The hype
Kids lose their minds with joy at the water park, while parents lose their minds over the bill and worn-out rooms.
Atlantis
$350-900+/ night
Book this if You want the Vegas-meets-Disney water park experience and don't mind paying a premium for it.
Why People Love It
- World-class Aquaventure water park included with stay
- Incredible marine habitats and 'The Dig' aquarium
- The Royal's iconic architecture is a bucket-list photo op
Quick Take: A massive, aging aquatic playground where you pay five-star prices for three-star rooms and $22 hamburgers.
Reviewed by @AlexanderJReilly9530260: I spent my days screaming down the Mayan Temple slides and my evenings just staring at the sharks in the underwater tunnels. The energy here is unmatched—it’s not just a resort, it’s a total adventure. Waking up to that ocean view every morning was the cherry on top.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'Ocean View' in the Coral Tower often overlooks the derelict Beach Tower or a service roof.
- You are a family who prioritizes pool slides over room luxury
- You want a self-contained resort 'city' and never plan to leave
- You are comfortable with crowds and cruise ship day-trippers
Cleanliness & Maintenance
6.5
- Housekeeping: Inconsistent. Many reports of missed days or rushed service. 'Hit or miss' is the standard.
- Bathroom hygiene: Older towers (Coral/Royal) often have grout issues, rust spots, and weak flushing toilets.
- Maintenance: Visible wear and tear everywhere—peeling paint, chipped pool tiles, and broken ice machines are common.
- Linens & towels: Generally clean but often worn/thin. Beach towels are plentiful but can run out by midday.
- Odors & scents: Musty/damp smell is a frequent complaint in The Coral and lower floors of The Royal.
Sleepability™
6MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hallway noise due to lack of soundproofing
- Service tunnel noise (Harborside)
- Cruise ship horns (Harborside/Coral)
Before you book
Good to know
- You can order cases of water/snacks from Instacart or local delivery services to the lobby to save hundreds.
- The water park is free for guests; day passes for non-guests are $100-250+.
- Cash is not accepted at most outlets; it's a cashless resort.
What to pack
- Refillable water bottle (filtered water stations are scarce but essential)
- Waterproof phone case (for the lazy river)
- Snacks/Breakfast bars (to skip the $40 breakfast buffet)
Room Genie
Best picks
- The Royal East Tower (Renovated) - freshest rooms in the main hub
- The Cove - if you have the budget, this is the only true luxury experience
- Harborside - for families needing a kitchen/laundry (but expect a shuttle ride)
Rooms to avoid
- Coral Tower 'Ocean View' East Wing (often faces abandoned building)
- Royal Tower low floors near the casino/lobby (noisy)
- Terrace View rooms (often look at AC units or rooftops)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting a high-floor room in The Royal East Tower (Renovated). If placing me in The Coral, please ensure a 'Pool View' or 'Marina View' to avoid facing the closed Beach Tower.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the meal plan worth it?
Rarely available now (phased out/seasonal), but generally no—it locks you into expensive venues with strict rules.
Can I walk to the beach?
Yes, Cabbage Beach is public and accessible, but the resort has its own private beach sections for guests.
Is the water park heated?
Hit or miss. Some pools are heated, but the river rides can be chilly in Dec-Feb.
How much is the hold on my credit card?
Expect ~$150-200 per night hold for incidentals.
Is there a free shuttle?
Yes, an internal shuttle loops between towers (Royal, Coral, Cove, Harborside) every 15-30 mins.
Can I use the adults-only pool?
Only if you stay at The Cove. Royal/Coral guests cannot access the Cain at the Cove pool.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Viola's Bar & Grill at the Sunrise Beach Club (on property but separate) has 50% cheaper food and strong drinks.
- ✨
Walk to the marina village for Ben & Jerry's instead of the overpriced resort ice cream stands.
- ✨
The library in the Coral Tower is a secret quiet spot with AC if you need to work.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'free' water bottles in your room are often not replenished daily without asking.
💡You have to pay for a locker at the water park (approx $20-25/day).
💡The walk from The Coral to the main water slides is a solid 15-minute hike.
💡Cruise ship passengers flood the park from 10am-4pm; early morning or late afternoon is best.
💡The 'Michael Jackson Suite' (Bridge Suite) costs $25k/night and connects the Royal towers.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Atlantis is located and what's nearby.