Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau brings the laid-back, flip-flop spirit of the Margaritaville brand to downtown Nassau, and its location is its greatest asset. It stands on the western waterfront beside Junkanoo Beach, a short walk from the cruise port, the shops of Bay Street and the British Colonial next door. That makes it far more convenient for city sights than the resorts out on Cable Beach or Paradise Island, and far cheaper to explore from, because many of the best downtown attractions are within walking distance. The mood is deliberately fun and informal. Expect a bright, tropical style, casual bars and restaurants, music, a beach out front and a pool area that tends to buzz, particularly at weekends. Rooms are modern and comfortable, many with balconies and sea views over the harbour or the water to the west. It is a resort designed for people who want to relax, have a drink and enjoy the beach without dressing up, and it suits groups of friends, couples and families with a taste for informality.
Location and getting around
The resort is on the Western Esplanade in downtown Nassau, within walking distance of the cruise port, Bay Street, the Straw Market and the Queen’s Staircase. Junkanoo Beach is right on the doorstep, and the Arawak Cay Fish Fry, Fort Charlotte and Ardastra Gardens are a short taxi ride or a longer, flat walk away. Paradise Island is a taxi or water-taxi ride across the harbour, and Cable Beach is around fifteen to twenty minutes by taxi. The airport is a drive of roughly twenty minutes, depending on traffic.
The rooms
Accommodation ranges from standard rooms to suites, many with balconies and views. Interiors are bright and modern with a coastal theme. Families can usually find larger rooms or suites with space for extra beds, so check the room categories when you book.
Who it suits
First-time visitors who want to walk to the main downtown sights, cruise travellers adding a night before or after a sailing, groups of friends and families who like a relaxed, social setting. It is better for people who want a lively resort within reach of the city than for those who want deep seclusion, because the position beside a public beach and a busy waterfront means you will not have the place to yourselves.
Good to know
Check whether a resort fee, parking charge or other extras apply on top of the room rate, and whether breakfast is included. Resort food and drink are priced for visitors, so mixing in meals at the Fish Fry and downtown saves money. Ask for a higher floor or a harbour or sea-facing room for the best views and for a little distance from the noise of the bars below.
Weekends can be lively, so if you want a quiet night, mention it when you book. The hotel makes a useful base for day trips, since many boats and tours collect guests from downtown or the nearby harbour.
Why stay here
- ✓Beachfront by Junkanoo Beach
- ✓Walkable to the cruise port
- ✓Outdoor pool
- ✓Casual bars and restaurants
- ✓Harbour and sea views
- ✓Balcony rooms
- ✓Fitness centre
- ✓Near Bay Street shops
Good questions
How far is Margaritaville from the cruise port?+
It is a short walk along the waterfront, which makes it a handy choice for a night before or after a cruise.
Is there a beach at the hotel?+
Yes, the resort sits beside Junkanoo Beach on Nassau’s western waterfront, so the sand is right outside. It is a lively public beach rather than a private one.
Is Margaritaville a good base for sightseeing?+
Yes, Bay Street, the Straw Market and the Queen’s Staircase are within walking distance, and the Fish Fry and Fort Charlotte are a short taxi ride.
