrate our baby girl’s second birthday and it was nothing short of spectacular! The famous Atlantis Bahamas is the first place that came to my mind when we considered vacationing in The Bahamas. We are not resort people but this trip was all about relaxing and giving fun experiences for our baby girl and I knew that Atlantis Bahamas would be a perfect choice.

Atlantis Bahamas is a huge resort (even for resort standards) with several hotels to choose from, numerous restaurants to dine at, multiple activities to do while there and took a lot of planning. I did a lot of research to plan this trip and was not disappointed! Here is an honest review of our week long stay at Atlantis Bahamas and a comprehensive travel guide to help you decide which hotel/tower to stay at Atlantis Bahamas , where to eat in and around Atlantis Bahamas, activities for kids and adults at Atlantis and some useful tips and recommendations to make your stay eventful and stress free!

Table of Contents

An honest review – ATLANTIS BAHAMAS

Atlantis is a world-class resort located on Paradise Island in Bahamas and is known for its famous Aquaventure waterpark, white sand beaches, turquoise waters, amazing restaurants, casino and more. It was built in 1998 (25 years ago) and cost an estimated $900 million dollars to build. Atlantis Bahamas has everything you can think of (and more) and is a city in itself. In fact, you do not need to venture off the island! I have included as much information as I could in this guide to help you choose the best hotel, save on food, activities and finally my review of Atlantis Bahamas and if it is worth staying.

Is Atlantis Bahamas worth staying?

THE COVE AT ATLANTIS

If you ask me if ATLANTIS BAHAMAS is worth staying – my answer is absolutely, yes!! Atlantis Bahamas is worth staying if you are looking for a relaxing vacation with lots of activities for kids and adults. There is something to do for every age group at ATLANTIS BAHAMAS and I think it is perfect vacation spot whether you are looking for fun family time, a couples getaway or a group trip with friends. The aquapark, beaches, casino, shopping, golf course, fine dining, marine habitat and Marina Village make it an absolutely fun place to stay and we (especially our two year old) had the best time for her birthday!

I highly recommend staying at ATLANTIS BAHAMAS . I would advise you to set your expectations regarding the food, expenses and choose your hotel wisely. Be prepared to spend a bit more than expected as I mentioned above and you will have a blast! 

Tips and recommendations for your stay at Atlantis Bahamas

• Make sure you book your accommodation and activities well in advance as they are quite popular and can get sold out quickly.
• The resort is quite large and can be overwhelming to get around for first timers. Download a map of Atlantis or the app to orient yourselves. 
• The food is EXPENSIVE! If you plan to dine three times a day or have kids who need snacks and are hungry often, I highly recommend a trip to the grocery store and liquor store to save some $$.
• Make use of the free shuttles that run every 5-10 minutes between various hotels, the Marina Village and The Four Seasons. Taxis are also available at each hotel/tower if you would like to take a trip to Nassau Downtown or elsewhere. 
• Pack all the summer essentials – sunscreen, hat, tote bag, flip flops and sun dresses.
• US dollars are accepted everywhere and the Bahamian dollar is the same value as USD. Carry change or exchange notes either at the airport. Atlantis Bahamas is a cash free resort and you cannot get cash or change at the resort. And you would need enough cash to tip the staff and for taxi fares.
• The Bahamas in general and Atlantis are very expensive as they import most of the goods. Be prepared to spend top $$$ on everything.
• There are many free activities to do at Atlantis Bahamas. Take advantage of all the fun and free things to do before indulging in other experiences.
• If you are a hotel guest, you get a wristband for the duration of your stay that allows you access to the waterpark, pools and other facilities.
• There are sundries available at each of the hotels to buy snacks, sunscreen and other essentials.
• Your keycard not only gives you access to your room but can also be used at the casino and restaurants as a credit card. Keep it handy and you don’t have to carry your credit cards.

Getting to and around Atlantis Bahamas

Atlantis is about 30 min drive away from the closest airport – Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau. You have an option to either take a taxi or shuttle to Atlantis. You can also take a ferry from Nassau Downtown to Paradise Island. After the long flight, I recommend a taxi and the fare usually ranges from $40 – $60 USD.

Getting around Atlantis Bahamas

Don’t worry about getting around the resort. The resort offers multiple shuttles between the different towers/hotels, to/from The Marina Village, Golf Course and The Four Seasons resort. The shuttles are convenient and fun and our whole family enjoyed riding in them!

Taxis are readily available if you would like to venture off of Paradise Island to Nassau Downtown or elsewhere. Make sure you have enough cash for the fare plus tip.

You could take a fun ferry ride from Paradise Island to Nassau Downtown as well. Boat tours are also available to other islands like Exumas and Blue Lagoon.

Which hotel to stay in Atlantis Bahamas?

The reef at atlantis.

Choosing the right hotel to stay at Atlantis Bahamas can get overwhelming but also the most important step to make your stay enjoyable. There are 5 different hotels to choose from with different amenities. The choice of the hotel is based on your preferences whether you are looking for a romantic couples’ only space or a family friendly one with a kitchenette. This section breaks down the different hotel options and amenities available and a review of the hotels at Atlantis Bahamas.

The Royal at Atlantis Bahamas

This is the flagship tower of Atlantis Bahamas that is featured in all the photos of Atlantis Bahamas. It is central to all the main attractions including the aquaventure park, casino, and has multiple restaurants like Nobu, Olives to name a few. The Royal as the name suggests makes you feel like royalty but it is also one of the oldest and quite dated. We noticed that there is no bell service at The Royal and it can get quite crowded and noisy.

The Cove at Atlantis Bahamas

The cove is the most luxurious of all the hotels at Atlantis Bahamas and offers chic, contemporary accommodations with ocean views, private balconies, and access to an exclusive pool. The hotel also has a large adults only pool and has a small casino. There are several restaurants including The Fish, Sea Glass and Fresca. The lobby and the views from The Cove are incredible and this is an ideal hotel for a romantic couples stay. This was also my favorite hotel at Atlantis and it is the most expensive of all.

The Reef at Atlantis Bahamas

This is where we stayed as it came with sweeping views of the ocean similar to The Cove but also a kitchenette. As we traveled with a toddler, we wanted a kitchenette for a quick early breakfast or snack before heading out and The Reef was perfect for that. I also liked that they have bell service and the elevators are a quick walk from the lobby unlike The Royal towers. The Reef has a couple of pools (including a kids pool) and a private beach shared with The Cove guests. There is a Starbucks which gets super busy in the morning. I also liked that there is no Casino at the Reef and is perfect for families.

The Coral at Atlantis Bahamas

The Coral is an updated mid-range hotel and has its own pool and a lazy river. It is quite close to The Marina Village and the multiple restaurants there. It is a great choice if you’d like to stay close to The Marina Village.

Harborside Resort at Atlantis Bahamas

The Harborside comprises residential style villas with fully equipped kitchen, laundry and faces the Marina. These villas would be perfect for families with multiple kids and intending to cook or looking for spacious accommodation.

Activities to do in Atlantis Bahamas for kids and adults

• Beaches:  The beaches here are something else! Staying at Atlantis gives you access to stunning private as well as public beaches. The turquoise waters and white sand will make you feel right at paradise. The guests at The Reef and The Cove have exclusive access to Cove beach. I found it to be more peaceful and pleasant.

Aquaventure Waterpark:  This famous waterpark is one of the main reasons people visit Atlantis. It is one of the biggest and most exciting water parks in the world offering thrilling water slides, a not-so-lazy river, splash pools for kids and a replica of a Mayan temple. We had a lot of fun here exploring the waterpark and participating in the rides. Access to waterpark is free for resort guests.

• Relax by the pools:  What better way to spend your holiday morning than reading a book by the pool and watching your baby girl play in the water? That was what we did every day. 🙂 There are multiple pools at each hotel and are accompanied by restaurants and shacks to order food.
• Walk and Explore: I suggest taking the shuttle bus to each hotel and walk around to orient yourselves first. There is so much to see and do at the resort and the best way to explore is to walk.
• Marine Habitat: Explore an underwater world with more than 50,000 sea creatures, including sharks, rays, and exotic fish. You will find many of these at The Dig and scattered all around the resort. Pay good attention to water bodies wherever you find them as you may find turtles or manta rays. 🙂 They also let you feed different dish during different times of the day.

The Dig: The Dig is the highlight of our trip to Atlantis Bahamas. It is a large marine exhibit at The Royal and runs through the Aquaventure Water Park. My little one had lots of fun watching the stingrays, fish, lobsters and other sea creatures swim. We went there every day to watch the fish.

• Paradise Lagoon water sports: The paradise lagoon at The Royal tower offers many different water activities like SUP, kayaking, pedal boating. You need to pay for the rental though.
• Snorkel/Scuba diving the ruins: One can also snorkel or scuba dive the ruins at Atlantis. We’ve seen some kids and adults snorkeling and scuba diving. I had considered snorkeling but after seeing how cloudy the water was, I decided to give it a pass. Please bear that in mind if you plan to take kids snorkeling.

Marina Village: Marina Village is an outdoor shopping area with local stores, restaurants, ice cream shops and more. It is bustling with people and music at night and fun for every age group. We found that the restaurants here are less expensive and tastier than the ones at the resort. This was our spot every evening and you MUST try to conch salad at McKenzie’s Conch Shack and the seafood at Anthony’s.

• Dolphin Cay: You can swim with dolphins in a natural lagoon and learn about these intelligent creatures. Make sure you reserve ahead of time.
• Casino: Try your luck at gambling at one of the slot machines or gaming tables at the casino.
• Golf: Enjoy a round of golf at the Ocean Club Golf Course.

Dune at The Ocean Club: Take advantage of the shuttle bus that goes to The Four Seasons to enjoy a brunch or lunch at  The Dune. Make sure you reserve way ahead for lunch or dinner. The property and the grounds are beautiful to walk around. 

• Spa time at Mandara: Enjoy a relaxing massage or facial at Mandara Spa. Make sure you schedule ahead of your arrival!
• Shopping: If you are itching to spend more money, you are welcome to shop at the high end stores at The Royal or Marina Village. 😉
• Cooking classes/fun activities for kids (without parents): Atlantis offers cooking classes, fun activities and arcades for kids. Parents can enjoy a romantic dinner while kids have fun at the play centers.
• Nightlife: Experience the vibrant nightlife at Atlantis, with live music, DJs, and a range of bars and nightclubs.

Where to eat in and around Atlantis Bahamas?

Atlantis Bahamas offers over 20 restaurants and dining options in multiple price ranges and tastes. Some of the most popular dining options include Nobu, Fish by José Andrés, Olives and Café Martinique. There are multiple restaurants at Marina Village as well.

A few things to note about dining at Atlantis Bahamas 

• If you are planning to indulge in fine dining, make sure you make the reservations well in advance (like at least a month)! I did not do that and all the fine dining restaurants were booked! Fortunately, some restaurants like Nobu allow walk-ins in the lounge and patio areas. Thanks to my husband, we were able to dine at Nobu (twice!) even without a reservation. 
• Try restaurants at The Marina Village for better food options.
• Head to Fish Fry if you would like to eat where the locals eat!
• One good thing about Atlantis Bahamas is that drinking water is free! Water canisters are provided and one can refill at the multiple stations throughout the resort.

Is food at Altantis expensive and worth the price?

• If you wish to save some $$$ on food, get some groceries and liquor at a local store.
• We found the food at the poolside restaurants and mid-range ones at Atlantis Bahamas to be mediocre at best. Avoid them and take your snacks with you. The food at fine restaurants like Nobu, Olives and Fish was delicious!!
• Seafood entrees range between $40-$70 and breakfast fare was $20-40. 15% gratuity is added to the bill.

Atlantis Bahamas -A review of our favorite restaurants

What’s not to like about the famous Nobu chain of restaurants? We went there twice during our stay and the food did not disappoint. The service was fast as well. Our favorites were the miso black cod, wagyu, tuna with crispy rice and rock shrimp tempura. I loved the sake but the cocktails were meh! We absolutely loved the lava cake and green tea dessert! As I wrote above, if you cannot find reservations, go directly at 5pm and check for availability at the lounge or patio. It worked both times for us!

This was another hit and a favorite. The focaccia and olive combo that was complimentary was delicious! We loved the garlic spinach, the caprese and the seafood entrees. 

Fish by José Andrés  

We dined here for breakfast multiple times and it was so good! We loved the benedicts and my favorite was the Bahamian boiled fish. It was so simple yet delicious – a must try in The Bahamas!

Other mid-range restaurants at Altantis Bahamas

Fresca, Lagoon bar and grill, Murray’s Deli.

There is a Starbucks at The Reef for a quick coffee or breakfast. 

Marina Village restaurants to try 

If you visit Marina Village, you MUST try the conch salad (both traditional and tropical) at McKenzie’s Conch Shack. Anthony’s across from Marina Village is great for seafood. There is also a Dunkin’ Donuts right next to it.

Other restaurants in Marina Village that we found to be busy were Carmine’s, Cafe Martinique, Burger Shack, Marina Pizza and Ben and Jerry’s.

LOCAL DELICACIES of The Bahamas that you must try!

Conch salad.

Conch is an edible sea creature that is unique to The Caribbean Islands and famous in The Bahamas, Turk and Caicos. It is loaded with vitamins and nutrients. The first time we had the conch salad was in Providenciales in Turks and Caicos and loved it so much. We were so glad to have found it again in The Bahamas. The conch salad at McKenzie’s Conch Shack in Marina Village was incredible and a must try. Even our toddler loved the salad.

Conch fritters

Conch fritters are another delicacy made with conch and a great option if you’d like to try conch but not the raw version.

Bahamian boiled fish

A local said that Bahamians eat stewed/boiled fish for breakfast and fried/grilled for lunch and dinner. We had the boiled Bahamian grouper with grits and it was so delicious. It looks simple but tastes heavenly!

Restaurants at Fish Fry

This is an area with multiple restaurants frequented by locals and the food here is delicious and much less expensive. We had the conch fritters, fish fry (obivously!) and grilled fish at Oh! Andros and they were all yum. All the entrees were accompanied by peas and rice, plantains, cole slaw and other sides that were equally good.

Local beer like Kalik and Sands are popular in The Bahamas and are worth a try.

Final thoughts and Review – Bahamas Atlantis

Atlantis Bahamas is a great hotel for visitors seeking a blend of adventure, relaxation, and luxury. With its world-class amenities, including the iconic waterpark, diverse dining options, and stunning beaches, Atlantis offers an experience that caters to all ages and interests. If you are looking for family friendly hotel, choose your stay at The Reef or Harborside . If you are looking for a romantic stay, I highly recommend The Cove . Atlantis Bahamas is not just a vacation; it’s an adventure into a world of wonders, making it a truly worthwhile stay. 

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I am Aswani Kurra. I am an engineer, dreamer and part-time wanderlust, writer and wine lover. I always had an urge to write, create and travel. So I created this space to satisfy my creative itch and combine all my skills to help you plan your Charming Escape.

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Gorgeous photos! From your article the Atlantis Bahamas sounds like a lovely place to stay. As a foodie I love how you discussed the local delicacies. Thanks for sharing your experience!

Hi there. We also have a little one that just turned two. Can you share more about the babysitting or kids club options that they have? I noticed you went to dinner a few times. That sounds wonderful!!

Hi, thanks for reading and hope you enjoy your stay! Regarding your question, we didn’t take advantage of any of the babysitting services. The kids club I believe is only for kids aged 3 or above. We wanted to send her there but couldn’t. Our daughter loves going to restaurants so didn’t really look for any babysitting services. Although we didn’t use it, one of the guests we talked to mentioned that they had a good experience. Make sure you ask questions and also state your requirements beforehand. Little ones love it there. 🙂

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Your Guide to Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas 2020

Aug 17, 2015

See recent posts by Lissa Poirot

You’ve seen the enticing commercials for Atlantis, Paradise Island, with its towering pink buildings, amazing water park, and one-of-a-kind dolphin program.

With a closer look, the resort’s numerous hotels, restaurants, and programs can be overwhelming and confusing, however. For example, the biggest surprise for many is that the resort is not all-inclusive. Many people are surprised to learn the resort actually comprises six hotels, as well. Before you go, here’s what you need to know about Atlantis.

Guide to Atlantis: Location

Atlantis Resort is located on Paradise Island, a small island that’s technically part of Nassau. It’s connected by a bridge where a toll is required to enter the island; the toll price is typically covered by your transportation service from the airport or cruise port.

Guide to Atlantis: Understanding Reviews

Atlantis, as a whole, is actually six separate resorts. This makes it difficult to understand hotel reviews of the property. Also, the hotel ratings are often so low, you’ll wonder why people even want to stay there. The problem with looking at Atlantis reviews is that they’re not typically family-focused and not dedicated to each property on the resort. Former guests of Atlantis quickly learn they are on different resorts connected as one, and when they provide reviews, they do so under the proper resort name. The Reef, for example, is one of the more popular resorts for families, and has higher reviews that reflect that. Be sure to check the individual resort reviews to truly understand what you’ll get and what others are saying about their stay.

Guide to Atlantis: Which Hotel Should You Stay At?

The six resorts located at Atlantis, Paradise Island are:

• Harborside Resort

The Beach is one of the least popular resorts at Atlantis. It’s the furthest away from all of the attractions, restaurants and excitement, and is the oldest of the properties. Granted, if you really want to stay at Atlantis and save money, it may be worth considering; you can just use it as a place to sleep and enjoy the spoils of the resort during the day.

This property is a step up from The Beach, and first opened with the The Beach (formerly called the Beach Tower, in 1994). It recently received renovations and is a better budget-friendly option for families looking to save and enjoy nicer accommodations.

The Royal is the building most associated with Atlantis — it’s the group of iconic towers with a penthouse suite connecting them. It’s also the busiest of the properties, with crowds of people, a bustling casino, shopping, and the location for most of the resort’s attractions, including the aquarium and water parks.

The Reef is one of the favorites of families. Removed from the bustling side of the resort, it’s quieter and features its own beach and pool, as well as the resort’s only rooms with kitchenettes and dining spaces.

This property is located next to The Reef, and the two opened together. It’s one of the nicest buildings on the resort, but it’s also not recommended for families. Its private pool is available only to its guests and does not welcome children.

Harborsi de Resort

Harborside is removed from the beach and is a colorful “village” made up of four-story villas right on the marina. The center of town features dining and shopping, and the area becomes popular in the evenings. These accommodations are great for families, as they have villas with up to three bedrooms.

“Secret” Atlantis Hotels

There are two additional properties on Paradise Island that provide complimentary access to Atlantis resort’s attractions and restaurants. One is the budget-friendly Comfort Suites Paradise Island and the other is the high-end Ocean Club.

Comfort Suites Paradise Island

This is a beautifully renovated hotel with its own walking path to Atlantis. Guests receive all the same benefits of staying on the resort, at much lower rates, with free breakfast and Wi-Fi, and rooms with kitchenettes. It’s a true hidden gem that shouldn’t be overlooked.

The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort

If you’re looking for the ultimate in luxury on Paradise Island, The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort is it. The upscale resort offers dedicated butlers for all accommodations, including its new Two-Bedroom Private Plunge Pool Villas. The resort also offers kids’ programming, both on and off of the property.

Still unsure which hotel is right for your family? Check out this expert breakdown of each Atlantis, Paradise Island hotel .

Guide to Atlantis: What’s Included?

This is not an all-inclusive resort, but access to Aquaventure water park is included in rates. The popular attraction is open to cruise ship passengers and visitors who purchase day passes, and the resort does not differentiate from the two when lines become long.

Also free is the Ruins aquarium, with guided and self-guided tours through an ancient underwater city environment filled with colorful fish, rays and sharks. Some of the evening entertainment is also free; some shows will cost extra. Special guests, musical concerts, and shows will require advance ticket purchase, just as if you were at home booking through Stubhub .

If you stay at one of the tower resorts, internet is included in your daily resort fee.

Guide to Atlantis: What’s NOT Included?

All meals at Atlantis are at your own discretion, even with the numerous restaurant options. The dolphin programs you’ve heard about take place at Dolphin Cay and are not included with accommodations. The basic “swimming” with dolphins program is actually a shallow water interaction where you and your kids will stand in the water and a dolphin will be presented to you to touch and pose for pictures, taken by the resort’s professional photographers (another fee). There is a swim program, which will cost more, as will training programs, stingray experiences and sea lion interactions. Be prepared and budget for extra spending if these activities are important to you.

The Atlantis Kids Adventures (AKA) is a supervised children’s program for ages 3 to 12, but it will cost you for a half- or full-day, as well as the addition of lunch. An evening program is also available so parents can have date nights while the kids play, also at an additional fee.

Nightclubs, including the teen club CRUSH, have cover charges to get in.

Wi-Fi is not included if you stay at the Harborside Resort.

Guide to Atlantis: Dining Plans

There are a number of restaurants located on the property, and none of them are included in the price of your stay without the purchase of a dining plan. The resort offers a full breakfast plan, or a plan that includes breakfast and dinner. Children 12 and younger are discounted in these plans, but must select from the children’s menus. Dining plans must be booked at least three days before arrival.

Age Restrictions for Dining Children under age 6 are not welcome in the French Cafe Martinique, and Nobu, Mesa Grill and Casa D’Angelo only allow children under 6 to dine 5:30 to 6 p.m. Restaurants with children’s menus include the Bahamian Club, Bimini Road, Casa Chop Stix, Dune, Marina Pizzeria, Mesa Grill, Murray’s Delicatessen, Olives, Seafire Steakhouse, the Point restaurant & Bar and Virgil’s. Also on property at the marina are a Johnny Rockets and Quizno’s, which are friendlier on the wallet. A Starbucks is located in The Reef, but be warned its breakfast lines can wrap through the hotel lobby.

Guide to Atlantis: Getting Around

The resort does not provide transportation to and from airport, but works with a third-party provider that will charge a fee. The shuttles may stop at numerous resorts between the airport and Atlantis. Once on the resort, a complimentary shuttle is offered between the different hotels, becoming crowded during the dining hours.

To leave Paradise Island, you’ll need to hire a taxi or water taxi. The resort is located near the cruise port and downtown’s shopping, straw market, dining and island attractions, such as the Pirates of Nassau Museum, one of the best cheap activities in Nassau . The water taxis are the easiest method for getting around, departing every 30 minutes from Harbor Town.

Guide to Atlantis: Day Passes

Guests who aren’t staying overnight on Paradise Island are welcome to purchase day passes for the resort grounds, Aquaventure water park, and/or beach. Visit Atlantis, Paradise Island’s Day Booking website for more information.

What to Pack for Your Next Trip

Mom’s/women’s swimsuit for the bahamas in summer, shop the look.

Popover Dress

Flat Sandals

Cotton Beach Towel

Bandeau One-Piece

Woven Rubiera Jeweled Tote

Dad’s/men’s swimsuit for the bahamas in summer.

Washed Baseball Cap

Beach Shorts

Aviator Sunglasses

Light Flip-Flop

Boys caribbean vacation day outfit for summer.

Fun Short-Sleeved Shirt

Canvas Shorts

Shark Tooth Necklace

Girls Caribbean Vacation Day Outfit for Summer

Tie Dye Circle Top

Tie-Waist Shorts

Our team of parents and travel experts chooses each product and service we recommend. Anything you purchase through links on our site may earn us a commission.

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Best Family Beach Vacations

Ultimate Beach Guide for Family Travel

What to do at Atlantis Bahamas: Best 6 Must Do Attractions and Tips

If you’re looking for an amazing and luxurious Caribbean family beach vacation, look no further than what to do at Atlantis Bahamas Resort. Atlantis Paradise Island is a beautiful oceanfront resort located on Paradise Island, just off the coast of Nassau.

This massive hotel boasts beautiful sand beaches, over 150 acres of property, and plenty of activities and adventures to keep you busy during your stay. We love our time here and I highly recommend it for a fun filled family vacation. 

Nassau Paradise Island is a great place to visit. Located on the Bahamas, it is a great destination to explore family together. With miles of beaches and plenty of activities, entertainment and dining options, there’s something for everyone. Whether it’s splashing in the waves or testing your luck in the casino, you’ll have an unforgettable time

Here are our top tips, tricks and secrets for getting the most out of your Atlantis Bahamas vacation:

Best things & What to do at Atlantis Bahamas Resort

Pick up a copy of the resort map and learn about this legendary location. Begin your adventure once you’ve had a look around!

1. Make sure to check out the Aquaventure Water Park.

Nestled on the shores of Paradise Island in the Bahamas, the Aquaventure Water Park is a one-of-a-kind aquatic playground. From thrilling waterslides and massive wave pools to up-close encounters with sharks and stingrays, the Aquaventure Water Park has something for everyone.

And with over 20 million gallons of water, it’s also one of the largest water parks in the world! Whether you’re looking for a fun family activity or an adrenaline-pumping thrill ride, the Aquaventure Water Park is sure to make a splash.

2. Rent a Private Cabana at Atlantis Paradise

There are 31 secluded cabanas to pick from, so you’re spoiled for choice. A private cabana is ideal for families since they are big and allow you to enjoy the poolside.

Because they’re close to the beach, serve meals and drinks, have a private changing area, and are capable of accommodating up to six people, they’re well worth considering during your family vacay.

Reclining in your personal cabana at Atlantis is unquestionably one of the most tranquil activities you can do there.

3. Take a walk on the wild side and visit The Dig, an underwater aquarium where you can view over 50,000 sea creatures.

The Dig at Atlantis Resort is an underwater archaeological site that lets you explore the remains of a lost city. You can see firsthand how the ancient civilization lived and worked, and get an up-close look at their art and artifacts.

The Dig is also home to a variety of fish and other marine life, making it a great place to snorkel or scuba dive. Whether you’re interested in history, archaeology, or just want to see some amazing fish, you won’t be disappointed.

4. Snorkel in the Ruins or Swim with Dolphins

Explore the submerged ruins of the lost city of Atlantis beneath the sea. Swim amid thousands of tropical fish, enormous sharks, and spectacular rays in this underwater excursion. For a truly unique experience, book a dolphin encounter at Dolphin Cay. You’ll get to swim and play with these amazing animals in their natural habitat.

5. You Can Relax at the Spa at Atlantis Paradise Island

When it’s time to rest and recharge, there’s no better place than the Spa at Atlantis. With massages, facials, and other treatments available, you’ll be sure to leave feeling refreshed and relaxed.

The Mandara Spa offers a unique blend of ancient Balinese healing techniques, traditional European therapies and natural Bahamas-inspired elements to provide the ultimate spa experience.

6. Indulge in the Trainer or Junior Trainer for a Day Program

During Atlantis’ Ultimate Trainer for a Day Program (Junior Trainer for kids 6-10), participants can experience what it’s like to interact with various exotic marine life. Interact with dolphins, sharks, and rays at stingray lagoon while working alongside professional animal trainers and Aquarists.

This one-of-a-kind experience for resort guests takes you behind the scenes at the marine exhibits to discover what it takes to care for more than 50,000 sea creatures. It’s the “ultimate” day of discovery at this stunning resort. A personal photographer will be assigned to document all of your moments.

Last but not least, don’t forget to explore all of the hotel’s amazing amenities. With 11 different pools, Atlantis casino, and plenty of shopping options, the whole family will never be bored at Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas .

Tips for Visiting atlantis paradise island on a Family Vacation

A few things are worth considering when planning a Atlantis Bahamas vacation with kids from budgeting to safety concerns. These tips will help make your dream vacation both safer and more affordable.

Book Your Accommodation

Most of the places to stay at Atlantis Paradise Island cater to families, so you’re bound to find one that fits your needs! Plus, there’s plenty to do around the resort no matter where you end up staying.

The Coral at Atlantis Bahamas

If you’re looking for a place to stay during your next vacation, I would highly recommend the Coral at Atlantis in Bahamas. The atmosphere is very relaxed and perfect for families with small children.

We had an amazing vacation at the Coral at Atlantis in Bahamas. The room was comfortable and clean with a beautiful view of the ocean. The staff was friendly and helpful, and the food was delicious. You can book your stay here .

The Harborside at Atlantis Bahamas

If you want to get away from the crowds in The Harborside Resort, there are one- to three-bedroom villas with full kitchens and laundry services. That means it’s ideal for big families or individuals who prefer to lie around in the mornings. It makes it simple to have breakfast in your room before getting out to play. You can book your stay  here .

The Reef at Atlantis Bahamas

This hotel offers large studios and one- to two-bedroom units, each with a fully equipped kitchen or kitchenette. You’ll enjoy more upscale living here. You can book your stay here for The Reef .

The Royal at Atlantis Bahamas

One of the most iconic landmarks in all of The Bahamas, The Royal is steps away from some great attractions like Aquaventure and Atlantis Casino. You can also visit The Dig – home to world’s largest open-air marine habitat as well! You can book your stay here for The Royal .

The Cove at Atlantis Bahamas

Nestled between two private beaches, The Cove Atlantis is a luxurious retreat that caters to all of your needs. Whether you are looking for an elegant getaway or want some peace and relaxation with family members; this sensorial resort has what every person desires in their vacation destination! You can book your stay here for The Cove .

More tips for Atlantis Bahamas Resort

• Pools, restaurants and lagoons filled with marine life are spread across the resort. You’ll definitely get some exercise trying to see and do it all.
• There is a free shuttle that travels between The Reef, The Cove, The Royal, Harborside, The Coral, The Beach, Ocean Club and the Ocean Club Golf Course at this vast resort.
• Rooms at the Reef tower at Atlantis Paradise Island have smaller kitchens while Studios feature a microwave, two-burner cooktop, dishwasher drawer, toaster, coffee maker, blender, pans and utensils etc. Suites have even bigger kitchens. You can save money and time by eating some of your meals in your room.
• For dinner, you’ll want to make the most of your stay at Atlantis. There are several delectable choices from casual to fine dining. Make dinner reservations AS SOON as possible before your journey. Otherwise, you’ll face long line waits or be required to eat early or late.
• No the resort is not a true all inclusive but a meal plan is available.
• The greatest way to avoid the crowds is to go during the low season, when most children are in school. Bonus- prices are usually lower as well.
• Visit the water park early or later in the day to save time waiting in line.
• A trip to Atlantis Paradise Island is not complete without venturing off the property for a meal or some shopping (think cheaper souvenirs). You’ll get a more authentic Bahamian experience that way.
• Learn about the day’s activities by reading the Atlantean newsletter. You can find the schedule in the “Complimentary” section for the freebies. Free activities may include fish feedings, bingo, story time, and games and more.

Follow these tips and you’re sure to have an incredible vacation at Atlantis Bahamas Resort.

Things You May Not Know About Atlantis Bahamas

Here are some things that we did not know before our visit. Our readers have also sent in some Atlantis Bahamas secrets as well and for that that we thank you!

You can visit for just a day with an Atlantis Hotel, Nassau, Day Pass

If you’re looking for a way to spend the day near your resort or cruise , consider purchasing an Atlantis Bahamas Day Pass. There are several different options depending on what interests you, from Dolphin Cay Experiences to simply enjoying the waterpark .

Or, if you just want to check it out and not partake in any of the amazing facilities, you can still walk in and and look or eat in the restaurants. It is open to the public.

More Atlantis Bahamas Secrets:

The world class casino at Atlantis Resort is one of the largest in the Caribbean with over 90 gaming tables featuring Ultimate Texas Hold’em poker, Let It Ride, baccarat, craps, roulette and blackjack, high roller and private gaming stations and 750 slot machines.

Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas is home to the world’s largest open-air marine habitat ! This means that there are over 50,000 marine animals for you and your family to see. From the predator lagoon to the interactive touch tank aquarium – this underwater world is sure to keep you entertained.

Consider checking the daily scheduled feeding times at Stingray Lagoon, Predator Lagoon, and The Ruins if you want to participate in a free activity. You can also view shark feeding at the Mayan Temple.

Atlantis Bahamas is home to the world’s largest waterpark ! With over 20 water slides, river rides, lazy river and other attractions, your family will never be bored. If you’re looking for a hidden gem in Atlantis Bahamas, look no further than the secret Cenote! You can find this little paradise at the end of the Abyss waterslide.

There are two lazy rivers but one is much more “active” than the other so beware!

Atlantis Resort  has its own private island ! This island is only accessible to guests of Atlantis Bahamas and it is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the Caribbean sun.

Atlantis Marina Village is a location you should definitely explore in Atlantis. If your children like boats, taking a close look at the gorgeous vessels in the marina will be a lot of fun for them. There’s a lovely shopping/dining area with beautiful colorful buildings at the Marina Village Shopping Arcade.

Atlantis Paradise Island boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With its 5 miles of stunning coastline, white sand beaches and crystal-clear water, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. ─── Cove Beach, Atlantis Beach and Paradise Beach are unparalleled when it comes to private beaches.

You’ve probably seen the bridge in between the two major hotel buildings at Atlantis Bahamas. That’s a suite! The minimum stay is four nights for the 4,000 square foot suite. This magnificent suite has a waiting list that may take years for your name to surface. It’s said that the Bridge Suite costs anywhere from $25,000 to $40,000 per night.

Every evening at the Atlantis is free movie night at the Atlantis theatre. At Atlantis, finding something to do after a long day at the waterpark isn’t difficult for the entire family !

Atlantis Bahamas offers a huge variety of dining options ! With over 21 restaurants , and 19 bars and lounges, there is something for everyone in your family to enjoy.

Read More:  8 Stunning Reasons to Visit Atlantis Bahamas

Nassau Paradise Island is yours to explore! Other activities in this area include golfing, fishing, Bahamas snorkeling, and scuba diving. Check out the other side of Nassau Paradise Island  by taking a day trip to Blue Lagoon Island and maybe see the swimming pigs at Pig Beach or sea turtles for more family fun.

What to do at Atlantis Bahamas Resort?

With so many things to do at Atlantis Paradise Island, you’re sure to have an incredible vacation! Be sure to follow these tips and tricks to make the most of your time at this world-class resort.  In conclusion , Atlantis Bahamas is the perfect destination for family beach vacations.

With activities to keep everyone entertained, delicious restaurants and bars to enjoy, and a stunning natural landscape to explore, you’ll create lasting memories with your loved ones. So what are you waiting for? Book your next getaway today! 

FAQ’s Atlantis Paradise Island Resort

Q. what is the best time to go to atlantis paradise island resort.

A. The best time to visit Atlantis Paradise Island Resort is during the months of November through April, when temperatures are mild and the weather is sunny and pleasant. During this time, there are also plenty of activities to enjoy, including swimming in the ocean, snorkeling and diving excursions, as well as outdoor sports like golf and tennis.

Additionally, the resort offers a variety of entertainment options such as live music, comedy shows, and cabaret performances. During peak season from May to October, temperatures are higher but the resort still provides plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy.

Q. How much does it cost to stay at Atlantis Paradise Island Resort?

A. The cost of staying at Atlantis Paradise Island Resort varies depending on the type of accommodation and amenities you choose. There are a variety of rooms, suites, and villas that range from $200 to over $2,000 per night.

Additionally, there are special packages available for stays longer than three nights that can offer discounts or additional services. The resort also offers a wide selection of dining and entertainment options that are available at varying costs, so visitors are able to customize their experience.

Q. How big is Atlantis Paradise Island Resort?

A. Atlantis Paradise Resort spans over a lot of acreage – the waterpark is 141 acres alone! Atlantis includes a variety of accommodations (3,800 rooms), 40 restaurants & nightlife venues, attractions, and amenities and one of the largest casino in the Caribbean.

Spanning 6 hectares (or 14 acres), the resort is proud to host a marine habitat, where rescued bottlenose dolphins (Dolphin Cay), sea lions and manta rays are happily cared for.

If you’re an avid golfer, then this one’s for you! Don’t miss your chance to experience the thrills of playing at Tom Weiskopf’s championship Ocean Club golf course 7,100-yard course. Recognized as one of the Top Ten Resort Courses in golfing history, it won’t let you down.

Q. Is Atlantis Paradise Island Resort family friendly?

A. Yes! Atlantis Paradise Island Resort is an excellent destination for families and offers a wide variety of activities for kids of all ages. There are kid-friendly water slides, pools, and activities at the resort’s Aquaventure Waterpark as well as a special supervised club for kids ages 3 to 12.

There are also plenty of beach activities, marine life experiences, and educational programs available. Additionally, there are numerous shows throughout the resort that feature clowns and circus performers that allow children to interact with entertainers up close.

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7 Tips for Visiting Atlantis on a Budget

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

Atlantis, Paradise Island is a well-known vacation destination in Nassau, Bahamas. But, as is true with many popular resort areas, Nassau and Atlantis aren't especially budget-friendly. For many travelers, the expense is simply the price of an annual vacation or once-in-a-lifetime trip. But, it's possible to cut down your expenses and book a trip to Atlantis at a fraction of the cost you thought possible.

1. Consider Saving Your Miles

Usually here at TPG we're all about using your points and miles. But we want you to get the best value possible when you do so. In many cases, using airline miles to fly to the Bahamas just isn't going to provide solid value. This is due to both the availability of cheap cash fares to the Bahamas, as well as the excessive taxes and fees levied on flights departing from the Bahamas. So, even if you use just 15,000 American miles (12,500 miles off-peak) to fly from Nassau to the continental US, you'll still need to pay $112.93 in taxes and fees. Of those taxes and fees, $22.33 are collected by the US, and the remaining $90.60 are held by the Bahamas.

So, if you can find reasonably priced round-trip flights or a cheap one-way flight departing from the Bahamas, this may be be better than using miles and still playing high taxes and fees. Note that the high taxes and fees only apply to flights departing the Bahamas; You'll only pay the normal $5.60 US security fee on an award flight from the US to the Bahamas.

2. Get a Free Stay

Simply put, staying at Atlantis isn't cheap. For example, a three-night stay in a Garden View room at the most affordable property on site, The Beach , still costs more than $900 for just the room, taxes and resort fees. And this was during times marked "best value."

Luckily, there are various ways to get free or discounted stays. A separate piece describes strategies for getting free nights at Atlantis -- but the easiest and most straightforward way is to use Marriott points to stay at The Coral (35,000 points per night), The Royal (50,000 points per night) or The Cove (60,000 points per night). You can even redeem the up to 35,000-point free night certificate that comes with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card at The Coral.

Alternatively, you can use Choice Hotels points to stay at the Comfort Suites Paradise Island , which is a short walk from Atlantis and provides access to Atlantis' Aquaventure water park.

3. Pack the Essentials

If there are things you know you'll need, bring them from home instead of waiting to purchase them once in the Bahamas. For example, my husband and I were happy that we'd brought our own sunscreen and aqua socks to protect our feet at Aquaventure. And you definitely want to remember to pack your sunglasses, rash guards and dry bags to keep your valuables safe and dry.

Many of these items, like rash guards, aqua socks and dry bags, can be purchased for surprisingly little on Amazon. Our aqua socks looked ridiculous since they were the deeply discounted crazy designs, but they served their purpose. Purchasing them in the Bahamas or at the resort would have cost a small fortune.

4. Take the Ferry

If you want to go to Nassau from Atlantis, you could take a taxi. But, based on our experience with taxis in the Bahamas, you're probably going to be charged more than is reasonable for the short ride. So, why not take the $3 per person ferry?

Ferries depart from beneath the incoming side of the bridge on Paradise Island. You can purchase tickets on demand from a ticket booth, and then boats depart when full. You'll be dropped off in downtown Nassau.

5. Bring Your Own Food

Seriously, food is expensive at Atlantis. From my experience, the most wallet-friendly option on-site was the Marina Pizzeria, where we paid $41 for a large pizza. Yes, the pizza could easily be split by two adults and two children, but it's still a $41 pizza.

Depending on how serious you are about saving, you could theoretically pack every meal with you in the form of dehydrated meals, or go shopping at a supermarket in Nassau between the airport and Atlantis. But, at the very least, I recommend bringing oatmeal, granola bars and some of your favorite snacks. This will save you money, and the quick-eats and grab-and-go options at Atlantis really aren't worth the splurge. By eating oatmeal for breakfast in our room and snacking on granola bars, we managed to only need to buy dinner each day.

6. Take a Walk to Eat Local

There's a bridge linking Paradise Island to Nassau. If you walk across the bridge, you'll see a row of shacks along the water serving various local foods and drinks.

On our second night we took a short 15- to 20-minute walk over the bridge going off Paradise Island to Mckenzie's Fresh Fish & Conch. The walk is easy (there's a sidewalk along the bridge) and there are numerous small restaurants at the end of the bridge. The pink one right at the end of the bridge is Mckenzie's, which takes credit cards and serves Bahamian food. We ordered two Kalik beers, a conch salad, conch fritters, a fish sandwich and fries for $42 including tax and tip -- although this was more food than was needed for two people. Some of the fish is served with skin on and bones in, so if you're a picky eater, be careful when ordering.

7. Bring Your Own Alcohol

We saw a few large cases of beer being stored in the luggage storage room when we departed and noticed multiple groups of people walking around the resort with red Solo cups. You can bring alcohol from home or purchase some in the Bahamas; there's a rum shop and an island grocery store in a shopping center near the harbor village.

Bottom Line

During our recent "free stay" using the Total Rewards benefit, we spent $533 on non-room expenses. Some of these expenses, like the resort fee and mandatory housekeeping gratuities , aren't avoidable and accounted for $198 of our non-room expenses. And although I researched other transport options, I couldn't find a way to avoid the $92 of taxi fares we incurred round-trip between the airport and resort.

The remaining $243 of expenses could have been avoided or reduced, since these costs were from five meals for two people, plus two cocktails during happy hour. You might initially think bringing your own food and alcohol is too much — but I didn't particularly enjoy paying $41 for a pizza either. In fact, budget conscious travelers may actually enjoy making their own food and eating it on their balcony instead of having to wait in line for yet another over-priced burger and fries.

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VIP Tips & Questions for a Visit to Atlantis Resort Bahamas

Heidi Gollub

This post is sponsored by the Atlantis Resort Bahamas and the writer was hosted.

Planning a trip to the Atlantis Resort Bahamas is a lot like planning a cruise. There are many decisions to make, from figuring out how you’ll get there and back (are your passports up-to-date ?), how you’ll get around on the island (including transfers between the airport and the resort), and which of the many, many, many fun activities you won’t want to miss while you’re staying at this incredible luxury resort (and, yes, you should make restaurant and excursion reservations in advance).

We’ve got you covered with tips, secrets, and tricks to help you navigate Atlantis like a VIP.

1. How to Get to Atlantis Resort

Fly to Nassau (NAS), then take a taxi from the airport to Atlantis Paradise Island. Taxi prices are regulated so you won’t be overcharged. It takes about 30 minutes to get to the resort. Bahamian taxi drivers are courteous and professional.

EXCLUSIVE SAVINGS

For new reservations booked Jan 12 to Jan 24, 2024, stay three nights or longer and get a night free, plus receive up to $250 resort credit.

Some  Atlantis Resort package deals  include complimentary private transfers to and from the airport. You also can book airport transfers through the Atlantis Resort. This costs a little more but may give you peace of mind to know a ride is waiting.

I would not recommend renting a car. You won’t need it and you’ll pay a daily parking fee at the resort. If you want to explore more of the island, it’s cheaper and easier to hire a taxi. The locals may have some insider tips on places to go, too!

2. Which is the Best Atlantis Hotel?

All of the accommodations at Atlantis are fabulous, so you really can’t go wrong! And, no matter where you stay you will want to explore the entire property.

Pools, restaurants and lagoons filled with marine life are spread across the resort. You’ll definitely get some exercise trying to see and do it all. You can check out our in-depth look at the Atlantis hotels , but here’s a quick overview.

This is a great option for families because it is close to all the action. The Royal houses The Dig—a free “underground” journey that takes you through the streets and tunnels of the lost city of Atlantis, past huge, themed aquarium displays. Ruins Lagoon, viewable from The Dig, is home to more than 20,000 deep reef and pelagic fish.

Step outside and you will discover the world’s largest open-air marine habitat. You’re not far from the Aquaventure waterpark.

And, you’ll be steps away from Atlantis Kids Adventures (AKA), which offers fun programming for kids. My 8- and 12-year-olds loved attending the club one evening for an outdoor Slumberless Party where they ate sugary treats and played games all night. (OK, the event lasted until 9:30 pm, but that feels like “all night” to kids.)

Read our 25 reasons to stay at The Royal .

https://youtu.be/ZC0q6jYQkjg

The Coral has family-friendly rooms and suites. It’s a bit more budget-friendly than The Royal and is still close enough to explore Aquaventure and the many lagoons around the resort. You can read our full review of The Coral from a millennial’s point of view.

The Harborside

This is the place to stay if you want to get away from the crowds of the main resort, The Harborside has one- to three-bedroom villas with full kitchens and laundry facilities.

That means it’s also good for larger families and those that like to lounge around in the morning. The full kitchen makes it easy to have breakfast in the room before venturing out for day.

This hotel offers big studios and one- to two-bedroom units with fully equipped kitchens or kitchenettes. You’ll get more upscale living here .

Thanks to its location, this resort works well for families wanting easy access to the beach.

My personal favorite, The Cove , is where we stayed on our last visit. It’s a luxurious, modern option with suites that boast incredible ocean views. A stay here means you are steps away from the beach.

It’s also closest to the adults-only pool and the Atlantis Casino . It’s billed as a romantic getaway, so many couples stay here.

My kids marveled at the open-air walkways between buildings and enjoyed breakfast each morning at Fish by José Andrés. We were also within walking distance of several pools and Aquaventure attractions.

Are There Adults Only Accommodations?

There are no adults-only accommodations on the resort property. Generally, though, the higher the price, the fewer families you’ll see.

There is, however, an adults-only pool. Exclusive to adult guests of The Cove Atlantis, the 9,000 square-foot pool has 20 private cabanas. The Ocean Club Golf course is an adults-only activity, as are the resort casinos, bars and nightclubs.

SheBuysTravel Tip:  When booking Atlantis hotels, check for  resort credit deals . You’ll get more resort credit the more nights you stay. You’ll also earn more resort credit at the higher-priced hotels. The resort credit is per room, not per person.

3. Is Atlantis an All-Inclusive Resort?

No, Atlantis Resort Bahamas is NOT all-inclusive. But it does offer a meal plan.

The Trident Dining plan costs $135 per day for adults and $57 per day for children ages 7-11. (The price does not incllude the 12% VAT tax and mandatory 15% gratuity that is added to any restaurant charge on property.) Children ages 6 and under eat free for breakfast and dinner.

The meal plan entitles you to eat at any of 17 restaurants on site. The three-course dinner includes an entree, dessert and choice of an appetizer, soup or salad.

Stick with water to drink and you’ll save a bundle. The resort provides two refillable water bottles in each room and there are water stations throughout the resort.

SheBuysTravel Tip:  You can save money on food by walking to the nearby Village Grocery Store on Paradise Island to stock up on breakfast foods and nacks. Instagopher.com will deliver groceries to the resort as well.

4. Make Dinner Reservations ASAP

For dinner, you will want to enjoy all that Atlantis has to offer. There are some delicious options. If possible, make dinner reservations BEFORE your trip. Otherwise, you’ll run into some wait times or may have to eat very early or very late. Once you arrive, you’ll likely have a message on your room phone asking you to confirm your reservations.

Our favorites for fine dining are Nobu, SeaFire (melt-in-your-mouth steak), Olives (don’t miss the buttery shrimp), Mosaic and Dune at the Ocean Club. Our family-friendly recommendations are Carmines (for family-style pasta dishes with huge, shareable portions), Poseidon’s Table, and Murray’s Deli.

Dinner can cost between $100 and $300 for a family of four.

Read More: The Bahamas, Greece and More: The Best Places to Visit in May

5. Download a Resort Map

Atlantis Resort Bahamas is HUGE! Download an electronic map to your phone or pick up a printed map to carry with you. Without the map you may miss some of the resort’s hidden gems.

6. There’s a Free Shuttle

The buses circulate around this huge resort, running between The Reef, The Cove, The Royal, Harborside, The Coral, Ocean Club and the Ocean Club Golf Course. We only used it to go to dinner and never waited more than five minutes for a shuttle to arrive.

SheBuysTravel Tip: When we were there, the buses went to different stops, so always ask where the shuttle is stopping before you get on it! 

7. How to Avoid the Crowds

Atlantis is a very popular resort. You are likely to encounter crowds, especially if you visit during holidays or school vacations. The best way to avoid crowds is to travel in the low season when most kids are in school.

SheBuysTravel Tip : Private cabanas offering exclusive poolside access can be reserved throughout the main waterpark area. The private cabanas come with perks, like electronic device plug-ins, a personal safe, and a refrigerator. You can also purchase amenity upgrades, from WiFi to a pre-stocked beverage selection. During crowded months, the expense can be well worth it.

8. Take Time to See ALL the Animals

From Dolphin Cay to Predator Lagoon, there are marine animals living all over Atlantis Paradise Island! Follow the map and make sure to visit every habitat, to see sawfish, stingrays, sharks, alligators and sea turtles.

Dolphin Cay  offers opportunities to swim alongside dolphins and meet sea lions up close. Throughout the resort, there are many other ways to discover the local marine life, including optional snorkeling, snuba, and scuba experiences.

If you prefer not to get quite that close, you can visit one of the many marine exhibits showcasing habitats such as lagoons, caves, coral formations and more.

Predator Lagoon is a shark habitat located in The Coral. It is home to Great Hammerhead sharks, Caribbean Reef sharks, Barracuda, and Smalltooth Sawfish. Be sure consult the daily Atlantean for the daily scheduled fish feeding times.

And don’t miss the largest open-air marine habitat in the world at Atlantis, Paradise Island with more than 50,000 aquatic animals.

Visit the  Atlantis website  before you go to learn more about Blue Project Atlantis, the resort’s effort to save marine species and their habitats.

9. Check Your Cellular Carrier for Bahamas Coverage

There is WiFi access in guest rooms, and at the front desk and lobby areas, but not throughout the resort. Check with your cellular carrier regarding coverage in The Bahamas to ensure you don’t come home to an unexpectedly high phone bill.

WiFi in the rooms serves up to four devices and is included in the daily resort fee.

10. Yes. There’s a Resort Fee

The daily per-room resort fee differs by hotel. In October 2022, the resort fee for The Coral and The Royal is $64.90 per room per night. At The Reef and The Cove, it’s $77 per night.

While we are never fans of resort fees, we mind less when the resort fees cover impressive amenities like the Aquaventure waterpark. At Atlantis Resort Bahamas, the resort fee covers:

• Daily access to Aquaventure
• Wifi in guest rooms and lobby areas for up 4 devices; 6 devices at The Reef and The Cove
• Daily access to the Fitness Center for 2 people; cardio studio, universal and free weights are included; tennis, fitness classes and personal training sessions are not.
• Two reusable souvenir water bottles per room and access to filtered water stations throughout the resort
• Indoor Theater and Poolside Movies
• Weekly schedule of complimentary activities
• Daily slot tournament in the Atlantis Casino
• Free gaming lessons
• Daily access to The Dig and Marine Life Exhibits
• In-room coffee and tea
• Resort shuttle service
• Local phone calls

At  The Reef , the Daily Resort Fee also includes exclusive access to the Cascades Pool.

For The Cove , the Daily Resort Fee also includes exclusive access to the Cascades Pool and the adults-only The Cove Pool (ages 18 and over only).

At  Harborside Resort, guests do not pay the resort fee. Instead, they pay a utility service fee of up to $16.95 plus a $1.70 VAT charge per-person each day.

11. Tips Are Included … Kind Of

Atlantis charges mandatory tips, much like cruises. According to the resort  website,  all guests ages 12 and up pay a gratuity ranging from $5 to $100 per-person per-day depending on their accommodations. This fee will be added to your bill at checkout, so it’s best to look up how much it will be before booking so there are no surprises.

In addition, a 15% gratuity is automatically added to all food bills. You can choose to add an additional gratuity when signing the bill.

12. The River is Definitely Not Lazy

The Current has that name for a reason. It’s a mile-long river ride with high-intensity waves and rapids, guaranteed to keep you cool and laughing.

The Current is similar to a lazy river, but without any laziness. It can take up to a half hour to float along the twisty path, but you’ll have fun along the way riding waves and bumping over rapids. My family did this over and over again.

13. Go into Town in Nassau

No visitor to Atlantis should miss a chance to venture off property for a meal or shopping to explore all The Bahamas has to offer. You’ll get a more authentic Bahamian experience.

Hire a cab to take you to the “Fish-Fry”—the cabbie will know what you mean. It’s an area on the beach with seafood huts and cheaper drinks. During Spring Break, though, it can be a bit rowdy, so keep this in mind.

14. Know How to Dress for High-Speed Water Slides 

One complaint I often hear from friends and family members after a trip to Atlantis is that they got bruises from the high-speed slides like the Leap of Faith, The Abyss and the Challenger.

I recommend rash guards and board shorts to protect your skin. String bikinis are a no-no unless you want to end your ride without your suit.

15. Pack Like a Pro

You may be trying to pack light for carry-on luggage, but you’ll save in the long run if you bring your own beach essentials. Also, note that Atlantis is currently a cashless resort, so there is no need to bring Bahamian currency.

16. There’s a Hurricane Guarantee!

While hurricanes are rare in The Bahamas, the 2019 Hurricane Dorian did a lot of damage there. But booking an Atlantis trip even during hurricane season doesn’t have to be worrisome.

The Atlantis Resort Bahamas Hurricane Guarantee promises: “In the event that a hurricane watch or warning is issued by the United States’ National Hurricane Center within fourteen (14) days prior to your date of arrival for either your travel origin city or for New Providence, The Bahamas, guests with confirmed reservations can cancel your reservation up to the moment of scheduled departure. You then have the option to rebook your vacation without penalties for a stay to be completed within one (1) year of the original arrival date, subject to terms and conditions.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the best time of year to visit Atlantis Resort Bahamas?

A: The best time to visit the resort is between December and April when the weather is dry and mild. However, keep in mind that this is peak season and prices may be higher.

Q: Is it necessary to rent a car when visiting Atlantis Resort Bahamas?

A: It’s not necessary to rent a car as the resort offers complimentary shuttle service to various locations on the island. However, if you plan on exploring the island on your own, renting a car might be a good idea.

Q: Are there any age restrictions for the water park at Atlantis Resort Bahamas?

A: No, there are no age restrictions for the water park. However, children under 48 inches tall must be accompanied by an adult on certain rides.

Q: Are there any all-inclusive packages available at Atlantis Resort Bahamas?

A: Yes, the resort offers all-inclusive packages that include meals, drinks, and activities. These packages can be a good value if you plan on spending a lot of time at the resort.

Q: What is the dress code at the restaurants at Atlantis Resort Bahamas?

A: The dress code varies depending on the restaurant. Some restaurants require resort casual attire (no swimwear or shorts), while others require more formal attire.

Q: Is it safe to drink the tap water at Atlantis Resort Bahamas?

A: Yes, the tap water is safe to drink at the resort. However, bottled water is also available for purchase if you prefer.

6 responses

The Atlantis is DEFINITELY NOT handicapped friendly. Changed from a regular suite at The Harborside to a handicapped suite. I specifically asked for a seat in the shower. There was none in the shower, nor any type of independent shower chair available. Wasn’t going to change rooms again. The shower had a hand held shower head, but the pressure was terrible. There are no hooks (towel bars) to hang towels. The bathroom door opens into the bathroom and is a hindrance if you keep t he door open. If you need to go anywhere in the resort, you need to get to the main check-in area. Only way to get there is walk, and if you’re handicapped, as so many of us here realized, it’s a long walk from the different buildings. We were offered scooters from a local company, but at $50 per person per day, the cost was prohibitive. So we walked, but it was difficult. When you get to the shuttle, the step up to get on is very steep. Many of us had difficulty getting on the shuttle. I asked if they had a step stool, but got a different answer from each driver. One or two drivers actually had the step stool. But the 2nd step in was also steep. Not very accommodating. Having said that, very many of the staff went out of their way to help us when they could. That helped a little. The pool at the Harborside only had very low lounge chairs. VERY DIFFICULT TO GET UP FROM. But I asked if they had any regular chairs and the staff went out of their way to get them for us.

Note: ask at the local grocery store if they have scooter type carts available. One did and it was a god send. Can’t remember the name though

Can we buy day passes to Aquaventure if we are staying at another hotel?

Map of hotel and hotel details and details breakfast options brochure Thanks Jeffrey sandhofer

Would water shoes for the kids be worthwhile? I confirmed with the hotel that they are allowed throughout the park, including on the slide.

Yes, especially in the summer. The hard surfaces can get really hot. Water shoes also help keep excited kids from slipping on wet surfaces.

While I appreciate your article “13 VIP Tips for Atlantis Resort, Bahamas”, it’s frustrating to me that you would encourage swimming with dolphins. Dolphins aren’t play toys and so many have been killed or seriously injured by this practice. Humans should stop treating animals as play toys solely for their enjoyment. Please consider this when writing future articles.

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Atlantis Bahamas Travel Tips

If you haven’t been to the Atlantis Bahamas Resort before, you’ll probably be looking for travel tips that can help you get the most out of your trip. From transfers to the airport to getting around the resort, we’ve got you covered with our guide. Read on for our Atlantis Bahamas Travel Tips.

When it comes to flights, you’ll have to fly into Nassau Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS). This is the only airport on the island, and is well connected to the US and Canada with regular flights from all major North American Airports. We always recommend booking flights well in advance to make sure you get fares at a good price.

Bring a pen in your carry-on bag as you’ll have to fill in a Bahamian customs form. If you forget, you can borrow one from the band that plays in the Arrivals Hall, but you’ll have to tip them a couple of dollars for the privilege.

We are often asked if a car is needed when vacationing at The Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas. The answer, in a word, is “No!”. With over 400 acres of activities and sights The Atlantis Resort will keep even the most active travelers busy. There are endless activities at the resort , so there’s no need to rent a car to explore. Not to mention, car rental is very expensive in the Bahamas, and you’ll pay an additional $20/day to park at the Atlantis Resort. If you do decide to rent a car, you’ll find all the major international car rental companies at Nassau Airport.

Travel Tips for Day Trips Outside the Atlantis Resort

If you do want to do day trips outside the Atlantis Resort, the majority of excursions to the cays, catamaran sails, and scuba trips leave from the Paradise Island Marina just across the street from the resort. The best snorkeling on the island of New Providence is at Stuarts Cove, but those vendors will pick up and drop off guests at the Atlantis Resort. Check individual vendor websites for more details on pick-up and drop-off locations.

Travel Tips for Getting Around the Atlantis Bahamas Resort

Paradise Island itself is rather small – with the Atlantis Resort & Casino taking up a good portion of what there is to do and see on the island. There’s plenty of shops and restaurants on the resort , and loads more just outside of Atlantis within easy walking distance. If you don’t feel like walking, there’s a free shuttle bus that runs every 15 minutes or so between all of the main hotels.

Related: Atlantis Bahamas Resort Map

What about getting to and from The Atlantis Resort?

The cheapest and most direct way to get to Atlantis is by taking a taxi. You can book ahead or just grab one at the airport taxi rank – there’s always plenty available. Taxi fares from the airport are regulated by the Bahamian Government, so you won’t get ripped off. The fare to Atlantis is $38 (based on two people), and it is an extra few dollars for each additional person or item of luggage. 

If you’re staying at the the Harborside Resort at Atlantis condos, your condo will have a kitchen, and you will want to visit the market to stock up on provisions. While we suggest bringing some items from home – cheaper and you are guaranteed to get your brands – they will need to buy perishables like milk, eggs, juice, etc. There are small shops at The Atlantis Resort and across the street, but the bigger markets are located closer to Nassau on the way in from the airport. So, our suggestion if you are not arriving too early, (you do not want perishables sitting around if you room is not ready yet) is to pay the driver for waiting time while you make a quick stop at the larger market outside Nassau. Just another advantage of taking public taxi over the Atlantis shuttle.

If you’d prefer to head straight to Atlantis, the Harborside Resort at Atlantis runs a shuttle to the market each day ($10 per person).

Getting to and around the Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas is easy once you know what you’re doing, and if you follow our travel tips for Atlantis Bahamas we’re confident you’ll have no trouble.

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10 Insider Tips for Atlantis

Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas is a perennial favorite of Travelzoo members, plus our Deal Experts. Nearly a dozen of us have been over the past few years. While other offices chat about TV shows over the water cooler, we tend to swap travel tips.

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Top 7 Things to do in Atlantis Bahamas

Some of our favorite things to do in Atlantis Bahamas in the sunshine of Paradise Island seem like a dream. Family fun at one of the world’s most renowned waterparks, an aquarium full of exotic marine life, gambling at a world-class casino, playing a round of golf at a PGA championship course — these are all just examples of the fun to be had when you stay at Atlantis Hotel Bahamas. But it is by no means the only things to do in Atlantis Bahamas.

Spend your vacation laying on the beautiful Atlantis Bahamas beach with your sun-kissed tan and beach-bleached hair or take advantage of the endless activities offered by Atlantis Hotel Bahamas when you visit or stay at their resort.

Take a look at our list of things to do in Atlantis Bahamas travel tips. You will find Atlantis Bahamas reviews on excursions you didn’t know about as well as some of the most popular attractions on Atlantis Paradise Island. And don’t forget to join us on a unique Bahamas Day Trip from Atlantis to the famous Bahamas Swimming Pigs in the Exuma islands on our top rated Nassau to Exuma Day Trip by plane.

There are plenty of things to do in Atlantis Bahamas to fill your itinerary. Between the diverse marine life, water sports, shopping, and day trip excursions, chances are you won’t run out of entertainment on Atlantis Paradise Island .

Check out all the things to do in Atlantis Bahamas.

Here are our best Atlantis Bahamas travel tips for vacationers to the island:

1. Splash down at Aquaventure Waterpark

Located on the island next door to Nassau, Paradise Island, Aquaventure Atlantis Bahamas Waterpark is an adventure like none other. It is a one-of-a-kind 141-acre waterpark filled with 11 swimming pools, fast-speed waterslides, a mile-long rolling rapid river rush with wave surges, 20 areas for swimming, an impressive children’s water fort, and a tropical environment you vacation in the Bahamas for.

Atlantis Aquaventure Nassau is visited by tens of millions of people each year and can be visited with a day-pass to the park or as a guest of Atlantis Resort Bahamas.

Atlantis Aquaventure Nassau Waterpark is easily one of the best things to do in Atlantis Bahamas. Don’t just take it from us, you can check out the Atlantis Bahamas reviews on TripAdvisor.

2. Dive into the Atlantis Aquarium and Dolphin Cay

Paradise Island is home to the largest open-air marine habitat in the world. It will give you a taste of the underwater world in the Bahamas before you ever get a chance to explore it.

Don’t have time for a diving or snorkeling boat trip? That is all right, a visit to the marine habitat should show you everything you could witness underwater.

An aerial view of the city landscape in Nassau.

With 14 lagoons, eight million gallons of ocean water and more than 50,000 aquatic animals representing over 250 marine species, you are sure to occupy your time with fun.

Dolphin Cay, too, is an excellent place to go to see marine life — specifically — dolphins. Made as a rehabilitation center for dolphins injured in Hurricane Katrina, this marine center is anything but an enclosed aquarium. These dolphins are treated well and have plenty of space to rehab and is one of our favorite things to do in Atlantis Bahamas.

3. Go on a spree at the Marina Village Shopping Arcade

The Marina Village Shopping Arcade is a huge outdoor market set next to Atlantis with retailers varying from high-fashion to hand-crafted Bahamian souvenirs.

This is a 65,000 square-foot shopping block with numerous quick grab and go eateries and coffee shops. If you are in Paradise Island on the second or fourth Saturday of the month, there is a beautiful local art walk exhibition set up in Marina Village from 12-7pm that you must take a look at.

Just make sure you don’t buy too much to fit in your suitcase!

Your Bahamas vacation deserves a little fun!

4. Lay the money down at the Atlantis Resorts Casino

Linking The Royal and The Coral towers, Atlantis Casino is the premiere casino and one of the top things to do in Atlantis Bahamas. And if you are a guest, all you have to do is swipe your room key card at any of the machines or show it to the dealer at each of the tables to start playing.

Not to mention, your key card will get you complimentary drinks, special casino offers, and even free slot play sometimes. But don’t worry, if you are not a guest, you can still play at the casino.

There are 85 gaming tables featuring baccarat, Ultimate Texas Hold’em poker, Let It Ride poker, craps, roulette & blackjack, high roller & private gaming stations, and over 700 up-to-date slot machines.

5. Play a round on the renowned Atlantis Resorts Golf Course

Ocean Club Golf Course, an 18-hole beauty designed by former PGA champion and noted course architect, is the pride of golfing in the Bahamas.

A round of golf at this championship course is one of the top things to do in Atlantis Bahamas for the guests of the resort.

6. Take a trip to France and the Versailles Gardens

Take a step into paradise at the Versailles Gardens & Cloisters on Paradise Island

The Versailles Gardens and French Cloister were built to model France’s own. It is a large garden with many basins. You may consider renting a golf cart to save time which charges by the amount of people riding.

The Gardens are now owned by the Four Seasons Resort but if you don’t cause a ruckus, no one will bother you about it if you are not a guest.

7. Go on a day trip to Swimming Pigs Bahamas

You may not think of a side trip as one of the best things to do in Atlantis Bahamas, but the swimming pigs Bahamas brought in a record-breaking 6.62 MILLION visitors to the island in 2018 and it is poised to keep gaining in popularity with its charm on social media platforms. Who could turn down these cute pigs when the paddle their hearts out to you before you even reach the beach in your boat?

It is not entirely clear how these adorable pigs reached the island. There are folktales passed on by word of mouth but it is impossible to understand which one is the truth.

We believe the pigs were moved to what would become known as Pig Island when villagers in nearby Staniel Cay complained of their odor. As a solution, they were moved off the island and farmers would bring them their feed daily.

A Bahamas swimming pig stays afloat at Big Major Cay.

One day, to his surprise, the pigs were racing to his boat through the water to be the first pig fed. He knew he had something special on his hands but little did he know it would result in an entirely new economy for the Bahamas.

Visit this Instagrammable haven with the whole family and see the 20-25 pigs living in the Bahamas. They range in size from baby piglets to the largest and oldest pig, Big Momma. Children love the baby piglets — but then again, doesn’t everyone?

Take our swimming pigs tours to Pig Beach to hangout out with the Exuma pigs in the Bahamas. There is no Atlantis Bahamas beach that compares to Pig Island (Big Major Cay).

Book your Day Trip to Bahamas Exuma Cays Today!

One of the top trendy things to do in Atlantis Bahamas is to take Bahamas day trips by plane to the beautiful Exuma Cays. Luckily for you, there is a new Nassau to Staniel Cay day tour which will put you in the heart of the Bahamas most quaint region.

Aboard a private Bahamas air charter, the trip to the Exumas is only a half hour from Nassau which is well worth your time to make your day trip to Bahamas even more enchanting. Take your Bahamas vacation to the next level and see an entirely new side of the exotic archipelago country.

Take Bahamas Air Tours’ Exumas day trips from Atlantis Paradise Island and experience life in the out islands. Book your Staniel Cay day trips today!

Select images courtesy of the Bahamas Ministry Of Tourism.

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Which Atlantis Is For You? An Expert Breakdown of the Massive Resort

See recent posts by Lilly LeClair

One of the biggest resort developments in the Caribbean, the Atlantis Bahamas compound on Paradise Island can be more than a little overwhelming. At first glance, it can even be exhausting to comprehend. There are also a few misconceptions that come with the Atlantis Bahamas. You might think of the resorts here and picture images of screaming kids, endless crowds, and charmless decor. However, that’s not even close to the truth. The fact is that Atlantis Resorts offers something for nearly every type of traveler. While there are a few things to remember — like there are no Atlantis Bahamas all-inclusive resorts — you’ll find everything from chic boutique-style hotels to kid-free zones here.

So, which Atlantis Resort is right for you? The Atlantis Bahamas has many sections, each with its distinct feel. We’re breaking down the six most popular below, and they are anything but generic. The Atlantis Bahamas resorts have one of the prettiest white sand beaches in the world with some very cool history (hint: The island was once owned by a Swedish entrepreneur and has hosted Zsa Zsa Gabor). You’ll also score an almost endless list of amenities. All guests have free access to Aquaventure — the massive Atlantis Bahamas water park — and the largest outdoor marine habitat in the world, not to mention dozens of pools, a casino, plus 19 bars and 21 restaurants, including Nobu, Mesa Grill, and Dune by Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Is your head spinning yet? Don’t worry! Here, we’ve broken the resort’s sections down by amenities and rates, starting with the cheapest to the most expensive.

1. The Coral at Atlantis

Another ’60s-era hotel,  The Coral  appeals to mid-range travelers, and the crowd skews a bit older. This sprawling property includes multiple ways to soak up the sun, including a 141-acre on-site waterpark, direct beach access, and fourteen pools. Coral offers large room options, such as the Regal Suite, which has two full bathrooms. It also sits next to the harbor (some rear-facing balconies have views of it), with easy access to Marina Village for more choices in restaurants, cute shops, and after-dinner strolls among jaw-dropping yachts. The lobby is bustling with lots of action from not only the overnight guests but also convention attendees and daytime cruise ship guests who get dropped off here. There’s a great pool called Blu, non-motorized water sports, the Atlantis Library, and a popular Starbucks. Guests with little ones can easily reach the Lazy River Ride, but those looking for quick access to Aquaventure highlights may want to consider staying at The Royal (detailed below).

Best For: Comfort Zoners, Yachties, Convention Goers, and Starbucks Fans

2. The Royal at Atlantis

For many, The Royal is the only place to be at the Atlantis Resorts, especially first-timers or those who view the trip as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. When most people think of Atlantis, they immediately envision the massive pink — and now-iconic — structure that serves as the mega-resorts nerve center. Guests staying here will find themselves within easy walking distance of the best pools, a luxury spa and fitness center, a stylish casino, the Nobu restaurant, the best waterslides, river rides, and activities at Dolphin Cay. Contemporary rooms are larger (and pricier) than rooms at the Beach and Coral Towers, but most have French balconies with standing room only (unlike the seated balconies next door). In an architectural sense, it lives up to the hype, and it’s impossible for arriving guests not to get caught up in the excitement while being led through a massive covered walkway and into a grandiose lobby with soaring ceilings and murals. However, this is one of the busiest parts of the resort (and it’s most family-friendly), so if peace and quiet are what you’re after, you may want to consider other areas of the Atlantis (like the Harborside Resort).

Best For: Gamblers, Water Park Lovers, and Families Wanting to Be in the Center of It All

Related: Best Boozy, Adults-Only, All-Inclusive Hotels

3. Harborside Resort at Atlantis

Like a basket of Easter eggs, this attractive time-share property across the marina from The Royal is distinguished from the five other sections of Atlantis by its series of colonial-style, pastel-colored buildings — and its lack of direct beach access. This would be a good option for guests who want to avoid the Atlantis mainstream while still having access to all the amenities and for those who have arrived by boat (docks are literally right outside some of the units). The condo-style units (with one, two, or three bedrooms) are popular with families thanks to their additional space, kitchens, and laundry facilities. This section is quieter than the others, though the kid-friendly pool with water fountains and lawn games offers some atmosphere. There’s virtually no nightlife, but guests can walk over to Marina Village for more action, or take the shuttle to The Royal or The Cove.

Best For: Peaceful Families, Boaters, and Travelers Who Like Some Independence

4. The Reef at Atlantis

This modern, luxurious condo-hotel tower (new as of 2007) offers residential-style units on the far edge of the enormous grounds. Big studios, one-, and two-bedroom units (many with stunning views) are well-suited to families and have pull-out sofas and fully equipped kitchens or kitchenettes. It’s one of the priciest Atlantis options (though not quite as expensive as The Cove ). Still, families will likely appreciate being able to cook, as Atlantis’ bars and restaurants are notoriously expensive. The property has a nice stretch of beach and a large family pool exclusive to Reef and Cove guests, and major Atlantis highlights such as Aquaventure are within walking distance — though it’s a bit of a hike, and paths are dark at night. Those who stay here are a mix of owners and guests, as well as the lucky few who get moved here when The Coral is overbooked. Another plus: the stylish lobby has a convenience store and Starbucks, though some amenities, like the fitness center are for owners only.

Best For: Upscale Families Who Want Direct Beach Access

5. The Cove at Atlantis

This most fashionable address at the Atlantis displaced The Royal as the best, and therefore most expensive, section when it opened in 2007. Chic open-air surroundings, oceanfront suites stocked with Bombay Sapphire Gin, and an air of exclusivity attract families and couples who prefer to be slightly removed from the thickest crowds. The property shares a separate beach and large family pool with the neighboring Reef. Still, only Cove guests can access the adults-only party pool called Cain at the Cove, with private cabanas, outdoor gambling, and bumpin’ DJs — it’s quite a scene. Meanwhile, the open-air lobby is graced with Asian-themed ponds decorated with floating water lilies, and it becomes a veritable runway with stylish couples and families walking along to lounge music and a wafting tropical breeze that adds to the sexy ambiance. At dusk, bathing suits are replaced with evening attire (all Atlantis pools close early) as guests go to Mesa Grill or one of many restaurants around the property and continue with drinks at the Seaglass Lounge or other clubs near the casino.

Best For: Partiers, Jet-Setters, and Design-Savvy Travelers

6. Atlantis – Somewhere Else

Watch this space—the former Beach Tower hotel (pictured above) is scheduled for a huge renovation, reopening its doors in January 2024 under the new name Somewhere Else . The renovation includes plans to give the property’s vintage vibes an update, complete with 400 modern guest rooms.

Related: Everything You Need to Know About the Best All-Inclusive Resort Brands

Alternatives to the Atlantis Resorts That Are Also on Paradise Island:

1. the ocean club, a four seasons resort.

Best For: Big Spenders and Honeymooners Looking for Romance

The Ocean Club is hands-down the most luxurious hotel on Paradise Island — and one of the nicest in the Bahamas. Expansive manicured grounds feature two outdoor pools, a romantic garden, and a statuary modeled after Versailles (a dream for weddings), as well as an endless stretch of white-sand beach and turquoise waves. Health and wellness nuts are spoiled for choice with daily yoga facing the ocean, an indoor/outdoor fitness center, and a Balinese-style spa with private villas — there’s also an incredibly popular 18-hole golf course. After a day in the sun, your butler will deliver champagne and strawberries to your room — a favorite detail of past guests. Even if you’re not staying here, a visit to Dune restaurant and bar should be on your list — it has a fun cocktail crowd at sunset.

2. The Warwick Paradise Island

Best For: All-Inclusive Vacationers Without Kids

The truth is that, with few exceptions, there aren’t too many areas at the Atlantis Resorts that are adults-only. And there are also no Atlantis Bahamas all-inclusive packages available within the resort compound. That’s where the Warwick Paradise Island comes in. Overlooking Nassau Harbor on Paradise Island, Warwick Paradise Island is an upscale adults-only resort. It has a small white sand beach and a lagoon pool with plenty of seating. The all-inclusive package includes tips and covers a wide variety of a la carte and buffet restaurants — everything from pan-Asian fare to pizza is available. Wellness facilities are extensive, with a gym, tennis, basketball, and the lovely Amber Spa. The cheerful, modern decor also helps make this one of the most up-to-date spots on Paradise Island. Just keep in mind that kids under 16 aren’t allowed.

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The 9 best gay cruises for 2024 (+ planning tips).

Dance parties, drag queen performances and fun destinations await on these LGBTQ voyages.

The Best Gay Cruises

Courtesy of The Cruise with La Demence

Embark on an all-gay or LGBTQ-friendly cruise for excellent entertainment, food and excursions.

Whether you are looking to hop aboard a Pride Week cruise with a major line or sail away with a smaller company that specializes in LGBTQ voyages, the following cruise operators promise a fun, safe and memorable vacation.

(Note: While many of these cruise lines sail to LGBTQ-friendly ports of call, travelers should research destinations to learn more about cultures, customs and safety in each location and determine what's right for them.)

Virgin Voyages

Atlantis events, brand g vacations, celebrity cruises, royal caribbean international, the cruise with la demence, source journeys.

Gabriel Goldberg | Courtesy of VACAYA

Founded by avid travelers Randle Roper, Patrick Gunn and John Finen, VACAYA bills itself as the first all-LGBT travel company in the full-ship charter/resort buyout sector of the travel industry to launch in more than 25 years.

"[VACAYA] was sparked by our own vacations, where we all had encountered two very different experiences," says Gunn. "The all-gay cruises were liberating, empowering and fun, but limited to a small spectrum of people. And while everyone loves a good time, there's more to a memorable vacation than just parties. Mainstream vacations offered more activities and destinations, and were accessible to a diverse set of people, but didn't always feel like a friendly, judgment-free environment."

As such, VACAYA set out to bring LGBTQ travelers from across the spectrum together in a welcoming, inclusive setting, while offering varied onboard activities and immersive itinerary options. Cruisers will enjoy traveling to ports around the world, in the Caribbean , the Galápagos, Europe , Antarctica and more. You can participate in shipwide events ranging from themed deck parties to performances by LGBTQ entertainers to rejuvenating yoga classes. Note that VACAYA's cruises are for adults only.

Previous cruisers had abundant praise for VACAYA's voyages, highlighting the company's responsiveness when booking and the kindhearted staff, as well as the genuine connections they made with other passengers on board. Many were also impressed by the events and entertainment options throughout their sailings.

In 2024, VACAYA will offer a number of voyages worldwide. The seven-night Caribbean Cruise on Celebrity Apex in February will sail round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, with several fun-filled days at sea in addition to stops in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Antigua. In August, VACAYA has a 12-night river cruise in Northern Europe on board Advance by Transcend Cruises; this sailing includes the Amsterdam Pride event. The 11-night Antarctica expedition on Atlas Ocean Voyages' World Navigator in December 2024 is sold out, but you can join the waitlist.

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

The Virgin brand has long been known for its celebration of the LGBTQ community, and cruise line Virgin Voyages is no different. The strictly adults-only cruise operator aims to provide a unique experience, with onboard tattoo parlors, impressive live entertainment, and dining options that include more than 20 eateries and menus created by Michelin star chefs. This line gets the stamp of approval from previous LGBTQ cruisers, who praise the ships' gender-neutral bathrooms, diverse staff and onboard shows with resident drag queens.

Virgin Voyages offers gay-specific sailings through travel companies like Atlantis Events, but its more mainstream itineraries still offer a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere that attracts LGBTQ cruisers year-round. Virgin hosts a number of events during Pride Month each year, including deck parties and interactive social media campaigns.

"Each June here at Virgin Voyages, we like to go big for Pride Month with larger-than-life events … all monthlong," the cruise line says in a statement on its website. "It's an important time for us – both internally within our crew and for our sailors – to honor and celebrate the LGBTQ community; who for so long has had to continually fight for equality and the right to be seen, heard and included."

Virgin Voyages sails to a variety of LGBTQ-friendly countries, including New Zealand, Greece and Spain. In June 2024, consider a seven-night sailing aboard Scarlet Lady departing from Barcelona with stops in Marseille and Cannes in France as well as Spain's Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines for the Money

The world's largest gay and lesbian travel brand, Atlantis Events was founded in 1991 and welcomes more than 20,000 travelers annually on LGBTQ vacations. For its all-gay cruises, Atlantis charters megaships from popular lines like Royal Caribbean International , Norwegian Cruise Line and Virgin Voyages in addition to smaller vessels with companies like Oceania Cruises so cruisers will have a fully immersive experience.

On board, travelers can enjoy all the perks these ships have to offer (think: pools, hot tubs, sports courts and plenty of dining choices), plus special events like drag performances, motivational speakers, LGBTQ movies on demand in each cabin and high-energy circuit parties across the ship.

"As an LGBTQ cruiser, you're looking for a ship with lots of entertainment, including dance parties and events," says Marcos Martinez, founder of Men Who Brunch, a Black gay lifestyle blog. "One of the best cruise [lines] for gay cruising is Atlantis, since you'll be able to meet hundreds of attractive men and party all day and night on the ship."

Atlantis hosts primarily gay men; women make up about 5% to 10% of bookings, according to the Atlantis website. Previous cruisers said the atmosphere on board was fun, friendly and welcoming, though some noted that the company's customer service could be better, especially when it comes to details about the cruise.

Due to the company's popularity, its three 2024 cruises are already sold out.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean

Courtesy of Brand G Vacations

Specializing in all-gay river cruises – and now luxury ocean liners – Brand g Vacations was founded in 2011 and explores destinations all over the world. Chartered river cruises typically welcome between 40 and 200 LGBTQ passengers (and their straight allies), which allows cruisers to get to know one another in a smaller setting. Guests tend to skew more mature (think: 40 and older), and the line attracts both men and women.

Onboard entertainment differs slightly from larger ocean voyages: Expect more cabaret-style entertainment than massive all-night dance parties. Cruisers will also enjoy performances by drag queens, gay Broadway stars and more, on top of typical river cruise perks like sightseeing and lavish meals. Past guests recommend choosing Brand g if you're looking for a well-planned, relaxed and luxurious experience over a busier, more party-heavy vacation.

Brand g aims to provide a nearly all-inclusive cruise experience , with Mercedes or small van airport transfers, upscale hotel stays prior to embarkation, and unlimited alcoholic beverages as well as meals included in the fare. As such, prices tend to be on the high end. Plus, cruisers can feel good about their trip knowing that Brand g donates to causes in the U.S. and around the world that assist LGBTQ refugees, AIDS organizations, LGBTQ centers and more.

In 2024, Brand g sails through unique waterways around the world, including the Amazon, the Loire, the Danube, the Mekong, and the Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest. The line's small cruise ship charters also take guests to Iceland, Spain, Morocco, Italy, Croatia and other European destinations.

Read: The Top River Cruise Lines

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Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises sets the scene for an excellent vacation for gay travelers, from its extravagant annual Pride parties to its daily LGBTQ programming throughout the year. The mainstream line has received numerous awards for its inclusivity, receiving accolades from the Cruizie Awards, TTG Travel Awards and Travel Weekly's Magellan Awards for being one of the best cruise lines for LGBTQ passengers.

LGBTQ cruisers can start their vacations off on a high note with a special welcome party on the first night of their voyage to meet other travelers on board. After night one, there are other social events for gay cruisers to party and hang out together. Additionally, Celebrity Cruises was the first cruise line to legally marry a couple at sea in 2018, and it continues to perform same-sex marriages on its ships.

Past cruisers enjoyed their voyages with Celebrity, noting that the line was welcoming, the food was delicious, and there were plenty of areas to hang out as a group with fellow LGBTQ passengers or other companions throughout the ship.

Although all itineraries are gay-friendly, consider booking a sailing during Pride Month in June for an extra special experience. Onboard entertainment during this month includes guest entertainers, a flag raising ceremony, Celebrity's signature Pride Party at Sea and more. The Italian Riviera & France cruise will depart from Barcelona on June 8, 2024, on the new Celebrity Ascent; this 10-night Mediterranean sailing stops at ports in France, Italy and Malta. Private travel companies like VACAYA also charter Celebrity ships for all-gay voyages throughout the year.

Read: Cruise Packing List: The Top Essentials for Any Cruise

Getty Images

Specifically marketed toward lesbians and LGBTQ women, Olivia has hosted more than 350,000 travelers by land and sea over five decades. Cruisers can choose between river voyages or ocean sailings to destinations around the world. On the lesbian cruises, expect a mix of nostalgic decade-themed dance parties, folk singers, writing workshops, karaoke and other activities. Cruisers can also relax poolside, spend some time in the onboard spa or take it easy in one of the ships' lounges.

Travelers who are looking to connect with others who share similar backgrounds can do so in one of Olivia's specialized programs. There are group and solo traveler meetups, as well as programs like Sisters, which is for LGBTQ women of color; Gen-O, for cruisers 40 and younger; Women in Uniform gatherings, for veterans and those currently in the armed forces; and events for OWLs (which stands for "older, wiser lesbians"). Past cruisers on Olivia's voyages report feeling a true sense of community and belonging on board, resulting in a fun, carefree trip.

In June 2024, set sail with Olivia from Edinburgh, Scotland, to Dublin on Windstar Cruises' Star Legend. Or, visit the islands of Tahiti on the line's Star Breeze in September. Other cruise itineraries include Alaska, the Greek Isles, Mexico and the Panama Canal.

Read: The Best Girls Trip Ideas

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International provides a welcoming and inclusive experience for LGBTQ travelers. The popular cruise line frequently partners with Atlantis Events to offer all-gay voyages throughout the year, but even the standard sailings earn praise.

Highlights of the sailings are the ships' entertainment options (including the Tony Award-winning musical "Mamma Mia!") and attentive staff, according to past cruisers. Itineraries typically include LGBTQ meetups at the beginning of each cruise for gay travelers to meet like-minded passengers. Outside of the sailing experience, Royal Caribbean has also publicly committed to supporting the LGBTQ community throughout the year, and it was the first cruise line to earn the title "Gay Traveler Approved" from GayTravel in 2016.

In 2024, consider a Royal Caribbean voyage that sails to gay-friendly destinations. "Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, [is] full of gay bars, clubs and gay beaches," says Martinez. Hop aboard Navigator of the Seas in May for a seven-night sailing round-trip from Los Angeles that stops in Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Ensenada, Mexico. Navigator of the Seas also hosts a seven-night itinerary throughout the year that calls on Mazatlan, Mexico, as well.

Ready to plan a cruise? Find the best value sailings on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Courtesy of The Cruise With La Demence

According to past cruisers, if you're looking for one of the best party scenes on the open seas, consider an all-gay cruise with La Demence. Powered by a popular gay nightclub in Brussels with the same name, La Demence – French for "the madness" – primarily caters to a European crowd. Most passengers are male, though women are also welcome.

On board, passengers should expect to dance the night away at massive deck parties that last into the wee hours of the morning. The line prides itself on its top-notch DJs, impressive light setup and electric party atmosphere. Previous cruisers had high praise for the itineraries – which exclusively visit gay-friendly locations – as well as the fruity cocktails, themed nights (costumes strongly encouraged) and glamorous entertainment. Enjoy unique events like drag bingo, high heel runs and more.

La Demence sails every summer to European destinations like Greece, Italy and Malta. The 2023 cruise was chartered on Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas. Fares include all food and nonalcoholic beverages, plus access to all parties, shows and the onboard gym.

Read: The Top Party Cruises

Source Journeys has been planning luxury vacations for LGBTQ travelers for more than 20 years. The Miami-based company, with the vision of founder and chief executive officer Craig Smith, offers small group land tours and full-charter cruises for like-minded travelers with a focus on giving back to the communities they visit. The company also supports LGBTQ organizations, such as the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force and the Human Rights Campaign.

Past guests of their tours say their fellow travelers were as fun and interesting as the destinations. They appreciated the excellent personalized planning for the trips by Smith and his life partner, Rafael Rodriguez.

The company's cruises in 2024 include a seven-night Galápagos sailing in late September on a Relais & Chateau luxury yacht: Ecoventura's new ship, Evolve. The intimate ship accommodates just 20 passengers. Source Journeys is also offering a seven-night river cruise through Burgundy and Provence, France, in June on Avalon Waterways' Avalon Poetry II, as well as a seven-night voyage from Venice along the Dalmatian Coast. This ocean cruise scheduled in August is chartered on Star Clippers' masted sailing ship, Royal Clipper.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to gay cruising, gone are the days of discreet "Friends of Dorothy" meetups. The term – a euphemism that dates back to the 1950s – was once used to indicate gay social events on daily cruise line programs, without explicitly calling out members of the community on board. It's a far cry from today's LGBTQ cruising industry, which loudly and proudly celebrates passengers from all walks of life.

According to experts, LGBTQ cruising is a market that will only continue to grow. Travelers can take their pick between cruise operators tailored specifically to queer communities and major cruise lines that offer festive Pride celebrations and inclusive onboard entertainment. As travel on the high seas continues to grow in popularity for vacationers, gay and lesbian travelers should consider setting sail on a fun-filled cruise vacation for their next trip.

When planning a cruise, vacationers should first consider what their ideal sailing looks like.

Gay-friendly vs. all-gay sailings: Cruisers should think about whether they'd like to travel aboard a gay-friendly mainstream line – such as Celebrity Cruises or Virgin Voyages – or opt for an all-gay, full-ship charter with a third-party vacation company.

"Each and every LGBTQIAPK person has a different level of comfortability in their 'outness,' " says Patrick Gunn, co-founder and chief marketing officer of LGBTQ vacation company VACAYA. Of VACAYA's all-gay charters, he adds, "For one magical week, our community gets to be the majority and live life out loud in the blissful utopia VACAYA creates on a gay cruise. That single change from being an always-minority to a sudden majority can have a profoundly positive real-world effect on individuals."

• Travel style: Some cruise operators (think: Atlantis Events and La Demence) are known for their electrifying all-night parties, which may be perfect for gay groups of friends. Meanwhile, other companies like VACAYA and Olivia look to provide a more diverse selection of activities, ranging from tea dances (LGBTQ parties that, historically, included tea service) to philanthropic service activities to immersive onshore experiences.
• Ports of call: Some of the most LGBTQ- and gay-friendly destinations for cruises include: Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Sydney; Barcelona, Spain; Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan; Helsinki; Quebec City; Auckland, New Zealand; Mykonos, Greece; Reykjavik, Iceland; Amsterdam; Tel Aviv, Israel; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and San Francisco. Countries that gay travelers may want to avoid include the Maldives, Jamaica, Morocco, Malaysia and Haiti, as homosexuality is illegal in these destinations.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has visited destinations around the globe on nearly every type of ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels, traditional masted sailing ships and intimate river ships on the Mekong River. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

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What to know for booking summer travel: Expert tips on airfare, destinations and more

Where to score flight deals during the prime summer travel season.

As the surge of summer travel draws near, the race to book a great vacation is on.

"If you're looking to travel domestically within the U.S., I think you should be booking now for summer travel," Clint Henderson, travel expert and managing editor of The Points Guy, told "GMA."

Earlier this month while reporting quarterly earnings, Delta Airlines CEO Ed Bastian projected "record advance bookings for the summer," telling CNBC that the carrier's credit card data and bookings show customers are highly interested in air travel.

An increase in budget airline routes that has created more competition, paired with an easing of the post-pandemic revenge travel surge, means travelers could see more deals.

"Overall prices are down from where they were when we just had that boom out of the pandemic," Henderson said. "So things are more reasonable."

Hopper, the flight booking app, has shown predicted fares for flights to Europe will be down 10% in price from the same time last year.

Google recently announced its top 20 trending summer destinations , which saw a few newcomers on the list and Paris rose to the No. 2 spot.

With the Olympics taking place there from July 26 through Aug. 11, an uptick in airfare and hotel pricing is expected during the Games.

But those willing to wait out the Olympics could find big savings for flights to the host nation.

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The Points Guy has featured deals from Atlanta, Dallas and Charlotte to Paris for as low as $515 from August through the fall.

Amsterdam, Prague, Spain and Iceland are among the most reasonably priced European destinations, as seen on Hopper.

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Don't forget to stay flexible with travel dates and keep midweek in mind for possibly lower fares.

There's also a time during the post-summer rush known as "shoulder season," between September and October, when fares could drop by as much as 30%.

When it comes to airfare purchase timing, the experts at The Points Guy have found prices dip eight to four weeks before the outbound flight, but after the one-month mark, prices will creep back up.

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Top 14 things to do and attractions in Mytishchi

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1 St. Basil's Cathedral

2 All-Russian Exhibition Center

3 Kva-Kva Park

4 fest mytishchi drama and comedy theatre, 5 mytishchi arena.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

6 Mytishchi Park Of Culture And Leisure

7 monument to the hero of the soviet union raspopova nina maksimovna, 8 teatr kukol ognivo, 9 mytishchi history and art museum, 10 mytishchinskaya kartinnaya galereya, 11 perlovskiy park, 12 xl outlet, 13 interactive einstein museum, 14 zamaniya, family adventure park, what's the weather like in mytishchi.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Mytishchi for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Mytishchi in January
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• Weather in Mytishchi in April
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Explore nearby places

• Lesnyye Polyany
• Dolgoprudny
• Zagoryanskiy
• Ptitsefabriki
• Pekhra-Pokrovskoye
• Ivanovskoye
• Bratovshhina
• Likino-Dulevo

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• Map of Ptitsefabriki
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• Map of Komyagino
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• Map of Bratovshhina
• Map of Fedoskino
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• Map of Likino-Dulevo

Mytishchi throughout the year

• Mytishchi in January
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• Mytishchi in March
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• Mytishchi in June
• Mytishchi in July
• Mytishchi in August
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• Mytishchi in October
• Mytishchi in November
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Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Mytishchi?

Get inspired for your trip to Mytishchi with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

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Visit mytishchi, where to stay in mytishchi.

Travelers like the museums in Perlovka, and Kva-Kva Aquapark is a top attraction you might want to visit.

Check Mytishchi hotel availability

Popular places to visit.

You can learn about the history of Moscow with a trip to Red Square. Experience the area's fascinating museums and acclaimed theater scene.

• Moscow Kremlin

Visit the most iconic square in Russia, which is bordered by many of the city’s most famous landmarks.

• St. Basil's Cathedral

Think of Russia and you probably picture this iconic building, whose onion-shaped domes overlook the Moscow skyline.

• Bolshoi Theatre

A centerpiece of the Russian arts scene, this theater’s magnificent auditorium and top-tier productions will impress even the most jaded theatergoer.

• Lenin's Mausoleum

Mourners and curious visitors stream to the grave to see the embalmed Vladimir Lenin, the famous revolutionary and one-time leader of the Soviet Union.

• Exhibition of Achievements of National Economy

Learn about the events happening at Exhibition of Achievements of National Economy during your trip to Moscow. Wander the parks and gardens while you're in the area.

• Cities near Mytishchi

• Places of interest
• XL Family Outlet
• Kva-Kva Aquapark
• Mytishchi Arena
• Puppet Theatre Flint
• Fest Mytishchi Drama and Comedy Theater
• Ice Palace Arena Mytischi
• Crocus City Hall
• Moscow City
• Crocus Expo Center
• State Historical Museum
• Armoury Chamber
• Arbat Street
• Moscow State University
• Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts
• State Tretyakov Gallery
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• Luzhniki Stadium
• Victory Park

• 2 Get around

Mytishchi is a mid-sized industrial city in North Moscow Oblast , which borders Moscow to the southwest. It is perhaps Moscow Oblast 's principal industrial center, particularly for machinery and armaments.

Get in [ edit ]

A convenient elektrichka route (in fact, the first elektrichka route in Russia) runs frequently all day between Mytishchi and Moscow's Yaroslavsky Train Station. Rapid trains (Sputniks) bound to Pushkino and Bolshevo also stop here.

You can also get here pretty easily by taking the Kaluzhsko-Rizhskaya metro line to the end at Medvedkovo and there catch a bus or marshrutka to the Mytishchi center from the metro station.

Do [ edit ]

There is one of the biggest ice Arenas in Region (appr. 8 500 visitors) for ice hockey.

At summer: several pay beaches at Pirogovo water reservoir. Malibu pay resort (yachts, cafes etc)

Sleep [ edit ]

Go next [ edit ].

• Pushkino is just a little farther along the rail and elektrichka lines running from Moscow through Mytishchi.

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