The hype
Families love the water park and location, but everyone complains about the prices and slow service.
Margaritaville Resort Nassau
$350-600/ night
Book this if You want a high-energy, waterpark-fueled family vacation right in the heart of downtown Nassau where the cruise ships dock.
Why People Love It
- Fins Up Water Park with lazy river and FlowRider surf simulator
- All rooms have oceanfront views and balconies
- Walkable to downtown Nassau, Straw Market, and the Fish Fry
Quick Take: It’s basically a cruise ship that doesn't move—packed with families, loud music, and expensive drinks.
Reviewed by @amanda0203: I spent my entire weekend at the Fins Up water park here. The lazy river is the perfect way to cool off, and the surf simulator was a total blast to try with friends. It’s the most fun I've had in Nassau.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'private' beach is tiny and right next to the public beach, so it’s never truly quiet or secluded.
- You have kids who could spend 8 hours in a lazy river
- You want to walk to local bars and the Fish Fry instead of taking taxis
- You love the energy of a busy pool deck with a DJ
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8
- Housekeeping: Generally good, but reports of missed spots and slow service during peak times.
- Bathroom hygiene: Modern and clean, though some guests report clogging toilets.
- Maintenance: Newer property (opened ~2021) so little wear, but hot tubs often have temperature issues.
- Linens & towels: Fresh and standard quality; pool towels can run out on cruise ship days.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells like signature Margaritaville scent; occasional sewage whiff outside from public beach.
Sleepability™
6MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Thin connecting doors between rooms
- Cruise ship horns early morning/late afternoon
- Hallway noise from excited kids
Before you book
Good to know
- The resort is cashless; bring cards.
- A 15% gratuity is automatically added to most food and drink checks.
- Day passes are sold to cruise passengers, so the pool gets busiest when ships are in port.
What to pack
- Insulated water bottle (drinks melt fast in the sun)
- Reef-safe sunscreen (expensive to buy on-site)
- Water shoes for the rocky parts of the beach
Room Genie
Best picks
- One Particular Harbour studios for a quieter, residential feel with kitchenettes
- High-floor rooms (Floors 8+) to minimize pool deck noise
Rooms to avoid
- Lower floors near the pool deck (noise)
- Connecting rooms if you aren't using them (sound leaks)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would like to request a room on a high floor (8 or above) to minimize pool noise. If available, I prefer the One Particular Harbour tower for a quieter stay.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the water park free for guests?
Yes, access to Fins Up Water Park is included in your resort fee.
Can I walk to downtown Nassau?
Yes, you are right on Bay Street, a short 5-10 minute walk to the Straw Market and port.
Is there an adults-only area?
Yes, there is an adults-only infinity pool on the 4th floor, but it can still get crowded.
Are food and drinks included?
No, this is not an all-inclusive resort. Food and drinks are à la carte and pricey.
Does the hotel have a beach?
Yes, a small private strip, but it is adjacent to the public Junkanoo Beach.
Is it pet friendly?
Yes, dogs are allowed for a fee of ~$250 per stay.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Walk 10 minutes west to the 'Fish Fry' at Arawak Cay for authentic, cheaper Bahamian food.
- ✨
The 'One Particular Harbour' building has its own quieter pool and hot tub that many main hotel guests miss.
- ✨
Buy alcohol at the duty-free shop in the lobby or downtown to save money on room drinks.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'One Particular Harbour' tower is technically a separate residential booking but offers a much calmer experience.
💡In winter, the tall hotel building casts a shadow over the pool deck by mid-afternoon.
💡Ants can be an issue in rooms if you leave any food out on counters.
💡The hot tubs are often reported as 'lukewarm' rather than hot.
💡You can hear the bass from the pool DJ in rooms on the lower floors.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Margaritaville Resort Nassau is located and what's nearby.