The online gaming and casino industry has been booming over the past twelve months, with people looking for new ways to get the adrenaline of a real-life casino experience from the comfort of their own homes – but as we edge closer to the end of lockdown, you might be pondering when you will finally be able to return to the real thing. The glitz and glamour of a five-star bricks-and-mortar casino is quite simply unmatchable, and the good news is, you might not have that much longer to wait until you’re sashaying back through those doors once again for a spin on the roulette wheel.
But, if the idea of a casino night on home soil still isn’t quite cutting it after a year of being told to stay at home, then as travel restrictions ease, what better excuse to plan a lavish casino getaway abroad? Some of the world’s finest establishments just so happen to be located on some of the most beautiful paradise islands across the globe, so if sun, sea and slots sound like your perfect combination then it’s a no-brainer.
It’s not just a coincidence that many of the most glamorous casinos enjoy such locations. Most of the world’s paradise islands have loose tax policies, so it stands to reason that they would make for attractive prospects. Such destinations are able to lure the big names in with ease, paving the way for local authorities to spice up their touristic resorts with some of the finest gambling establishments you’ll find anywhere – and attracting an affluent, high-net-worth customer base as a result.
Almost every tropical island plays home to at least one super-size casino – but some offer even more of the wow-factor than others. So, if you’re hoping to book an exclusive getaway for later in the year, then look no further – because these five casinos below, all of which are set in five-star luxury resorts, have been hand-picked by the experts over at leading online casino review website Casino Horse – and offer all you could want, and more. Before you depart on the holiday of a lifetime, why not head over to casinohorse.com and find the best online slots to test your skills on? This mega gambling hub provides honest reviews on the very finest online casinos and has recently published its in-depth Deluxino Casino review which is certainly worth a good read.
Casino Punta Cana – The Hard Rock Hotel, Dominican Republic
The opulent Casino Punta Cana, located in the Dominican Republic, is undoubtedly one of the most luxurious island-based casinos in the world. Set at the up-market Hard Rock Hotel, it also happens to be the biggest casino across all of the Caribbean islands, and offers a plethora of exciting table games and slot machines to keep everyone from gambling novices to seasoned pros entertained.
The resort features 13 pools with swim-up bars, nine restaurants, a spa, a golf course, private balconies, and many more facilities and amenities – guaranteeing you’ll want for nothing throughout your stay. Add to that the fact that it’s set on one of the world’s most beautiful white sand beaches, with crystal clear waters lapping the shore, and it doesn’t get much more of a dream destination than this.
Treasure Bay Casino – Grand Lucayan, Grand Bahama Island
Although the Treasure Bay Casino is not strictly located within the sophisticated Grand Lucayan Resort, it is mere steps away – and this Las Vegas-style, adults-only playground offers all of the bright lights and glamour of Sin City, set against a luxurious tropical backdrop of coconut trees, pristine sands and azure waters.
The Treasure Bay Casino and Grand Lucayan Resort are based just 60 miles from the Florida coast, so it’s unsurprising that it draws in the majority of its guests from the USA, but it still receives plenty of affluent visitors from Europe, Asia and beyond, too.
Facing Lucaya Beach and the Atlantic Ocean, the upscale all-inclusive Grand Lucayan Resort is located just a seven-minute walk from the Port Lucaya Marina and features marina, ocean and garden view suites, along with seven restaurants and bars, a spa, gym and tennis courts.
Sunscape Curacao Resort, Spa and Casino, Curacao
Anyone who enjoys the thrill of the casino will have heard of Curacao. This small Caribbean Island, which is still a territory of the Netherlands, is a home to many high-end casinos, and is one of the most recognised authorities when it comes to licenses.
In some ways this might be considered a little surprising, since it is amongst the poorer nations not just in the Caribbean, but in the world. Even so, the island resorts here are top class, with Sunscape probably the best of all.
With a sprawling casino awash with a huge selection of table and slot games including Texas Hold’em, Blackjack and more, the resort is set right on the beach, with excellent snorkelling opportunities just steps away and stand-up paddle boarding and boats available from the resort’s own private pier. The resort also offers a shuttle into downtown Willemstad, so if you’re eager to do a little sight-seeing then you’ll be able to do so, hassle free.
Melia Nassau Beach Casino and Resort, The Bahamas
The Melia is an all-inclusive resort in the Bahamas that enjoys direct access to a 100,000 square foot on-site casino, which also happens to be one of the biggest in the Caribbean. Children are welcome at this resort, and you’ll find separate pools for kids and adults.
The casino, meanwhile, is completely separate from all areas where the children can roam, ensuring an exclusive, adult’s only experience after dark. In the Grand Casino, you will find over 20 tables and 500 slot machines for your enjoyment. There is no popular casino game you won’t find here, making this one of the best casino destinations you can visit in the Caribbean.
Flamingo Beach Resort and Casino, Bonaire
Last but not least, we take you to Bonaire – a beautiful Caribbean island that still remains relatively unknown amongst the US population, despite its proximity to their shores. So, if you like the idea of a more secluded and exclusive-feeling casino destination, then this one is a great pick.
The on-site casino is located inside the main complex, which some might find off-putting – there are children and other visitors everywhere, and you might find casuals strolling through the casino, which can be irritating if you are a pro-casino player who values complete concentration. On the other hand, it’s still a great place to potentially scoop a win. This casino is not especially big, but it has enough options to keep you going, including ten table games and 200 slot machines.
Elsewhere in the resort, you’ll find a spa, snorkelling adventures, freshwater pools, fitness and business centres and numerous daily activities you can get involved with should a day of lounging on the beach not suffice.
The bottom line
We could all do with a holiday after the challenges of the past year, and these lavish resorts are each set in sheer paradise. Located on tropical beaches and with a plethora of exciting gambling opportunities on site, they are the perfect choice for casino fans of all abilities. So, whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned high-roller, a dream getaway is guaranteed.
Please gamble responsibly (18+ UK) – check age restrictions before participating
