Old Bahama Bay Resort Review – Discover A Tropical Treasure

Not far off the coast of Florida where pirates once roamed, there lies a secluded tropical resort that you will definitely consider a treasure!  Yachtsmen who sail from the southeast coast of Florida have obviously been keeping this pristine location a secret from the rest of us! Clint and I have just spent a fabulous few days at Old Bahama Bay which is perched on the very tip of Grand Bahama Island (you may know it as Freeport) in the Bahamas. Boaters head a mere 55 miles across the Atlantic to The West End and Old Bahama Bay where they find a beautiful harbor, impressive marina and peaceful 4-diamond beachfront resort.

No boat.. no problem!  We took a quick flight from Ft. Lauderdale to Freeport and then a taxi to the West End.  Actually the taxi ride was about as long as the flight.  And there at the end of the road stood welcoming pastel gates leading to a very special resort.

Old Bahama Bay Resort is a gathering of cheery two story Key West style cottages stretching out along a lovely beachfront like a quaint fishing village.  Everything you’d desire for a relaxed and intimate tropical getaway is just steps away.  A beautiful beachfront welcomes you to walk right into the low lapping waves, or grab your favorite novel and pull a lounge chair right in.  The inviting two-tiered infinity pool looks right out sea, is never crowded and (yes!) is heated.  Here are some of the memorable things we loved about Old Bahama Bay:

• The handsome rooms (Jr. Suite or 2 Bedroom) are decorated in relaxed Caribbean plantation style furnishings- elegant but not fussy
• Bathrooms are pure luxury with jacuzzi tubs, gleaming marble, and every upscale amenity you could desire
• Balconies and patios overlook the ocean front or pool, you’ll hear the soft roll of the surf from every room
• The restaurants are perched right at water’s edge.  While some resorts relegate their restaurant space to the rear of the property, Old Bahama Bay realizes that you came for the views and romantic meals gazing out to sea
• Have breakfast beach-side at Teaser’s Tiki Hut and watch the sun rise over the ocean.  Definitely the best coconut french toast I’ve ever tasted!!!
• Gather at Bone Fish Folley’s at the marina for happy hour and to watch the sunset.  Then it’s into the restaurant for dinner (inside or out on the deck) featuring lots of local specialties.  You’ll love the basket of warm Johnnycakes and the sepia pictures of by-gone fishing days will have you searching for a Hemingway novel.
• Spend long lazy days playing in the water.  The oceanfront at Old Bahama Bay is calm and inviting, making it perfect for gliding over the waves in a clear bottomed  kayak, Hobby Cat or paddle board.  The water is crystal clear so you’ll have no problem spotting stingray, star fish and conch.
• You’ll find lots of water toys and equipment at the little red shed
• Or relax by the lovely pool, play a game of ping pong (we saw beer pong in action) or perhaps a game of pool at the outside all-weather table.
• Old Bahama Bay is also a perfect spot to vacation with children.  The sand is warm, the water is calm and the fringe of green lawn makes for ideal play areas.

So when you’re looking for a relaxed vacation experience away from the crowds of most Caribbean islands, consider an escape to Old Bahama Bay on Grand Bahama Island.  Although it’s just a short hop away from Florida, it’s a world away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with aqua seas and warm gulf-stream breezes.  At OBB you’ll find the time, peacefulness and pampering to reconnect with your travelmate(s).  Read more about Grand Bahamas Island at the Tourism Bureau’s site.