There are few things more attractive to vacationers than the golden sands and cobalt blue waters of a coastal getaway. While such exquisite accommodations can be found in the United States and other countries with sprawling coasts, there’s an added beauty to the Lucayan Archipelago and the exotic country of The Bahamas. This West Indies island has become such a hotspot for tourism that, over the years, resorts moved in to amplify the appeal. Among those resorts, and arguably the most popular for tourism, were all-inclusive escapes. With all-inclusive resorts in The Bahamas, guests can leave the pesky worry of money at home, as just about everything, as the name suggests, is included in the resort stay.
Of course, no two all-inclusive resorts are the same. While there are staples that most include in the overall cost of the stay, some all-inclusive resorts in The Bahamas may leave out conveniences that others cover. It’s a matter of choosing the resort that includes everything that’s important to you. And to help you make that decision, I took a quick dip in the Atlantic and came ashore on the island country’s most lavished beaches to find the best all-inclusive resorts.
If you’re looking to book your unforgettable trip to the tropics of The Bahamas, may I recommend you consider the creature comforts and luxurious delights of one of the following all-inclusive resorts? I’ll break down some of the best The Bahamas has to offer, complete with what they include, what you’ll still need to worry about, and what thrills and adventure may await nearby.
Bottom Line Up Front
If you’re escaping to The Bahamas for a spell, then you’re clearly looking for luxury, beach access, convenient creature comforts, and a space to make you forget about the qualms of life. For all of that for just the cost of your stay, I’d recommend Sandals Emerald Bay. Located in the Great Exuma district of The Bahamas, Emerald Bay is an exotic paradise boasting nearly a dozen restaurants, scuba diving, a full 18-hole golf course, and so much more. And best of all? All if it is included! It’s simply a space you won’t want to leave thanks to beautifully manicured grounds and an attentive staff sure to make you feel like royalty.
My Top Picks at a Glance
- Sandals Emerald Bay – A stunning slice of Great Exuma. The pride of the cays, Emerald Bay delivers unprecedented accommodations, delicious food, and memorable experiences for one set price.
- Sandals Royal Bahamian – Enjoy the lavished adults-only experience of Royal Bahamian, complete with private pools, high-end dining, and access to offshore islands for an excursion to remember.
- Warwick Paradise Island – A classic hotel experience coupled with an adults-only, all-inclusive resort. Warwick butts up against Nassau Harbor, providing plenty of beach to sprawl out on and enjoy the Bahamian sun.
- Riu Palace Paradise Island – A resort-styled hotel with contemporary accommodations that overlook the North Atlantic. Step outside of this extravagant space on Paradise Island for immediate beach access.
- Breezes Resort Bahamas – There is no shortage of diverse dining options at Breezes, and with your all-inclusive package, you can sample them all in between enjoying amenities like freshwater swimming pools, private hammocks, and the white sands of Cable Beach.
- Melia Nassau Beach – There’s little separating this Bahamian all-inclusive resort and the clear cobalt waters of the North Atlantic. Step outside your resort-style room and you’re just steps from a comfortable day in warm soft sands.
Selection Criteria
When looking for the best all-inclusive resorts in The Bahamas, one of the most important things to consider is their version of “all-inclusive”. Some resorts will include experiences in the cost, while others offer an a la carte menu of entertainment. The more inclusive they were, the more likely they were to be considered for this list. Then, of course, came breaking down the amenities and accommodations, at which point I focused on only those that had a resort feel and the on-site luxuries expected of a seaside paradise.
Things to Know About Traveling to the Bahamas
Before you board the plane to your island getaway, or even before you book your Bahamas excursion, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Traveling to The Bahamas isn’t like traveling between states. It can feel like an entirely different world, especially if you’re used to living inland and experiencing all four seasons.
I’ve laid out a series of tips below that will help you make the most of your Bahamas vacation. These aren’t your obvious questions that I’ll address a little later, but more so things I’ve learned during my time getting to know The Bahamas and the massive archipelago it’s part of.
- Most major airlines in the United States offer service to The Bahamas
- Pay attention to the projected weather and pack smart
- Mid-December to mid-April is the best time of the year to travel to The Bahamas
- Expect to hear a lot of uncommon slang
- There’s more to see than just the beach. Go exploring!
- An itinerary may sound too planned, but it helps you see everything
- Don’t wear beachwear everywhere. Beyond the beach and pools, wear appropriate attire
The Six Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the Bahamas
Sandals Emerald Bay
The name Sandals is synonymous with adults-only getaways, and in The Bahamas, Emerald Bay happens to be the brand’s best all-inclusive offering. It’s the go-to for travelers looking to enjoy a truly all-inclusive experience in a setting that oozes opulence and plays to the notion of a vacation to remember.
Accommodations
Whether you stay in the Beach House Luxury room or the two-story Royal Estate Beachfront Villa Suite, you will not be disappointed. Sandals spares no expense in filling its rooms with top-of-the-line furnishings, including plush bedding you’ll have a hard time leaving each morning.
Most rooms come with either a furnished balcony or patio that overlooks the beauty of The Bahamas. And if you need a break from the outdoors (which you’re likely not going to), the interior space is open and inviting. Walk-in showers and soaking tubs are the peak way to end a day spent beachside.
Dining
Emerald Bay features 11 restaurants ranging from casual beachside dining to extravagant exotic cuisine. Each restaurant, from the most basic to the most lavished, is included in the price of your stay. It can get a little intimidating having access to nearly a dozen eateries, but there’s no wrong choice when you have Italian, French, Caribbean, English, and Asian cuisine at your disposal.
Experiences & Activities
You could spend your days at Emerald Bay enjoying the onsite swimming pools, fitness center, and piano bar, but then you’d miss out on the included certified scuba diving, kayaking, snorkeling, paddle boarding, and the myriad of land activities, like beach volleyball, horseshoes, and tennis. Golf lovers will want to try their swing at the award-winning 18-hole course, which overlooks the stunning beauty of the Atlantic.
Sandals went all out ensuring its guests are entertained 24/7 without having to break their bank. There are some optional experiences, like local land tours, Red Lane Spa, private beach cabanas, and the marina.
Sandals Royal Bahamian Spa Resort & Offshore Island
Chances are if it’s run by Sandals, it was going to wind up on this list. And with good reason. Sandals is synonymous with two things: adults-only and all-inclusive. The Royal Bahamian offers both, the latter to a surprising extent.
Accommodations
It’s all about comfort at the Royal Bahamian, as accommodations range from a cozy East Bay Premium room with tropical garden views to a spacious one-bedroom that opens out to the pool or ocean. Even the base room is an exquisite experience, complete with resort-style bedding, rich wood furniture, and views of the Royal Bahamian’s grounds.
As the rooms get bigger, there’s more to enjoy, like a VIP Rolls Royce or Mercedes airport transfer. Each room comes with the creature comforts needed for a stay, including luxurious bathrooms, some with a walk-in shower. To make it infinitely more difficult to leave your room, you can opt for the Butler Villa Suite with a private pool or a one-bedroom swim-up suite with a tranquility soaking bathtub.
Dining
Want a taste of France? Or are you just looking for a quick, casual bite? Whatever your culinary needs are, the Royal Bahamian can likely satisfy them with its 10 included restaurants. Not a shred of food will cost you, regardless of whether you’re dining at the beachside cafe or the seafood restaurant with pier seating. Sandals really caters to a diverse palate with menus stocked with options inspired by every corner of the world.
Experiences & Activities
Get to know the depths of the Atlantic with certified scuba diving or keep to the surface with paddle boarding, windsurfing, Hobie Cats, and more. No matter your choice, it’s all included in Sandals pricing, as is the daily and nightly entertainment and beachside parties. As nice as your room will be, you may never want to return to it as you’re faced with a variety of fun activities and experiences. Partake in a game of night tennis, take to the shuffleboard court, make a stop at the state-of-the-art fitness center, or keep things tame with some lawn chess.
Out of pocket, you can pay for spa treatments at Red Lane, go shopping at an onsite resort boutique, or sit down for a romantic candlelight dinner. Want to see more of The Bahamas? There are plenty of tours you can sign up for that explore the golden shores and inland greenery.
Warwick Hotels and Resorts Paradise Island
Sometimes, a name is just a name. For Warwick Hotels and Resorts, Paradise Island is a very accurate descriptor of the traveler experience. This Bahamian resort offers not just an all-inclusive stay, but the makings of a vacation that will make returning home quite difficult.
Accommodations
The rooms at Warwick are nothing to scoff at. Luxury hotel bedding and simple furnishings create a contemporary space that’s cozy, warm, and inviting. The real selling point, beyond the high-end and comfortable space, rests just beyond the main. Pull open the curtains each morning and you’ll be treated to an invigorating view. Regardless of the room, there’s a view of something that will get you out of bed and ready for a day of excitement.
The smallest room is a 300 sq ft space, but Warwick offers a one-bedroom facility that comes in at a spacious 650 sq ft. Each room comes with Wi-Fi, but don’t expect to use it save to post the hundreds of photos you’re going to be taking of your view.
Dining
One of the toughest decisions you’ll have to make during your Bahamas stay is where you’ll be eating. Warwick doesn’t make the choice much easier by providing a selection of casual and fine dining establishments, all boasting menus full of flavorful dishes. Grab a quick bite at the pizzeria and grille or settle in for an opulent dining experience accompanied by proper steak and seafood dishes. Be sure to check the dress code before deciding where to eat as some places require formal attire.
Experiences & Activities
Guests at Warwick don’t have to go far to have a good time. The onsite pool is full of sparkling water and spacious enough to accommodate those that want to play pool volleyball and those that want to lounge. Grab a snack from the accompanying bar or let the sun’s rays work their magic. Harbour Beach is a private escape with complimentary beverages and the perfect view of Paradise Island’s harbor.
Though dining and accommodations are included in your stay, expect some of the entertainment to cost, especially if you’re exploring further into Paradise Island. There’s plenty of fun and games onsite, like football, nature walks, and corn hole, but guests looking for more can spend a little more and enjoy the Straw Market, Downtown Nassau, Atlantis Casino, or rounds of golf at one of the island’s two courses.
Riu Palace Paradise Island
Get lost in an island paradise in Riu Palace, a hotel that emulates the resort experience with top-of-the-line accommodations, luxury amenities, and ample dining options. Riu Palace Paradise Island is an adults-only Bahamian facility offering everything one needs for a comfortable stay.
Accommodations
Riu boasts over 350 rooms decorated in an inviting contemporary style that complements the hotel’s extravagance. Every room is a suite, offering ample space to spread out and enjoy as the moon basks the beaches in a soft glow. Dark wood pops in brightly lit rooms and contrasts the pops of color and white walls to create an ambiance that’s easy to settle into.
The biggest difference between room types is whether you want to wake up to the picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean. Grab a cup of coffee and sit outside on your balcony or terrace with a sea view suite or jr. suite. A minibar will keep you hydrated in between experiences while the extravagant bathroom ensures every inch of square footage is premium quality.
Dining
Whether you like a hearty breakfast, a midafternoon feast, or a late-night snack, Riu has you covered. All-inclusive, 24-hour dining ensures everyone gets their fill of a delectable meal. Breakfast is comprised of an American-style breakfast buffet, complete with live cooking stations and pastries. Come lunch, the hot and cold buffet stations roll out, dishing out a selection of delicious cuisines from all over the world.
Things get a bit fancier come dinner, especially if you opt for something besides the dinner buffet. For a la carte dining, you’ll have the option of tender steak, Japanese, Caribbean, or a romantic open-air menu. There’s a formal dress code for dinner, so be sure to come prepared.
Experiences & Activities
Of course, everything you could want from The Bahamas is right outside your room, along the stretch of white sand. Access to the Atlantic’s cobalt waters is just a fraction of what Riu offers, as you’ll also have the option to participate in daily sports activities, including group fitness and volleyball, or kick back and enjoy the daily entertainment program. The onsite sauna and whirlpool are all included in your room rate, but if you want to spend some time on the green of the nearby golf facility or enjoy more adventurous activities like parasailing, you’ll have to spend a little extra.
In fact, on its website, Riu makes sure to clarify that anything beyond the hotel is not included and, therefore, not protected in any way by Riu.
Breezes Resort Bahamas
Breezes aimed for extravagance with its Bahama resort and hit the mark with rooms boasting vibrant decor and grounds that make good use of the nearby beaches. There’s much to experience at Breezes, but don’t be surprised if you’re too distracted by the proximity to the Atlantic and spend much of your days lounging in the warm sand.
Accommodations
No matter the room you choose at Breezes, you’re going to be immersed in a flurry of decor printed decor that’s complemented by the beauty of The Bahamas. Standard rooms are enhanced by a stunning view of the resort’s grounds or the allure of the coast. From the comfort of your plush bed, you’ll be able to enjoy staring out at a paradise calling to you. And it will always win.
The one-bedroom suite and Presidential Suite are a bit more eccentric in their style, with green decorating near every surface. Lovely classic wood furnishings contrast the floral appearance of the draperies and furniture. Though you may not notice much of it as your picture window offers a breathtaking view of The Bahamas.
Dining
The all-inclusive package at Breezes ensures you won’t go hungry during your stay. The included eatery serves guests breakfast, lunch, and dinner to keep them energized and ready for the day ahead. A la carte dining is offered on a nightly rotation and includes the culinary wonders of Italian or Asian-fusion cuisine. Bars scattered throughout the resort offer beverages throughout the day while a private dinner for two is available to those willing to pay extra for romantic dining on the beach.
Experiences & Activities
Breezes excels in many areas, but its amenities are truly world-class. Freshwater swimming pools dot the resort’s grounds, giving guests options for if they want to swim or lounge about. A swim-up bar and misting pool add to the experience. No matter where you are you should have a great view of the turquoise Atlantic that sits just beyond the property. Cable Beach may be a bit too inviting, and you may not even stay in the pool.
For a bit more activity, you can enjoy the included racquet center, kayaking, and the a la carte services of Blue Mahoe Seaside Spa. Don’t be shy to simply lay out all day and soak in the Bahamian sun. Onsite hammocks do offer a relaxing escape in the shade if it gets to be too much, though.
Meliá Nassau Beach
Nassau is a place of many wonders and Meliá happens to be one of them with its unprecedented beach views and extravagant amenities. There’s no getting tired of what this resort has to offer, especially when you couple it with the beauty of The Bahamas.
Accommodations
What would you like your view to be? The sparkling waters of the Atlantic? The vibrant grounds of Meliá garden? Or the comfort and fun of the resort pools? Whatever your choice, there’s a space for you! Contemporary furnishings decorate simple rooms that put all focus on what’s waiting outside. Plush bedding keeps you refreshed for that day spent exploring Nassau or night spent watching the moon glow against the Atlantic.
Meliá features a selection of superior rooms, including a two-bedroom suite that overlooks the beach and a Presidential Suite that butts up against the soft sand. Every room comes with all that’s needed to stay cozy and take a break from the outdoors. Log into Wi-Fi to brag about your getaway in between activities.
Dining
Included in your stay is a selection of restaurants sure to keep you well-fed. You’ll have your choice daily of seven eateries ranging from local favorites to Tex-mex and Asian-fusion. Pull up a seat inside or take your dining experience outside with the onsite Caribbean grille. There’s plenty to choose from to ensure there’s a dish that satiates all appetites. When all else fails, you can just check out the international buffet.
Experiences & Activities
Meliá entices guests with an oceanfront infinity pool that’s heated for a year-round pleasurable swim. The resort is set right on the exquisite Cable Beach, which provides a long stretch of golden shore to walk along. Should you want to check out another piece of Nassau, downtown is just minutes away.
When not lounging at any of Meliá’s pools or whirlpool tubs, there’s a fitness center to keep active in or the onsite gardens that are worth taking a stroll through. Anyone wanting more from their vacation in The Bahamas will need to pay a little extra as Meliá doesn’t offer any water activities or island experiences as part of its all-inclusive package.
FAQ
Question: Do I Need a Passport To Travel To The Bahamas?
Answer: If you are a U.S. citizen traveling to The Bahamas, you will need to present a passport. If you’re traveling on a cruise, there is a Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative compliant document that can be used in place of a passport. If you need a new passport, don’t wait. It can take up to 10 weeks to receive your new document.
Question: What Currency Is Used In The Bahamas?
Answer: The Bahamas uses the Bahamian dollar, which, as of September 2022, was equal to $.99. You will be able to take money out at ATMs found throughout Nassau, but don’t expect to see any on the smaller islands. Consider having your money exchanged before leaving. If you’re staying in an all-inclusive resort or hotel, you’ll likely need less money than if you weren’t. Most, if not all, meals are paid for, so keep that in mind when deciding how much to exchange.
Question: What Side of the Road Do They Drive On in The Bahamas?
Answer: If you’re from the United States and driving in The Bahamas, you’ll need to get used to driving on the left side. It’s possible to visit The Bahamas and not drive, but it’s worth trying to get used to.
Enjoy a Worry-Free Vacation on Bahama’s Sands
When you book an all-inclusive resort, you’re putting all the worry surrounding your vacation on the facility. Even those that don’t include everything, such as experiences and activities, provide more than enough to ensure you have the best time imaginable.
The all-inclusive resorts listed above aren’t stingy on what they provide guests, so you can bet that you’re going to wake up every morning with less on your mind than the average traveler. Breakfast is paid for, lunch is waiting for your return, and dinner caters to your desire for a high-quality, five-star meal.
With a stay at an all-inclusive resort in The Bahamas, you’re setting yourself up for an unforgettable experience that you’ll want to recreate with returning trips. And with these six resorts available to stay at, where to stay won’t be a question getting in the way of booking your return.
