Paradise Island is hidden between a group of islands between the Caribbean and Atlantic.
It’s only a couple of hundred miles away from the southern coast of Florida, USA.
The island is rich in history and spirit. It’s known to have sheltered all types of people, such as freed slaves, pirates, smugglers, blockade runners, and runaway lovers, over the last few centuries.
It is now a peaceful spot that every tourist must visit when they come on a vacation to the Bahamas.
Hence, we'll talk about the different Paradise Island points of interest and things that you can do so that you can enjoy your stay to the fullest.
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An Overview of Paradise Island
Before we dive into the different attractions or spots you can visit and what to do in Paradise Island, let's get to know more about the island's history, location, and more.
The Island's History and Location
Paradise Island was formerly called the Hog Island.
It is roughly 685 acres in size and located right off the shore of the city of Nassau, which itself is located on the island of New Providence at the island’s northern edge.
It is connected to New Providence Island by two bridges that cross Nassau Harbor.
Resorts International built the first bridge in 1966, and the second one was built in the late 1990s.
How To Go Around the Island
Going around Paradise Island isn't that challenging because it's just a small island. In fact, many choose to walk around.
If you prefer not to, you can mostly get around the island by rented cars or taxis.
You won't have too much trouble finding one because they're usually hanging out almost all the time outside all resort entrances.
Otherwise, you can contact several car companies, such as the Majestic Tours Unlimited Hillside Manor and the Bahamas Experience, in advance.
Is It Safe To Go To Paradise Island?
It is extremely safe to go to the Paradise Islands since the Atlantis resort itself owns most of it.
That means there is a good amount of security all around.
Like any other destination you visit, though, there are certain spots you should avoid.
As long as you’re smart about things, there won’t be too much to worry about.
Paradise Island Points of Interest
There are several sights to see on the Paradise Islands, and most of them are concentrated almost exclusively in the Atlantis Resort.
The resort is known for its extensive restaurants, water park rides, beach, pools, casinos, and walk-in aquarium.
Here are the top places you can consider exploring while on the island:
1. The Dig
As the legend goes, there used to be a lavish island called Atlantis that existed thousands of years ago.
Many believe that it submerged underwater due to an earthquake or tsunami.
While it is almost impossible to prove where exactly Atlantis was located, many folks like to believe that it could have been located in the Bahamas itself, where the resort Atlantis currently resides.
The Dig is a tour to visit these supposed ruins underwater. You will find several lagoons here that house manta rays and sharks.
2. Joker’s Wild Comedy Club
If you’re looking at what to do in Paradise Island to have a good laugh, you can visit the Joker’s Wild Comedy Club to watch several comedians perform.
It is located between the Coral Towers and Beach.
3. Atlantis Live
Atlantis Live is a concert series that is put together by the Atlantis Resort itself.
It features many popular performers from all types of genres, making it perfect for all music lovers.
4. Cabbage Beach
This is a beautiful and publicly accessible beach that has pristine white sand and turquoise waters.
It is a mile long and runs along the northern part of the island.
You will find a public beach access trail running along the eastern side of the Riu Resort.
Many taxi drivers get tourists here from cruise ships and nearby resorts.
You will also easily find a taxi to take you back to your destination.
Do note that the beach does tend to overcrowd, especially around the Atlantis and Riu Resort.
That said, it eventually thins out quickly when the respective resort clubs open.
5. Dolphin Cay
This is home to a group of sea lions, dolphins, and manta rays.
Here, you can partake in several different activities that allow you to interact with these animals.
You can simply meet the dolphins in the shallow end or even go diving with them in the deep end.
For those who are just looking to have a peaceful time, you can visit the beach attached to the cay for relaxing and simply spectating.
6. Golf Course
Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, you can enjoy rounds of golf on the island.
You will find a traditional 18-hole course ideal for experienced players.
For beginners, you can head to the Ocean Club Golf Academy, where they provide golf lessons.
7. Water Park
There are two water parks on this island. These are ideal spots for families to enjoy together.
You can enjoy the lazy river to have a peaceful time in the water.
For those looking for an adventure, you can take a dip into the shark tank or head to the power tower, where you can slide down the four different kinds of slides.
8. Spa
The island boasts plenty of spas for those looking to relax.
You can avail of services like body massages, facials, teeth whitening, and hair treatments.
9. French Cloister and Versailles Gardens
If you don’t want to spend too much money, you can simply go on a walk to the French Cloister and Versailles Gardens.
This is only 15 minutes away from the Atlantis resort on foot.
These beautifully manicured gardens are all part of the One and Only Ocean Club of Casino Royale, but they are open to outsiders, too.
These gardens are the perfect spot to have a picnic or have a photo shoot.
10. Souvenir Shops
You can buy many things in Paradise Islands, from the latest fashion for men and women to traditional souvenirs.
You can buy them in Marina Village and other shops.
Marina Village
Located right next to the Atlantis, Marina Village is a shopping street that was built according to the originally meant plans for the rebuilding of Bay Street.
While the village is a great space to stroll and look around at different shops, note that the things here are exceedingly expensive.
You will find most of them in other areas at a lower price.
Other Souvenir Shops
Apart from Marina Village, here are some of the best places to buy affordable and worthy items:
- Atlantis Logo Stores: The Atlantis Logo Stores is a perfect spot for those keen on buying traditional souvenirs, such as keychains and magnets.
- Crystal Court Shops: You will find several shops in this spot. They offer the best options in men’s and women’s fashion.
- Pro Shop: If you are looking to buy or rent sports equipment and apparel, the Pro Shop is the perfect place!
What Is There To Do Outside of Atlantis Resort?
While most of the points of interest can be found and activities can be done in the Atlantis resort, it does not mean that there aren’t any activities at all to do outside the resort.
For instance, you can visit the Marina Village to enjoy an airy outdoor marketplace offering a wide range of restaurants and shops.
You can also head to downtown Nassau to enjoy a five-course gourmet lunch with perfect wine selections at the Graycliff Hotel or even explore the Bahamas' colorful history at the Parliament Square.
What Is There To Do in Paradise Island at Night?
There are a lot of things to do in Paradise Island Bahamas during the night.
Some of the most popular ones include:
1. Play in the Casino
For the adults, you can enjoy at several different casinos and clubs spread all over the island and in the high-end resorts.
There are different ways to play here, including horse racing, slots, and card tables.
2. Create Remote Control Cars
For a family-centric nighttime activity, you can head to the Atlantis Speedway where you can build, design, and race remote control cars.
3. Watch Events and Movies
You can see the Junkanoo Parade at the Marina Village that happens every Friday and Saturday at 9:30 PM.
Here you will find carnival-like dancers dressed in gorgeous headdresses and costumes. This is a fun event for all ages.
Alternatively, you can have a more chill time at night by watching the latest Hollywood blockbuster at the Atlantis Theatre.
4. Drink and Dance
The Aura Night Club is a trendy spot for tourists to enjoy drinking and dancing into the wee hours of the night.
This is a massive 9000 square foot space featuring a glass dance floor.
It is located right above the casino and is a perfect spot for adults to socialize with other guests on the island.
Where To Eat and Drink
A great thing about Paradise Islands is that you will find tons of places to eat and drink, from budget-friendly to fancy restaurants.
Thus, one of the best things to do in Paradise Island Bahamas is to try out the different cuisines and drinks offered by the following:
1. Dune
If you want to eat exactly where James Bond did, then head to the Dune.
This restaurant has great food and impeccable service.
This is also a bar that is open throughout the day with amazing views of the beach. You can buy drinks starting from $10.
You can find it in Ocean Club, and is open to non-residents too. Do note, though, that this is an extremely pricey restaurant.
A plate of fruit platter will cost you upwards of $20.
2. Nobu
For Asian cuisine, head to the famous Nobu by chef Nobu Matsuhisa.
The chef puts his own spin on a traditional Japanese fare.
3. Café Martinique
For French cuisine, head to chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten's Café Martinique.
It is a fine dining restaurant serving some amazing French food.
4. Hurricane Hole
Officially called the Waterfront Bar and Grill, this is a unique outdoor drinking joint where you will find a mix of tourists and locals enjoying.
The drinks here are reasonably priced, and they start from $4.
5. Bahamian Grill
To feast on the local cuisine, we recommend heading to Bahamian Grill.
They specialize in serving traditional Caribbean cuisine.
Enjoying the Several Spots in Paradise Island
It’s not necessary that you have to drop major bucks to have a good time in Paradise Island.
There are tons of things to do and places to visit, no matter how old you are and how much money you’re willing to spend.
That said, our list of Paradise Island points of interest are only those that are visited mostly by tourists.
You will find more when you explore the islands.
