One of my best friends decided she wanted to celebrate her milestone birthday with a girls trip to Atlantis Bahamas. She has been such a good friend to me, I would have gone just about anywhere to help her celebrate. The trip far exceeded my expectations and we all had so much fun! I didn’t want to leave the Atlantis Resort and I can’t wait to go back. Whether you are planning a girls trip to Atlantis, going as a couple, or taking the whole family, I know you will enjoy it too.
I wanted to share my personal experience and honest Atlantis Bahamas review. If you are still trying to decide if an Atlantis vacation is right for you, wondering which hotel tower you should book, or what to do during your Atlantis trip, my Atlantis Bahamas guide has the information you will need, plus some tips to help save money.
You will never be bored at Atlantis, there is so much to do! Aquaventure, the Atlantis Bahamas water park area, has something for everyone. We had no idea there were two areas that have water slides – Mayan Temple and Power Tower – until our last day. There were a few scary slides that none of us were brave enough to go on like the “Leap of Faith.” The “Leap of Faith” slide goes straight down into the shark tank, so it is not for the faint of heart. You can check out the video I found on Youtube and see what you think of the Atlantis slide!
Right next to the “Leap of Faith” Slide, they have a little tamer (although still fast) slide called the “Serpent Slide” that you ride down on in a tube. I went on a two-person tube with my friend. The slide also goes through the shark tank. Another friend followed us on the ride, but when we got to the end of the ride, an empty tube came out after us. At first, I worried that she had fallen out of her tube. Actually, the lady helping everyone at the start of the slide let go of her tube before she could get in. So she had to go back down and get a new tube before she could go on the ride. Luckily the line was not too long.
Additionally, there are 11 pools at Atlantis, so we didn’t get to try them all. It was nice that there always were plenty of lounge chairs. Our favorite was the Baths pool which is located close to the Cove. It has a beach entry, waterfalls, and caves. Plus in the afternoon there was a great DJ and dance area. Also for those that like to swim for exercise, there is also a lap pool by the fitness center. If you stay at the Cove or the Reef, you have access to the Atlantis adult-only pools.
There are two main ocean beaches by Atlantis. We went to the one closer to the Cove as the water seemed calmer, although it did close at 3 pm for a private event the day we were there. There is another beach on the lagoon with some water sports (snorkeling, paddle boats, and bikes) that I wanted to go to, but did not have time.
Atlantis is also almost like an animal sanctuary. They have sharks and stingrays and turtles in the various lagoons on the property. They also have a fantastic aquarium called the Dig. Visually the Dig is stunning and if you like you can even snorkel inside the Atlantis aquarium. They also have a dolphin encounter, where you can swim with dolphins. My friends did that before I arrived and enjoyed it.
As you can see, Atlantis is a fun place for both adults and kids. If you wanted, you could even do an excursion to Exuma to swim with the pigs. For more family-friendly vacation ideas, check out this list of the best islands to visit with kids.
Atlantis Dining & Drinks
Many people mistakenly think that Atlantis is an all-inclusive resort. There are no all-inclusive packages but you can purchase an Atlantis dining plan. While the options are not cheap, children 11 years and under do get to eat for free with the purchase of an adult Atlantis meal plan. You will have plenty of food options to choose from at Atlantis but most are overpriced as you might expect.
I recommend bringing something for breakfast (like protein bars
Lunches were reasonable, we usually grabbed something from one of the shacks by the pool. I enjoyed the roti wrap that I had. Dinners are also pretty expensive. Many of the restaurants had portions that were large enough to split. Bimini Road was excellent and the best value. The food portions were huge – especially the cracked conch, which was delicious. They even had a live band the night we dined there. It has since been replaced by Frankie Gone Bananas.
There are also lots of options for cocktails. In addition to the bars inside the resort, there are also plenty of bars throughout the pool area. They all had cocktail menus and you could also customize your own frozen drink by choosing the fruits (strawberry, banana, and mango) and the alcohol. Of course, you can also have the frozen drinks without the alcohol.
Atlantis Nightlife
In the evenings, you can find plenty of different things to do. One night we went to the comedy club (there was a $25 cover, which cannot be charged to the room). We weren’t too impressed with the first comic we saw, but we really enjoyed the headliner, Andy Woodhull. We decided to be brave and sit in the front row, so we got lots of attention.
Another night we went to the nightclub, Aura, which wasn’t too crowded. We spent most of our time there on the dance floor since the DJ was playing a good mix of music. If you get there early (before 11 pm) there is no cover charge. In addition, there are several other bars, some that even have live music, a movie theater (no extra charge), and a casino with a sportsbook.
Atlantis Accommodations Options
Atlantis Bahamas is a huge resort with several different towers (Royal Towers, Beach Tower, Coral Towers, The Reef, The Cove). The Royal Towers are known as the “heartbeat of Atlantis.” The Reef and the Cove have adult only areas and significantly more expensive than the other towers. The Coral and Beach Towers have more affordable rates but a little farther from the waterpark area. There is also the Harborside Resort at Atlantis which is located not too far away in the Marina.
We stayed in the Royal Towers but I think next time I go, I might stay in one of the cheaper towers at the Atlantis resort. I barely spent any time in the room anyway. The room was nice, but I was disappointed when I realized that our balcony was barely wide enough to stand on. Only a few rooms in the Atlantis Royal Towers actually have real balconies.
Here is a brief rundown of the different properties with access to Atlantis. I listed them in order from most affordable to most expensive to help you decide where to stay in Atlantis Bahamas.
Hotel Tower
Hotel Information
Comfort Suites Paradise Island
While this hotel is not located on the Atlantis property, guests do get complimentary Atlantis day passes (as of 1/1/2019). You also get free wifi and complimentary hot American-style buffet breakfast. If you don’t mind staying off the resort, you can really save a lot of money. This hotel will definitely be your best budget option.
The Beach at Atlantis
Standard hotel rooms currently undergoing renovations (as of Oct 2017). Located on Atlantis Beach, but it is the furthest away from Aquaventure Waterpark. Formerly known as the Beach Towers.
The Coral at Atlantis
Standard hotel featuring newly renovated rooms. Conveniently located close to the Marina Village with lots of dining options. Formerly known as the Coral Towers.
The Royal at Atlantis
The “Heartbeat” of Atlantis and where I stayed. It is the iconic building that you picture when you think of Atlantis. If it’s your first time at Atlantis it is nice to stay in the middle of everything! Formerly known as the Royal Towers.
Harborside Resort
Located at the Atlantis Resort marina, These colorful private villas are located in the Atlantis Marina and come with a fully equipped kitchen or kitchenette. I think it is the best place to stay at Atlantis with kids because you will have more space and it’s a quieter area.
The Reef at Atlantis
Each spacious accommodation at the Reef includes kitchen facilities and private furnished balcony. Guests have access to the adults only pool at the Cove.
The Cove at Atlantis
The Cove has been the most fashionable place to stay at Atlantis since it opened in 2007. It has its own large outdoor pool area just for adults and a private beach.
When planning your budget you need to consider the Atlantis resort fee in addition to the room charge. The resort fee includes 2 bottles of water, access to the gym, and wifi (note: Atlantis Bahamas wifi was not very reliable).
The Atlantis hotel grounds are absolutely gorgeous and well-maintained. I enjoyed exploring especially early in the morning when it was quiet and the rest of the guests were still sleeping. There is a lot to see and plenty of good Instagram-able spots. I took lots of pictures of Atlantis, its one of the top places to go in the Bahamas.
Getting Around at Atlantis Bahamas
It is a bit of a walk from any of the rooms to the pools and waterparks. Carry what you need with you for the day, don’t expect to be able to go quickly back to your room to grab something. We used the lockers by the waterpark to store our phone and other items while we were in the water. It’s $10 well-spent. The only problem is the lockers close early (around 5 pm most days we were there).
If you prefer not to walk, there is a free shuttle that runs around the resort (every 30 minutes) but we never used it. You can also take the shuttle to the Ocean Club resort (formerly known as the One&Only Resort). next door where they filmed scenes from the James Bond movie “Casino Royale“.
Booking Your Atlantis Vacation
While Atlantis can be expensive, you may be able to find promotions on their website and sometimes there will be special deals on Atlantis vacation packages. If your plans are flexible, you will probably be able to get a better rate on Atlantis packages. You can also use Marriott points here, although you still will have to pay the resort fee for each person (check the fine print to find out the current fee).
Next time I go back, I will probably try a less expensive option like the Coral Towers or Beach Tower. If there aren’t any promotions or groupons, you can click here to check the prices and availability on hotels.com. Hotels.com has a price guarantee so if you find a lower rate after you have booked, they will refund you the difference.
What to Wear at Atlantis
If you are getting ready to pack for your vacation, you need to decide what to bring to Atlantis. This depends on what you plan on doing. For the most part, casual clothes and flip-flops will be fine around the resort. If you plan on going clubbing or visiting some of the higher end restaurants, bring some more stylish outfits and nicer shoes. If you want to take advantage of the gym at Atlantis, pack your workout gear.
Be sure to bring several bathing suits (at least two) because you will probably be spending a lot of time in the water. You will need a cover-up too.
Atlantis Bahamas Day Pass
Visiting Atlantis is definitely one of the best things to do on Paradise Island! If you are visiting Nassau on a cruise or don’t have time to spend the night at Atlantis, you can also purchase an Atlantis Bahamas day pass although these are now extremely limited and a bit pricey! An Aquaventure Water Park Day Pass includes unlimited access to the 141-acre Aquaventure Water Park plus all the pools and beaches. You can also purchase experiences at Dolphin Cay or other water adventures.
If you are a group of 3-4, instead of booking Atlantis day passes, it may be more cost effective to book a night at the Comfort Suites Paradise Island. Guests of the Comfort Suites can access Atlantis for free. Check the prices for the Comfort Suites here, be sure to add in the resort fees and charges for extra people when deciding if it will be cheaper than buying day passes for Atlantis.
Atlantis Bahamas now only allows these day passes to be purchased by the resort’s established partners and Bahamian residents/citizens. Cruise lines and some local hotels are considered established partners. These day passes are complimentary for guests of Comfort Suites Paradise Island. Don’t try to say you are on a cruise or you are a resident if you are not, as they will ask you to provide proof (i.e. residence card or cruise line key).
The Atlantis day pass needs to be booked in advance as they do sell out. Click here to get details, current prices, and availability.
Getting to Atlantis on Paradise Island
In the Bahamas, Atlantis is located on Paradise Island. You will want to book your flight to Nassau (NAS) and then you can take a taxi from the airport to the resort. The taxi prices are regulated and will cost around $35 depending on the number of passengers and luggage. The ride takes about 30 minutes. This is probably the most cost-effective and efficient way of getting from the Nassau airport to Atlantis on Paradise Island.
I found the taxi drivers in the Bahamas very friendly and professional, but if you prefer you can also book the airport transfers through Atlantis. Atlantis bus transfers are $33 roundtrip per person. The bus may make stops on its way to Atlantis. They also offer more expensive options like limos or SUVs, which might make sense if you have a large party. Airport transfers organized by Atlantis can be booked at the time you make your reservation.
Note: I would not recommend renting a car for your Atlantis vacation. If you would like to explore Paradise Island or Nassau, you can hire a taxi.
To wrap up, if you haven’t already been to Atlantis, you really should plan a trip. We had such a great time and left fantastic Atlantis Bahamas reviews. It really is the best place to stay in the Bahamas. Personally, I can’t wait to go back. If you have been to Atlantis, I would love to hear about your trip. Do you have any additional Atlantis resort tips? If you haven’t made it to Atlantis yet, what is stopping you?!
-Anisa
Expert Tips for a trip to Atlantis Bahamas
- Be flexible with your travel dates so that you can take advantage of the deals for Atlantis vacations.
- There is something for everyone at Atlantis – waterpark, pools, beach, casino, aquarium, nightlife, and a comedy club just to name a few.
- Bring breakfast and try to share plates if you want to save money on food costs.
- Bring what you need with you for the day and use lockers. It will save you the long walk back to your room at Atlantis.
- Make sure you go on “The Current,” you will thank me later! It was my favorite ride in the waterpark.
- If you just have a day, purchase an Atlantis day pass in advance. You can enjoy all the amenities!
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Wow! This place looks amazing…like a whole different world! I have never stayed anywhere like this but you’ve made it sound very tempting.
Lottie – You would love it! So much to do, we had such a great time. There is also one in Dubai too.
Wow, it’s like an entire city, you never have to leave! Cool post, thanks!
Kari – Exactly! I definitely recommend checking it out if you get a chance.
The Atlantis looks like a wonderful place to stay at! I’ve been to the Caribbean several times before…but not yet to the Bahamas!
Samantha – Agree the Caribbean is amazing, so many great options. You should definitely add the Bahamas to your list.
That looks so relaxing! The slide through the shark tank would terrify me, but I’d probably still want to do it (:
Diana – It was both relaxing and fun! There are two slides that go through the shark tank. The Leap of Faith I would never go one because it goes straight down then through the tank. On that slide, the shark tank is not the scariest part. The one I went on was not as intense and on a tube and the part through the shark tank was not as scary as I would have expected. I think you would like it!
Looks like an amazing birthday weekend! Oh to be able to go to the Bahamas for a weekend!! Aus is too damn far from everything!
Tara – Thanks. Yes the Bahamas is only a three hour flight for me. At least you do have some lovely beaches in Australia. Hopefully, you will get to visit the Bahamas someday!
This looks nice. It’s been over 10 years since I’ve been to the Bahamas, it might be time for another trip.
It is really nice! Definitely worth a return trip!
I’ve seen the Atlantis in Dubai (never stayed there) and it looks really similar. It seems like there is TONS to do there to keep you busy and entertained for your birthday!
Erika- I briefly visited the Atlantis in Dubai and it does seems similar. Would love to spend more time there, I had so much fun at the Bahamas one.
Hands down one of my favorite resorts in the world! Having been here 5 times, I never get sick of it. It allows you to be a kid at any age.
Next time I visit I would like to stay in the Cove since I haven’t yet <3
Yeah I can imagine this place never gets old. I want to go back!
I’ve always wanted to go here! This is great input that I’ll definitely be saving for later.
Colby – So glad to help. I hope you get to go soon, it really makes for a fantastic vacation!
We’ve been wanting to take our 4 year old here since she’s a little fish and loves swimming. Thanks for the post, super helpful!
Maggie – Yes Atlantis is great for kids. Hope you get to go there soon!
Wow, a water slide through a shark tank?! That’s amazing. It certainly sounds like there’s plenty to do. Good tips for staying at Atlantis – thanks! #MondayEscapes
Claire -Yes so much to do at Atlantis. You really should visit if you get the chance.
You are certainly a good friend to go to the Bahamas to celebrate her birthday! I didn’t realise there was an Atlantis there. We’ve been toying with the idea of the Dubai resort. It looks brilliant for families. It’s so huge! Thanks for the tips. And linking up with #MondayEscapes
Ting – The Atlantis in the Bahamas was actually built first, its been around awhile but keeps expanding. Any Atlantis would be a great place for a family vacation.
Looks really nice! Hope you guys had an amazing time in Atlantis!
Thanks, we loved it!
Funny I always thought Atlantis was an all-inclusive resort, and had no idea it was a huge water park! looks like a great trip for families as well.. or just having lots of fun as an adult 😉
Gabby – I really was surprised how much fun I had. I would go back to Atlantis in a heartbeat.
Omg this place is a total dream. I have been to the Bahamas but never anywhere this cool. I wanna slide through the sharktank!! Look so fun!!
Kelly – You would love it! We had the best time.
This looks spectacular! I’m always looking for fun family places to just chill out and relax. This looks like it could be relaxing for us (the parents) and a blast for our littles! Thank you. Oh, and you took great pictures. Wonderful post.
Ciara – Thanks so much. Atlantis really is great for anyone. I hope you get to visit for yourself.
Atlantis has always been on our bucket list, but we’ve ultimately decided somewhere else each time it comes up…It’s good to know you’ve been twice and had a great time! AND would go back! That’s always telling…Thanks for sharing!
Cat – Yes I love it there. I hope you get to check it out for yourself too.
This looks similar to the one in Dubai. We went to the Aquaventure in Dubai and I was too scared to do the leap of faith! The Atlantis resort is enormous! I wouldn’t mind staying in The Cove!
The Cove would be nice! I want to visit the Dubai one too.
That is a good one for a holiday. Sometimes, I just need to relax and don\t do much.
Alexander – It is a great resort. There is actually a lot to do if you want to or you can just relax.
Going here in January with our 3 boys, can’t wait after reading this. Thanks for this post and all the tips!
You are very welcome, I am sure you will have a great time.
I am going in May. Is there a store on grounds to buy food? And is shopping at all the store normal cost or is high like the food?
Crystal – In the main resort area, I only saw gift shops which just really had snacks and yes they were expensive. I would think there might be a food shop by Harborside but I am guessing it would be expensive.
Excellent blog post. Thank you for sharing the information. A few girlfriends and I are doing a girls trip to Atlantis SOON, so your post was right on target for us! We will be staying multiple days, but I get a straaaange feeling that we’ll be returning in the future! Can’t wait to go. Other tips that I’ve been told are not to wear jewelry in the waterparks. Very easy to lose everything. Phone’s not waterproof, so I’m wondering whether to just get a waterproof disposable camera. I’m PLANNING to do the rock climb, the Leap of Faith, you name it! Bucket list time! We would like to take an excursion to Pig Beach and to possibly also swim with wild dolphins, but I don’t know if we’ll have enough time. Atlantis sounds like we will never leave. Another tip we received was to stop at a grocery store on the way to Atlantis from the airport to stock up on items…and to remember passports. Thank you again for your wonderful tips. I look forward to becoming a fellow Atlantisian Mermaid (yes, we are adult women and have mermaid tails to wear one day)! You only live once…….. 😉 Take care and make sure to give back, and to practice Random Acts of Kindness every chance you get. Sincerely, Jana Sheeder
Thank you. Glad you enjoyed the post and thanks for the tips. For your phone, I would recommend a waterproof case instead of getting a disposable camera. You ladies will have a great time.
Thanks so much, Anisa! Great tip about phone case. -Jana
Thank you for doing the leg work! We are going for the first time and we are using your recommendations!
Awe Vee. That is so nice to hear. I am sure you will have a great time.
This looks amazing! I’ve been to the Bahamas before but I didn’t get a chance to check out the inside of the Atlantis!
Kelly – I had so much fun at Atlantis I really want to go back. I am sure you would love it too!
Hey Anisa, my husband and I are thinking about going to Atlantis for our honeymoon, but originally we were looking for something adults only. Were there a ton of kids everywhere?
Maegen – Yes there were a lot of kids in the main parts of Atlantis. For your honeymoon, I would suggest either the Cove or the Reef which have adult only areas.
Thanks Anisa! So we would be staying in a time share, which limits us to Harborside Resort. We have other options for honeymoon destinations with fewer kids though. If we don’t stay at the Cove or Reef do we not have access to the adults only areas? Thank you again!
Unfortunately those Adult-only pool is for those staying at the Cove only. There is another what they call family-friendly pool for the Cove and Reef guests only which I imagine doesn’t have many kids. At the Harborside resort you would not have access to either unfortunately.