For the second half of our Spring Break trip this year, we spent a few days at the beautiful Abaco Club resort on Great Abaco island in the Bahamas. If you missed part one of our Spring Break, you can read about our stay at the Evermore Resort in Orlando here.
It definitely took planes, trains and automobiles to get here this trip. We had a flight cancelled while we were in Orlando to come to the Abacos and we ended up jumping on the new Brighline train system in Florida and taking it to Ft. Lauderdale to grab a new flight that would get us to the Abacos.
We travel to the Bahamas quite frequently, but it has been almost 12 years since we were in Abacos. We traveled to Man-O-War Cay in the Abacos when Brody was just one year old and have not been back since.
This trip we stayed on the main island of Great Abaco at the Abaco Club which is a members-only resort, so apologize for not being able to share accommodation recommendations. Most people I know rent houses over on Hope Town and I think that his a great option if you are looking to visit this area.
Our Stay at The Abaco Club: A Slice of Paradise
Nestled on the stunning shores of Great Abaco Island in the Bahamas, The Abaco Club offers a luxurious escape that feels both exclusive and welcoming. From the moment we arrived, we were enveloped in the island’s charm and the warmth of its people. This resort is a members-only club, so you can only stay here with someone that owns a house in this resort or if you are a member of the club. I hate to share such an exclusive property since everyone can’t have access to it, but we were able to enjoy this resort through a vacation club that we are a part of. I’m hoping to share other parts of the island with you that are definitely worth visiting.
Arrival and First Impressions
The journey to The Abaco Club was as beautiful as the destination itself. As we landed at the local airport, we were greeted by the bright sun and a gentle ocean breeze. A 45 minute transfer brought us to the club, where we were welcomed with refreshing cocktails and a friendly smile. The lush tropical landscaping and pristine beachfront immediately set the tone for our getaway.
Accommodations
Our accommodation was nothing short of spectacular. We stayed in a beachfront villa with breathtaking views of the turquoise waters. The spacious layout, modern amenities, and elegant decor made it feel like a home away from home. We loved waking up to the sound of waves crashing and stepping out onto our private terrace for morning coffee. We had our own private pool which we loved and a golf cart to get around the property. That was probably the kids favorite part!
On property, they had a cute little coffee shop that we would stop at in the mornings and they also had a tiny section of food and items that you could take back to your villa which I loved.
Activities and Amenities
The Abaco Club is known for its range of activities, and we were excited to explore them all. From golfing on their world-class course designed by the legendary Donald Steel to indulging in spa treatments, there was never a dull moment. One of our favorite activities was snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters or resting on the white sand beach.
For those who enjoy water sports, the club offers paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing, all of which we took advantage of. The staff was incredibly helpful, providing us with all the equipment we needed and even guiding us on some of the best spots to explore.
They have pickleball courts, tennis courts, a basketball court and now a wiffle ball field. The kids were in heaven. People stayed really active at the resort which I loved watching and the kids were just wishing they had some friends with them to play all the games.
What to Do in the Abacos
The Abacos, a beautiful chain of islands in the Bahamas, offer a variety of activities for every type of traveler. Here are some must-do experiences:
1. Explore the Beaches: The Abacos boast stunning beaches with powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. Popular spots include Treasure Cay Beach, known for its calm waters, and Hope Town, which offers picturesque views and charm.
2. Snorkeling and Diving: The waters surrounding the Abacos are teeming with marine life. Head to the Great Abaco Barrier Reef for excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. Don’t miss sites like the famous Blue Hole or the surrounding coral gardens.
3. Fishing: The Abacos are a haven for anglers. Whether you prefer deep-sea fishing or bonefishing in the flats, you can find plenty of charters available for an exciting day on the water.
4. Visit Elbow Cay: This island is home to the iconic Hope Town Lighthouse. Take a stroll through the charming streets, visit local shops, and enjoy a meal with a view.
5. Island Hopping: Rent a boat or take a ferry to explore some of the nearby islands, like Green Turtle Cay and Man-O-War Cay. Each island has its unique character and attractions. Make sure to stop at Nippers & Grabbers on Great Guana Cay. We rented a boat through Treasure Cay Boat Rentals and had a captain for the day. It was a great way to see the islands. It was about a 25 min boat ride to the Hopetown Light House and then another 25 min or so to go up to Nippers and Grabbers.
6. Tahiti Beach: This is a must-see spot. It is a beautiful sand bar with swings, inflatables, and the well-known Thirsty Cuda floating bar.
7. Kayaking and Paddleboarding: The calm waters of the Abacos are perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. Rent equipment and explore the serene mangroves and secluded coves at your own pace.
8. Golfing: Enjoy a round of golf at The Abaco Club’s stunning course, which offers breathtaking ocean views and a challenging layout.
Dining Experience
Dining at The Abaco Club was a culinary delight. Each meal was a feast for the senses, featuring fresh seafood and local ingredients. We particularly enjoyed the beachside restaurant, where we savored fresh catch of the day while watching the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink. The chefs took great care in crafting each dish, and the service was impeccable.
The views from the Cliff House at the Abaco Club were beautiful. We found the food to be pretty good, but enjoyed the Beach House restaurant more.
Where to Eat in the Abacos
The dining scene in the Abacos is vibrant and diverse, offering a range of options from casual beach bars to upscale dining. Here are some top recommendations:
1. The Abaco Club: If you’re staying at The Abaco Club, their on-site restaurants offer a fantastic selection of fresh seafood and local dishes. The beachside dining is especially beautiful.
2. Guana Beach Resort: Known for its laid-back atmosphere, this restaurant offers delicious seafood, burgers, and tropical drinks. Enjoy dining with an ocean view right on Guana Cay.
3. SeaSpray Resort: Located on Elbow Cay, SeaSpray offers casual dining with a menu featuring Bahamian specialties. Their conch fritters are a must-try!
4. Brendalee’s: This popular spot in Marsh Harbour serves up traditional Bahamian fare in a relaxed setting. Don’t miss their fresh fish dishes and hearty sides.
5. Pete’s Pub: Located on Little Harbour, this iconic beach bar is famous for its laid-back vibe, great cocktails, and tasty bar food. The beachfront location makes it a great spot to relax after a day of exploring.
6. Curly Tails: Located in Marsh Harbour, this restaurant offers a mix of local cuisine and American favorites. The seafood dishes are fresh and flavorful, and the outdoor seating provides a lovely view of the water.
7. Hope Town Coffee House: For a lighter option, this cozy café offers excellent coffee, fresh pastries, and breakfast items. It’s the perfect spot to start your day.
Relaxation and Wellness
After days filled with adventure, find peace at the club’s spa. The soothing treatments and tranquil environment is a great place to unwind and rejuvenate. A massage with ocean view sounded perfect, but sadly I was not able to squeeze it in this trip. Next time, for sure!!
Kids Club
They also offered a kids club on property that we did not utilize this trip, but if you have younger children, this is a great option if you are wanting to enjoy adult time playing golf, tennis or going to the spa.
Final Thoughts
Our stay at The Abaco Club was lovely. The combination of stunning natural beauty, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional service made for an unforgettable vacation. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, The Abaco Club is the perfect destination. We can’t wait to return to this slice of paradise and create more memories on the beautiful shores of Great Abaco Island.
If you’re planning your next getaway, consider The Abacos—you won’t regret it!
Whether you’re indulging in delicious local cuisine or exploring the stunning natural beauty, the Abacos offer a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy your trip!
