Full Article:
For many years, I took groups of people on charter flights to Freeport, Grand Bahama Island. Oh, those were the days - unfortunately, the charter flights stopped, economies took a hit, 2 hurricanes came through, and the number of tourists dropped. The good news is that things are looking up and people are returning to visit this friendly and fun island. There are some changes from my trips from the past and now most of the activity centers around Lucaya where the magnificent Grand Lucayan Hotel sits overlooking the turquoise waters of the ocean. You have a choice of 3 types of views – the Marina, The Island and the Ocean – obviously, the price goes up for an ocean view, but it is so breathtaking, you may want to spend the extra cash.
In addition to the beach, there are 4 swimming pools so you'll never get bored with where to swim and float.
Directly across the street is the Port Lucaya Marketplace where you will find everything from straw markets to duty free shopping for jewelry, china, linens and so much more. There are plenty of fun restaurants with an international flair and great fresh seafood. If you go fishing, bring your catch and they will prepare it for you at one of the restaurants or at the hotel. Talk about fresh! In the evening, be sure and visit Count Basie Square in the Marketplace. There is usually music and dancing with Bahamian flair.
There are many things to do on the Island, so be sure and stay for a while. You can swim with the dolphins, feed the sharks, golf, play tennis, shop, fish, horseback ride, scuba dive, take a jeep safari and oh yes, gamble! Next door to the Grand Lucayan is the Treasure Bay Casino where you can continue to help the economy of the island :))
Not enough activities for you? Well, how about a system of underwater caves to explore, bird watching and gorgeous nature preserves? The Garden of the Groves is a must-see as well as Gold Rock Beach at the Lucayan National Park. Don't forget your camera!
After all that activity, you can return to the Grand Lucayan and dine in one of 4 restaurants. For fine dining, there is the Pacific Rim cuisine at China Beach or the Mediterranean inspired menu at Churchill's. For casual dining, you can choose either Willy Broadleaf's or the China Grill – it's up to you and your taste buds. If you happen to be around for one of their theme nights, you must engage in the experience of Junkanoo. If your body hasn't gyrated since the 60's, this will definitely remind you of how wild and crazy you used to be. There is nothing else like it, so get out there and shake your groove thing.
Grand Bahama Island is situated 75 miles from the coast of Florida – what are you waiting for – call and plan your trip to the Grand Lucayan on Grand Bahama Island – just be sure to remember that you will be on “Island Time.”
Website: Grand Lucayan
Rating: 
May 1, 2023
