The Best Hotels to Book on Paradise Island

Hidden away in 35 acres (14ha) of immaculate tropical gardens (modeled on those of Versailles, no less), this elegant retreat has to be one of the most iconic hotels in the the Bahamas. Keep your eyes peeled for A-listers and expect a dash of retro Hollywood glamour – scenes from the Bond movie Casino Royale were filmed here. Rooms exude understated luxury with muted tones, floor-to-ceiling glass and sea-inspired artwork. There are two shimmering pools (one just for grown-ups), plenty of tennis courts and a Balinese-themed spa. But it’s the stellar service that keeps guests returning year after year.

Like its namesake, Atlantis feels as if it’s its own city, with the vast resort encompassing six hotels, each radiating its own character. The Cove is by far the most stylish and sophisticated, with pillared, open-air walkways weaving through lush foliage to vast suites done up in chic neutral hues. There are two private white-sand beaches and an adults-only beach club with sleek private cabanas and DJs adding a hip vibe. Guests get access to all the resort’s attractions – don’t miss a morning whizzing down the slides at the high-thrills Aquaventure water park.

Wake up to views of yachts bobbing about through the windows at this collection of brightly painted waterfront villas, overlooking a private marina. One of six hotels that make up the mega-resort of Atlantis, Harborside is a great pick if you’re traveling with family and friends in tow. The bright and breezy villas have bags of space and come with fully equipped kitchens. There’s an enormous pool with a sloping beach-style entry and fountains for little ones. Super-conveniently, a shuttle service whisks you around the rest of the resort or to the white-sand beach.

Love them or hate them, the Royal’s soaring coral-pink towers have become a Paradise Island landmark. Right at the heart of the sprawling Atlantis resort, you’re within walking distance of all the complex’s star attractions, including the 141-acre (57ha) water park, 11 pools and 21 restaurants. Plan your route as you gaze out from the vast windows of your room (at the Royal, each has sweeping views over the island and glittering seas beyond). Decked out in shades of sunny yellow and turquoise, they are spacious and bright. Deep pockets? Splash out on the 10-bedroom Bridge Suite, with its own grand piano and 22-carat gold chandelier.

At the far edge of the resort (but still within walking distance of all the attractions), the Reef feels more secluded and less crowded than the rest of Atlantis. You’re a few plodding steps away from a lovely stretch of powdery beach, as well as the huge, family-friendly Cascades pool. Each room or suite comes with a handy kitchenette – perfect if you’re holidaying with young ones. The decor is fresh and modern, with splashes of tomato-red livening up the calm, neutral tones.

Not a fan of big resorts? This low-key, good-value hideaway is a surprise find among the luxury enclaves of Paradise Island. Right on beautiful Cabbage Beach, it has a clutch of homey, island-style condos ranging from one to five bedrooms. All come with sparkling kitchens, air-con (crucial in the summer) and access to two well-kept pools – one with a little waterfall that’s heaven for children. Don’t miss Viola’s, a relaxed, fairy-lit dining spot dishing up local food – everything from conch fritters to jerk chicken.

A savvy pick for budget-conscious travelers, this pink-and-white property is steps away from glitzy Atlantis but costs a fraction of the price. Even better, book a room here and you’ll get free access to all the Atlantis attractions, including the vast water park. Rooms are simple but spotless, with subtle tropical touches, and hot breakfast is included in the room rate – a welcome touch. Encircled by gardens blooming with bougainvillea is a pretty pool with its own swim-up bar, as well as the breezy, open-sided Crusoe’s restaurant for poolside sustenance, such as conch chowder and homemade jerk turkey burgers.

While it’s hardly tiny, the sleek 250-room Warwick feels far more intimate than some of its mega-resort neighbors. Overlooking Nassau Harbour, it has a cleverly constructed beach protected from boat traffic by an attractive decked promenade. There’s also a colossal lagoon-style pool ringed by slender palms, with no bomb-diving children in sight – this is an adults-only hotel with a sophisticated vibe. Hip monochrome rooms come with floor-to-ceiling windows and sink-in beds, while the all-inclusive package covers restaurants from dress-up dining at Italian Abbiocco to handmade pizza at Chickcharnie’s.