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Paradise Island
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Island
Paradise Island is a 277-hectare island located just off the shore of the city of Nassau, which sits on the northern edge of New Providence Island. Originally known as Hog Island, the area was renamed in 1962 to attract international tourism and has since become one of the most prominent resort destinations in the Caribbean. Two bridges, constructed in 1966 and 1998, connect the island to the mainland, facilitating access for the millions of visitors who arrive annually to experience its world-class facilities. The island is dominated by the massive Atlantis Resort, which features a vast marine habitat, extensive water parks, and large-scale hotel infrastructure. Geographically, it is characterized by its expansive white sandy beaches on the northern coast, such as Cabbage Beach, and its sheltered harbor on the southern side. Beyond the commercial developments, the island maintains historical elements like the Hog Island Lighthouse, built in 1817, which remains the oldest lighthouse in the Bahamas. Today, it serves as a central hub for the country's tourism economy while offering exclusive residential enclaves in its eastern reaches.
- Location: Bahamas
- Top sights: Imperial Arena · Atlantis Paradise Island · The Cove Luxury Resort
- Nearby: Sandy Point (21 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 23 | 23 | 25 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 25 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 38 | 33 | 40 | 61 | 127 | 162 | 130 | 154 | 164 | 119 | 68 | 40 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
This densely built-up island is seamlessly connected to the capital, Nassau, and can be conveniently reached via two prominent road bridges. Alternatively, water taxis and ferries run throughout the day, shuttling pedestrians swiftly and scenically across the harbor.
Best season
The peak travel season generally falls during the dry winter months from December to April, when the climate features optimal conditions for beach stays and resort visits. Outside these months, it is hotter, more humid, and the likelihood of tropical storms increases noticeably.
Terrain & paths
Although it is an island, the terrain is highly urbanized and is dominated by large resort complexes, artificial water landscapes, and manicured sandy beaches. The pathways are entirely paved or cobbled and are absolutely accessible without barriers.
What to bring
In addition to classic beach and swimwear, appropriate casual wear is recommended, as many restaurants and attractions within the luxury resorts enforce certain dress codes. A credit card is practically indispensable for accessing many of the exclusive offerings on site.
Parking
For visitors arriving via the bridges with their own vehicle or rental car, there are large, usually paid parking garages and lots near the major resorts. However, taxis and private shuttles are often the more stress-free option to avoid parking fees and logistics.
Safety
Thanks to a strong security presence in the resorts, the area is considered very safe for tourists, though standard precautions against pickpocketing should still be taken. On the beaches, one must also pay attention to the flag system regarding current surf conditions.
Time needed
A visit can last anywhere from half a day for a simple stroll and lunch to several days if one wishes to fully utilize the extensive water parks and attractions. Many vacationers choose the island as the main base for their entire stay anyway.
Geography
Facts
- The island covers a total land area of approximately 277 hectares (1.07 square miles).
- It was officially renamed from Hog Island to Paradise Island in 1962.
- The Hog Island Lighthouse at the western tip was constructed in 1817.
- Two bridges connect the island to Nassau, with the longest measuring about 460 meters.
- The Atlantis Resort features marine habitats containing over 50,000 aquatic animals.
- Investment by Huntington Hartford in the 1960s laid the foundation for its modern tourism industry.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Paradise Island (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the most famous resort on Paradise Island?
Atlantis Paradise Island, famous for its water park and aquarium.
How is Paradise Island connected to Nassau?
By two large toll bridges and a water taxi.
Are there public beaches there?
Yes, Cabbage Beach is the most famous public beach on the island.
What can you visit besides the resorts?
The Versailles Gardens and The Cloisters are beautiful and free to visit.
Is the island expensive?
Yes, Paradise Island is considered one of the most exclusive and expensive destinations in the Bahamas.
Paradise Island: where is it located?
Paradise Island is located in Bahamas.
Paradise Island: what is there to see?
Highlights include Imperial Arena, Atlantis Paradise Island, The Cove Luxury Resort.
Paradise Island: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Paradise Island: why is it worth visiting?
Paradise Island is a 277-hectare island located just off the shore of the city of Nassau, which sits on the northern edge of New Providence Island.
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Nearby cities
Nassau
The capital and commercial hub of the Bahamas.
Freeport
A city and free trade zone located on Grand Bahama island.
West End
The oldest town on Grand Bahama and the island's capital.
Marsh Harbour
The commercial hub of the Abaco Islands.
Alice Town
The main settlement on Bimini, known for sport fishing.
History & landmarks
Andros Barrier Reef
The third largest barrier reef in the world, perfect for diving.
Pink Sands Beach
A famous beach on Harbour Island with pale pink sand.
Glass Window Bridge
A spot where you can see the dark Atlantic and turquoise Caribbean Sea simultaneously.
Pig Beach
An uninhabited beach in Exuma, known for its swimming pigs.
Thunderball Grotto
Underwater cave in Exuma, filming location of a James Bond movie.
Stairway to Heaven
A beautiful snorkeling spot in Exuma.
Lucayan National Park
A park on Grand Bahama featuring one of the longest underwater cave systems.
Bimini Road
Underwater rock formation that some believe is part of Atlantis.
Nature
More places
The Cloisters
Ruins of a 14th-century French monastery.
Fort Charlotte
The largest fort in Nassau featuring a moat and dungeons.
Blue Lagoon Island
A small private island near Nassau popular for dolphin encounters.
Hope Town
Known for its iconic red-and-white striped lighthouse.
Dunmore Town
Historic town on Harbour Island with pastel-colored houses.
Great Bahama Bank
A vast underwater carbonate platform known for its extremely shallow, turquoise waters.
Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park
The first land and sea park in the world.
Eleuthera
A long, thin island known for pink sand beaches and pineapple fields.