Local Insight: A great source of pride to the locals,
sparsely populated South Bimini boasts a pool said to be a fountain
of youth. Or try the Healing Hole in the beautiful waters off
Bimini, which also reportedly holds rejuvenating powers.
ABACOS
Vital Stats: The most popular, and populated, Out Island
cluster stretches nearly 130 miles. The "bustling" town of Marsh
Harbor has the only stoplight in the Abacos. Telephone service
became a reality in 1988.
Claim to Fame: Hands down, the
sailing and yachting capital
of
the Bahamas. Gorgeous white-sand beaches, topaz-blue water,
secluded inlets, and a variety of cays and New England-style
villages.
Sleep/Eat/Drink: Abaco Beach Resort & Boat Harbor
(800-468-4799) in Marsh Harbor bookends many a seagoing journey.
Walk the property and drool at the mega fishing yachts, then have
drinks at the open-air bar. The more remote Treasure Cay Resort
& Marina (800-327-1584) rests on a world-class 3-plus-mile
beach on one side and full-service marina on the other. And guess
where most of the restaurant's delicious seafood comes from?
Shop: The Iggy Biggy boutiques, in Marsh Harbor and must-see
Hope Town, carry a cool selection of handmade gifts, jewelry,
clothing, and Bahamian music. Also check out the shops at the
pastel settlement of New Plymouth on Green Turtle Cay.
Play: Abacos by boat is the best way to go. Captain a rented
sailboat or hire a crew, both through the Moorings (800-535-7289)
in Marsh Harbor. If a powerboat is more your speed, try NauticBlue
(800-416-0224) or a local captain like Perry Thomas
(242-367-3753).
Local Insight: Where's the party? It's at Nippers, on Great
Guana Cay, especially during Regatta Week in the summer, when the
dancing and drinking crowd swells into the hundreds. Don't get so
nipped that you miss a long walk on the amazing beach you're
overlooking.