Grand Isle Resort & Spa

Nestled on a gently sloping hill overlooking the powdery-sand beach of Emerald Bay on Great Exuma, Grand Isle Resort & Spa captures all the magic of the Exumas in the Bahamas.

One of the resort’s oceanfront villas

This resort is truly in a class of its own. It offers the best, most family-friendly accommodations on the island. These aren’t your standard hotel suites either, but rather private, spacious villas with spectacular views of the gorgeous aquamarine-hued ocean.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Spacious living room

If you are going to spend a week away from home on holiday, you want to do it comfortably. The 78 villas at this resort are fully-furnished with custom, elegant décor like something out of an architectural magazine: high ceilings, crown moldings, travertine tile with mosaic detail, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and much more.

Fully-appointed gourmet kitchen

The villas come in a choice of one- to four-bedrooms, so that even larger families have a comfortable place to relax. Wireless internet, plasma televisions, washer/dryer, air conditioning and fully-appointed gourmet kitchens offer all the comforts of home.

View from the balcony

The private balconies make the most of the sweeping vistas and balmy breezes. Lush landscaping with palm trees, hibiscus, and all kinds of tropical foliage bursting with color make this resort gorgeous.

Imagine taking a deep, invigorating breath of the salty sea breeze as you stand on the balcony, gazing out at the water. Seagulls shriek and swoop overhead, catching the breeze that lifts them high above the ground. You close your eyes briefly as you listen to the water lapping at the shore a short walk from where you stand. It is quiet and serene as the sun warms your skin.

ACTIVITIES

This four-diamond award winning resort comes with a spa, fitness room, infinity-edged swimming pool, concierge service, daily housekeeping, complimentary supervised children’s activities, kayaks, stand up paddle boards, snorkel gear, access to the Emerald Bay Golf Course, and more.

Delicious on-site restaurant: Palapa Grill

DINING

The on-site Palapa Grill restaurant is absolutely gourmet, and one of the best restaurants on the island. It is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with a full bar and wine list so you don’t need to go anywhere else. Breakfast features tasty options like eggs, omelets, buttermilk pancakes, coconut French toast, smoked salmon bagels, fruit, pastries, specialty coffees and teas, and more.

Infinity pool

Lunch and dinner offer a variety of choices from salads, burgers and sandwiches, to delectable appetizers, fresh fish and seafood, local cuisine, and even beef tenderloin that is cooked to perfection every single time. Things like gazpacho, Caesar salad, Bahamian conch bites, grouper, roasted pork chop, and seafood fettuccini are all wonderful.

GETTING AROUND

Golf cart in the private garage of our villa

Golf cart rentals are available for getting around the resort, and can be parked inside your private garage that comes with each of the villas.  For those who wish to explore the island, renting a car is the best way, and can be easily arranged with the resort concierge. It can also be delivered to the resort for your convenience. The concierge is also very helpful with providing information about places to see on the island, printed directions, and tours. Help is plentiful and readily available so you can spend your time making the most of your vacation.

Layout of the resort

For those interested in getting groceries delivered to your villa, the concierge offers this service also. Dining reservations, tee times and any special requests or events can be arranged with them as well.

STAFF

Path leading to the beach of Emerald Bay

The Bahamian people are warm and very friendly, and this goes for the staff at the resort as well. From the moment of our arrival, we were made to feel welcome, especially after a long day of travel. Every time we past one of the locals on the street or a staff member at the resort, they always offered us a genuine smile and a wave. Theirs is an easygoing cheerful manner inspired by the beauty of the islands, which is reflected in their eyes.

If you are going to visit paradise, make it a special treat to remember. The Grand  Isle Resort & Spa is a breathtaking resort that makes the most of this Bahamian haven. It reflects the splendor of the dazzling jewel-toned waters of the Exumas. This is a trip of a lifetime, and one you will never forget. It certainly was for us.