Discover Paradise
Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas unveils a tropical haven of luxury, the reimagined Atlantis Casino, culinary excellence and endless adventures
By Sean Chaffin
There’s so much to experience with a trip to the Caribbean and the Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas. But the mere location of this amazing resort may say it all—Paradise Island. Crystal blue waters with white sand beaches, amazing marine life sanctuaries, delectable cuisine and drinks, a thrilling water slide venue, luxurious hotel rooms, friendly staff, an excellent casino, and so much more.
There is seemingly no end to what’s on tap after booking a stay. The property delivers something for everyone and that now includes even more activities, opulence and fun after a recent multi-million-dollar renovations. For 25 years, the world-famous resort has been internationally recognized for celebrated architecture, luxurious guest rooms, suites and amenities and impressive dining experiences. The property celebrated that quarter-century in operation throughout 2023 and that momentum continues into 2024.
Pack the sunglasses, a swimsuit and that lucky charm. Some fine dining, sun-soaked beaches, crystal-blue waters, fun casino action and some truly memorable experiences await.
The Complete Package Vacation
Booking an Atlantis vacation comes with numerous options and plenty of activities. Of course, hanging by the beach or one of several pools for a day of carefree relaxation is also a nice treat. Atlantis has plenty of all of the above. The property is situated on Paradise Island, which is just off the coast of the much larger island of New Providence, home to the country’s capital of Nassau and the former stomping grounds of numerous pirates including Charles Vane, “Calico” Jack Rackham, Benjamin Hornigold and Henry Jennings.
Nowadays, there will be no worries of buccaneers and bandits, but it’s easy to see why those marauders enjoyed setting up camp in the area. Bask in the sun on one of six brilliant white-sand beaches stretched over five miles adjoining the azure waters of the Caribbean. Or grab a chair at one of more than 20 swimming areas that include 14 distinctly unique pools. Atlantis is an aquatic adventure with something for the entire family, just as the name implies.
Beyond the beach and pools, enjoy a stay in one of four hotels. Each features a different level of opulence and amenities, but all deliver on a comfortable stay with easy access to what Atlantis has to offer. The Harborside Resort Villas are also another great option, offering a secluded escape and marina access and the perfect option for large groups or families—large layouts and amenities such as full kitchens and laundry.
When it comes to grabbing a nice bite to eat, Atlantis hails the property’s options as the “culinary capital of the Caribbean.” Visitors can take their pick from over 40 restaurants, with Paranza as one of the property’s latest additions. The eatery features innovative Italian regional cuisine from celebrated Michelin-starred chef Michael White. He joins Nobu Matsuhisa (Nobu) and José Andrés (Fish) in making Atlantis the only resort destination in the region with three Michelin star-rated chef concepts.
At Paranza, White’s menu spotlights a medley of house-made pasta, seafood and his modern take on Italian classics, “creating a symphony of flavors that showcase his passion for regional Italian cuisine.” A few signature dishes include Ricciola, amberjack with citrus Fresno chilis and basil; Detice, red snapper with Ligurian olives and finger lime; and Scampi, langoustine with fennel, lemon confit, and osetra caviar.
“Paranza at Atlantis Paradise Island is the most important opening in my culinary career since Marea,” White said. “Paranza offers an opportunity for me to express my passion for the delicate intricacies of coastal Italian cuisine while exploring new flavors and tastes of the region. Expanding into the Bahamas and becoming part of the culinary landscape of Atlantis Paradise Island is simply an opportunity of a lifetime.”
Even more culinary exploration awaits, from fine dining to casual to quick-bite options. For some local cuisine, Fish offers the freshest Bahamian seafood, with favorites like conch and spiny lobster, Caribbean grouper and more. Enjoy the perfect outing with friends and family at Nobu, where you’ll experience succulent dishes like sushi, Wagyu beef and king crab legs. The new Silan restaurant opens in 2024, from restaurateur Emily Shaya and James Beard Foundation Award-winning chef Alon Shaya. Diners will delight in Mediterranean-inspired cuisine paying homage to Shaya’s Israeli heritage, while incorporating ingredients local to the Bahamas.
A few other recent additions include Bar Sol, a perfect spot to take in the excitement on the casino floor with live music nightly; and Moon Bar, with an unmatched marine habitat centerpiece behind the bar with moon jellyfish—a surreal environment for enjoying some classic cocktails, a glass of fine wine, draft beer and a wide menu of cigars.
Those seeking more casual options while enjoying some seaside views and outdoor Caribbean vibes can catch some fresh air and great meals at Lagoon Bar & Grill, Pisces, Shark Bites and more. For tasty burgers and fries, along with some of the best milkshakes around, a new Shake Shack also opened in 2023. This is the first of the popular franchises in the country and diners can take a seat not only to dig in, but also to check out stunning views of Atlantis’ “The Dig” aquarium. For those needing an energy jolt, there are several Starbucks located on site as well.
Looking for even more food and drink-inspired fun? The resort recently announced the return of the Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival, running March 13-17. The event promises to be the ultimate gastronomic epicenter for gourmands, foodies and connoisseurs, boasting a wide range of restaurants led by globally recognized Michelin-starred and James Beard Award-winning chefs. Additionally, expect to see offerings from master sommeliers, mixologists and celebrated TV personalities with walk-around tasting events, lively culinary demonstrations and classes, and intimate chef-led happy hours, lunches and dinners.
Some of those celebrity chefs include Robert Irvine, Nobu Matsuhisa and Martha Stewart. Also part of the festivities are master mixologist Tony Abou-Ganim and culinary talents Duff Goldman, JJ Johnson, Alon Shaya, Michael White and Andrew Zimmern. Grammy Award winner and Golden Globe-nominated rapper Wyclef Jean returns to paradise for a late-night performance at the festival’s signature Jerk Jam. There’s something for everyone in this unique event. For tickets and more information, visit www.npiwff.org.
When the sun goes down, guests may be looking to turn the party up a bit. Head to Sea Glass nightclub to dance the night away and enjoy some great cocktails. The venue is located in The Cove and along with some bumping tunes, enjoy some light tapas, fruit-infused martinis and other signature cocktails. There seems to be no end to the fun factor at this unmatched resort.
Magnificent Casino Experience
Beyond the beach life, Atlantis offers gamblers plenty of opportunities to spin some reels, play some cards and have some fun with friends. This is no mini-casino. Instead, expect a full-scale gambling venue much like one might find at major resorts on the Vegas Strip, although Atlantis may offer even a bigger feast for the senses.
The casino links The Royal and The Coral hotels, and spans a seven-acre lagoon, offering a completely unique aquamarine gaming experience. These aren’t windowless boxes; players have plenty of brilliant poolside and ocean views. The property boasts over 700 of the latest slot machines and 85 table games.
Sports fans will want to grab a cocktail and check out the Atlantis Race & Sports Book, powered by William Hill, which features wagering on all sporting events, such as the Super Bowl, Kentucky Derby and more. The property has become a home for major poker events over the last two decades as well, including hosting the PokerStars Caribbean Adventure for many years and unveiling the World Series of Poker Paradise in December. After a recent significant redevelopment, even more awaits guests.
“The timing to welcome guests to experience the Bahamas is perfect as Atlantis unveils a multimillion-dollar transformation of the Atlantis Casino complemented by renovated guest rooms at The Royal and new Michelin star chef dining experiences,” Chief Gaming and Customer Development Officer Joe Brunini says. “Gamers will also enjoy our brand new Cleito’s lounge for high rollers.”
“We have one of the largest casinos in the Caribbean. It is the perfect time to visit the Atlantis Casino. Upon entering the Atlantis Casino, guests will be welcomed with a grander and even more elegant sense of space.”
The Cove Pool also offers a unique outdoor gambling experience. This adult pool area features seven table games including craps, blackjack, baccarat and more. Sea Glass also offers an indoor gaming and lounge area with several table games and 20 mid- to high-range slot machines. Casino staff take pride in meeting customer requests.
“In addition to the Atlantis Casino and SeaGlass, at Atlantis Paradise Island, we provide a variety of gaming offerings, and we’re flexible to meet the needs of our guests,” Brunini says. “If a customer wants a particular game in any gaming area and we know in advance, we switch it out and put the games there to accommodate. We keep an inventory of various table games in each area, which allows us to expedite customer requests and switch them out as needed.”
“Each gaming area has a Bahamian flair, combining very outgoing local personalities and the archipelago’s unique style. I would consider the Atlantis Casino a Bahamian casino with a slight Vegas flair. I say slight only because of the offerings and the type of well-known table games we offer. I would put our offerings on the level of any casino in Vegas,” Brunini continued.
Something Different
After touching down at Atlantis, guests may almost be overwhelmed by all that’s offered. But fear not—the property boasts a complete app to help visitors find restaurants, beaches, activities and everything available.
Along with the beaches and pools, numerous other aquatic activities and excursions are available including snorkeling, paddle boats, paddleboards, water bikes, kayaks and more. A major highlight, especially for those with families, is the Aquaventure. Admission to this 141-acre water park is complimentary for overnight guests and offers thrilling slides that will take your breath away, mile-long river rapids, almost two dozen swimming areas and pools and a fort play area designed just for kids. Aquaventure is quite an experience for young and old alike.
Atlantis is also more than just a traditional vacation spot in other ways as well. The property takes pride in helping to preserve several marine life species through on-site habitats. It hosts 14 lagoons with eight million gallons of ocean water. These areas have become home to more than 50,000 aquatic animals representing over 250 marine species. Guests have the opportunity to view and even interact with some of these animals—from tropical fish to sharks to dolphins to sea lions.
Dreamed of swimming with dolphins? Visit Dolphin Cay for a one-of-a-kind experience. The veterinary team even offers guests a hands-on afternoon of caring for dolphins, sea lions and macaws located in this habitat. At the Mayan Temple, check out Shark Lagoon for a first-hand experience with these marvels of the sea. The underwater Atlantis ruins also offer an amazing chance for some adventurous snorkeling through a complete aquamarine habitat, complete with tropical fish and species like jacks, snappers and spiny lobster. Another option is the Stingray Experience, a hands-on encounter with hundreds of rays and colorful fish. The list could go on and on, and it’s a good bet there’s something to please every member of the family.
Beyond the resort itself, there are numerous other excursion possibilities. The resort recently partnered with Aquazeal, the Bahamas’ most prestigious luxury yacht charter company. The company offers travelers numerous options including day trips exploring Paradise Island or extended multi-day luxury yacht charters.
“Atlantis’ exciting new partnership with Aquazeal offers our guests the opportunity to explore even more of the Bahamas’ culture, marine life and stunning environment through a distinct lens—luxury yachting,” Atlantis President and Managing Director Audrey Oswell said. “We are delighted that Atlantis serves as a gateway for travelers to experience the islands.”
Golfers are in luck at Atlantis as well. The Ocean Club Golf Course not only comes with 18 holes and more than 7,100 yards of competitive driving and putting paradise, but also stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Nassau Harbor. Designed by Tom Weiskopf, the course is located on Paradise Island Oceanside peninsula and offers one of the best places to tee it up in the Caribbean. A five-night golf getaway package includes a complimentary round of golf, a $25 golf store credit, and a $50 clubhouse food and beverage credit. A few days on the course might also be complemented by the spa for a complete spa treatment.
Along with aquatic adventures, outdoor opportunities, marine habitats and brilliant dining, Atlantis also regularly hosts major entertainment acts. For New Years that meant a complete celebration and performance by Maroon 5. A performance by Janet Jackson is another big event on the calendar, set for April 27. The property also hosts the annual Battle 4 Atlantis college basketball tournament. Other entertainment options include regular comedy shows, culinary experiences, live music and so much more.
Atlantis may have been a centuries-old mythical lost island civilization, but Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas is the real deal and captures that sense of wonder and exploration like few other vacation spots. Sip a tropical drink, play some slots, hit the beach, take in a first-hand ocean adventure, or experience some nightlife. This is a trip like no other and may have visitors already planning that next time to make their way back.
For more information, visit www.atlantisbahamas.com.
Sean Chaffin is a freelance writer and senior writer for Casino Player and Strictly Slots magazines. Follow him on Twitter @PokerTraditions or email him at seanchaffin@sbcglobal.net for story assignments.
