Upon pulling up to the Goldwynn Resort and Residences, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, you’ll instantly be greeted with a refreshing welcome glass of prosecco — plus an overwhelming sense of zen.
On the drive over from the airport, you’ll instantly be able to spot the property thanks to its contemporary curved design caressing the pristine stretch of sand that is Cable Beach. Its striking shape is also courtesy of the staggered glass balconies that overlook Goodman’s Bay.
Compared to the big-name hotels and bustling high-rise resort nearby, the Goldwynn — which opened its doors in February 2023 — exudes calmness: You won’t find glittering casinos or flashy decor. Instead, the serene common spaces are equipped with plush seating, floor-to-ceiling windows with Instagrammable views of Cable Beach and its cerulean waters, and, last but not least, specially commissioned works from local artists, including the world’s tallest indoor relief sculpture featuring a 60-foot-tall pink flamingo, which spans five stories above the coffee bar, Atria.
All in all, laid-back luxury is the name of the game here. Accommodations take the form of spacious studios and suites, each with a coastal color palette of whites and blues; expansive private balconies with prime beach or golf course vistas; Bahamian artwork; full kitchens or kitchenettes; and, of course, lots of natural light. (However, when it comes time to get some zzz’s, you’ll want to take advantage of the automated blackout drapes, a small but thoughtful touch.)
The centerpiece of the Goldwynn is, without a doubt, the crescent-shaped infinity pool that’s mere steps from the sand.
Guests can also be found soaking up the sun on the lounge chair-lined beach area. While the swath of sand that the Goldwnn occupies isn’t technically private, it still feels secluded since the region’s larger hotels are all the way at the other end. Visitors can go kayaking, snorkeling, and paddle boarding here.
Goldwynn is home to two chic eateries and two bars and lounges. The hotel’s signature restaurant, OIA, offers plenty of indoor and outdoor seating for prime sunset viewing. The cuisine is described by the hotel as ‘MediterrAsian” fusion, and personal favorites include the crispy Japanese fried chicken, miso salmon, and cracked conch roll; the raw bar here is also fantastic). Wash everything down with one or more of the uber-refreshing cocktails, such as Aperol spritzes, margaritas, and mojitos. While you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, just be sure to save room for dessert: The purple-hued Japanese sweet potato cheesecake is, to put it simply, to die for.
In addition to OIA, there’s the aforementioned Amara, an open-air eatery near the pool where guests gather for light bites and drinks. Don’t leave here without checking out the terrace, which offers panoramic water views. Otherwise, head insight to Atria, which, as you can guess by its name, is smack-dab in the middle of the hotel atrium. During the day, it serves as a casual gathering spot where guests can sip coffee and nosh on pastries, sandwiches, and acai bowls; come nighttime, though, the space transforms into a vibrant cocktail bar and lounge with live music. Bar Paul, named for the property developer Paul Wynn, boasts the same buzzy vibe.
Named for the tropical mangrove trees found throughout The Bahamas, the holistic Rhizophora Spa offers an array of treatments that range from the classic hot stone massage to ancient therapies derived from India to Biologique Recherche facials.
Top Takeaways
Location: Nassau, The Bahamas
Rating: Five-star
The vibe: A swanky boutique hotel on a secluded stretch of sand along one of The Bahamas’ most beautiful beaches.
Amenities: Beach access, 24-hour fitness center, restaurants & bars, a spa, cabanas, yoga classes, non-motorized water sports, and an oceanfront infinity pool
Food + Drink: Two restaurants and two bars and lounges
What’s nearby: Cable Beach, Downtown Nassau, the massive Baha Mar resort complex, and Atlantis Paradise Island.
Any personal neighborhood recs? Downtown Nassau is a quick 12-minute car ride away. It’s here where you’ll find legendary landmarks like the Queen’s Staircase, colorful, centuries-old architecture, vibrant murals, and, of course, some of the destination’s best restaurants (don’t miss Cafe Matisse for decadent Italian dishes like the lobster linguine). Meanwhile, oenophiles and culinary connoisseurs will both appreciate a visit to the Graycliff Hotel, which boasts the world’s third-largest wine cellar (tours and tastings are available) and an on-site chocolatier. For a true treat, visit the eponymous restaurant for their signature wine luncheon, which includes a sommelier-led tour of the wine cellar followed by a five-course meal.
Our favorite thing about the hotel: The crescent-shaped infinity pool, which boasts postcard-worthy views of Cable Beach and its stunning clear-blue waters.
Pricing: $359/night
Room count: 81 rooms & suites
Closest airport: Nassau Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA)
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