When you think of the Bahamas, images of swaying palms, blissful beaches and all-inclusive resorts come to mind. These popular Caribbean islands are known for their convenience, with all-inclusive resorts, vacation packages and unlimited amenities, however, the boutique and family-owned hotels here are hidden gems not to be missed.
Skip the all-inclusive resorts and check-in at one of these unique and locally-owned hotels for a more authentic experience in the Bahamas.
Nassau, Bahamas
For beach lovers and reggae fans alike, the Marley Resort & Spa’s 16 themed rooms all unearth the music legend’s history. Inside the gates of this tropical property, you’ll be awed by the low-key atmosphere paired with traditional island architecture like a thatched roof and wrap-around terrace. Once an island home for the Marley family, this intimate resort is right on Cable Beach and caters to guests with two pools, an oceanfront restaurant that serves up authentic local dishes, a spa and open-air bar with entertainment.
Simmer Down Restaurant serves up delicious Carribean cuisine with ocean views and Stir It Up bar leaves nothing to be desired with drinks like Satisfy My Soul and Positive Vibrations. Natural Mystic Spa leaves you feeling refreshed and taken care of with a One Love Massage, Natural Mystic Facial and more.
Harbour Island, Bahamas
Rock House on Harbour Island offers a luxurious boutique-hotel experience to adults only right near Pink Sand Beach. This charming 10-room property started as a private home in the 1940s and was redesigned by J. Wallace Tutt, III, a renowned South Florida builder. All Rock House rooms are equipped with amenities like king beds, bathrobes and a safe. Enjoy your complimentary poolside breakfast before heading to Pink Sand Beach for lounging with umbrellas, picnic baskets and a cooler of delicious drinks. Or, if privacy is more your style, relax underneath your personal, poolside cabana. Finish your evening off as the sun sets over Rock House Restaurant—it has some of the best food on the island.
Harbour Island, Bahamas
Coral Sands Hotel welcomes you with champagne, warm hospitality and a personal escort to your recently-renovated room. Only 38 rooms with options of suites, bungalows and cottages and a variety of styles from comfy to glam, give this property an air of exclusivity you won’t find at large-scale operations. Enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner between Latitude 25 and Beach Bar—both with stunning ocean backdrops and world-famous chefs curating delectable meals. Between the hotel’s fresh-water infinity pool and personal slice of Pink Sand Beach, it’s unlikely you’ll spend much time indoors. The contrast of peach-colored sand with topaz water sparkling beyond is enough to make anyone double take—no wonder it’s rated as one of the most beautiful pink-sand beaches on Earth.
The beach is all you need but this luxury resort goes one step further offering activities galore. The fully-lit tennis court, fitness center and yoga studio with a view offer options for active-minded guests 24/7. Enjoy the sand and sea with complimentary kayaks, paddleboards, snorkeling gear and beach volleyball. Let Coral Sands concierge book an in-room massage for sore muscles after a long day of fun.
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