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- There Are More Things To Experience While On Paradise Island!
The Bahamas is the quintessential definition of a tropical paradise! Its cozy sunny weather, pristine beaches with white powdery sands, and clear turquoise waters offer the perfect mix of ingredients for a beach lover’s dream destination. And out of the 700 islands in the Bahamas, there is no better spot for tourists than Paradise Island. The tiny island, merely measuring 1.1 square miles, hits way above its weight class as far as vacation hotspots go.
Located off the shores of the capital city, Nassau, and connected to New Providence Island by a 2,600-foot bridge, Paradise Island has long been considered the ultimate playground for holidaymakers in the Caribbean region. However, its profile was raised with the launch of the Atlantis Island Paradise Resort & Casino, an electric nightlife Mecca that wows visitors with its grandiosity and lavishness (think Vegas in the heart of the tropics). World-class resort aside, Paradise Island has all the hallmarks of the perfect holiday spot. From beautiful beaches and luxury resorts to endless fun activities, there is never a dull time in one of The Bahamas’ most charming islands!
UPDATE: 2023/08/01 18:40 EST BY NOAH STAATS
There Are More Things To Experience While On Paradise Island!
This article has been refreshed with new information regarding traveling to Paradise Island in the Bahamas and things to do here. From the world-famous Atlantis Resort to a pirate museum and beyond, Paradise Island is the place to be. Have fun!
Things To Do
Paradise Island has always been reserved for tourists in the Bahamas. It is where the rich and famous go to play, awash with shops, restaurants, resorts, and exciting water-based activities, such as snorkeling, sailing, diving, and boating. There are enough adventures to fill a visitor’s itinerary for at least a week; here are the top ways to spend time on Paradise Island.
1 Spend The Day At The Pirates Of Nassau Museum
- Address: 3MH4+23H, King and George St, Nassau, Bahamas
- Hours: Tuesday - Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM
- Tickets: $14.02 per person
While not far from Paradise, a 13-minute drive will get travelers between their hotel and the Pirates of Nassau Museum in Nassau, Bahamas. The museum showcases the city's history as an 18th-century pirate base, with replica pirate ships and exhibits. This is a great spot to spend a couple of hours with groups or kids, and it's indoors.
Downtown Nassau is very fun to stroll along, lined with shops, restaurants, and places to absorb the island sun, so for under 15 minutes in a cab: this is worth the endeavor.
- Price: Tickets are also very affordable here, at $14 per guest.
2 Escape The Crowds At Rose Island
- Coordinates: 25°05′15″N 77°13′10″W / 25.08750°N 77.21944°W
Something to do while on Paradise Island would be to island hop to Rose Island, a quieter, remote location accessible only by boat. Like many Bamahas islands, Paradise is located near other smaller locations, where people can unwind and relax without having to head to a big hotel or crowded beach.
One thing to remember, however, is that Rose Island in the Bahamas does not have hotels, roads, and places to stay: so this is a very temporary spot to visit. Some Paradise Island hotels offer services to get here, as well as cruise lines, so this isn't a wild unknown spot either.
According to past adventurers, the island is a 30-minute boat ride from Paradise, so it shouldn't be too much of a hassle to get from point A to B. Again, this would be more of a half-day trip for vacationers, so 2–3 hours should be feasible.
The boat ride to Rose Island from Paradise Island is roughly 30 minutes, with ferries running from the main island by the hour. People generally charter here with a dedicated captain, so that's one cost to consider.
3 View The Marine Habitat At Atlantis
- Address: One Casino Drive, Suite 20, Paradise Island, Bahamas
- Hours: Open 24 hours daily
- Tickets: Free for guests, and day passes available to non-guests
For those in Paradise Island, Bahamas, the Atlantis Hotel is where many activities exist on the island. Here is where the Marine Habitat at Atlantis sits, boasting lagoons, caves, coral formations, and underwater ruins filled with exotic marine life.
Notably, the Marine Habitat features animals like sharks, rays, barracuda, eels, and critically endangered Smalltooth sawfish. This aquatic center is also home to the largest open-air marine habit on Earth, which is certainly something to brag about.
During hotter summer months, heading to this aquarium could also be a nice way to cool off, so that's something to consider too.
With 250+ species inside, this is easily a 2-3 hour adventure while on Paradise Island, so make sure and allow enough time to see everything.
4 Make The Most Of The Water-Based Fun
- Many hotels and companies offer snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming with animals.
Paradise Island offers an endless list of entertaining water sports. Snorkeling and scuba diving are among the favorites for visitors to the island, providing the opportunity to experience the beautiful coral reefs and explore shipwrecks or interact with amazing underwater life up close.
Alternatively, kayak, paddleboard, or jet ski for a more adrenaline-filled activity. Those not trying to get wet can charter a boat to scope out the series of almost 300 islands and undisturbed cays dotting the area.
5 Soak In The Sun At The Beach
- Paradise Beach, Cove Beach, Cabbage Beach, and Arawak Beach are all popular.
Paradise Island is home to some of the most exquisite beaches in the Bahamas. From Paradise Beach and Cove Beach to Cabbage Beach and Arawak Beach, first-timers can enjoy the ultimate beach experience, highlighted by silky-smooth white sands, clear blue waters, and imposing palm trees.
The weather is near-perfect for most of the year, serving healthy doses of vitamin D to the early risers.
The setting is ideal for lazily lounging while enjoying the scenic sea views as the gentle waves hit the shore. Tourists can rent a chair and umbrella and carry a snack to make it a complete beach picnic.
6 Visit Atlantis Island Paradise Resort
- Address: Paradise Island, Bahamas
- Hours: Open 24 hours, seven days a week
Taking up a good share of the Paradise Island skyline, this flashy pink resort is the first thing tourists see when approaching the dreamy destination. The sublime super resort was designed to evoke the legend of Atlantis and delivers an unforgettable experience to guests by spoiling them with a raft of luxury amenities.
It is easily one of the top luxury resorts in the Bahamas and boasts a world-class entertainment complex, water park, aquarium, numerous pools, and an 18-hole golf course. Hotel guests have free access to the thrilling 141-acre Aquaventure waterscape, which features popular high-speed slides, including the Leap of Faith, endless swimming spots, and a relaxing cruise on the Lazy River Ride.
Do due diligence before booking a stay at the Atlantis to have a memorable experience at this world-class resort paradise.
7 Get In On The Buzzing Local Nightlife
- Paradise Island is known to have bustling nightlife throughout the week and weekend.
Those keen to sample the local nightlife don’t have to look far or wide to experience Paradise Island’s entertainment scene after hours. Numerous bars and clubs, thronged by cruise ship passengers and other guests, entertain visitors with an endless flow of drinks, delicious cuisine, and packed dance floors.
Top joints on the island include The Moon Club, Dragon’s Ultra Lounge, Aura Nightclub, and Dune Bar, each offering a unique nightlife experience. Sip a cocktail, enjoy a local snack, and dance the night away to the upbeat island tunes for an unforgettable time on Paradise Island.
8 Hit Up The Casinos
- Atlantis Resort boasts a massive casino with 700 slot machines and 85 gaming tables.
- Many compare this casino to one in Las Vegas.
Tourists looking to get lucky can spend time gambling at the Atlantis Island Resort. The hotel’s casinos provide vacationers with a Vegas-style vibe with a tropical twist. The establishment has at least 700 slot machines and 85 gaming tables, allowing guests to participate in their favorite casino games.
Whether gambling poolside or in a private room for high rollers, the fun never stops at the Atlantis.
This is a great way to spend time with family, and non-gamblers can seek out other fun pastimes while kids splash in the gigantic water park on-site.
9 Take A Day Trip To Nassau
- Nassau is 13 minutes from Paradise Island when driving the main road.
Nassau is the capital city of the Bahamas and boasts diverse attractions and things to do. Located just 13 minutes south of Paradise Island, it is the perfect escape for tourists seeking to venture outside the town.
Aside from its beautiful beaches, Nassau is home to historical museums, shopping venues, dining destinations, and fascinating adventures. A tour of the Pirates of Nassau Museum introduces guests to the legend of the “Pirate Republic” in the Bahamas, while the Straw Market has all the souvenirs to take back home after the holiday.
From Paradise Island, travelers can get to Nassau by cab, jitney, or ferry boat. A round-trip ticket will cost around $8 per person.
10 Attend The Exciting Junkanoo
- The Junkanoo Festival is considered a fun way to spend the day in Paradise.
- This is a half-century tradition on the islands.
One of the best ways to experience raw Bahamian culture is to participate in the colorful Junkanoo festival. The annual festival combines spectacular costumes, upbeat music, and captivating dances, culminating in an overwhelming atmosphere for participants.
The half-century tradition is a cultural phenomenon that provides visitors with front-row access to the raw Bahamian experience. Crowds gather on the streets to watch dance parades and celebrate local art, crafts, and cuisine, reflecting the exuberant spirit of Bahamians.
Junkanoo happens on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. It takes place in downtown Nassau, from 2 am to the early morning hours.
11 Marvel At The Wonders In Predator Lagoon
- Predator Lagoon boasts clear seawater, marine life, and a 100-foot tunnel.
Predator Lagoon is an exciting attraction that will suit vacationing families. This unique underground cave, surrounded by a stunning lagoon with clear seawater, harbors diverse marine creatures.
A 100-foot-long tunnel passing underneath the lagoon offers vivid views of spectacular species like barracudas, sting rays, sharks, and sawfish that visitors see behind protective glass. The facility welcomes thousands of visitors annually, making it one of those unique attractions only accessible in the Bahamas.
12 Best Time To Visit Paradise Island
Paradise Island enjoys sunny weather throughout the year, and tourists will cherish visiting the island in any season. However, the best time for tourists is between December and April, when the weather is perfect for spending time at the beach.
Temperatures range between 73 and 76 degrees Fahrenheit, with the cooler month coming in January (71) over the five months. This is also the peak season on the island, and beaches are crowded with tourists craving to enjoy the warm waters of the Atlantic.
Hotels are in high demand during the peak season, and prices significantly hike, so book well in advance to avoid the exorbitant rates.
The best time for budget travelers is in the off-season, between July and August. Crowd numbers drop on the island; the same is true for accommodation rates. However, this also falls within the rainy season, which can be limiting to visitors keen on enjoying the outdoor attractions.
Paradise Island lies within the hurricane belt and faces a threat of hurricanes and tropical storms from July to October (Atlantic Hurricane Season). Travelers should take safety precautions when visiting the island during the hurricane season.
13 Best Ways To Get Around Paradise Island
The best way to get to Paradise Island is to take a taxi upon arrival at the Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau, which takes less than 20 minutes and cost about $50. Once on the island, there are multiple options for getting around, including:
Taxi
Taxis are a quick and convenient way of exploring the island. Several Paradise Island operators will take visitors wherever they like at their preferred time. The taxis are not metered; travelers should establish the exact fare with the drivers before starting the journey.
Car
Car hires are another option for moving around, although not highly recommended. Rental prices are relatively high, and gas is expensive on the island. The roads are not in the best condition, so chartering a taxi will be the better alternative.
Motorists on Paradise Island stay on the left side of the road, which can be confusing for American drivers.
Public jitneys
Jitneys (buses) make up the local public transit mode and offer a cheaper way to get around. They only cost about $1.5 for a one-way ride and traverse major areas like the Western Esplanade, Fort Charlotte, and Arawak Cay’s Fish Fry. Passengers must pay before boarding the jitney; the driver will only accept exact change.
- Fares: Adults $1.5, Children $1
- Hours: Operate daily, 6:30 am – 7 pm
Jitneys can be crowded and chaotic without defined schedules or stop points. They may not be the best option for tourists and are best left to the locals.
Water taxi/ferry boat
Water taxis offer a unique way to move around the island and come in handy for those planning a day trip to Nassau and other neighboring islands. The most common operator is the Bahamas Ferries, which serves Nassau, Long Island, Exuma, and Harbor Island.
- Fares: Around $3 per person
- Hours: Daily, 9 am – 6 pm
14 Where To Eat On Paradise Island
Seafood is a mainstay in Bahamian cuisine, and Paradise Island has several eateries serving fresh and raw seafood. Tourists can also enjoy it steamed, deep-fried, or stewed. Foodies can look forward to a sumptuous dining experience featuring local and international flavors.
Here are the top joints in Paradise Island.
For breakfast:
Louis & Steen's Market Orleans
- Address: Windsor Field Rd Unit 2, One West Business Park, Nassau, New Providence Island
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 am – 3:30 pm
- Food to order: Ethiopian coconut latte, baked croissant
- Address: Bay & Charlotte Street, Down Town, Nassau, Nassau New Providence Island
- Hours: Monday to Saturday, 11 am – 5 pm
- Food to order: Gyros, humus
- Address: West Hill Street, Nassau, New Providence Island
- Hours: Monday to Saturday, 6 pm – 10:30 pm
- Food to order: Barbecue steak
For drinks:
- Address: W Hill St, Nassau, Bahamas
- Hours: Open daily, 9 am – 5 pm
15 Where To Stay On And Around Paradise Island
Paradise Island is a relatively small stretch of land almost exclusively reserved for tourists. While tourists may not find traditional residential neighborhoods on the island, its proximity to the capital, Nassau, and New Providence allow quick access to waterfront communities.
The island is home to some of the highest-rated resorts in the Bahamas, where tourists can look forward to a dreamy stay in the tropics. Here are areas to consider staying around Paradise Island.
Lyford Cay
Lyford Cay spans around 1100 acres and traces its history to the 1950s. The premier gated community needs no introduction to the moneyed tourists visiting Paradise Island and hosts rich and famous homeowners from around the globe.
The area boasts an 18-hole golf course, full-service marina, clubhouse facilities, and boutique hotel.
Old Fort Bay
Old Fort Bay is a quaint community steeped in history, dating back to the 1700s. It has a community clubhouse set on a ridge overlooking one of Nassau’s most beautiful beaches.
Several canal islands, club villas, and beachfront estates provide enough accommodation for visitors, with lush amenities like a small marina, parks, tennis courts, and a gym on the offing.
Ocean Club Estates
Ocean Club Estates is a premier residential community with pristine beaches and the picturesque Nassau Harbor. More than 200 properties line the waterfront perimeter, while a golf course in the middle of the estate provides a laid-back activity for guests. More facilities include a beach clubhouse, tennis courts, and a gym.
Some of the top accommodation options in the area include:
Luxury option:
- Address: 1 Casino Drive, Nassau
- Rate per night: Starts at $460 2 guests
- Amenities: Private beach, Outdoor pool, Beachfront, Spa and wellness center, Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Free Wi-Fi, Tea/coffee maker
Mid-range option:
Riu Palace Paradise Island - Adults Only
- Address: 6307 Casino Drive, Nassau
- Rate per night: Starts at $285 for 2 guests
- Amenities: Spa and wellness center, Adults only, Fitness center, Beachfront, Infinity pool, Restaurant, Outdoor pool, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Tennis
Budget option:
Bay View Suites Paradise Island
- Address: Bay View Drive, PO Box Ss-6308, Nassau
- Rate per night: Starts at $84 for two guests
- Amenities: Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi, Coffee machine, Coffee shop, Free parking, Business center, Cable or satellite TV, Free toiletries
16 Tips For Visiting Paradise Island In The Bahamas
For those coming to Paradise Island, there are some things to keep in mind. First, this island is walkable, with most tourists walking to and from their hotels, restaurants, shops, and attractions. Therefore, it's not necessary to rent a car, but rather rent a cab or ride a bike.
Pricing here is also expensive within resort areas, like Atlantis, so during peak winter and spring times: expect hiked-up rates. Locally-owned businesses won't overcharge like resorts do, so that's an incentive to support small. After all, this island relies heavily on its native people, who are known to be incredibly kind to tourists.
17 How To Spend The Perfect Day On Paradise Island
The Atlantis Resort is the centerpiece of Paradise Island; it's only fair to start the day by touring this one-stop entertainment center. There are enough activities to last the whole day at the super-resort, so tourists might have to clear their schedules. Try to get lucky at the casino on any of the 85 gaming tables.
Explore the Lost World theme park and swim with the dolphins at Dolphin Cay Atlantis. Head out to the coast and dip in the warm waters at the multiple white sandy beaches at the resort. Later, try the Atlantis Aquaventure package for all manner of water fun. From high-speed water slides and long-river rides to high-intensity rapids, it never gets more entertaining than this.
Stop for lunch at one of the many restaurants in the resort, then go for a sightseeing tour of the remarkable Predator Lagoon. Admire the rich marine life from the underground tunnel before breaking the monotony with a trip to the interesting capital of Nassau, a short drive away.
Explore the museums, shopping venues, and bubbly markets till late evening before capping the day off with sumptuous Bahamian cuisine at Athena Café & Bar and later drinks at Bahama Barrels.
18 What Is Paradise Island Known For?
Paradise Island is famous for hosting the sprawling resort of Atlantis. It has all the amenities to make the bucket list of any first-timer on the island, including pools, beaches, casinos, an aquarium, water parks, animal habitats, and more.
19 Is Paradise Island Expensive?
Vacationing on Paradise Island can be pricey. For instance, a week-long couple's vacation could cost around $5000. However, knowing all the costs of visiting Paradise Island in advance can help schedule a suitable budget.