Where to Stay in the Bahamas for Every Budget

Connected by bridge to Nassau and the island of New Providence, Paradise Island can be easily reached from its larger neighbor, yet provides a more laidback and removed atmosphere. Paradise Island is best known for the Atlantis properties and gigantic waterpark, but there are a handful of boutique properties toting lower rates along the same gorgeous beaches that should be on travelers’ radars too.

The Sunrise Beach Clubs and Villas

More secluded than its sister properties, The Cove at Atlantis

The bustling Bahamian capital packs colorful seafood stalls, magnificent Georgian estates, rum bars, and lively beaches. Between the downtown core and surrounding beach towns, there are ample accommodation choices for any budget.

The Towne Hotel

Set on Nassau’s northern coast, the Sandyport Beach Resort

Guests at the Rosewood Baha Mar

 At 110-miles long and hardly a few miles across at its widest point, Eleuthera has plenty of pristine and uncrowded coastline at its disposal. Surfer’s Beach delivers dependable waves and powdery sand, while the craggy cliffs and clear waters at Lighthouse Beach are some of the most unspoiled in the region. Given the island’s length, it’s advisable to rent a car to explore its many hidden coves and beaches. Eleuthera has three airports: one in the north, one in the center, and another in the southern portion of the island. The centrally positioned Governors Harbour airport can be reached by direct flight from Fort Lauderdale, while North Eleuthera has direct connections to both Miami and Fort Lauderdale.

Situated on a quiet stretch of the central coast, Unique Village

Pineapple Fields Resort

For ultimate comfort and seclusion, look no further than The Cove Eleuthera

Closer to Miami than the rest of the Bahamas, the safe Bimini Islands comprise a small chain of three islands and tiny islets known for their beaches, deep sea fishing, and scuba diving. Whereas many travelers flock to the Bahamas for its reliable winter sunshine, the Bimini Islands (and Bimini hotels) experience more tourist traffic from April through July, when the ocean is calmest for fishing excursions. Though private boats often travel between Florida and Bimini, your best bet is to fly into South Bimini airport, which can be reached by a 30-minute flight from either Nassau or Fort Lauderdale.

The boutique Bimini Big Game Club Resort and Marina

The recently re-opened Hilton at Resorts World Bimini

This elongated, remote island offers immaculate beaches, offshore wonders, and scenic terrain, making it the perfect getaway for beachcombers and active travelers alike. With a population just over 3,000 people, Long Island lacks the nightlife and dining options of other popular Bahamas islands. However, those willing to forgo some creature comforts will be rewarded with memorable attractions like pink-sand beaches, Deadman’s Cay cave system, and Dean’s Blue Hole—the second deepest saltwater blue hole in the world.

The family-run Stella Maris Resort Club

Set on a gorgeous stretch of sand near the island’s northernmost point, Cape Santa Maria Beach Resort & Villas

Comprised of 300 islands and cays in the central Bahamas, the Exumas draw travelers for their uncrowded white-sand beaches, famous (and ethically troubling) swimming pigs, and underwater adventures. Scuba diving and snorkeling along the protected reefs within Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park are a highlight for many, while the main island is home to interesting historic sites like the Hermitage Estate ruins and Rolle Town Tombs. The archipelago can be reached via 40-minute flight from Nassau.

Located on a sheltered bay just outside George Town, Hideaways at Palm Bay

The Grand Isle Resort & Spa

Tourism is still in its fledgling state on this gorgeous fishhook-shaped island. That being said, scuba excursions to offshore reefs, blue holes, and shipwrecks can still be organized. Back on land, pink-sand beaches meet the calm, lapping waves, and the Bahamas’ highest point, Mount Alvernia, rewards hikers with sweeping views. The limited tourism has the added perk of being able to mingle with locals at one of the island’s laidback bars or eateries. Cat Island is best reached via short flight from Nassau.

The sprawling grounds of Pigeon Cay Beach Club

Positioned on a stunning, isolated beach on Cat Island’s northern tip, Shannas Cove Resort

Technically speaking, every island in the Bahamas aside from New Providence, Paradise, and Grand Bahama qualify as Out Islands. These less-populated and less-visited islands flaunt a considerable selection of laidback resorts and bungalows along some of the world’s most secluded, unspoiled beaches. Many of the more popular Out Islands have already been spoken for, so we’ve chosen our top picks from the remaining islands.

Set on the east coast of Andros, the Small Hope Bay Lodge

The boutique Coral Sands Hotel

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