Today, travellers want an authentic, uncrowded, pristine experience, which is exactly what awaits in the Abaco Islands and its premier property, Abaco Beach Resort. The resort and marina are owned by two Bahamians, Manny Alexiou and Andrew Sweeting who have an affinity for boating and island hopping.
The Abacos are known for their wild beauty, azure waters, sandy beaches, emerald hills, six national parks and the best boating in the Bahamas.
Located just 165-miles off the coast of Florida on Great Abaco in the 120-mile chain of islands and cays that comprise the islands of the Abacos, the Abaco Beach Resort recently completed a massive renovation and expansion.
Devastated by Hurricane Dorian, the 2019 storm that was the worst natural disaster in the Bahamas history, the Abaco Beach Resort bounced back better than ever. The resort renovated all its 94 rooms, added deluxe accommodation options, created a fine dining Bistro and a new al fresco restaurant poolside, and built the largest marina in the Bahamas.
“The new look is sleek, modern, and sizzles with a fresh energy,” said newly appointed General Managers Andrei & Antonia Mocanu. “It’s breathed new life into this historic property.”
All accommodations at the 40-acre beachfront resort boast an ocean view and a patio or balcony to enjoy it from. In addition to rooms, the property offers one-bedroom oceanfront suites, and updated two-bedroom residences, and a three-bedroom penthouse. All are equipped with high-end Parachute linen from New York and Molton Brown amenities.
“Our Residence accommodations are perfect for multi-generational family travel and offer a more private, luxurious experience,” Andrei said.
Foodies will delight at the new dining venues unveiled in the resort’s renovation. The casual Pool Bar and Terrace at Marinaville is open all day. Breakfast features classics like Eggs Benedict, while the lunch and dinner menus are packed with local fare like cracked conch and a decadent lobster burger. A variety of salads, pizzas, sandwiches and main courses like Surf & Turf with Bahamian lobster and fillet are also on offer.
Executive Chef Deja Rutherford, who served as Executive Sous Chef under Jose Andres at the Atlantis Resort brings her culinary talents to The Bistro, the new fine dining restaurant on property. The dinner-only eatery affords guests the opportunity to dine in the chic, airy dining room or on the terrace with terrific views of the ocean and gardens. The menu boasts bistro classics like warm tomato and cheese fondue and conch croquettes, and Bahamian twists on classics like a jerk prawn risotto. An extensive grill menu includes cooked to perfection seafood, chicken and premium meats with a mouth-watering list of sides for sharing and pairing
“Chef Deja’s impressive culinary training and skills have allowed Abaco to now offer some of the finest dining in the islands,” said Antonia.
Perhaps the biggest undertaking in the renovation was the creation of a modern 200-slip marina in Marsh Harbour. The marina can host pleasure boats, sport fishing boats and super yachts up to 200 ft. in length. Customs and Immigration services are onsite. It’s an impressive addition to a resort that was already known for its world-famous fishing tournaments.
Abaco Beach Resort will host four of the top billfish tournaments in the world in 2023. Skip’s tournaments include the Blue Marlin Tournament, White Marlin Roundup, The Shootout, which pits production boats against custom craft, and the Custom Shootout, featuring 50 custom boat teams. It is the most elite collection of sport fishing boats in one location.
“We’re thrilled to host not one, but four of the top sport fishing events in The Bahamas,” said Mocanu. “The tournaments bring the best in the sport to Abaco and an exciting atmosphere to the resort.”
The charm of the Abacos lies in the ability to easily hop between the many islands. If you are an experienced captain or not, both can make use of the very safe waterways between the islands.
From the new marina set sail to photograph the nearby candy-cane striped lighthouse of Hope Town on Elbow Cay and enjoy the sandy, coconut-tree lined Tahiti Beach. On Man O War Cay you can visit with shipbuilders, and at Pelican Cays National Park, soak in the beauty of the shallow coral gardens.
Nature lovers should plan to explore Great Guana Cay known for its vast Elkhorn coral reefs, sea turtles, and migrating birds. Don’t miss stopping in the local’s favorite, Nipper’s Beach Bar for a lively island party any time of day.
These are just a few stops you can take in just under 100 miles of sheltered waterway known as the Sea of Abaco with many surrounding cays and islands to visit.
While the Abacos provide plenty of outdoor adventures and cute towns to explore, no vacation to these laid-back islands would be complete without some down time to relax, rejuvenate and return home more balanced.
The Abaco Beach Resort offers a private white sand beach for guests to grab a chaise to lounge in, sunbathe, read or enjoy sipping an island cocktail. When you’re ready to jump in the water, complimentary kayaks, paddle boards and snorkelling gear are available. Our beach bar offers snacks & drinks and lead the Bahama Buddies Program for all kids 4-12 years. The program offers visiting children the opportunity to learn about the island life from a resident child ambassador by spending an afternoon participating in authentic island activities and crafts.
For many, no vacation is complete without some spa pampering. At Abaco Beach Resort the masseuse comes to you, whether you want your massage in a beachside cabana or in the privacy of your room.
