Paradise awaits all ages in the Bahamas, where turquoise waters and white-sand beaches set the stage for family adventures, and choosing the perfect island resort can transform your trip from pleasant but forced family bonding into a truly cinematic beach getaway. And getting to the Bahamas is a breeze with convenient flights landing at major hubs like Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau or Bahamas George Town Exuma Airport in Moss Town on Great Exuma. If you prefer a more scenic route, you can arrive and depart by cruise, ferry or even your own boat from Florida or other nearby ports for added convenience.
There's also the Bahamas weather to love. The best time to visit the Bahama Islands is between December and April, when the weather is reliably warm and dry, allowing you to enjoy the beaches and outdoor attractions. If traveling between June and November, then keep in mind it is hurricane season; always check weather conditions before you go (or purchase travel insurance for extra protection). Upon arrival, the Bahamas provides endless fun-in-the-sun options the whole family will enjoy. In addition to its stunning beaches, the Bahamas encompasses world-class resorts with activities for kids, pools, spas and exciting attractions.
Of course, where you stay affects your food choices, outdoor activities and more; that's where expert advice can enhance your trip (and decrease mental load) while travel planning. AAA Inspector 593, a frequent traveler, has a few favorite Bahamian resorts to suggest, including Margaritaville and Rosewood Baha Mar, which are located in Nassau and New Providence Island. On Paradise Island, The Royal at The Atlantis stands out for an exciting waterpark and marine habitats, making it a good option for families. Other resorts highly recommended by AAA Travel as the best resorts in the Bahamas include The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort on Paradise Island, known for its elegance and kids club, and Grand Isle Resort & Residences, which offers spacious villas with stunning views in George Town. Read on to get some insider tips on these fun places to go.
1. Grand Isle Resort & Residences
- Location: Emerald Bay, George Town, Great Exuma Island
- Diamond-designation: Four Diamond
- Best for: Spacious accommodations and a luxurious family retreat
Families will feel right at home at the Grand Isle Resort & Residences, an Exumas resort in George Town's Emerald Bay, where you'll find well-designed villas, offering everything from one-bedroom retreats to the Grand Penthouse with four bedrooms. Kids will have plenty to do on-site; they can stay busy making friends and enjoying activities led by the Hummingbird Hut team. Parents can take a break at the Seastar Spa, which offers relaxing spa treatments on the beach or within the comfort of their villa. Water sports are also great to do together, including kayaking, paddleboarding and snorkeling — with all necessary gear provided by the resort. If you’re wondering how to explore the Exumas, the resort’s location is ideal for visiting local attractions like the beach where Exuma's swimming pigs splash in the ocean. Additional experiences, like golfing at Sandals Emerald Bay Golf Club or kite-surfing, where you glide over the water on a board powered by a wind-catching kite, can be easily arranged for added adventure through your concierge.
2. Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau
- Location: 2 Bay St., Nassau, New Providence
- Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Best for: A family spot with multiple pools, a lazy river and family-friendly activities
This beach resort in Nassau is a top pick for families seeking a taste of the Bahamas. With a locale close to the Fish Fry, a culinary hub of traditional Bahamian dishes, the resort offers much more than just a place to stay and eat. The Western Esplanade Beach, Junkanoo Beach, the Straw Market and Nassau Cruise Port are all within walking distance, while Margaritaville features multiple pools, including one with a lazy river and a cozy beachfront perfect for families. The Parakeets Kid's Club keeps children ages 5 to 9 entertained with activities like games, arts and crafts, and dance sessions led by trained counselors from Wednesday to Sunday. Parents can unwind at the on-site spa, while the evening event complex, ICONS at the Pointe, provides lively, family-friendly entertainment.
Inspector quote:
"My favorite family-friendly resort is Margaritaville. It's still super new, and it's next to a popular area to enjoy local cuisine (The Fish Fry)."
3. The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort
- Address: One Ocean Drive, Paradise Island
- Diamond-designation: Four Diamond
- Best for: A secluded, luxurious experience with stunning gardens and beachfront views
The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, presents a luxurious setting and family-oriented amenities on Paradise Island in the Bahamas. The resort's Kids For All Seasons program provides complimentary children's activities such as arts and crafts, video games and beach exploration for kids ages 4 to 12. Families can enjoy the lagoon-style pool, complete with a sloping entry and a waterfall, or relax poolside with games or a book. Outdoor things to do include beach activities, like building sandcastles, and strolls through the resort's lush gardens, which feature a lily pond and a historical structure moved on-site — 12th-century Cloisters — for added ambience. Attentive beachside service, hammocks scattered across the property and a pristine stretch of white sand ensure your experiences are top-notch.
4. Rosewood Baha Mar
- Location: One Baha Mar Boulevard, Nassau, New Providence Island
- Diamond-designation: Four Diamond
- Best for: Luxury accommodations for family — and a wildlife sanctuary
Baha Mar is a premier resort complex on Nassau's stunning Cable Beach, offering luxurious and family-focused amenities. With the Rosewood Baha Mar in particular, there are elegant accommodations designed to have eco-consciousness and Bahamian charm. Families will appreciate the excitement of Baha Bay Waterpark with its lazy river and waterslides, as well as the wildlife sanctuary, home to flamingos, turtles and other fascinating creatures. For younger guests, the Rosewood Explorers kids' club provides a variety of fun activities to spark creativity and curiosity.
Inspector quote:
"The rooms are GORGEOUS and so luxurious."
5. The Royal @ Atlantis
- Address: One Casino Dr., Paradise Island
- Diamond-designation: FYI
- Best for: Updated family fun in the Atlantis complex with easy access to its iconic attractions
Atlantis is a sprawling resort complex on Paradise Island, well-known for its world-class attractions and accommodations. At its center is The Royal @ Atlantis, an iconic hotel recently updated to reflect the island vibe. Families staying on-site can check out Atlantis Kids Adventures, which features creative programs for children ages 3 to 12. For added convenience, in-room babysitting services are available, which makes this convenient for date night. The massive Aquaventure Water Park, however, with its water slides, lazy river and 14 pools, provides entertainment for thrill-seekers of all ages.
Visit the Bahama Islands with AAA Travel
There are so many ways to visit the Bahamas, but a well-planned trip will allow you to appreciate both the amazing landscape and its cultural heritage, including the tasty cuisine. AAA can help you plan your Bahamian adventure by offering services such as an International Driving Permit and passport assistance and/or additional AAA benefits with RushMyPassport.com, so you are adequately prepared to travel to the Bahamas. Consult a AAA Travel Agent for a helpful, seamless experience that can save time and money.