Baha Mar, Bahamas: How the Troubled Mega-Resort Came of Age

Baha Mar, on Nassau's Cable Beach in the Bahamas, is one of the largest resort complexes in the Caribbean – three hotels, a casino, a championship golf course, dozens of restaurants and a water park. Its start was famously rocky: construction delays, a dispute with the builder and bankruptcy proceedings pushed the opening back by more than two years, until it finally opened in stages from 2017. Today the resort has found its feet. Here's what to expect.

The three hotels

1. Grand Hyatt Baha Mar

The biggest hotel, with towers overlooking the beach, several pools and the most family-friendly feel. Many of the resort's restaurants and the casino are close by.

2. SLS Baha Mar

Stylish and social, with a party-friendly pool scene, popular restaurants and a sleek design. It suits couples and groups of friends.

3. Rosewood Baha Mar

The quietest and most luxurious, with low-rise buildings, a private beach area, butler-style service and a calmer pool – the choice for honeymoons and special occasions.

Things to do

4. Baha Bay water park

Opened in 2021, Baha Bay is a beach-themed water park with slides, a lazy river and a surf simulator. Tickets are usually extra, even for hotel guests – look for packages that include them.

5. Golf, spa and casino

The Royal Blue golf course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, runs along the coast. The resort also has a large spa and one of the Caribbean's biggest casinos.

6. The beach and the sanctuary

Cable Beach is long and sandy, and the resort's sanctuary area has saltwater lagoons with turtles and fish – a fun visit with children.

7. Dining

Baha Mar has dozens of restaurants and bars, from fine dining to casual beach grills. Book popular restaurants ahead, especially at weekends.

Beyond the resort

8. Nassau and the islands

Take a taxi into downtown Nassau for colonial buildings, the Queen's Staircase and Bahamian food at the Fish Fry at Arawak Cay. Day trips by boat visit Rose Island and the swimming pigs of the Exumas (a long day by air or fast boat).

Tips

• Resort fees and extras add up – check what's included before booking.
• Hurricane season runs from June to November.
• Currency: the Bahamian dollar is pegged to the US dollar, which is accepted everywhere.
• More beach ideas: see our pick of the 25 best beaches in the US.