With a nickname like “The Magic City,” it’s little wonder that visitors around the world flock to Miami for fun, sun, and surf. But when the city’s own inhabitants want a beachy weekend or longer away, The Bahamas are their go-to best kept secret destination.
Just an under an hour by plane or three via ferry from Miami, the islands provide an alternate reality that mirrors the best of what Miami offers: pristine beaches, vibrant sunshine, and an abundance of activities and luxury lodging that help Floridian guests fully relax and recharge before they return stateside.
While there are now a number of high-end resorts in The Bahamas, the master-planned, 1,000-acre luxury resort development Baha Mar on the white sands of Cable Beach in Nassau tops the list for its exceptional beauty and range of lodging, entertainment, and experiential programs available.
Dubbed The Bahamas’ premier resort, the destination offers more than 2,300 rooms spread out over three unique properties. Each provides a distinct world-class resort adventure, whether guests are on a tropical girls’ trip or bachelor party, family getaway, looking to get lucky at the largest casino in the Caribbean, or taking a well-deserved solo spa excursion.
The stylish SLS Baha Mar, with its iconic pink façade, rocks a lively vibe but with a Bahamian-inspired groove. A day spent in a cabana at this upscale tropical sanctuary’s adults-only pool party easily segues into dinner at one of the nearby award-winning, chef-driven restaurants. Follow mealtime with a nightcap at one of SLS Baha Mar’s cocktail venues that includes Skybar, the island’s only rooftop lounge that’s perched high above the property and has a wraparound bar with stunning 360-degree views, and Bond, a 10,000-square foot venue complete with luxe interiors, a state-of-the art sound system and performances by a roster of world renowned DJs.
For something on the quieter side, Baha Mar houses Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, the second distinct property under the brand’s expanding umbrella. A space designed with impeccable pools throughout the property, it also features dramatic fountain shows that help guests celebrate life’s most important and memorable experiences, from family gatherings or a reunion of friends to a special anniversary or romantic getaway.
Mornings at Grand Hyatt Baha Mar may include a day on the green at the nearby Jack Nicklaus signature designed Royal Blue Golf Course, while an afternoon could be spent relaxing at the 30,000 square-foot ESPA spa, or just taking in works by local artists at The Current.
The resort’s destination arts program, The Current, is curated by Bahamian artist, influencer and Baha Mar’s art director, John Cox and features over 2,500 pieces by both established and emerging Bahamian artists. The artwork is on display throughout the entire property, offering guests a chance to engage with the local culture at every turn.
Whether still maintaining socially distant activities or ready to get more intimate, there’s a grand assortment of activity suggestions here (no pun intended) – no matter what you’re after. A personal favorite from the GRAZIA team: Marcus at Baha Mar Fish + Chop House. Helmed by chef Marcus Samuelsson of Red Rooster Harlem fame, each dish at the restaurant brings forth the best Bahamian ingredients and local seafood, creating an entirely unique take on comfort food classics. Indulge and then celebrate with libations upstairs at the restaurant’s rooftop cocktail bar, Marcus Up Top, the perfect day-to-night destination that guests appreciate for its ambiance and vibe.
Meanwhile, Cinko – an Asian/Latino-inspired kosher restaurant, certified under the supervision of Chabad of The Bahamas – is one of the newest additions to the culinary scene at The Grand Hyatt Baha Mar. After a feast for all your senses, jet over to Jazz Bar, the property’s elevated piano bar, a true haven for music lovers and craft cocktail aficionados alike.
As if the first two options weren’t abundant enough, there’s the third property on site, Rosewood Baha Mar, which boasts thoughtfully designed interiors inspired by the rich and storied history and culture of The Bahamas. The hotel’s world-class service and luxurious amenities include private beach access and full-service pools, a plethora of wellness activities and services for a little R&R as well as impeccable dining destinations situated mere steps from suites. At Sense, the on-site spa featuring healing techniques with sustainable local ingredients, the staff is equipped to cater to your every whim. Café Boulud The Bahamas and Costa are two culinary locations that define the pinnacle of fine dining.
In short, whichever property you choose, you’ll be hard-pressed to leave. Still, despite all the offerings close to home-away-from-home, don’t miss out on the chance to get out and explore everything Baha Mar has to offer.
Kids — and kids at heart — might want to hit Baha Bay. The $200 million luxury water park has 24 water slides, group raft rides, a wave pool and other thrilling adventures that wend their way through 15 lush oceanfront acres. If that isn’t thrilling enough, visitors who are old enough can head to the only outdoor casino gaming pavilion that’s located inside a waterpark, or relax at Baha Bay Beach Club featuring two infinity pools offering dazzling views of Cable Beach.
Just as great of a time can be enjoyed at Flamingo Cay, Baha Mar’s unique habitat where some of the islands’ namesake iconic pink birds make their home. Mingle with the incredible animals during daily parades, or pay a visit to Flamingo Cay for is free and no reservations are required, Private Flamingo Encounter where guests can get up close to the flock and learn more about these majestic birds.
Moral of the story: whether planned hours before or months ahead, The Bahamas is just 50 miles away from the US mainland, and ready to indulge you with the finest ingredients and amenities outside of The Magic City.
