I have visited the Bahamas 3 times.
The first time as a spring break thing (1995, stayed in what is now called Wyndham Nassau Resort on Cable Beach). Had a great room, wonderful view, beautiful beach. This was my first time at a beach resort, so I thought it was great. However, everything was SO expensive. The food was terribly expensive. I lost 5 lbs in 5 days due to lack of food. The cheapest thing we found was cornbread at the Radisson next door. BTW -- it is the best cornbread I've ever had.
Few years later (1998? stayed next door at the Radisson). Room was old and run-down. Bathroom door locked such that me and my SO got locked inside a few times (which makes for a hilarious story). Beach wasn't as great as I remembered. Of course, I believe a hurricane was rolling in -- so it is hard to say what the beach was really like. Had same cornbread
Took a cruise in 2001 which stopped at Paradise Island. Looked around the Atlantis property but didn't stay. It looked nice and the beach was good.
Honestly, I still haven't found a place that beats Cancun/Playa Del Carmen for a beach vacation. They have the best beaches, best prices, and good service. The Ritz Carlton in Cancun is FANTASTIC -- and quite a bit cheaper than the Ritz at most other places in the world. My SO and I stayed there for my birthday a couple of years ago and it was heaven. The food is V. expensive though. We opted for the upper floors that have the "Club" access (or something like that). Essentially, they put out snacks for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and evening sweets for free. We ate all meals except dinner there. It's worth the couple hundred extra because a couple of lunches alone would end up costing that much. For a less expensive option, try the All-Inclusive Royal Hideaway in PLaya Del Carmen.
Oh...I SO want to go on vacation now...
Shonie