Paradise Island

The Basics

Located off the shore of the Bahamas’ capital city Nassau—and connected to the city via two bridges—Paradise Island is 1.1 square miles (2.8 square kilometers) of fun in the sun. The island is home to several major resort hotels, including Atlantis, which attracts visitors from all over to its Aquaventure Water Park, where visitors can ride a clear-sided waterslide that travels through a shark-infested lagoon.

The island also has several excellent beaches, with powder-soft sand and clear water. Paradise Beach is one of the most famous, while Snorkeler’s Cove is popular with tourists looking to explore underwater. Visitors can set off on an island tour from Paradise Island to explore some of the deserted cays that dot the ocean nearby.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Day passes to Aquaventure at Atlantis are available to Bahamian residents and guests staying at selected partner hotels.

• Snorkel gear can be rented from water sports shops on the island.

• There are many bars, restaurants, and cafes to choose from.

• Paradise Island has two casinos open to anyone aged 18 or over.

How to Get There

Paradise Island is located off the coast of Nassau, the Bahamas’ main city. Ferries depart several times daily from Nassau. Alternatively, you can walk across the bridge from the city or take a taxi. If traveling by car, paid parking is available at a number of the hotels.

When to Get There

High season in the Bahamas runs from November to mid-April. This is when the islands are at their busiest, and the weather at its best. Daily temperatures hover around 85°F (30°C) at this time of year. Hurricane season starts in July and runs through the end of October, when heavy rain and strong winds are possible.

Exploring the Cays

The Bahamas consists of more than 700 small islands, many of which are uninhabited. Be a castaway for a day with a trip exploring some of these deserted cays, where iguanas and sea birds are your only company. Hop on a stand-up paddleboard or join a guided island boat tour and enjoy these tropical outposts’ unspoiled beauty. There’s a lot to see underwater too, so pack your snorkel mask and fins.

Can anyone go to Paradise Island in the Bahamas?

Yes, anyone can go to Paradise Island in the Bahamas. If you have the legal right to enter the Bahamas, you’re allowed to go to Paradise Island. It sits just offshore from Nassau on New Providence and is connected by two bridges and a ferry, so it’s easy to reach.

Is Paradise Island, Bahamas, expensive?

Yes, staying on Paradise Island in the Bahamas is quite expensive. The island’s most prominent resort, Atlantis, is a 5-star resort and comes with a 5-star price tag. The island has other high-end resorts and accommodations, although not all are as pricey. A day trip is easier on the wallet.

How do you get around Paradise Island?

The best way to get around Paradise Island in the Bahamas is on foot and by taxi. Public buses don’t operate here, but some resorts have private shuttles. The resorts and beaches are close together, making walking an easy option. Take a taxi to go longer distances or to Nassau.

What is Paradise Island in the Bahamas known for?

Paradise Island is perhaps best known for the Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas resort that dominates the island. The large resort has accommodations, restaurants, a casino, and the Aquaventure Water Park. Paradise Island is also known for its beautiful white-sand beaches and warm, clear water that’s good for snorkeling and diving.

Can you swim on Paradise Island?

Yes, you can swim on Paradise Island in the Bahamas and many travelers visit to do just that. The crystal-clear waters are calm and warm and patrolled by lifeguards in many places. Also, the Aquaventure Water Park connected to the Atlantis resort is a fun place to swim and play.

What is the difference between Paradise Island and Nassau?

Paradise Island sits offshore from Nassau, the Bahamas’ capital, which is on New Providence Island. Nassau is a big city and although it has some beautiful beaches, there’s more to it than just resorts and tourist attractions. Paradise Island is chock-full of resorts and is well set up for tourists.

Ways to explore

Connected to the capital city of Nassau via two bridges, Paradise Island is a 1.1-square-mile (2.8-square-kilometer) Caribbean destination for fun in the sun. The island is home to several major resort hotels, including Atlantis, which attracts visitors from all over to its Aquaventure water park.

The island also has several excellent beaches with powder-soft sand and clear water. Paradise Beach is one of the most famous, while several snorkeling areas are popular among tourists looking to explore the colorful underwater world.

Accessibility

Some tours of Paradise Island are accessible to wheelchair users.

Age limits

While travelers of all ages are welcome to visit the island, individual attractions and activities may have their own age limits.

What to pack

Sun protection, bathing suit and sandals, towel, beach read

What to wear

Wear breezy, beachy layers that you can easily put on before or after swimming or snorkeling.

Not allowed

While the rules vary by tour, most don’t allow smoking, pets, or alcohol.

Amenities

Hotels and resorts, water park, restaurants, shops

Address

Paradise Island is located just north of downtown Nassau and New Providence Island. The island is connected by two bridges and is easily reached by car or taxi. Ferry services and boat tours also serve the island.

Driving

From downtown Nassau, travel to Paradise Island via the Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge; the journey takes just a couple of minutes by car. However, because there is limited parking on the island, it’s often better to take a taxi instead.

Public transportation

You can take the ferry from Nassau’s Prince George Wharf to the Paradise Island Ferry Terminal; ferries depart about every 30 minutes. Travelers with a stay or restaurant reservation at the Atlantis can ride the resort’s complimentary shuttle, which travels between its on-island properties.

Best times to visit

If you’re spending a day on Paradise Island, arrive early in the morning to maximize the island’s wealth of entertainment and recreation options.

Best days to visit

There’s rarely a bad day to explore Paradise Island, although you can expect its attractions to be busier on weekends and holidays.

Best months to visit

The best time of year to visit the Bahamas, if you want to ensure good weather, is during the December–April high season—just prepare for higher prices in turn.

Special events

Special events are hosted across Paradise Island’s resorts and hotels throughout the year; research their calendars for specifics.