Destination information
Just a stone’s throw from Nassau is fun-packed holiday playground, Paradise Island. Only 4 miles long and half a mile wide, it is hard to believe that it was once called Hog Island – a lonely piece of land, whose beaches and tropical splendour went largely unnoticed by tourists and locals alike. Transformed completely in recent years, it has become one of the world’s most luxurious resorts, combining exclusive tranquillity with plenty of action. Connected to Nassau by 2 bridges, the main attraction here is most definitely the 97-acre Atlantis waterscape with over 20 million gallons of lagoons, pools, waterfalls and giant subterranean aquariums, making it the largest marine habitat in the world. At the river loop, jump on an inner tube and ride all day through lifts and drops, white-water rapids, 80-foot underground tunnels and even a conveyor belt to the top of the giant waterslides! There’s also a casino here, one of the largest in the Caribbean, featuring a spectacular open-plan design and ringed with restaurants of every kind. Paradise Island is home to many a stunning beach, making it easy to whittle away the day in complete relaxation if that’s what appeals. Cabbage Beach is one of the most popular but you can always find a secluded spot on the north-west extension if you’re prepared to walk a bit. If you’re a golf enthusiast, there’s an 18-hole championship course or head to the one at Cable Beach. Water sports include sailing, windsurfing, waterskiing, snorkelling and deep sea fishing. Shopping is plentiful with Marina Village offering something for everyone. The Craft Centre is the island’s very own version of a straw market with Junkanoo art on sale, conch shell jewellery and driftwood paintings.
Eats & drinks
There are dozens of restaurants in Paradise Island, most of which are in the Atlantis complex. For fine dining head to Fathoms at the Atlantis or Blue Lagoon at Club Land’or. Anthony’s Caribbean Grill in the Paradise Shopping Plaza has a laid-back atmosphere and there are delis where you can buy sandwiches and coffee to go. If you’re on a budget, cross the bridge into downtown Nassau. The restaurants are cheaper here with conch a definite must-try!
Getting around
The Atlantis Resort Shuttle is FREE to Atlantis guests, transporting you round Paradise Island, including Marina Village. Downtown Nassau is around half an hour walk away or hop on a ferry boat between Paradise Island and Nassau, running daily between 9am-6pm. Taxis are readily available.