If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to gentle ocean breezes, crystal-clear waters, and endless sunshine, the Bahamas is where those dreams become reality. With over 700 islands and cays, each offering its own charm, the hardest part isn’t deciding whether to visit; it’s figuring out where to stay. From ultra-luxury resorts on private islands to budget-friendly guesthouses near vibrant local markets, the Bahamas offers accommodations for every travel style and budget.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the different types of stays, share insider tips, and help you choose the perfect home base. Whether you’re here for romance, family fun, adventure, or relaxation, there’s a spot in the Bahamas with your name on it.

How to Choose the Right Bahamas Stay for Your Travel Style

Choosing the perfect place to stay in the Bahamas starts with knowing what you want out of your trip. Are you looking for the buzz of nightlife and restaurants, or do you prefer a secluded beach where the only footprints are your own? Are you a luxury traveler chasing the ultimate spa experience, or a backpacker eager to connect with locals?

  • Location matters: Some islands are bustling with activities, while others are peaceful escapes.
  • Budget plays a role: Price ranges vary greatly depending on the island, season, and style of stay.
  • Your travel group: Solo adventurers, couples, families, and large groups often have different needs.

If you need help deciding which island suits your personality best, get the Bahamas islands overview for an in-depth comparison of all major islands.

Overview of Accommodation Types Across the Bahamas

With such a wide variety of islands, it’s no surprise that the Bahamas offers an equally diverse range of places to stay. From glamorous five-star resorts where every detail is taken care of, to rustic beachside cottages where you can watch the sunrise in peace, there’s a perfect fit for every type of traveler.

Below, I’ve broken down the main accommodation categories, sharing what makes each unique, where you’ll find them, the price range you can expect, and who they’re best suited for, plus my personal top five recommendations for each.

Luxury Resorts

These properties are the epitome of indulgence — think white-glove service, world-class dining, championship golf courses, and infinity pools that seem to spill into the sea. Many are set on prime beachfront locations, offering private cabanas and butlers to anticipate your every need. Perfect for travelers seeking nothing but the finest amenities and a truly pampered escape.

Top 5 Suggestions: The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort (Paradise Island), Grand Isle Resort & Residences (Great Exuma), Rosewood Baha Mar (Nassau), SLS Baha Mar (Nassau), The Cove at Atlantis (Paradise Island)
Location: Paradise Island, Nassau, Great Exuma, select Out Islands
Budget: $500–$1,500+ per night
Suitable for: Honeymooners, luxury travelers, special occasions

Private Island Resorts

For those who want complete seclusion, these resorts offer entire islands for your exclusive use or with just a few other guests. Expect personalized service, private chefs, pristine beaches, and activities tailored exactly to your preferences. This is the ultimate getaway for privacy, romance, and high-profile escapes.

Top 5 Suggestions: Kamalame Cay (Andros), Fowl Cay Resort (Exumas), Musha Cay (Exumas), Over Yonder Cay (Exumas), Lighthouse Point Residences (Eleuthera)
Location: Mainly Exumas, Andros, and Eleuthera
Budget: $3,000–$50,000 per night (often exclusive buyouts)
Suitable for: Ultra-luxury travelers, celebrities, private group retreats

Boutique Hotels

Small in size but big on personality, boutique hotels offer a more intimate atmosphere with stylish decor, unique architecture, and personalized touches you won’t find in large resorts. Many are run by locals or families, making them ideal for travelers who want authenticity along with comfort.

Top 5 Suggestions: Rock House Hotel (Harbour Island), Pineapple Fields Resort (Eleuthera), Graycliff Hotel (Nassau), Bahama Beach Club (Abaco), Coral Sands Hotel (Harbour Island)
Location: Harbour Island, Eleuthera, Nassau, Abaco
Budget: $250–$600 per night
Suitable for: Couples, small families, culture lovers

All-Inclusive Resorts

One price covers everything — accommodations, meals, drinks, and often activities like snorkeling, sailing, or nightly entertainment. These resorts make it easy to relax without constantly thinking about your budget, and they’re perfect for travelers who want convenience above all else.

Top 5 Suggestions: Sandals Emerald Bay (Exuma), Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach (Grand Bahama), Breezes Resort & Spa (Nassau), Warwick Paradise Island (Adults Only), Club Med Columbus Isle (San Salvador)
Location: Nassau, Paradise Island, Exuma, Grand Bahama, San Salvador
Budget: $300–$700 per night (double occupancy)
Suitable for: Couples, families, all-in-one vacation seekers

Budget Hotels and Inns

Affordable doesn’t mean you have to compromise on location or comfort. Many budget stays in the Bahamas are close to beaches, public transportation, and local restaurants, giving you easy access to the islands without draining your wallet.

Top 5 Suggestions: El Greco Hotel (Nassau), Pelican Bay Hotel (Grand Bahama), Royal Palm Hotel (Harbour Island), Island Time Villas (Exuma), Orange Hill Beach Inn (Nassau)
Location: Nassau, Grand Bahama, Exuma, Harbour Island
Budget: $100–$200 per night
Suitable for: Backpackers, solo travelers, Bahamas Budget travelers

Vacation Rentals and Villas

If you want privacy, extra space, and the comforts of home, vacation rentals are the way to go. Many villas come with full kitchens, private pools, and beachfront access, making them great for longer stays or group trips.

Top 5 Suggestions: Airbnb Luxe Bahamas (Various Islands), Exuma Beach Rental Villas, Harbour Island Beach Houses, Nassau Oceanfront Villas, Eleuthera Family Villas
Location: All islands, most common in Exuma, Harbour Island, Nassau, Eleuthera
Budget: $250–$1,500 per night
Suitable for: Groups, extended families, privacy seekers

Eco-Lodges & Eco-Friendly Resorts

These properties combine comfort with sustainability, often running on renewable energy and offering organic dining options. Staying here means enjoying the Bahamas’ natural beauty while helping protect it.

Top 5 Suggestions: Small Hope Bay Lodge (Andros), Tiamo Resort (Andros), Fernandez Bay Village (Cat Island), Andros South Lodge, Bimini Big Game Club Resort (Bimini)
Location: Andros, Cat Island, Bimini
Budget: $300–$800 per night
Suitable for: Eco-conscious travelers, nature lovers

Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs)

Perfect for travelers who value personal touches and local hospitality. Many B&Bs serve home-cooked breakfasts and offer insider recommendations on hidden beaches or local events.

Top 5 Suggestions: A Stone’s Throw Away (Nassau), La Bougainvillea (Eleuthera), Banana Bay Resort (Grand Bahama), Driftwood Beach B&B (Abaco), Tingum Village Hotel (Harbour Island)
Location: Nassau, Eleuthera, Grand Bahama, Harbour Island, Abaco
Budget: $150–$300 per night
Suitable for: Couples, solo travelers, cultural explorers

Marinas & Yacht Clubs

If you’re arriving by boat, these stays give you direct dock access along with comfortable accommodations. They often include clubhouses, restaurants, and easy access to water sports.

Top 5 Suggestions: Nassau Yacht Haven, Treasure Cay Marina (Abaco), Valentine’s Resort & Marina (Harbour Island), Bimini Big Game Club Marina, Grand Bahama Yacht Club
Location: Nassau, Abaco, Harbour Island, Bimini, Grand Bahama
Budget: Dock fees $2–$6 per foot; rooms $200–$500 per night
Suitable for: Boaters, luxury travelers, fishing enthusiasts

Guesthouses & Hostels

Ideal for budget travelers who want a simple stay and the chance to meet fellow adventurers. Many are located near town centers or beaches, offering communal spaces for socializing.

Top 5 Suggestions: Humes House (Nassau), Da Pink Chicken (Eleuthera), Beachfront Hostel Exuma, Bahama House (Harbour Island), Freeport Backpackers (Grand Bahama)
Location: Nassau, Eleuthera, Exuma, Harbour Island, Grand Bahama
Budget: $40–$120 per night
Suitable for: Backpackers, solo travelers, budget adventurers

Fishing Lodges

These lodges cater specifically to anglers, offering guided fishing trips, boat rentals, and knowledgeable local staff who know the best spots for bonefish, marlin, and more.

Top 5 Suggestions: Andros Island Bonefish Club, Swain’s Cay Lodge (Andros), Stella Maris Resort (Long Island), Crooked Island Lodge, Bimini Sands Resort & Marina
Location: Andros, Long Island, Crooked Island, Bimini
Budget: $250–$700 per night
Suitable for: Sport fishing enthusiasts, nature lovers

Family-Friendly Resorts

These resorts are designed for all ages, with kids’ clubs, child-safe pools, and activities to keep everyone entertained. Parents can enjoy spa treatments or water sports while the kids have supervised fun.

Top 5 Suggestions: Atlantis Paradise Island, Grand Lucayan (Grand Bahama), Melia Nassau Beach, Abaco Beach Resort, Exuma Palms Hotel
Location: Paradise Island, Nassau, Grand Bahama, Abaco, Exuma
Budget: $300–$800 per night
Suitable for: Families, multigenerational trips, Family & Kid-Friendly Activities planners

Seasonal Considerations & When to Visit

The Bahamas is a year-round destination, but your experience (and costs) will change depending on the season. Peak season is December to April, bringing sunny skies and bustling resorts.

During the Bahamas travel seasons, Shoulder seasons (late April to early June, and September to early November) offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds. Off-season (late summer to early fall) has lower prices but a higher chance of rain.

Tips for Booking Accommodation During Island-Hopping Adventures

Island-hopping in the Bahamas can be an unforgettable experience, but it takes careful planning — especially when it comes to where you’ll stay on each island. Accommodation availability varies greatly between islands, and some properties book out months in advance during peak season. Transfers between islands can also be weather-dependent, so flexibility is key.

Here are my top tips for a smooth booking experience:

  • Choose accommodations that offer or arrange inter-island transfers.
  • Book all stays in advance if traveling during peak season.
  • Consider staying longer on major islands and taking day trips to smaller cays.
  • Look for package deals that combine stays on multiple islands.
  • Always check the cancellation policy in case weather disrupts your travel plans.
  • Use our service to Book accommodation in the Bahamas in one seamless itinerary.

Insider Tips from My Bahamas Trips

Over the years, I’ve learned a few booking tricks that save money and enhance your stay:

  • Book mid-week stays to get lower rates.
  • Join hotel loyalty programs for perks.
  • Ask locals for off-the-radar rentals.
  • Stay at B&Bs for authentic breakfasts and stories.
  • Check for package deals that include meals and activities.

Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Bahamian Stay

No matter your travel style, the Bahamas has a perfect stay waiting for you. From private villas in the Exumas to bustling resorts in Nassau, each option offers its own flavor of paradise. Start planning now, book early for the best options, and let the Bahamas welcome you home.