The Atlantis Resort is one of the most famous destinations in the Bahamas. Located on Paradise Island just outside of downtown Nassau, the massive property hosts a 141-acre waterpark, five miles of beaches, five distinct hotels, more than 40 restaurants, the world’s largest open-air aquarium, a golf course and a casino.
Clients could easily spend a week at the resort without leaving the property. For many tourists, that’s the appeal. Immortalized in kitschy kids’ films and countless Instagram posts, Atlantis has earned bucket-list status for travelers across the globe, each anxious to partake in the dozens of amenities the resort has to offer.
But maintaining that status requires work. The property underwent massive renovations leading up to its 25th-anniversary celebration that make a compelling case for Atlantis Paradise Island as a worthy splurge vacation. On a recent visit to the property, I found out which experiences were the best fit for families, adults and couples.
Rooms, Suites and Villas
Hotel selection at Atlantis is largely dependent on the type of experience clients are looking for during their stay. The Coral is designed for families, while The Reef offers residential-style suites complete with kitchenettes. The Harbourside Resort across from the marina is home to a number of exclusive villas best for housing large groups. The Cove is Atlantis’ adults-only luxury property, complete with its own private pool and access to the exclusive concierge-level club for all premium rooms. Frequent shuttles connect visitors between the properties.
During our visit, we had a guestroom in the east wing of the famous The Royal, two salmon-pink towers featured in the resort’s promotional materials. They’re connected by the 10-room Bridge Suite, a celebrity-favorite accommodation that can cost upwards of $25,000 a night.
A Regal Suite in The Royal towers
Credit: 2023 Atlantis Paradise IslandOur room was located on the 12th floor, with views of the water park and even the ocean. It’s a sight to see, making up for the fact that the room itself underwhelmed with some signs of wear, and dated, underwater-themed decor. Those looking for more modern suites and a high-end feel should check out the newer buildings at The Cove. Still, The Royal’s room would serve as a solid base for any family spending most of their time at the waterpark or for the poker players holing up in the casino.
Food and Drink
In addition to the standard poolside fare and quick-eat spots, Atlantis is home to some truly outstanding restaurants. There are menus created by Michelin-star chefs and buffets that look like something out of a Disney film. Popular establishments such as Nobu and Fish can fill up ahead of time, so it’s best to book ahead if clients want to guarantee a visit during their stay.
Service during the weekend was hit and miss. Poolside waiters were curt, rushing us through orders to deal with the busy crowds, while the servers at the newly opened Shake Shack greeted us with open arms and playful banter.
During the anniversary celebration, we attended the opening of chef Michael White’s Paranza, with celebrities Adrien Brody, Tony Danza and the hilarious Amber Ruffin joining the party. The handcrafted pasta was the standout of the contemporary Italian restaurant’s offerings.
Chef Michael White and actor Tony Danza at the grand opening of Paranza
Credit: 2023 Atlantis Paradise IslandContrasting the underwater theme and quirky charm of the resort are Paranza’s modern decor and sleek menu. It feels more like New York than the Bahamas, and it’s clear White and his team are attempting to raise their establishment beyond solely resort restaurant status.
The other main dinner for the weekend was at Nobu, the famed restaurant living up to its worldwide reputation, with the miso cod remaining a must-try meal for any seafood lover.
Amenities, Resort and Entertainment
Atlantis has everything a client could want from a beach hotel — and more. In some ways, it’s easier to think of the property as a small town than a luxury resort. There is a comedy club, a movie theater, a full gym with a lap pool, a spa, swimming with dolphins, nightclubs, an aquarium, high-end shopping, golf, tennis and even Pickleball courts.
The main attraction for thrill-seekers and families is the Aquaventure Water Park, free to all overnight visitors. Standout attractions at the park include the Leap of Faith — a 60-foot drop through a shark exhibit — and The Abyss, a waterslide in the dark.
Aquaventure Water Park is a standout attraction of the resort.
Credit: 2023 Atlantis Paradise IslandAs a stop for many cruise ships in the area, the park can fill up quickly with day-trip patrons. During our stay, lines were never too long, despite a pretty packed park. The rides themselves hold their own with any waterpark in the world. The adrenaline-filled atmosphere and big crowds keep things lively, and that mood extends to the pools and beaches around the resort, which may not be the right fit for clients who want to unwind in quiet relaxation.
The main party for the 25th-anniversary celebration was hosted in the Atlantis Casino and Bar Sol. There was a see-and-be-seen vibe to the evening, with politicians and celebrities letting loose to live music. That’s standard fare for the bigger events at Atlantis, which will host Maroon 5 and Timbaland later this holiday season.
Still, away from the parties, some of my favorite moments from my trip came from strolling through the property, taking in the ambiance and the scenery. Wandering the grounds, I stumbled across surreal Dale Chihuly glass sculptures, statues of Pegasus and countless tanks filled with sea creatures. It felt like walking inside of a children’s book — one in which a frozen margarita was never more than 15 feet away.
