A Brief, Brilliant Escape: Atlantis, Bahamas Without the Kids
By Sarah Milligan
There is something quietly rebellious about boarding a plane without car seats, snack bags or a tightly plotted schedule. In late November, my husband and I did exactly that, trading our winter coats for swimsuits and heading south to Atlantis Paradise Island in the Bahamas for three nights and four days, just the two of us.
Atlantis is often framed as a family playground, and rightly so. But what surprised us most was how effortlessly it transformed into a grown-up escape when experienced at a slower, more intentional pace. Late November, that sweet shoulder season, offered warm ocean air without the holiday crowds, an ideal time for Canadians craving a pause before winter truly sets in.
Our experience was fantastic. Atlantis is an expansive property, with so much to do. Of course, spending our days on the beach was a priority – and we were not disappointed. In both directions on the resort property, we enjoyed beach days and beautiful ocean swimming. Pina coladas served in coconuts on the Cove Beach was a highlight!
Atlantis offers a comprehensive menu of activities for guests. Our morning spent “Snorkeling the Ruins” was not for the faint of heart! In the center of the resort, we met with our guide and got into our PFDs and snorkel gear. Being Canadian, we declined the use of wetsuits – the temperature was just like the lake in late August! Floating above ancient looking columns and arches inspired by Atlantis and being surrounded by tropical fish and stingrays was thrilling. Our guide was friendly and knowledgeable and we were only slightly nervous around the giant manta ray as it swam directly underneath us.
Dining on the resort property was excellent. There were so many choices and we enjoyed lunches by the pool, a visit to Shake Shack, and a dinner at Nobu. But it was the dinner at Fish by José Andrés, which alone justified the trip. Perched over the water, the restaurant balances elegance with warmth and bright trendy décor. Our service at Fish was incredible, and with some help navigating the menu, we were able to try the lobster rolls, the avocado salad, the whole branzino and the steak. The cocktail list was inventive and we particularly enjoyed the smoked Old Fashioneds!
Atlantis, without children, revealed itself as a place of contrast, lively yet calm, luxurious yet playful. For Canadian couples looking for a short, restorative escape that does not require weeks off work or a cross-continental journey, it hits a rare sweet spot.
We returned home refreshed, sun kissed, and quietly grateful, for the warmth, the water, and the reminder that sometimes the best trips are not about doing everything, but about doing just enough.
