Prior to Covid, I had the pleasure of spending ten days at the luxurious Hyatt Baha Mar in Nassau, Bahamas. The Baha Mar is one of the newest addition to the Bahamas’ resort scene and aims to become a formidable rival to the famed Paradise Island.
Accommodations
During my stay, I experienced two different rooms: one in the east wing and the other in the west wing. Each room had its unique charm. My room in the newer west wing offered exceptional views of the ocean and the entire property from a higher floor. Both rooms were well-appointed with two queen beds, a stocked minibar fridge, a coffee maker, large flat-screen TVs, complimentary water (two bottles per day), and an array of shower accessories.
The east wing bathroom featured a traditional tub with glass shower walls, blending old and new elements. The west wing bathroom was more modern. It featured a a walk-in shower and a sliding door that opened to the main room. I enjoyed the amazing ocean views from the shower. This setup made the west wing room particularly appealing to me, with the stunning view being an added bonus.
Service
The housekeeping staff at Baha Mar were outstanding. They were quick, professional, and incredibly accommodating. My room was cleaned efficiently even as I came and went throughout the day. Unlike typical business hotels, the staff here are well-versed in catering to vacationers’ needs.
Resort Layout and Amenities
The Baha Mar resort is somewhat isolated from surrounding communities. I had to hire a taxi to explore beyond the property, which was inexpensive. The plethora of on-site dining, shopping, and recreational options, left me with little reason to leave the resort. However, I did take a few opportunities to explore beyond the resort property.
The resort’s “seventh floor” concept was intriguing. This floor, despite its name, is just above ground level and features an outdoor mezzanine area housing the gym, spa, and sauna. The well-equipped gym offers classes for an additional fee of ten dollars. Two large elevators on this level provide direct access to the pool area, bypassing the casino and offering a convenient shortcut.
Poolside Paradise
The six pools at Baha Mar each offer a unique experience. Highlights include a rain pool with a cooling shower feature, a pool with large seating areas, and an exclusive forever pool with rent-able cabanas. My favorite was the pool with a swim-up bar, playing music that perfectly matched my taste. Another pool featured windows into an adjacent refuge area, allowing swimmers to view turtles and sharks. This pool was kind of fun, even without children. For families, there was a pool with a cliff-jumping area for youngsters. The pools provided a perfect escape from the heat, leading directly to the beach and pier where guests could enjoy non-motorized water sports for free, including kayaking, paddle-boarding, and snorkeling. While I spent a little bit of time on the beach, I preferred the pool.
Dining and Entertainment
The resort boasts numerous restaurants and bars, though dining can be pricey. Additional VAT tax and service charges add to the total. My favorite dining spot was the Blue Note Bar, which featured live music each night from two talented rotating groups, creating a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere. For those interested in gambling, the hotel has a massive gaming floor that guests often cross to reach various destinations. Despite not being much of a gambler, I found the casino’s ambiance intriguing and only spent five dollars gaming during my stay.
Additional Features
Baha Mar offers more than just pools and beaches. The resort includes a private island accessible via hourly transportation from the pier, adding an exclusive touch to the stay. The extensive and respectful staff continuously maintain the property, ensuring a pristine environment. With activities for all ages, including numerous options for children, Baha Mar is a comprehensive vacation destination.
Conclusion
The Hyatt Baha Mar in Nassau, Bahamas, provided an exceptional experience that balanced luxury with a wide range of amenities and activities. Despite the high costs, the experience was enriched with numerous extras and an attentive staff dedicated to making every guest’s stay memorable. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or as a family, Baha Mar offers something for everyone, ensuring a delightful and unforgettable vacation.