Planning a family vacation to the Bahamas? With over 700 islands and cays, figuring out the best places to stay in the Bahamas with kids can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re traveling with young kids or a large group. Whether you want kid-friendly resorts with water parks or quiet beach towns ideal for toddlers, this guide breaks down the best places to stay in the Bahamas with kids.
Top 5 Can’t-Miss Experiences for Families in The Bahamas
Looking to sprinkle some unforgettable experiences into your family’s Bahamas vacation? Here are five must-do activities that both kids and adults will love:
- Atlantis Paradise Island: This iconic resort isn’t just a place to stay—it’s an adventure destination. With its 141-acre Aquaventure water park, marine exhibits, a casino for the grown-ups, and a world-class golf course, Atlantis has something for every family member.
- Fish Fry at Arawak Cay is a must-do for families—this lively strip of local eateries serves up crispy fried snapper, conch fritters, and Bahamian sides in a casual, welcoming atmosphere.
- Lucayan National Park: On Grand Bahama Island, families can explore caves, hike nature trails, and kayak through lush mangroves. It’s an excellent way to combine learning with outdoor fun.
- Pirate Museum in Nassau is a hit with kids, offering hands-on exhibits, pirate lore, and fun photo ops that make learning about Bahamian history entertaining.
- Pink Sand Beach (Harbour Island): With its blush-colored sand made from crushed seashells and foraminifera, this beach is both stunning and kid-friendly. It’s the ultimate family photo-op and a serene spot for play or relaxation.
1. Nassau & Paradise Island (New Providence)
If it’s your first time traveling to the Bahamas with kids, Nassau and Paradise Island are the most convenient options. Located on New Providence Island, Nassau is the capital city and offers the perfect mix of modern amenities, culture, and adventure. Paradise Island, connected by a short bridge, is home to the Atlantis Paradise Island Resort, one of the most iconic family resorts in the Caribbean.
Atlantis features the Aquaventure water park, marine exhibits, lazy rivers, kids’ clubs, and a marine habitat with dolphins and stingrays. The Baha Mar resort in Nassau is another great option, offering family-friendly pools, on-site activities, and a nearby nature sanctuary. Nassau also has cultural attractions like Ardastra Gardens & Zoo and the Pirate Museum, which are great for curious kids.
Best for: First-time visitors, families with kids of all ages
Highlights: Atlantis Resort, Pirate Museum, Baha Mar, Junkanoo Beach
SEO Tip: Best family-friendly resorts in Nassau Bahamas
2. The Exumas
If you want the kind of Bahamas experience you see on postcards—clear turquoise waters, secluded beaches, and no crowds—head to the Exumas. Great Exuma and Little Exuma are the most visited and are known for their peaceful vibes and family-friendly vacation rentals. The Exumas should be on anyone’s list of best places to stay in the Bahamas with kids.
Families love Tropic of Cancer Beach (super soft sand and calm waves), boat tours to see the famous swimming pigs at Pig Beach, and snorkeling in the Thunderball Grotto. While there are fewer mega-resorts here, you’ll find charming beachfront villas and smaller resorts ideal for unplugging.
Best for: Nature-loving families, beach days, toddlers and up
Highlights: Tropic of Cancer Beach, Stocking Island, Pig Beach, boat tours
SEO Tip: Things to do in Exuma with kids, best beaches in the Exumas
3. Eleuthera & Harbour Island
If you’re looking for quiet beauty and local charm, Eleuthera and nearby Harbour Island offer a more relaxed experience. Harbour Island’s Pink Sand Beach is one of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbean—and kids will love running barefoot on the pink-tinged sand.
The islands offer a handful of family-friendly boutique hotels and beach rentals. It’s not a party scene, which makes it perfect for families wanting downtime. Rent a golf cart to explore, go shell hunting, or take a guided snorkeling trip. Bonus: locals are incredibly welcoming to children.
Best for: Relaxed getaways, families with toddlers or young kids
Highlights: Pink Sand Beach, French Leave Beach, local food spots
SEO Tip: Family travel to Harbour Island Bahamas, pink sand beach for kids
4. Grand Bahama Island
Grand Bahama offers the perfect balance of activity and affordability, with many all-inclusive options and laid-back beaches. Stay near Freeport or Lucaya to be close to restaurants, family excursions, and shopping.
Kid-friendly activities include exploring Lucayan National Park, visiting Gold Rock Beach, or going on a glass-bottom boat tour. Resorts here tend to be less expensive than those on Nassau or Paradise Island, making it a budget-friendly pick for families.
Best for: Budget-conscious families, older kids, active families
Highlights: Gold Rock Beach, Lucayan National Park, Dolphin tours
SEO Tip: Affordable family resorts in Grand Bahama, Bahamas with kids on a budget
5. The Abacos
The Abaco Islands are ideal for families who love boating, snorkeling, and outdoor exploration. Treasure Cay is known for its powdery sand and calm, shallow water—ideal for young swimmers. You can also explore charming small towns like Hope Town and Green Turtle Cay by golf cart or boat.
While the Abacos were hit hard by Hurricane Dorian in 2019, many resorts and marinas have reopened and are eager to welcome families back. Vacation rentals are popular here, especially for multi-generational family groups.
Best for: Boating families, older kids and teens, off-the-beaten-path travelers
Highlights: Treasure Cay Beach, Elbow Cay, Green Turtle Club
SEO Tip: Best beaches in Abaco for families, Abaco with kids
Final Travel Tips for Parents
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, and snorkel gear for little ones
- Check resort websites for kids’ clubs or babysitting options
- Make sure everyone’s passports are valid for at least 6 months
- Book ferry or inter-island flights early if you’re visiting more than one region
No matter which region of the Bahamas you choose, you’ll be surrounded by sunshine, soft sand, and warm, turquoise water. With so many family-friendly resorts and beach towns, the Bahamas makes it easy to relax and reconnect.
Planning your Bahamas family trip? These guides can help you make the most of your time on the islands:
- Bahamas with Kids: Family Travel Guide
- Best Snorkeling around Nassau for Families
- Best Snorkeling in Exumas
- Easy Family Trails in Nassau
Check out our ranked family travel lists for Bahamas:
- Best Things to Do in Bahamas with Kids (Ranked)
- Best Family Beaches in Bahamas (Ranked)
- Best Family Stays in Bahamas (Ranked)
For more general travel info, visit the Wikivoyage page on Bahamas.
