For cruises departing the East Coast, perhaps no port is more visited than Nassau. Not only is the port known for a vast array of things to do, beautiful electric blue water, and fantastic weather, but it’s also just 180 miles from Miami — making it among the closest ports of call to the U.S. mainland.
And while we’ve covered dozens of things for cruise passengers to do in Nassau, there is one activity that’s popular among many cruisers — visiting hotel with day passes.
These passes are perfect for people visiting Nassau on a cruise. Instead of booking an actual hotel room in order to enjoy a resort’s amenities, you can book a day pass and enjoy your time at a resort as if you were a regular guest. This usually includes being able to use the pool, bar access, and a meal.
Put simply, if you are looking for an easy and relaxing way to enjoy your time in Nassau, then day passes are a great option. Below we’ve rounded up several resorts for you to choose from. We’ve also included details on each pass and links to the hotel’s TripAdvisor page so you can read reviews from other travelers.
Note: This article contains links to TripAdvisor that are affiliate links. We earn a commission for clicks made on their website, at no charge to you.
Nassau Hotels With Day Passes
Atlantis
No hotel is as famous on Nassau as Atlantis. Not only does it have a unique architecture and sit prominently right by the cruise port, but it also offers a ton of things to do, from a casino to a waterpark, dolphin habitat, beach, restaurants, and more.
Atlantis offers a wide range of passes from beach passes to waterpark passes (which also include access to pools) to dolphin encounters and more. For passengers wishing to access the hotel’s pools, you’ll want the waterpark pass, which includes the resort’s 11 pools and beach access. The price is $166 per adult.
If that’s too steep, you can also get a beach access pass that includes lounge chairs and towels for $70. Read reviews of Atlantis here.
Graycliff Hotel
Hailed as the Caribbean’s first 5-star hotel, the Graycliff offers some serious old-school charm. That includes a gorgeous secluded pool that looks like paradise itself. Day passes run $100 per adult and include a welcome drink, access to the pool, a three-course lunch, and towels, changing rooms, and showers. Read reviews of Graycliff here.
Sandals
As a couples-only resort, Sandals isn’t for every cruise passenger. But if you fit the bill and want a romantic day with your favorite person, then it’s a great option. You can get a day pass at the resort to access all their amenities — including unlimited drinks and food from their restaurants. Access also includes their private offshore island. The price runs $110 for a pass that’s good from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., which is perfect for cruise couples in port only a limited amount of time. Read reviews of Sandals here.
Melia Nassau Beach
One of the best values in day passes comes from Melia Nassau Beach. As the quintessential beach resort, you can expect white sand, blue water, and gorgeous pools. For $139 per adult (kids 5-11 are $60; under 5 are free), you get access to the beach, lounge chairs, towel service and pools. Unlimited food and drink are also included. You can also have access to mask and fins if you want to do some snorkeling while you enjoy the day. This is a good option for families wanting to enjoy the beach. Read reviews of Melia here.
British Colonial Hilton
Within walking distance of the cruise ports, the British Colonial Hilton offers the closest day pass that we found. For $100 ($50 for kids 5-11; free for kids 4 and under), you get full access to the property. That includes a private beach, access to the pool, paddleboards, and close proximity to shopping. In addition, your fee paid includes a $40 food and beverage to use at the hotel restaurants. Read reviews of the British Colonial Hilton here.
Riu Palace
Located next to Atlantis, Riu Palace sits in an enviable spot right on Cabbage Beach. A day pass is offered that includes beach access with chairs, open bar, lunch buffet and snacks, as well as access to its massive pool. The cost is $120, and the pass is available to adults only — you must be 18 or older. If you want a place that’s near the action but don’t want to go to Atlantis, this is the next best thing. Read reviews of Riu Palace here.
Breezes Resort and Spa
First things first, you need to be 14 or older to hang out at Breezes, so that means families with smaller kids will need to look elsewhere. But that also means Breezes is a good choice if you want to avoid kids while you relax. For $100 per person, you get a whole lot. The resort offers meals and unlimited drinks in addition to beach access, rock wall climbing, tennis, volleyball, sailing, and kayaking. One other thing to note — Breezes is on one of the wider stretches of beach so there is lots of space. It’s also near the Baha Mar Resort and Casino. Read reviews of Breezes here.
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How far is Sandals from the cruise port?
About 5 miles or 20 minute drive.
How much would a taxi cost?
For two people, expect to pay about $20.
You are way off of the price of Media… By 250%!
Do you mean Melia? Looks like they upped their price to $139 since the article was published, but now include food and drink. We’ve updated that section.