We arrived in Bimini by sea plane and were whisked immediately into the glittering, imposing Hilton at Resorts World Bimini resort and marina. The hotel stretches along the beautiful turquoise coast of this quaint unspoilt island and includes the largest marina in the region, its own beach and an exciting world-class casino. Although it is large, it manages to feel intimate. It actually seems like several resorts in one, as you move from the stylish lobby with its chandeliers and floor to ceiling windows through to the lively casino area, the spacious restaurants and pool with swim-up bar. It takes days to explore every nook of this surprising property with surprises round every bend.
The Hilton at Resorts World Bimini is a luxury hotel with 305 rooms and suites and a short stroll from the historic landmarks of Bimini, with its mythical legends and amazing marine life. The hotel’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring Bimini, either on foot or by golf cart, and the quirkiness of the island can be enjoyed by talking to the friendly local people, sampling fresh conch from the shacks or delicious Bimini bread from the bakeries.
The hotel’s relaxed atmosphere makes it a delightful retreat for anyone wishing for a luxurious break, whilst gaming enthusiasts can enjoy the casino and boaters can take advantage of the largest marina in The Bahamas.
A stroll around the property takes us from the private beach with water sports and restaurant at one end to the pretty Fisherman’s Village with marina, marketplace, dive centre, boutique and bars at the other.
Each room is decorated in a modern tropical style with cool neutral tones, floor to ceiling windows, large bathrooms and balconies. All rooms have a safe, fridge, espresso maker, air conditioning, writing table, luxurious Philip Roth toiletries and free Wi-Fi throughout.
There are a number of dining options at the Hilton at Resorts World Bimini with four fine dining venues. Breakfast is served at The Tides bright restaurant in the heart of the property. Choose from the buffet or sample some local specialties such as Bimini bread French toast. The Tides is also open for lunch and dinner serving grills, pasta and innovative dishes such as herbed roasted chicken and lobster truffle mac n cheese.
The Sushi Bar serves fresh sushi rolls, nigari and sashimi as well as noodle dishes and cocktails. Luna Beach is the lovely beach club and restaurant offering Bahamian Mediterranean fusion meals. For casual dining there is Hemingway’s burger bar in the casino. The Healing Hole serves al-fresco grills and Amicci’s snack spot has paninis and pizza.
Drinks are on offer at the adults only rooftop bar Monkey Business or down at the friendly Oasis swim up bar. There is Wings sports bar in the casino and the elegant Lobby Bar serves cocktails and wines as well as oysters, crab claws and shrimp cocktails. I found all the staff to be friendly and cannot do enough to make the stay here memorable.
The 10,000 square foot world-class casino is just steps away from the marina, meaning guests can sail right up to the casino doors. It has Baccarat, Black Jack, Craps, Roulette, 160 slot machines and a high-limit gaming salon.
Away from the excitement of the casino get some thrills from nature with by taking a dive trip at Hammerhead where sharks are seen in the waters here from November to April.
Big game fishing is also a favourite past time here, and you will be in good company if you give it a go. Ernest Hemingway fished here, and Martin Luther King also found peace and quiet on these waters. The hotel will arrange golf cart hire.
The Hilton at Resorts World Bimini also has a spa and fitness centre plus three pools and beautifully landscaped grounds. Excursions can be arranged for fishing, diving, snorkelling and sightseeing.
The Details
Hilton at Resorts World Bimini, North Bimini, The Islands Of The Bahamas
Tel: 00 1-888-930-8688
Website: www.rwbimini.com
The Hilton at Resorts World Bimini covers almost half of the tiny island of Bimini, one of the Out Islands of The Bahamas. Bimini lies just 50 miles from Miami and is the closest Caribbean island to the US coast. It is easy to access via FRS Caribbean Ferry from Miami or sea-plane for a stylish entrance that brings you directly to the resort’s doorstep. Alternatively, flights from the small airport at Bimini connect visitors with the Bahamian capital Nassau, which has direct flights to the UK. Local airlines hop between the islands making island hopping in The Islands Of The Bahamas a charming holiday option.
Type of Hotel: Luxury Hotel Resort, Marina and Casino
Number of Rooms: 305 luxury rooms including 18 spacious suites, with either pool or garden views plus 10 restaurants, cafés and bars and 3 swimming pools.
Price Band: Medium
Insider Tip: After lunch at Luna Beach book a sun chair for the afternoon and stay there for the afternoon until sunset. You may also like to create a two-centre stay by combining relaxing Bimini with lively Miami Beach.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9/10
Author Bio:
Judith Baker is a London-based freelance travel writer.
Photographs courtesy of Hilton at Resorts World Bimini
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