The Perfect Weekend Escape
Nassau, Bahamas
If you’re craving sunshine, sandy beaches, relaxation, delectable cuisine, and refreshing cocktails, you’ve landed in the perfect spot, my friend. Let us introduce you to your ultimate solution: Baha Mar. Our recent visit to this Bahamian mega-resort left us in awe—it truly epitomized the tropical beach vacation we all yearn for, especially after the tumultuous past two years.
Baha Mar is tailor-made for extended weekends, particularly for those residing on the East Coast. Situated just a short 15-minute drive from Nassau International Airport on New Providence Island in the Bahamas, once you step foot onto Baha Mar, you’ll find everything you need right at your fingertips. From picture-perfect pools to pristine beaches, from top-notch dining options to an exhilarating water park, from a luxurious spa to a thrilling casino, all sprawled across 1,000+ acres of breathtaking property—Baha Mar truly has it all. Keep reading to discover our firsthand experience at Baha Mar, one of the finest resorts in the Bahamas, along with recommendations on the best spots to unwind, dine, sip, and simply soak up the tranquility during your stay.
Your Packing List
Cowboy Hat | Sandals | Bag
Two Piece Set | Dress | Dress
Your Accommodation Choices
Your accommodation options at Baha Mar span three distinctive hotels. There’s the family-friendly Grand Hyatt ($$), the upscale SLS ($$$), and the luxurious Rosewood ($$$$). Nestled within the Baha Mar complex, each hotel offers a plethora of amenities including pools, restaurants, bars, and more. The expansive, all-white room boasted two (!!) showers, a spacious lounge area equipped with a kitchen and washer/dryer, a plush king bed, and generous outdoor space for soaking in the resort’s breathtaking views. The SLS lobby exuded a modern, chic vibe with its airy wood and stone décor, transforming into a trendy bar come evening. While the SLS may be considered the most fashionable and hip among the trio, you need not be an influencer type to feel at home (though you’ll likely encounter plenty of them—content creators aplenty).
What Activities Are You Up To?
Relaxing Poolside
At Baha Mar, the array of pools is staggering. We spotted eight during our time on the property. However, if you’re a guest at the SLS, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to a secluded pool just steps away from the lobby. The ambiance channels a vibrant Miami day club atmosphere—pumping house music, bottles of Veuve Clicquot, and a crowd of stylish 20- and 30-somethings in designer swimwear. While it’s perfect for a lively weekend with friends, it wasn’t quite our vibe. The expansive infinity pool offers breathtaking views of the ocean, the lounge chairs are incredibly comfortable, and there’s ample shaded areas for relaxation. To secure chairs at Baha Bay Beach Club, there’s a minimum spending requirement of $100 (with higher rates for day beds or cabanas), but in our opinion, it’s easily justifiable considering it can be applied toward your food and beverage expenses.
Beachside Bliss
If you’re someone who cherishes the beach, make it a point to stroll along Cable Beach (the shoreline where Baha Mar is situated) each morning to enjoy the view of the crystal blue waters. Afterwards, settle onto a plush lounge chair with a captivating book we recommend “The Vanishing Half” by Britt Bennett. The sand, a pristine sugary white, and the ocean, crystal clear and serenely warm, resembled a tranquil bathtub.
Venturing into the Water Park
Erase any preconceived notions you may have of water parks (Hurricane Harbor, anyone?) because Baha Bay’s Waterpark is in a league of its own. Sprawling, impeccably maintained, and brimming with new attractions, it offers an unparalleled experience. Dedicate one morning to navigating its wonders—drifting along the lazy river, racing down exhilarating tube slides, and attempting to conquer the wave simulator on bodyboards. Allocate a few hours to fully enjoy all it has to offer.
Where To Sip & Dine
With an abundance of choices, navigating can feel daunting, so here’s a curated list of must-visit spots for your convenience:
Must-Try Restaurants
Cleo: Enjoy delicious, shareable plates, mezzes, flatbreads, and cocktails in a warm, intimate, and energetic atmosphere.
Katsuya: Master sushi chef Katsuya Uechi offers fresh and original takes on Japanese classics, including miso-marinated black cod and yellowtail sashimi with jalapeño.
Cafe Madeleine: Savor freshly baked pastries, delicious coffee, classic French specialties like quiche and croque monsieur, as well as house-made gelato and sorbet.
The Best Time To Go
The optimal time to visit Nassau largely depends on your preferences for weather, crowd levels, and budget. Generally, the peak tourist season spans from December to April, offering pleasantly warm temperatures, minimal rainfall, and abundant sunshine. This period is ideal for beach enthusiasts and outdoor activities, with ample opportunities to explore Nassau’s attractions without the congestion of the summer months. However, bear in mind that prices tend to be higher during this peak season, and accommodations may book up quickly. For those seeking a more budget-friendly option with fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of late spring (May and June) or early fall (September and October). During these months, you can still enjoy warm temperatures and relatively dry weather, albeit with a slightly higher chance of encountering brief showers. Ultimately, the best time to go to Nassau depends on your personal preferences and priorities for your vacation experience.
