Comprising 700 unique islands and over 2,000 rocks and cays in the Atlantic ocean, the archipelago of The Bahamas is commonly considered to be one of the most resplendent island destinations in the world.
An ecological oasis, this collection of islands boasts the clearest waters on the planet – making it the ideal place for a stunning summer holiday. Some cays remain uninhabited whilst others are more developed with plenty of luxury hotels and resorts to choose from.
The northern islands, such as Grand Bahama and Paradise Island, are home to many large hotels and are among the best known to travellers from all over the world, as is the capital of Nassau on the island of New Providence.
With so much choice on offer, it can be hard to know which area of The Bahamas is most suitable for you to visit, so we have rounded up some of the best hotels and resorts across a few of the diverse islands.
Nassau, New Providence
Nassau is an obvious choice for many tourists visiting The Bahamas simply because it is the capital. Situated on the island of New Providence, neighbouring Paradise Island is also accessible via the Nassau Harbor bridges. The city has a hilly landscape, and is renowned for its beaches and coral reefs, making it the perfect stop for diving and snorkelling.
Nassau is a romantic destination, not only because of the pastel-coloured British colonial buildings, but also because of the unique combination of the big city vibe with the laid-back island atmosphere.
If you are looking for alternative accommodations in Nassau, it’s always worth carrying out some independent research as well as considering the recommendations from your travel agent.
The SLS Baha Mar Hotel is one of three hotels within Baha Mar, which is the Bahamas’ largest resort complex. This retreat, located in Nassau, offers guests the personalised service of a boutique hotel combined with access to all of the traditional amenities of the beachfront playground which is a part of the resort.
If you’re looking for something in Nassau with a touch more modernity, The Island House may be for you. This boutique resort can be found nestled between lush gardens, hidden from the hustle and bustle of the crowds of Nassau. The hotel feels almost like an artist’s residence, with custom-made wooden furniture throughout, local art adorning the walls and plants and foliage weaving in and out of the property.
The neighbourhood of The Island House is full of upscale club house restaurants, and extremely private residential communities. Though not located directly on the beach, The Island House offers some of the best views of the marina and beach from the restaurant. Simply elegant, with muted tones, wicker furniture and lots of greenery, this hotel makes guests feel at home in the wild yet stylish surroundings.
San Salvador
San Salvador, rumored to be where Christopher Columbus made his first landing in the New World in 1492, is home to many atmospheric ruins and shipwrecks which reflect its rich history.
Columbus Isle can be found on a mile-long stretch of spectacular beachfront, on this quiet and sleepy island. Directly across the road from the airport, guests can easily walk from the terminal straight to their rooms – foregoing a long transfer.
The resort is situated in a landscaped tropical garden, and encompasses several buildings all connected by wooden pathways. The staff at Club Med Columbus Isle are very sociable and energetic, and guests can enjoy first-class facilities such as tennis courts, a scuba shop, watersports, or even just relaxing on the white sand beach of Bonefish Bay. For those who need an extra dose of relaxation, there is a L’Occitane spa.
Eleuthera and Harbour Island
To some, Eleuthera and Harbour Island are the definition of The Bahamas, with pineapple fields stretching across the land and white and pink sand beaches all along the coastline.
One of the most luxurious resorts on the island is The Other Side, widely considered an ideal contrast to the excesses of Harbour Island. The beach camp on Eleuthera is solar-powered and is the perfect spot to enjoy some of life’s simplest pleasures.
Guests are invited to make themselves at home at The Other Side. If exploring is close to your heart, the staff will hand over the keys to a Jeep and a map, but if you simply want to stay put and make the most of the hotel itself, there are paddle boards, yoga mats, a ping-pong table and a small outdoor gym, all available for guest use.
Perhaps the best element of The Other Side is the actual accommodation. Guests have a choice of three tents on the beach, or a few hillside shacks 100 metres up the hill. There are no TVs – so it’s really an opportunity to disconnect with real life and reconnect with yourself, family or friends.
