We stay next door, and I think your stay at GP would be different. They have some stuff for watersports - I think kayaks, a Sunfish or two, a paddleboat or two - but not nearly as much as Beaches. I also think the evening activities are aimed at older/younger people - your 17 year old probably won't be impressed.

That said, there are boats that park at either side of the property for snorkeling or other charters, there is usually somebody with a Hobie cat looking for customers just north of the property, and you're in the lively area of the beach. You'll be right next door to Alfred's concerts, and a short way from Bourbon Beach.

I wouldn't worry at all about finding a driver for Rick's - there are always taxis around. Just use a red plate cab. Any time I want to go to the west end, whichever taxi driver I get is eager for me to take his phone number to call for pickup.