Paradise Island
A tropical getaway famed for its white-sand beaches and the massive Atlantis resort, offering a blend of natural beauty and entertainment.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Paradise Island
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tropical getaway famed for its white-sand beaches and the massive Atlantis resort, offering a blend of natural beauty and entertainment.
"The moment you step onto the soft white sand and see that stunning turquoise water, it takes your breath away."
💰 Save on Snacks
Hit Solomons grocery store on your way in for snacks and drinks to cut down on resort costs . :shopping_bags:
🚶♀️ Walk to Cabbage Beach
Take a water taxi to Paradise Island, then enjoy a 20-min walk to the free, stunning Cabbage Beach . :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cabbage Beach
Paradise Island
Pristine white sand and stunning turquoise waters create a breathtaking, unforgettable beach experience.
Atlantis Aquaventure Water Park
Atlantis Resort
Thrill-seekers can experience waterslides, including one that plunges through a shark tank!
Glass Sculptures and Fountains
Atlantis Resort
Marvel at impressive glass art installations and elegant fountains scattered throughout the resort.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Budgeting for Paradise
Navigating the Island
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Save on Snacks
Hit Solomons grocery store on your way in for snacks and drinks to cut down on resort costs. :shopping_bags:
🚶♀️ Walk to Cabbage Beach
Take a water taxi to Paradise Island, then enjoy a 20-min walk to the free, stunning Cabbage Beach. :athletic_shoe:
🦈 Slide Through Sharks
Experience the thrilling 'Leap of Faith' waterslide at Atlantis, which goes through a shark tank.
✨ Admire Art
Explore the impressive glass sculptures and fountains throughout the Atlantis resort. :sparkles:
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Save on Snacks
Hit Solomons grocery store on your way in for snacks and drinks to cut down on resort costs. :shopping_bags:
🚶♀️ Walk to Cabbage Beach
Take a water taxi to Paradise Island, then enjoy a 20-min walk to the free, stunning Cabbage Beach. :athletic_shoe:
🦈 Slide Through Sharks
Experience the thrilling 'Leap of Faith' waterslide at Atlantis, which goes through a shark tank.
✨ Admire Art
Explore the impressive glass sculptures and fountains throughout the Atlantis resort. :sparkles:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Paradise Island offers stunning natural beauty, particularly Cabbage Beach, and a wealth of resort activities at Atlantis. However, many visitors find the experience to be overpriced and overly commercialized, with high costs for food and activities. While some enjoy the luxury and entertainment, others feel it's a 'rip-off' and not worth the expense.
"I absolutely love Paradise Island, and I especially miss Cabbage Beach. The moment you step onto the soft white sand and see that stunning turquoise water, it takes your breath away. I’ve never seen a beach so beautiful and clear — it honestly looks unreal.
Even though once you’re in the water it feels like regular spring water, the view from the shore is unforgettable. The way the sun hits the ocean makes the whole beach glow with different shades of blue. It’s something you have to see in person to believe.
We’re already planning our second trip back because we know there’s more of the island we haven’t explored yet. There’s just something peaceful and special about this place — it stays with you even after you leave."
T N
"Overpriced Overrated So commercial like a zoo
Nothing paradise about this resort high prices
Buffet dinner $64 a person and that doesn't include 10% tax and 15% tip in price not included
Shake shake easy $100 that's only few burgers and fries.
Biggest rip off vacation spot ever been to.
As soon as I checked out no more Internet access literally check out 11am by 11:04am couldn't even log in and for high prices very sad and embarrassing for Paradise to have to access when you are still at the resort for a few more hours. Horrible resort literally highway robbery
Nothing was accommodating you pay for everything except for water park passes come with resort fee. They even charge for gym, paddle boarding $40 and mini golf $45 a person kids $25 these activities are at no cost to the resort. The Royal tower hotel was disgusting as furniture was rusty conditions old, shower heads nasty and mold even in bathroom shower. No refills of shampoos Needs a remodel for price you are being charged it's a ripoff The 15% tip automatically in everything is horrible so service isnt great as they are automatically getting that 15% so they don't care about their services.
Beaches nothing great about them, Rocky as hell such big rocks and they constantly closed it.
No towels on one of my 6 days after 1pm how are you supposed to swim or dry yourself unacceptable period.
Overpriced hotel with nothing accommodating to guests everything is extra cost for everything. I'd never go back could of went on 2-3 vacations with that prices all being all inclusives.
Lots of poverty driving back to airport sad maybe they should use ripping off customers with extremely high prices and help the poor. It's like you leave golden gates to see ppl lined up to get feed at kitchens or wheelchair person sleeping on the ground saw this with my own eyes. And you scratch your head going what the charge ppl at this resort is humanly disgusting."
Mrs. H
"Went to Atlantis and walked around this huge hotel. The glass sculptures and fountains were amazing. I was on a cruise with friends so we only got to spend a part of the afternoon there, but I would love to go back and actually vacation there."
Diana Riley Carlson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Paradise Island is accessible via a bridge from Nassau. You can take a taxi or a water taxi to reach the island. Many visitors arrive by cruise ship and take a water taxi directly to the island.
If you are a US citizen traveling from the US, you do not need a passport to visit Paradise Island, as it is part of the Bahamas. A driver's license or state ID is sufficient.
Walking is feasible for some attractions like Cabbage Beach from the water taxi drop-off. Taxis are readily available for longer distances or for convenience. Many resort areas are walkable.
Paradise Island is located just off the coast of Nassau, connected by a bridge. It's a short taxi or water taxi ride away, making it easy to explore both areas.
Public bus transportation is primarily available within Nassau. To reach Paradise Island, taxis or water taxis are the most common and convenient options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Paradise Island itself is not charged, but attractions and resorts on the island, like Atlantis, have significant costs. Day passes for Atlantis can be expensive, and many activities incur extra fees.
Yes, Cabbage Beach is a beautiful public beach that is free to access, though lounge chairs can be rented. Simply walking around and admiring the resort architecture can also be an experience.
Atlantis Aquaventure water park typically opens around 10 AM and closes in the late afternoon or early evening. It's best to check the official Atlantis website for the most current hours during your visit.
Yes, you can purchase day passes to access Atlantis's facilities, including Aquaventure water park. However, these passes can be quite costly.
For popular attractions like Atlantis Aquaventure, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and potentially avoid queues.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
Cabbage Beach is widely praised for its soft white sand and clear turquoise waters. It's considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Bahamas.
Atlantis offers a vast array of activities including Aquaventure water park, marine habitats, a casino, golf, numerous pools, and a marina. There are also many dining and shopping options.
Paradise Island, particularly Atlantis, is very family-friendly with numerous activities for children, including the water park and marine exhibits. However, costs can add up quickly for families.
Paradise Island is known for its large, luxurious resorts and a commercialized atmosphere. While beautiful, some visitors find it to be 'overpriced and overrated' and 'like a zoo'.
While Paradise Island itself is more resort-focused, excursions can take you to nearby reefs for snorkeling and diving. The US Virgin Islands, for example, offer excellent snorkeling with clear waters and marine life.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Paradise Island, especially Atlantis, boasts a wide range of dining options from casual eateries to high-end restaurants. However, be prepared for high prices; a buffet dinner can cost around $64 per person before tax and tip.
Yes, dining on Paradise Island is generally very expensive. Even casual meals like burgers and fries can easily cost $100 for a small group. Visiting local grocery stores can help mitigate costs.
While most resort dining is pricey, looking for more casual spots within Atlantis or considering bringing your own snacks from a grocery store are ways to manage food expenses.
You can bring snacks and non-alcoholic beverages purchased from local grocery stores onto the island. This is a common strategy to save money on food and drinks at the resorts.
A 15% tip is often automatically included in bills at restaurants and for services on Paradise Island, which some visitors feel can lead to less attentive service as the tip is guaranteed.
📸 📸 Photography
Cabbage Beach offers stunning ocean vistas and soft sand for beach photography. The architecture and glass sculptures at Atlantis also provide unique photo opportunities.
Yes, you can take photos at Atlantis Aquaventure. However, be mindful of other guests and follow any specific photography rules within the park. Capturing the slides and marine life can make for great shots.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most beautiful light for beach photography, creating warm tones and soft shadows on Cabbage Beach.
While generally permitted, some areas within private resorts might have specific photography policies. It's always good to be respectful of privacy and any posted signage.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is useful for capturing both landscapes and details. Waterproof phone cases or action cameras are great for water park activities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The resort also features marine exhibits and kid-friendly activities, making it an engaging environment for children.However, families should be prepared for the significant costs associated with a trip here. Food, drinks, and many activities come with hefty price tags, and it's advisable to budget accordingly or utilize tips like stocking up on snacks from local grocery stores.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for package deals if booking accommodation, though be wary of hidden fees and extra charges for activities. Researching day pass options for attractions like Atlantis versus staying at the resort can also help in making cost-effective decisions. Be prepared for a higher overall spend than typical budget destinations.
couples
While the island can be expensive, couples can focus on enjoying the scenic beauty and perhaps a few select activities. Consider a sunset walk on the beach or a nice dinner to create memorable moments without overspending on every available attraction.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Cabbage Beach
While the beach is public and free to access, the experience can be enhanced by renting lounge chairs. Getting there involves a water taxi to Paradise Island followed by a roughly 20-minute walk, a journey many find well worth the effort for the reward of such a pristine environment.
However, it's worth noting that some reviews mention the beach can be rocky in certain areas and has experienced closures. Despite these occasional issues, the overwhelming sentiment is that Cabbage Beach is a highlight of any trip to Paradise Island, offering a peaceful and special escape.
Navigating Atlantis: A World of Entertainment
The resort also boasts impressive marine habitats and aquariums, showcasing a diverse range of sea life.Beyond the water park, Atlantis offers a luxurious experience with a casino, golf course, and numerous swimming pools. The resort is also known for its stunning glass sculptures and fountains, adding an artistic flair to the environment.
For those interested in the arts, these installations are a significant visual draw.However, many visitors find Atlantis to be overpriced and commercialized, likening it to a 'zoo'.
Budgeting and Practicalities for Paradise Island
To combat these high expenses, savvy travelers recommend shopping at local grocery stores like Solomons before arriving on the island. Stocking up on snacks and drinks can significantly reduce spending at the resorts.
Furthermore, visitors should be aware that many activities incur extra charges. While water park passes might be included with resort fees, other activities like paddleboarding or mini-golf can cost $40-$45 per person.
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