Eleutheran uth Magazine Islands of Freedom | Commonwealth of THE BAHAMAS
Island scenes
Harbour Island, Eleuthera & Spanish Wells THE BAHAMAS
art & life
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What Where Doing
With island flair!
Idyllic places, attractions, notable expansions, new focus, the little things we enjoy and Big plans around us!
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Resorts on the move! & IT JUST keeps getting better
oN tHE bEACH inside
center maps | real estate | resorts | restaurants | shopping | island info & More
Spanish Wells The Bluff The Current
Harbour Island
ELH The Bogues
Glass Window
Gregory Town Hatchet Bay Rainbow Bay GHB
James’ Cistern
Governor’s Harbour Palmetto Point Savannah Sound
Tarpum Bay
Rock Sound
RSD
Green Castle Cape Eleuthera Deep Creek NORTH ELEUTHERA CENTRAL ELEUTHERA SOUTH ELEUTHERA
Waterford Wemyss Bight Bannerman Town Lighthouse Point
Welcome to
HARBOUR ISLAND | SPANISH WELLS | ELEUTHERA
Our Bahamas
Color Burst at Sunset
Model: Ladwana Carey Photographer: Liz Bryan Location: Ten Bay beach, Savannah Sound
The Commonwealth of The Bahamas
W
elcome to this amazing island grouping we call The Eleutheras - home, second home, safe harbour, surf spot, festival ground, beach haven or holiday choice Eleuthera, Harbour island & Spanish Wells. Islands that spark minds to ponder questions, such as, ‘Why are these boulders up here?’ (The Cow and Bull), ‘What will these remains tell us?’ (Preacher’s Cave), ‘Where does this water come from?’ (Ocean Hole)... When the Atlantic roars, Eleuthera nestles the smaller islands and barriers the larger archipelago’s capital. Days like those in March of 2018, the awesome Glass Window Bridge and surrounding areas, burst into an orchestra of towering waves, too dangerous to cross, but then, there are the other days, when tranquil ocean and sky blues bombard the senses with optical nirvana. Welcome to The Eleutheras and to this new issue of The Eleutheran Magazine, chronicling the wonderful life of our Bahamas and its life-tempered pulse. Nature’s flair, Island’s creativity, opportunity.... It’s an island grouping where the more things stay the same, the more beautiful are the subtle changes.
On the cover: A beachy afternoon in Harbour Island, North Eleuthera, on the renown PInk Sands beach - the expanse being enjoyed by vacationers from across the world including, on this day, members of an Italian wedding party, a pair of footballers and a young Harbour Islander, jumping in full island bliss! On the inside: Hear what the attraction to Eleuthera is all about from a couple who returns each year. Discover the vision of freedom in time by a new south Eleuthera development. Learn about the inspiration behind talented local art. Immerse yourself in the possibilities with a first look at new offerings and upcoming additions at some of Eleuthera’s top resorts and boutique getaways. Engage in a new way to vacation, and explore sustainable tourism opportunities on island. Hear from one of Eleuthera’s oldest residents as she celebrated 100 years. Experience the color, and vibrancy of Eleuthera’s cultural celebrations. Get a taste of Eleuthera with a myriad of dining choices. Take in island fashion and places to ‘buy local’. Adventure, with 110 miles of things to see and do and a breathtaking beach for every day of your visit with us. Welcome to The Eleutheras!
Contents
full of life 90
134
84
Features 12
Robust Growth - One of Harbour Island’s best resorts describes exciting developments at the luxury resort where growth has been spurred on by new state of the art amenities, expanded accommodations, and select training opportunities for local staff.
new owner/partnership with current Tippy’s Manager, a local Eleutheran, Elliott Rolle.
94
beachwear - Locally crafted Tri-Gems beachwear feature.
16
The Attraction - Montreal Couple explains the attraction to Eleuthera that fuels their annual escape...And yes there is nightlife!
Outreach and Education
Underwater
An Eleuthera Guide
35
22 Freedom in Time - The Vision of the 972
acre Jack’s Bay private resort-style community and club development, inclusive of a Tiger Woods designed golf, beginning with a first of its kind 10-hole short course overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
62
Lavarrick Orlando King
Life Saving Art
28
New Partner at Tippy’s On the cusp of the retirement of restaurateur, Peter Birkwieser, from the world renown Tippy’s Restaurant and Beach Bar at the end of August 2018, key principal of the Pineapple Fields Resort, David Barlyn, announced a
MAP 64 \ 66
12 6 | The Eleutheran Magazine
out there
GOING 72 Sustainable Development One Eleuthera Foundation’s plan for hot topic “Lighthouse Point” Eleuthera’s stunning southern tip.
60 On The Water - It was their very first time to the island, they said, even though they had been sailing together up and down the US coast on holidays for about 40 years.
128 |
Highlight Gregory Town
22
Leon Levy Preserve “Any way we can work to partner, consult and advise, we are here. Anyone can come and make inquiries and feel that this is theirs.”
76
80 Cow & Bull - the alternative theory on this intriguing Eleuthera pair.
84 Glass Window blues- through the lens, the natural beauty of Eleuthera.
108 |
35
Our Settlements Welcome.
72
Contents
the FIbre 64 island maps 132 Island Directory / Photo Features 12 Robust Growth, valentines resort 28 A New Partnership, tippys restaurant 84 Glass Window Blues
beach life 16 24 35 90
Dunright Home & Building Inspections
Don’t buy a home without getting an inspection! Tel: 242-424-3368, Web: www.dunrightinspections.com E-mail: dunrightinspections@gmail.com
It’s not done, ‘til it’s Dunright!
Eleuthera, The Attraction Harbour Island, Relax & Unwind Underwater, An Eleuthera Guide Splash out, Beach Listings
Art Walk | 138
Restaurants & Bars | 50
Resorts & Residences
20
Island Dining
50 56 58
Featured Listings & Directory Fabulous Choices Restaurant Directory On Da Dock, Open Seasons
Island Shopping
104
Featured ISLAND SHOPS
Attractions & Events 140 Energy of Junkanoo
142
Holidays & Events
144 Jazz on the Beach & Streets Island Map (enlarged) 64 Maps of North/Central & South Eleuthera Townships / Photo features / Directories
109
North, Central & South Eleuthera
Essential Information 146 Eleuthera/Harbour Island/Spanish Wells 8 | The Eleutheran Magazine
this issue Publishers: SPICE MEDIA GROUP P. O. Box EL-25166 Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera, Bahamas. Tel: 1 (242) 422-9350 Magazine@TheEleutheran.com www.TheEleutheran.com
The eleutheran Magazine Volume 5, Issue 1 Managing Editor, Layout: Dr. Vernal Bryan Director of Photography, Sales & Marketing Manager, Feature Writer: Elizabeth Bryan
10 | The Eleutheran Magazine
Asst. Copy Editor: Safyha Bryan Contributor: Rea Bethel Alexander Symonette Eleuthera Models: Ladwana Culmer Savannah Oliver Gem Austin Vashte Nairn Lashae Gaitor Advertising Sales: SPICE MEDIA GROUP Tel: 1 (242) 422-9350 services@TheEleutheran.com
The Eleutheran Magazine is published semi-annually. Copyright 2018/2019 by Spice Media Group. All Rights Reserved. Any reproduction of this publication, whole or in part, without the expressed written permission of the publisher is prohibited. For more information, email Magazine@theeleutheran.com or visit www.smgbusiness.com
On The Cover Featured Model: Savannah Oliver Photographer: Elizabeth Bryan, 422-9350 Makeup (Natural Look): JoJo The MUA, Joconda Williams, 242.525.9613 Location: Pink Sands beach, Harbour Island Outfit: Ivory top by Sophisticated U (Palmetto Point), 332-0099, Pink bikini by Norma’s Gift Shop (Governor’s Harbour), 332-2002. Jewelry by The Blue Seahorse, Governor’s Harbour, 470-2358.
feature
In Harbour Island ... V
alentines Residences, Resort and Marina - a 42 unit upscale Harbour Island resort, tucked along the waterfront, is home to the largest marina complex on the three and a half mile long by half mile wide island. Located just moments away from Harbour Island’s world-famous pink sands beach, the 4.5 acre resort’s impressive list of amenities also include Valentines’ Dive Center, a Dermalogica Skin Center and Spa, Cocoa Coffee Shop, Calico’s Retail Shop, a well-equipped fitness center, state of the art conference boardroom, and both indoor and outdoor dining at The Rooster Tail Bar and the Boathouse Restaurant. Dean Spychalla, vice president and managing director of the spectacular property, during a vibrant 2018 summer season, took time to share some of the exciting developments at the luxury resort. New state-of-theart amenities, expanded accommodations, and select training opportunities for local staff, have all contributed to phenomenal growth this year, with the resort overall during July 2018 up 24% over the same month last year.
A Pink Sands beach twirl!
12 | The Eleutheran Magazine
Adding to their beautiful collection of upscale villas and townhouses, Valentines Residences, Resort and Marina recently acquired The Lemon Tree, a 6-bedroom, 5-bathroom, 3,500 sq. ft. property contiguous to the resort, said Mr. Spychalla, and changed the name to Sapodilla House - taken from the very large and productive tree on the grounds. Sapodilla House was beautifully refurbished from top to bottom, with a new light and
Robust growth at
Valentines Residences Resort & Marina
The Marina at Valentines
The Eleutheran Magazine | 13
feature
The remaining 41 units at Valentines Residences, Resort and Marina are an exquisite mix of luxury studios with kitchenettes, and 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom villas and townhouses, featuring full kitchens, with stylish island décor and spacious patios and terraces. A 2,000 sq. ft., 3-bedroom, 4-bathroom penthouse, called the Governor Dunmore Suite, which sleeps up to 10 people, is another exceptional offering at Valentines. A new, state of the art conference boardroom has been added to Valentines’ list of world-class amenities, aimed at corporations as well as small businesses for business retreats. “The boardroom is magnificent… There is nothing like it in the Out Islands,” shared Mr. Spychalla. “The conference table is really well done, and was custom made for the resort by Paul Downs Cabinetmakers in Bridgeport, Pennsylvania, with built in zoom teleconferencing technology.” It seats 20 people and 10 people can be seated on either side of the table, allowing accommodation for as many as 40 people in the beautifully appointed boardroom. Mr. Spychalla, highlighted the innovative approach Valentines has taken toward ensuring that their local management staff are amongst the best in the region, with comprehensive training opportunities. “I’ve found that the best way to manage this resort is to take people who are from the community, who have talent, and give them opportunities to experience this industry in another location; to have another point of view, and take part in a training program that allows them to come back with ideas and the knowledge they need to run their areas of responsibility at Valentines, like the restaurant, effectively.” Restaurant business was up 20% this fiscal year versus last year, he revealed, due largely in part to taking that approach. In 2017, a local manager went through a six week management training program in Nassau with Luciano’s of Chicago. Another attended a restaurant management training school in Appleton, Wisconsin for six weeks during summer of 2018, and returned in August, hitting the ground running. As a responsible corporate citizen, and aware of how important the Harbour Island community is to the overall success of the resort, Mr. Spychalla, shared that a certain percentage of Valentines’ gross revenue each year is budgeted for donations, which are made to many different organizations. Valentines Residences Resort and Marina also has a special scholarship endowment with the University of the Bahamas, covering full tuition, for two new students from Harbour Island annually. As an endowment the scholarship program is intended to continue into perpetuity.
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A look at the new state-of-the-art boardroom at the luxury Valentines Resort and Marina.
With room to sleep up to 12 people, this historic stone home is perfect for families with children, large groups, wedding parties, photo shoots or people who just want to escape with their friends for a few days. A special golf cart, with the Sapodilla House logo is included with the house, and private chef services are also available on request.
Visitors on their annual ladies retreat all smiles at Valentines Resort
airy décor, state-of-the-art electronics, and lush greenery, in keeping with the rest of the resort.
Docked at the Resort’s Marina.
ValentineS ...
A look inside the new Sapodilla House
The Eleutheran Magazine | 15
feature
In Eleuthera ... During the month of February 2018, Pierre and Trish Brunet, a couple hailing from Quebec, Canada and Connecticut, U.S.A., relaxed with The Eleutheran Magazine on the verandah of their rented vacation villa in Central Eleuthera and talked about their connection with the island, and the pull that continues to bring them back each year.
It’s all about:
the attraction 16 | The Eleutheran Magazine
Eleuthera has a storied history as the very first inhabited island in the modern history of the Bahamas, with links and ties to numerous places around the world. So everyone who makes their way to its shores has a different story of how they came to discover this isle of freedom. “It’s been five years for us. Initially I heard from friends in Montreal, who had come here. They said it’s really nice if you want to tune
Discovery & Rediscovery...
out. If you want nightlife or want to party, don’t go there. But if you want something that’s simple, and pleasant, come here - and we did, and we loved it. In fact, we did find some nightlife. We love Tippy’s Restaurant with Elliot. We spend our Saturday evenings there, singing along with him, and we rent our car from him.”
together since they first met five years ago, so the island is very much a part of them and their experience together as a couple. Seven months of each year they spend in Maine, U.S.A, from April to October, and the remaining time they spend in Montreal, Canada - with February as their month to escape to Eleuthera.
77 year old Pierre and 66 year old Trish, who were married in 2016 have actually been coming to Eleuthera
“We’ve been back each year, except for one, when I had surgery, and we normally stay three weeks. This to me is
Source: Eleuthera Snorkel Guide, page 35
Airport beach, Central Eleuthera
just so simple, and I’m really into science and discovering. We go to one beach and there are the sand dollars, then we go to the next beach and there are the sea urchins. You see so much, and it’s unspoiled… When we get down to the two month period before we get here, that’s when the countdown starts, with 60 days…”
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feature
the island things we do...
Eleuthera as a destination is perfect for anyone who is looking to truly relax, who wants to get next to some incredibly unspoiled natural habitats, to explore endless miles of soft, coral hued beaches, and as Trish and Pierre shared, a bit of shopping and great food, are also on the itinerary. “We’ve been to the Queen’s Baths, and to the Ocean Hole in Rock Sound. We drove down to Princess Cay at the southern tip of the island. We’ve also gone up to the Glass Window bridge, and most of the other tourist highlights… Every day we walk a beach. We’ve been to eleven different beaches so far, and we keep trying to find new ones. A typical day for us while here is we would spend two hours walking on the beach… then have lunch, then go to another beach. Once in a while, we’ll go shopping. We know the gift shops well. We checked out Norma’s Gift Shop, Valerie’s Gift Shop - the seamstress, and also we went to one in
18 | The Eleutheran Magazine
Rock Sound called the Blue Seahorse. There we met one of the young ladies who had been in the magazine, and she autographed it for us. During a typical day, we also visit places like The Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve, which is really nice - it’s beautiful. We also go to the Island Farm for our fresh greens, bread and cinnamon rolls or skinny rolls - they’re not skinny, but they are good! We’ve also eaten at places like Sammy’s in Rock Sound, Buccaneer, Tippy’s, 1648, and Da Perk in Governor’s Harbour, and Rainbow Inn in Rainbow Bay. After four or five days of that, then we have a relax day.” The Brunet’s chose three weeks as their time carved out to vacation in Eleuthera, which is a good, long time to really dig in to a location. They shared that even though they are now retired, Pierre from teaching in the doctoral program at Concordia University in Montreal for 37 years, and Trish who also worked in education for more than 40 years, they are still kept quite busy,
with five children, fifteen grandchildren and three great grandchildren between them. So we wanted to know why that length of time was chosen and worked for them.
Three, Spot On... “We are retired, but I still sit on boards and things happen, so we are not retired all the time… We thought a month would probably be too long, because we would miss our kids and our grandchildren. One week is definitely not long enough, but three seems to be spot on. It’s just long enough for us, as we own two homes and there are things to do and we can then get back and get going with business stuff. Because you could stay here two months - Trish has told me that many times. When we leave, and we take that little airplane - as it gets off the ground, Patricia has had tears in her eyes. So we both love it here, and we could spend longer.”
Many vacation home owners and winter residents in Eleuthera attest to when they first got here, and the allure that kept them coming back and ultimately investing in a home or property. Pierre and Trish revealed that there are both pros and cons to investing on island that they are considering.
Island Property... “Did it come up? Oh, has it ever! We look at every lot that’s for sale down here. There are four houses nearby this vacation property, and we’ve met three of the four people, and actually get together now with a couple there, who happens to be from Connecticut, where Trish is originally from. We keep saying to them, maybe we should buy - I don’t know. The issue is, we would love to have a place here, but we already have two. We have a house in Montreal, and a house on the coast of Maine, and that’s a fair amount of upkeep. The other reason is it’s not easy to get here. In Montreal, if something happens in Maine, in five hours - I’m there. Here, I’ve got to fly from Montreal to Toronto, then Toronto to Nassau and Nassau to here. It’s a day. Those are the downsides. The upsides are, look, look at the weather, and this view. There’s something else I want to tell you that we love about
Message in a bottle: ...It is written by the Spanish midshipman Andres Sanz de Geda on board of Juan Sebastian de Elcano. I write this message on March 27,2017 at 0335 Zulu time. we are in situation 22 54 64 nand 27 17 66 w. 600 nautical miles west of Cape Burlos (Mauritania) in demand of Santo Domingo. This is not an emergency message. It is simply
a romantic act. To know that the bottle arrived at your destination, please write an email to: Don Alvaro Sanz de Ojeda. (alvaro.santojeda@gmail. com). (esant@caminos.upm.es). Thank you very much senior. On board at sea, on March 27,2017, two days before the anniversary of my father Pablo. Andrew IT IT Sharks
this island - the culture. It’s unpretentious, uncomplicated, nobody’s got airs, and everyone is so friendly. There are just nice folks. We’ve been to other Caribbean islands, where some people think they are God’s gift to the world, and the culture of the places are just totally different. We see it in restaurants here with the people who serve us, and in another context we could be serving them. So we get that really nice, kind and friendly treatment from them. Also in stores, in gift shops, and where ever we go, the local folks seem to have the culture of being friendly to outsiders like us, and that’s very important to me.” Before heading to the north side beach close to their villa for a fun photo shoot, the Brunet’s shared their experience of finding a bona fide bottle with a message, during one of their many beach-combing escapades. The note inside, was written in Spanish, by a midshipman aboard a vessel called the ‘Juan Sebastian de Elcano’, plying the waters of the Atlantic, off of Mauritania (West Africa) during March of 2017. He gave the current coordinates of his ship, assuring the reader that the letter was not an emergency, but a curiosity, about where it would finally make landfall - and invited the finder to make contact through email…
the letter
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Average sea Water Temperatures: Jan. Feb. March April May June July August Sept. October Nov. Dec.
72°F-75°F 72°F-75°F 73°F-77°F 74°F-75°F 75°F-77°F 78°F-80°F 80°F-82°F 81°F-83°F 80°F-82°F 78°F-80°F 77°F-79°F 75°F-78°F
22°C 22°C 23°C 23°C 24°C 26°C 27°C 28°C 27°C 26°C 26°C 24°C
Sun Splashed Ten Bay Beach, Savannah Sound
Sky Beach Club - GOVERNOR’S HARBOUR
THE COVE - GREGORY TOWN
Tel: (242) 332-2974 or (242) 422-9597 Email: manderson@skybeachclub.com www.skybeachclub.com
Tel: (242) 335-5141 / 1 (866) 990-7198 www.thecoveeleuthera.com
Pool, Restaurant, Beach Front, Elevated, Central Eleuthera, 7 luxury fourbedroom oceanview villas and poolside bungalows.
Pool, Restaurant, Beach Front, Fitness Center, Spa, Central Eleuthera, 57-room resort offers a selection of stylish seaside rooms, suites, cottages and villas.
resorts & residences features & listings of places to stay across the eleutheras
Eleuthera, Harbour Island, Spanish Wells.
If you’re looking to own a residence in The Eleutheras, the major real estate companies (Pages 3, 9, 148 ) are perfectly positioned with top performing agents to make that island dream become a reality. Looking to build? See Page 5 and 10 for experienced contractors Looking for other options of short term stays for business or pleasure in elegance and island charm then peruse the features and listings in this exciting section!
PINEAPPLE FIELDS - BANKS ROAD, GHB
Tel: (242) 332-3331 Email: info@pineapplefields.com www.pineapplefields.com
Pool, Restaurant, Beach Front, Elevated, Central Eleuthera, 28 one-bedroom and four two-bedroom condos.
Cape Eleuthera, Resort & Marina Cape, South Eleuthera.
“Escape to the Cape!” Tel: (242) 334-8500 www.capeeleuthera.com
Pool, Restaurant, Beach Front, Elevated, South Eleuthera, 18 spacious new one-bedroom cottages, and 14 luxury twobedroom villas, a fully outfitted marina - with 47 slips, marina store, fuel sales.
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FREEDOM IN TIME Rock Sound, South Eleuthera
Dramatic bluff, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean at Jack’s Bay.
Jack’s Bay Vision... M
agnificent bluffs, a hidden lagoon, and peaceful soft-sanded bays, are just the beginning of the beautiful natural features found within the 972 acre Jack’s Bay private resort-style community and club development, just south of Rock Sound, now well into the beginning of phase 1 and 2 of its construction schedule. Spacious estate lots, dream beach side home-sites, club suites, ocean view villas along with luxurious bungalows, are all included in the array of real estate options at Jack’s Bay. Tiger Woods designed golf, beginning with a first of its kind 10-hole short course overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, called ‘The Playgrounds’, highlight the choice of spectacular amenities expected to be ready as soon as the end of 2018 and during the first quarter of 2019; including the ‘Salt Spray’ restaurant set atop the bluff near the first and last holes of ‘The Playgrounds’; a Lagoon, featuring beach and water activities, a food truck, courts for pickle ball, tennis and other sports, walking trails and bike paths, a wishing well, climbing wall and swimming pool; also an organic farm growing fresh fruits and greens; a mystery lake; as well as water sports facilities. Sir Franklyn Wilson, chair of Jack’s Bay developers with his partner, Hon. Tommy Turnquest, former Minister of National Security and Minister of Tourism were at Jack’s Bay
22 | The Eleutheran Magazine
ing at the site, “Currently we are getting the foundation ready for the Salt Spray Restaurant which is at the top of the Bluff. We are digging the lake, near the entrance. Right across from that we will start bringing in topsoil for the farm, and we are currently getting ready for construction on the lagoon. The lagoon has the pickle ball, the sports court, private bungalows, a very kid friendly area, bike paths, a climbing wall, and a swimming pool. ‘The Playgrounds’ 10-hole short course has irrigation and drainage going in right now, and should be sprigging within the next 30 days.”
Jack’s Bay beach
touring the property in July 2018 with special guests, Nat Beneby, Country Head Royal Bank of Canada (Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, and The Caymans); and Rob Johnston, CEO Royal Bank of Canada for the entire Caribbean with his wife Angela. “We are here because the Royal Bank of Canada is an equity partner in the company which owns Jack’s Bay, called Eleuthera Properties Limited and we are delighted that the CEO from the entire region has taken the time to come and see the project in which the bank is invested,” Sir Wilson stated, during the tour. “We are in a position to say that our planning towards moving this project forward is going swimmingly well. A lot of things that created real obstacles for quite a time are being knocked down one by one. Soon you are going to see significant vertical construction taking place on this site. So we thought it opportune to have the bank at this level come and see, and we are very excited about the prospects,” he added. After touring the breathtaking Jack’s Bay beach, and taking in the vista of the oceanfront Bluffs, and the expanse of prime real estate offerings on site, Royal Bank of Canada CEO, Rob Johnston, remarked, “My wife and I and my colleague, Nat, we are enjoying a wonderful day experiencing Eleuthera. We’ve had the opportunity to see what can be, and to see a property of this scale and scope and quality, and to imagine what it will be in just a few years - it’s a pretty exciting
time to be here at the beginning. We will visit a number of times along its journey, and look forward to being a part of its success.” CEO of Beacon Land Development and Jack’s Bay developers, Michael Abbott, expressing the inspiration and vision for the property, shared, “Jack’s Bay is freedom in time. We want a community where people can get out and walk. The short course allows play in one hour. You can eat and drink along the way, and you are also just ten minutes from the greatest fishing in the world. Our organic farm will provide fresh, healthy farm-to-table dishes, at the Salt Spray restaurant and the featured food truck at the lagoon, where there is fun for the kids, and a great playground for people to get in the water - also easy fishing, and a swimming pool built into its basin. The peacefulness is incredible, with a blue hole, peaceful bays - you can picnic at the lake, and enjoy the orchard and the farm.”
With a strong team already coming together at the development, Mr. Abbott, remarked that Jack’s Bay embodies the spirit of great Bahamian culture. “What’s different about Eleuthera is the people and the culture. Eleuthera excels through its people. We see tremendous advantage and strength of people from here, and we are really excited to integrate with the people of Rock Sound. Jack’s Bay is grounded in its commitment to Bahamian people and the Resort will be run and be part of the Bahamian culture, with a level of service not seen before. My job is to facilitate that - to find the best of the best. Our guests will really enjoy the people of Eleuthera. They will know they are in the Bahamas, and they won’t forget where they are. This place is driven by people and will deliver.”
Phase 1 and 2 of construction, includes 90 units of primarily developer built product, comprised of 1, 2, 3, and 4 bedroom units, and 30 units of custom lots. Initial guest accommodations slated to open near end of year 2018, now under construction, include - 2 Oceanfront villas - one a 3 bedroom and the other a 4 bedroom, and 6 Zen suites, surrounded by natural pools of water and beautiful vegetation, said CEO, Michael Abbott. Dan Voshall, Director of Operations at Jack’s Bay, described the work ongo-
The Eleutheran Magazine | 23
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Harbour Island Dunmore Town, the only town on Harbour Island (also known as ‘Briland’ to local residents), plays host to the rich, the famous and the rest who adore this amazing destination - dwarfed in size by the larger Eleuthera - but thriving with its own beat and classic style of quaint homes, vibrant festivals,
luxury resorts, nightclubs, restaurants and beautiful marinas (Highlights: Valentine’s Resort & Marina, 333-2142; Romora Bay Marina, 333-2325). The feel differs in Briland - where unlike the rolling hills and long roads of scapes and natural wild beauty in Eleuthera, Harbour Island has the golf carts, nestled streets, historical ambiance, pink wonder of the world and vibrant cultural festivals. Even when many others have the same fabulous thought of experiencing the awesomeness of Pink Sands beach, there is
always “your space’ to simply unwind and embrace the feel of the water across your feet and sand under your toes; waves rolling in with their brilliant white crests,
Relax Reminder: North Eleuthera is 5 min. by water taxi from Harbour Island.
Makeup (Natural Look) by: JoJo The MUA, Joconda Williams, Harbour Island, 242.525.9613
& Unwind sky blues and sunlight beaming around the big cumulus clouds of the tropics. The Pink Sands Resort offers spectacular views of this beach, with their living and dining experiences, plus services to enhance your beach and in-house stay.
Savannah on Pink Sands Beach Left: Pink bikini set: Norma’s Gift Shop, Governor’s Harbour, t 332-2002/332-2479. Right: Sunset crocheted halter top, shocking pink crocheted bikini bottom: Tri-Gems Gift Shop, Tarpum Bay, t 808-0261/699-5260. Sea fan earrings, Beach bubbles bracelet: The Blue Seahorse, Governor’s Harbour, 470-2358.
See more on Harbour Island: p:112-121.
The Eleutheran Magazine | 25
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Daddy joe’s
villa allamanda
Queen’s Highway North 1 Mile South of the famous Glass Window Bridge “EAT, STAY, PLAY” Tel: (242) 335 - 5688/87 mydaddyjoes@gmail.com www.mydaddyjoes.com
suncrest house Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera. “Seafront Villa with spectacular sunset views”
Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera. “Where your comfort is our concern!” TripAdvisor.com Excellence Award Tel: (242) 332-3934 or/ 225-9567 Email: info@villaallamanda.com
Tel: (242) 359-7333 theresaburrows@gmail.com
Central Eleuthera, AC, WIFI, Cable, and much more.
the rainbow inn Rainbow Bay, Queen’s Highway Central, Eleuthera. “Tropical Studios with kitchenette & WiFi”, TripAdvisor.com Excellence Award Tel: (242) 335-0294 vacation@rainbowinn.com www.rainbowinn.com
harbourside rentals Spanish Wells Office: (242) 333-5022 Cell: (242) 557-7617 Andre@HarboursideBahamas.com
www.HarboursideBahamas.com
26 | The Eleutheran Magazine
romora bay, Resort & Marina
Unique Village
Resort,
Tel: (242) 332-1830 uniquevillageresort@gmail.com
www.uniquevillage.com The Banks, Palmetto Point, Eleuthera.
BAJA MAR
Harbour Island
Cottages at
“Find Your Way To Romora Bay!” Tel: (242) 333-2325 www.romorabay.com
James’ Cistern, Eleuthera.
Pool, Two of Harbour Island’s best restaurants - Acquapazza Italian and Sunsets on the Deck waterfront restaurants, Boutique resort with luxury ocean view accommodation, a fully outfitted Superyacht marina - with amenities for vessels up to 190ft. Email - info@romorabay.com fb:RomoraBayResort
“We’ve got you covered.” Tel: (242) 447-5256 bajamarcottages@outlook.com
The Retreat @ CTI
fb:CottagesAtBajaMar
tropical dreams
Rentals
North Palmetto Point, Eleuthera. “It’s home away from home, where your dreams come true” Tel: (242) 332-1632
Rock Sound, South Eleuthera.
tropicaldreamsrentals@gmail.com
www.tropicaldreamsrentals.com
“Sustainable Tourism” Tel: (242) 334-2700 www.ctieleuthera.edu.bs Pool, Restaurant, South Eleuthera, AC, WIFI, Cable, 16 tranquil rooms. Email - cti@oneeleuthera.org
pink sands resort
valentines
Chapel St., Harbour Island
Harbour Island
Tel: (242) 333-2030 Reservations: (855) 855-9621
Tel: (242) 333-2142 Reservations: (866) 389-6864
stay@pinksandsresort.com
reservations@valentinesresort.com
www.PinkSandsResort.com
www.ValentinesResort.com
Resort & Marina
The Eleutheran Magazine | 27
StayWithUs
A New Partnership...
tippy’s restaurant changing of the guard
On the cusp of the retirement of restaurateur, Peter Birkwieser, from the world renown Tippy’s Restaurant and Beach Bar at the end of August 2018, key principal of the Pineapple Fields Resort, David Barlyn, announced a new owner/partnership with current Tippy’s Manager, a local Eleutheran, Elliottt Rolle.
Hand in Hand l-r: Elliott Rolle with his partner David Barlyn on the verandah of Pineapple Fields.
28 | The Eleutheran Magazine
“Having worked all over the Caribbean, with some of the best people in the business you can tell who is going to be successful, and I saw that from day one. Focus, passion, it’s all there,” said David about his new partner, adding, “I wouldn’t even think about taking on Tippy’s if Elliott wasn’t doing it. He has made a 16-year investment, and Elliott is known as Tippy’s. He’s got a business head. He’s got people skills. He’s an incredible entertainer, and it’s going to be perfect to be the captain of the ship... I know that he’s going to make this his. I know I don’t have to worry. I know that the loyalty is there. I know the work ethic is there. I know the understanding of guest service is there, as well as the mentality needed to motivate staff. Elliott can do everything in that restaurant better than I can do it, and you want smart, turned on, capable people around you. It’s the only way that you can be successful.” This changing of the guard at Tippy’s, one of Eleuthera’s
hottest lunch and dinner dining locations, beautifully nestled along the pink-sanded Poponi beach on the Banks Road area of Governor’s Harbour, is an amazing success story for 45-yearold Elliottt, who began employment at Tippy’s as a bartender, 16 years ago. Now an owner and partner in Tippy’s restaurant, Elliott shared a bit about how he got started, saying, “In January of 2002, I was looking for a job, and found out that there was an opening for a bartender, for two days.” Elliottt met David cleaning up around a coconut tree, and approached him, saying that he had started out at Club Med, had worked some other places, and was looking for another job to earn extra money. He said that David responded, ‘Come in and let me see what you’ve got’. David interjected at this point, saying he needed to back up and add to the story, and shared how during their initial conversation, Elliottt also offered advice on how he needed to mulch his coconut branches, and Dave said he thought at the time, “Smart dude, motivated and wants to see things done right.” Lupo, the bartender at the time had been given two days off, so Elliottt was given the opportunity to work. “I can recall well, I started, and I really liked the place, and I really wanted to work there, so I put all my
expertise and charm into it. I not only worked the bar, but also the restaurant, showing what I could do. I went to Dave that Saturday evening, at the end of the two days, and said to Dave, ‘thank you and I’ll see you.’ He said, ‘No, no, come again tomorrow.’ And it just went from there.” “Then it was just a matter of slowly, the more he shined, the more responsibility he took on,” said David. “Elliottt can run a restaurant and entertain anywhere in the world. He’s of that caliber, world class. He’s definitely a businessman, and we are now going to take that business side to the next level. It’s all a matter of exposure. He’s worked with Peter Birkwieser, a world class restaurateur, and he’s seen world class clientele, and dealt with them… He’s as good as anyone that you would find on any island that I’ve ever been on, and the potential is limitless.” As Elliottt makes the transition into his new role at the restaurant, David said they were already looking for new talent. “One thing we discussed was that he should now pass this on. Having been given the opportunity, to now do the same for someone else and start looking for the Elliott of 16 years ago. Somebody who’s got potential.” “I would like to instill myself into people that work with me,” said Elliottt. “You’ve got to love what you do. If you don’t, there is no point in doing it. If you are not going to put 100% or 110% in, there is no use in you doing it. I’ve got some staff who I’ve begun to enlist and have given Poponi beach
The Eleutheran Magazine | 29
StayWithUs
accentuating the natural landscape
Pictured here is Pineapple Fields, the 32-unit condo resort, beautifully tucked among 5 acres of lush gardens along the Banks Road area of Governor’s Harbour, opposite coral sanded Poponi beach, which Tippy’s Restaurant sits on, facing the Atlantic Ocean.
them more things to do. You watch and see how they react to what’s been given. I went through the same process. I must say that I didn’t shine every time I had a task put in front of me. Sometimes I failed, but the key to it was getting up, knowing what I wanted - having the op-
30 | The Eleutheran Magazine
portunity and grasping it.” During his sixteen years at Tippy’s it was not always easy, and important people in his life sometimes had to help steer him in the right direction, said Elliottt. “One time I went to my grandmother, frustrated, and told
her that after that season I was done, and would not go back. You know what she told me? She said, Tippy’s is your ticket to see the world; don’t leave, only good things can come out of your experience there. I took that advice, and I didn’t know exactly what she meant at that
time, but, I’ve seen a lot of people and I’ve been to a lot of places.” Elliottt was also inspired to begin and grow his own business ‘Big E’s Eleuthera Car Rentals’ while at Tippy’s. “Several homeowners here at Pineapple Fields have been great advisors to me. Anytime, I need anything I can call them. There’s a saying about becoming like the people you hang with and being known by the company you keep. They inspired me to open my own business. I started with the self-drive cars, and I went on from there,” he shared. Working with Peter Birkwieser was far from easy said Elliottt, as his direct boss saw his potential and always pushed him to grow. “Knowing where I came from - I didn’t have the fatherly figure. I actually used to call Peter ‘Papa’, because he showed me that fatherly figure. One time I asked him, why he was so hard on me, and not on some of the other restaurant staff, and he said that it was because he cared, and saw the potential in me. I respected him for that.” “I think one of the keys to my path moving forward at Tippy’s was my honesty,”
shared Elliott. “During my second full week there, I was tested. I found in the back of the bar, a large wad of cash, which could have been the answers to my financial challenges at the time… but I made the decision to bring it to Peter’s attention. I was tested again with money in the trash in the kitchen, which I also handed over to Peter. Honesty played a big part. Being honest and doing what you know you have to do, is the road to success. It starts with honesty, loyalty, and you’ve got to love doing what you do.” Visitors to Eleuthera, who have had the opportunity to experience Elliott’s special brand of welcome at Tippy’s, continue to give rave reviews. “My aim and object at the restaurant is you come as a guest, and you leave as family, from the experience that I and my staff give. A lot of guests come that I don’t even know sometimes I kiss, like 30, 40 women, guys too!” smiled Elliottt. “If you come to the restaurant, I want you to feel that love from the time you step in there. You are going to feel that love, and we are going to give you an unforgettable experience. The best thing is when I get emails back from people, ‘Elliott, you made our trip - we are coming back… Elliott, you and your staff…’. That’s key.”
The Eleutheran Magazine | 31
StayWithUs
resorts &
residences
listing Harbour Island, Spanish wells & Eleuthera
North Eleuthera
Harbour Island Bahama House Inn
333-2201
Baretta’s Seashell Inn
333-2361
Coral Sands Hotel
333-2350
Dunmore Beach Club
333-2200
Eagle One Motel
333-2667
Ocean View Club
333-2276
Pink Sands Resort
333-2030
Rock House
333-2053
Romora Bay Club
333-2325
Royal Palm Hotel
333-2738
Runaway Hill Club
333-2150
Sea Shell Inn
333-2361
South Bar Club
333-2293
The Landing
333-2707
The Sugar Apple B & B
333-2750
Tingum Village Hotel
333-2161
Valentines Resort & Marina 333-2142
332-2012
French Leave Resort
332-3778
Ocean Club Condos
332-3039
Pineapple Fields
332-2221
Sky Beach Club
332-3422
Suncrest House
359-7333
Villa Allamanda
332-3934
Palmetto Point Atlantic Suites
332-1882
Hillside Manor
332-0099
Latera Palmetto Resort
332-1386
Palmetto Shores Villas
332-1403
Paradise Sands
332-3766
Sir Charles Guest House
225-0015
Tropical Dreams Rentals
332-1632
Unique Village Resort
332-1830
South Eleuthera
Tarpum Bay
Spanish Wells Adventurer’s Resort
333-4883
Harbourside Rentals
333-5022
Yellow Tail Cottage
333-5022
Upper Bogue Sea View Motel
Laughing Bird Apartments
335-1287
Cartwright’s Cottages
334-4215
Ethel’s Cottages
334-4233
Hilton’s Haven Motel
334-4066
Munroe’s Cottages
334-4472
Rock Sound Hilltop View Guest House Northside Ocean Resort
Central Eleuthera
The Retreat at CTI
Gregory Town.
334-4231
Ingraham’s Beach Inn
334-2123 334 2573 334-2700
The Cottages
334-2957
Jack’s Bay Resort
754-312-7310
Cambridge Villas
335-5080
Surfer’s Manor
335-5300
Green Castle
The Cove Eleuthera
335-5142
Green Castle Motel
334-6269
Marissa’s Motel Suites
334-6012
Daddy Joe’s
335-5687/8
Hatchet Bay, Rainbow Bay, J.C.
Wemyss Bight
Seven Gables Estates (HB)
Sunny Acres Motel
335-0070
Bay Inn Estates (HB)
335-0730
Rainbow Inn (RB)
335-0294
Deep Creek
Baja Mar Cottages
447-5256
Seaside Inn
Buccaneer Club
AIR Temp. & Rainfall
334-0097
334-8179
Cape Eleuthera
Governor’s Harbour 332-2000
32 | The Eleutheran Magazine
Cape Eleuthera Resort
Average
334-8500
Jan. Feb. Mar Apr. May June July August Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec.
High 62.1° 62.4° 63.9° 66.2° 69.8° 73.2° 74.7° 74.8° 74.5° 72° 68° 63.9°
Low 77° 78° 80° 82° 85° 87° 89° 89° 88° 86° 82° 79°
Rainfall 1.9” 1.6” 1.6” 2.1” 4.6” 9.2” 6.2” 8.5” 6.8” 6.9” 2.2” 2”
Warm Embrace Ten Bay Beach, Savannah Sound
Relaxed moments at Ten Bay beach with the last rays of the setting sun caressing the skin. Model: Ladwana Carey Photographer: Elizabeth Bryan
The Eleutheran Magazine | 33
underwater
an eleuthera
guide The Snorkel Guide of Eleuthera, inspired by the adventures of longtime visitor to the island, the late Fritz Simonson, and written by his young protĂŠgĂŠ, Rea Bethel, a local snorkeling enthusiast, is filled with tips to protect both the snorkeler, as well as the coral reefs, so they can continue to be enjoyed by generations to come. Since returning home to Eleuthera in 2016, after completing studies in Marketing and Art History, 24 year old Rea, of Palmetto Point, Central Eleuthera, fed her enthusiastic appetite for local sea life, by taking in special under water spots all over the island. Her passion for snorkeling
The Eleutheran Magazine | 35
Rea Sea Ready
started back in high school when she was a volunteer with local NGO BREEF (Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation), as part of her community service requirement for school. During her first year volunteering during BREEF summer camp, she met friends from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Fritz Simonson, who had been coming to Eleuthera with his wife, Janet Simonson, since 1977. “At home in Louisiana, Fritz taught children how to swim, so when he and Janet came out to Eleuthera, he also volunteered teaching children how to swim at BREEF summer camp, and that is how we met. We hit it off really well, as passionate snorkelers, and eco-activists, and every day after BREEF summer camp we three would go snorkeling and they became two of my best friends… We just got along really well, “ smiled Rea. In 2012, Rea and the Simonson’s began documenting different aspects of the reefs they encountered as they snorkeled the island together, as the start of a snorkel guide and book project. She shared, “For an entire month during summers the three of us would go out and snorkel different parts of the island, and we would document all of those reefs - how they were recovering, what was
underwater a n e l e u t h e r a guide
In the photos:
happening with them and also observing fish populations… So I have seen in the past several years a growth in reef activity around the island, which is fantastic.” Sadly, Fritz, passed away in February of 2017 at the age of 71, how-
Exploring the underwater beauty of our islands
Sea Anemone School of School Masters The invasive Lionfish
ever, Rea kept alive the desire to do the snorkel guide. Her now completed guide, jumpstarted by a commission to do a guide for Pineapple Fields Resort, said Rea, is dedicated in memory and honour of Fritz as the visionary. “This is an ongoing project, and something I will continue. It’s a passion, a hobby and something I just love to do,” smiled Rea.
The 37 Eleutheran | The Eleutheran MagazineMagazine | 37
feature
Explore
A Wall of Fish
Five favorite spots for snorkeling
1 - “The south end of Double Bay has one of the healthiest reefs I’ve seen going across the island in the time I’ve been snorkeling. It starts close to shore, and it goes out towards the breakers, and I have seen more coral beds there than I’ve seen anywhere else on the island. So it’s really beautiful. I’ve seen parrotfish there, as well as lobsters.” 2 - “Number two would be Kemp’s Creek and the tunnel of fish. That one is off of Ten Bay beach. I would like to keep that area protected, as it’s a mangrove area, and you can see many different kinds of fish. When you go out of the creek and to the left, there is a cliff face which is part of a tunnel of rocks you can swim through -
38 | The Eleutheran Magazine
‘the tunnel of fish’ - and it’s beautiful, just beautiful there.” 3 - “Three is Twin Cove. It’s definitely one of my favorite spots. You can start with one cove, then go into the other. That’s where I’ve seen a really beautiful school of ‘blue tang’ and actually swam with the school, which was a lot of fun. There were so many of them - I had never seen a school that big. I’ve also seen turtles there, eating the turtle grass abundant in that area. Also, one of the reasons I love the Twin Coves area, is the number of elkhorn. It’s another really healthy reef.” 4 - “Lighthouse Point is really beautiful. It’s a little harder to get to, and it’s a
day trip, but the view from the ocean is stunning. The beautiful white cliffs seen from the water as you’re snorkeling, the many kinds of fish as well as turtles there. It’s an advanced snorkeling experience, especially if you go around the cays, which I haven’t done as yet - so that’s on my bucket list.” 5 - “Twin Sisters is really nice. It’s near the Glass Window bridge, and you are very close to shore. It’s an off the path beach, just before you get to the bridge. You have two cays there, very close to shore that you can swim out to and snorkel between them. It’s not a long snorkel, but there is lots of life there. It’s a really cool spot.”
Snorkel Tips & Rules In tribute to Fritz Simonson, snorkel enthusiast extraordinaire.
Snorkeling on Eleuthera is a fantastic way to experience adventure for all ages. Just be mindful of a few things when going out at all times: Tips & Rules: Use the buddy system at all times, NEVER GO OUT ALONE. If in a group be aware of everyone’s ability and appoint one member of the group to keep track of the entire group. Coral...
Do not stand on the actual reef. It can cause reef damage. If you need to stand, find a sandy spot on or near the reef. Corals are living plants. We need to protect and preserve them. Do not break off pieces of coral to take home with you.
Protect Elkhorn Coral Reflection
feature
Do not touch the reef with bare hands to stabilize yourself while taking footage unless wearing gloves. Find a secure rock underside to hold onto. If any trash is spotted on the reef, carefully remove it. If you can take it back to shore, dispose of it properly. sharks, barracudas...
“
If a shark is spotted. Swim to shore calmly. Stop, wait, and watch to see which direction the shark goes and continue on. NEVER panic.
Most of all have fun and enjoy the beauty of our reefs!
Avoid wearing anything silver or shiny while snorkeling, take it off before going into the water. Mature barracudas are attracted to shiny objects. If you have forgotten to take off jewelry beforehand and you spot a barracuda that is starting to follow you, swim calmly back to shore and take it off. Do not attempt to take it off while in the water. Depending on how you feel, snorkeling can be resumed. the mask, snorkel...
To prevent your mask from fogging while in the water. Prior to snorkeling use saliva, baby shampoo, or specifically designed mask sea drops. Do not rinse out entirely, fogging will occur. For a perfect fit do a dry seal test with your mask. To do this place the mask against your face and create a seal by breathing in, make sure it sticks. The goal is to make sure you have a perfect seal that is not too loose nor too tight. A poor fit will create an unpleasant snorkel. If your snorkel has a leak valve, make sure it’s not broken for that too can create an unpleasant snorkel. If it is broken, do your best to find a working one. Most of all have fun and enjoy the beauty of our reefs!
Rea at Twin Coves
feature
Tides: The best time to go in the water is between 10-11am and 1-3pm. During those hours the sun is in the right position for best visibility and optimal for any video or photography footage. Snorkeling can be done either at high tide or low tide, it’s a matter of preference (check tide times online before going out). If going at low tide on the Atlantic side, be careful not to brush your body against ANY coral when attempting to go over the reefs. To prevent this, swim around reefs, as going over can be difficult and dangerous. High tide on the Caribbean side is fine. Do not dive under the rocks at high tide. It can be dangerous. During low tide is fine. If diving at low tide on this side, be wary when coming up under rocky shelves. Do not go in the water if there are white caps, especially on the Atlantic side. Depending on the wave action, it may be a bit difficult, especially when trying to take footage. Go when suitable for your comfort level and swimming strength. Wave action will stir up the sand making for poor visibility. *Abiding by the guidelines above will help in the protection and recovery growth of the reefs. Thank you!
Rea Bethel, snorkeling enthusiast.
44 | The Eleutheran Magazine
File Fish Male and Female
feature
Adventure... spots for
Beginners, Intermediate & Advanced
Swimming next to a Flying Guarnard
leisurely & relaxing snorkeling
Divers spectacular view of Lighthouse Point.
46 | The Eleutheran Magazine
Below are some locations of where to snorkel around the island. Choose depending on the weather and your swimming skills and level of comfort in open water. Locations are listed from
Angel Fish
North to South Eleuthera.
Beginner/Novice Going left of Tay Bay Beach staying close to shore at Preacher’s Cave (Historical Landmark on Eleuthera) Twin Sisters, approximately half a mile south of the Glass Window Bridge just off Queen’s Highway on the Bight of Eleuthera (aka) Caribbean Sea. The Entrance looks like a parking lot and leads to an immediate foot path. Located North of Gregory Town. Gaulding Cay, approximately 3.5 Miles North of Gregory Town. Public access road right across from Daddy Joe’s Restaurant. Snorkel around the cay close to shore.
Butterfly Fish Trenches
Sea Turtle
South end of Sky Beach in Governor’s Harbor at Pascal’s (Sky Beach Club) Close to shore, spot reefs on French Leave Beach (Club Med Beach) on the North Atlantic side in Governor’s Harbour. Use any public road off of Bank’s Road. North end of South Side Beach in Palmetto Point on Caribbean side. Take Sea View Drive at intersection (crossroads) heading south.
Queen Angel
North and South ends of Ten Bay in Savannah Sound on Caribbean side. 3.5 miles south of Eleuthera Island Farm. Turn at Beach Access Sign.
Trunk Fish
The Eleutheran Magazine | 47
feature
Exploring coastal areas of Twin Coves
Intermediate snorkeling,
feeling a little brave and adventurous: Reef just to the south of *Nix Cay, Bank’s Road, Governor’s Harbour. Reef to the north of *Nix Point - parallel to Nix Cay, Bank’s Road, Governor’s Harbour. Don’t go out beyond the cay. Nix’s Point Bay Reef, south of French Leave beach along Bank’s Road, Governor’s Harbour. Walk over rock point at the south end until you see reef coming close to shore. Snorkel north with the current. Take inner reef and end at beginning of Nix Point. Shoes are needed. Poponi Beach. Close to shore are spotty reefs at entrance. Located in North Palmetto Point on Atlantic Side. Approximately 1 mile from Queen’s Highway intersection (crossroads) on Church Street. *Nix Cay and Nix Point are on the south end of French Leave Beach (Club Med Beach), entrance to the right of the Lush Life property located in Governor’s Harbour along Bank’s Road.
48 | The Eleutheran Magazine
Surrounded by a Blue Tang school
South of Twin Cove around the rocky point and into the northeast cove. Take inner reef. Reef to the north of Nix Point - parallel to Nix Cay - Traverse south of Nix Cay, go around cay and explore reefs/reef clusters and circle back towards shore. Going around the cays at the end of Lighthouse Point.
Google earth is a great way to map out your reef route. Also, maps with snorkel legends are sold at Eleuthera Island Farm. Someone will be there to help and give suggestions and directions on how to get to certain places if need be.
Advanced snorkeling, for
spectacular underwater scenery:
Guide Written by: Rea Bethel. Under Water Photographs by: Rea Bethel and Fritz & Janet Simonson
Knowles Drive Airport Beach. Approximately 2 miles south of Governor’s Harbour Airport. Paved access road heading northeast towards Atlantic. Twin Cove to Sky Beach. Good, long, challenging snorkel on a fair weather day. Prepare for drop off and pickup. Going around Twin Cove from one cove to the other. Stay close to cay.
Octopus
Coral Bed
The Eleutheran Magazine | 49
Restaurants & Bars
on the menu A guide to the best choices in Eleuthera, Harbour Island & Spanish Wells
eating out:
Whether it’s grabbing a quick bite, having a well planned evening dining experience, an afternoon beach grill, seaside chill, pool side drink, weekend barbecue or fish fry, the islands of The Eleutheras have a myriad of choices available to whet the appetite.
Freedom Restaurant & Sushi Bar and Gregory Town Grill, THE COVE, Gregory Town
Tel: 242.335.5141 Email: info@shipyardbahamas.com Web: www.thecoveeleuthera.com
“Ocean front restaurants feature a fusion of Island, American and Asian Cuisine.”
50 | The Eleutheran Magazine
Tippy’s Restaurant
Banks Road, Governor’s Harbour
Tel: (242) 332-3331
Restaurant, Bar & Beach. Menu changes daily depending on the delivery of local produce and seafood.
FISHBONE BEach bar & grill Savannah Sound, Central Eleuthera.
Lunch & Dinner Tel: (242) 826-7550 Email: fishbonebeachbar@gmail.com “Come Hungry, Leave Satisfied!” Open: Mon. - Sat. 10am - 10pm; FB: fishbonebeachbar Closed Sundays.
The Rainbow Inn
Rainbow Bay, Eleuthera.
Fun moment for this local Bartender and his customers. French Leave Restaurant.
Tel: (242) 335-0294 Email: vacation@rainbowinn.com FB: Rainbow Inn Eleuthera Bahamas
PASCAL’S Ocean Front Restaurant & Pool Bar Governor’s Harbour, inside Sky Beach Club
Tel: (242) 332-3422 Web: www.pascalsoceanfront.com
Seafood Restaurant & Pool Bar. Fresh Seafood. Lunch, Dinner, Happy Hour Daily 5-7, Sunday BBQ & Pool Party 3-7
Fresh Fish, Steaks & Famous Monday and now Thursday night Pizza/Live Music (Reservations required). Closed Sundays and Tuesdays.
The Teakettle
Cupid’s Cay, Governor’s Harbour.
Tel: (242) 332-2992 / 359-7333 Email: theteakettleeleuthera@ gmail.com FB: theteakettleeleuthera Web: theteakettleeleuthera.com
Authentic Bahamian Gifts & Cafe. Serving Brunch and Lunch. Open:10am -4pm (Monday to Friday)
eatWithUs
Restaurants & Bars
Fun night out for two young ladies visiting from Baltimore, Maryland.
Restaurants in Eleuthera, Harbour Island and Spanish Wells, by their very setting offer a unique experience to diners and every opportunity should be made to experience the varied choices, no matter which part of the island group you choose to stay. In Harbour Island the view may be Pink Sands beach, a sunset across a Marina or a harbour, or simply the quaint architecture or the surroundings. In Eleuthera it may be the nestled ambiance, Atlantic breeze, setting sun or the bartender’s smile. Call, inquire, make reservations, or stop in at any of the locations listed in this section. When we talk with visitors, it’s not the one restaurant they remember, it’s the several they experienced.
LeoRose Sunset Beach Bar & Grill Q’s Hwy, James’ Cistern
“enjoy bahamian culture, cuisine and hospitality on the beach. tuesdays are bahamian night - with live music, finger lickin’ BBq chicken, ribs & pork chops.” Tel: (242) 335-6223
52 | The Eleutheran Magazine
Daddy Joe’s
1 Mile South of Glass Window Bridge
Eat, Stay, Play. Tel: (242) 335-5688/87 E: mydaddyjoes@gmail.com
Sunset Inn
Queen’s Hwy, Governor’s Harbour Restaurant & Bar “Down Home” Bahamian Cuisine Tel: (242) 332-2487
Unique Village The Banks, Palmetto Point Sitting at Rainbow Inn over the holidays, this visiting couple were experiencing Eleuthera for the first time and by their accounts fully enjoying their stay. It was the devastating hurricanes in 2017 which affected several Caribbean destinations, that caused their 2018 plans to steer them to our island grouping in the Bahamas.
Acquapazza & Sunsets on the Deck ROMORA BAY, Harbour Island Waterfront Restaurants
Restaurant American & Bahamian Cuisine Tel: (242) 332-1830 Open: 7:30am-3pm & 6pm-9pm Daily
Buccaneer
Haynes Avenue, Governor’s Harbour
FUSION OF ITALIAN, BAHAMIAN & AMERICAN Cuisine
Restaurant
Tel: (242) 333-2325 Open for Lunch & Dinner Happy Hour: 4pm- 6pm Daily
Tel: (242) 332-2000
Bacchus Fine Foods Governor’s Harbour
Bahamian/Asian Fusion
Da Perk
Bay Front, Governor’s Harbour
Breakfast & Lunch Dinner by reservation only
Breakfast/Lunch Cafe
Open: Mon, Tues, Wed, & Fri 8am - 6pm; Sat. & Sun. 8am 4pm; Closed on Thursday.
Tel: (242) 332-2620 Email: daperkcafe@gmail.com Facebook: daPerkCoffeeShop
Tel: (242) 470-6563/470-9019 bacchusfinefoods@gmail.com fb: bacchusfinefoodseleuthera
The Eleutheran Magazine | 53
eatWithUs
Arthur’s Bakery & Cafe Crown and Dunmore Street, Harbour Island
Tel: 1 (242) 333-2285
COCOA Coffee House
Harbour Island, At Valentines Resort
Tel: (242) 333-1323 FB: COCOACoffeeHouse
Starbucks and Lavazza coffee, with artisan breads, gourmet sandwiches and freshly baked pastries and cookies. Open on Mon-Sat: 7am - 5pm; Sun: 7am - 12pm
54 | The Eleutheran Magazine
Dinner at Sunsets on the Deck Restaurant, Romora Bay, Harbour Island.
Restaurants & Bars
“Breakfast & Lunch, with Special Breads & Pastries. Open: Monday - Saturday, 8am - 2pm
The Dunmore Deli & Gourmet Market King Street, Harbour Island
Tel: 1 (242) 333-2644 FB: Dunmore Deli and Gourmet Market
“The #1 Place On The Island For Breakfast and Lunch!”
The Boat House Restaurant & The Rooster Tail Bar & Grill | Harbour Island, VALENTINES RESORT & MARINA
Tel: (242) 333-2142
Bistro Favorites & Island Seafood, Full Menu & Light Snacks
Romora Bay Marina at sunset.
Seaside Breeze
The Shipyard
Entrance of the harbour @ Eastern point of Spanish Wells.
Restaurant & Coffee House Tarpum Bay, South Eleuthera Serving: Tropical Conch Salad, Daiquiris, Int’l Brand Coffees, Bahamian Pastries, Burgers, & Sunsets! Open: 7am to 10pm (Daily) Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Tel: (242) 699-5401 Instagram: Official Seaside Breeze
Barbie’s Snacks
Tarpum Bay, South Eleuthera Tel: 242.333.5010 Email: info@shipyardbahamas.com facebook: shipyardsw
Restaurant and Bar, “Fresh Bahamian with a modern twist”
Budda’s Snack Shack
Top of the Hill - 12th Street, Spanish Wells.
“Down Home Bahamian Food.” Open: 6:30am to 5pm Mon-Sat Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Tel: (242) 334-4028 E: erie242@hotmail.com
Sammy’s Place
Red Road, Rock Sound
“Authentic, Down Home Bahamian Food.”
Tel: 242.333.4111 Web: www.buddabahamas.com Email: info@buddabahamas.com fb: BuddasSnackShack
Restaurant and Bar Open: Mon-Sat 11am - 10pm; Sundays 5pm - 10pm Happy Hour Daily 5pm - 7pm
Open: 7:30am - 9:30pm Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Tel: (242) 334-2121
eatWithUs
listing restaurants
Harbour Island
Eating Out When the time comes, explore the different choices in food experiences on the island. Wild Orchids Restaurant Rock Sound, South Eleuthera
Owners, Larry and Sybil Forbes celebrated the grand opening of their new Wild Orchids Restaurant waterfront location in Rock Sound during July 2018, where they converted a vintage old home into the beautiful new restaurant location.
Angela’s Starfish
333.2253
Arthur’s Bakery & Café
333-2285
Bahamas Coffee Roasters
470-8015
Barettas
333.2361
COCOA Coffee House
225.8953
Coral Sands
333.2350
Dunmore Beach Club
333.2200
Dunmore Deli & Gourmet Market
333-2644
Pink Sands
333-2030
The Landing
333.2707
Ma Ruby’s Rest.
333.2161
Rock House
333.2053
Romora Bay Club
333.2325
Runaway Hill Club
333.2150
The Boat House
333.2142
The Rooster Tail Bar & Grill
333.2142
Spanish Wells Anchor Snack Bar
333.4023
Budda’s Snack Shack
333-4222/4111
Eagle’s Landing
333.4955
Sandbar & Grill
333-4919
The Generation Gap
333.4464
The Shipyard
333.5010
Lower Bogue Seven Seas
335.1011
N. E. Craft & Snack
335.1700
Gregory Town Daddy Joes
335.5688/7
Elvina’s Rest.
335.5032
Unca Gene’s Restaurant & Bar
699-5015
The Cove
335-5141
Sugar Apple Restaurant & Bar
335.5597
Ida’s Delights
335.5023
Laughing Lizard Surfers Manor
699-5566
335.5300
Hatchet Bay
Tel: 242.334-2000 Restaurant and Bar E: wildorchidseleuthera@gmail.com Open: 10am - 8pm fb: eleuthera wild orchids waterfront Int’l & Bahamian Cuisine restaurant
Harbour Island, Spanish wells & Eleuthera
Twin Brothers
335.0730
Rainbow Inn
335.0294
Front Porch Restaurant
335-0727
James’ Cistern DJ’s Takeaway
335.6566
Kel-D’s Bar & Grill Lee’s Cafe
335.6061
335.6444
LeoRose Sunset Beach Bar & Grill
335-6223
Stubbs BBQ
335.6111
Governor’s Harbour 1648 Bar & Grille
332-3777
Blue Room Restaurant
332.2736
Buccaneer Restaurant
332.2000
Da Perk
332.2620
Gov. Har. Bakery
332.3074
Harbour Inn
332.2686
Pammy’s
332.2843
Pascal’s Ocean Front
332.3422
Sunset Inn Restaurant
332.2487
Tippy’s
332.3331
Mon’s Kitchen Express
470.7738
Palmetto Point Mate & Jenny’s Pizza
332.1504
Unique Village Restaurant
332.1830
Sweet Dreams
699.5142
SAVANNAH SOUND Fishbone Beach Bar
332-6524/359-7271
Tarpum Bay Barbie’s Snacks
D & J’s Takeaway Ingraham’s
334.4028 334.4130
334.4066
Rock Sound Rock Oven Pizzaria
470.0107
Nort’Side Eleu Rest.
334.2573
The Tea Room at CTI
334.2700
Sammy’s Restaurant
334.2121
Wild Orchids
334.2000
Frigate’s Bar & Grill
470-1777
Deep Creek/Cape / Wemyss Bight Sharil’s Inn
334.8111
A & T’s Restaurant
334.8347
Harbour Pointe Restaurant Ship to Shore
334.8500 334.0111
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a n DO
Dock
Island life - Evening’s meal, straight out of the fisherman’s hand
Pictured here, Governor’s Harbour fisherman, Lindy Gierzewski serving fresh seafood to a visiting couple. The pair, Veronika Kollarovits and Marion Koneval, hail from Slovakia, a country in Central Europe. They spent 13 days on the island exploring, taking in the natural beauty and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.
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Seasons STONE CRABS OPEN SEASON October 16th to May 31st NASSAU GROUPER OPEN SEASON March 1st - November 30th CRAWFISH OPEN SEASON August 1st - March 31st
On The Menu The restaurants featured on pages 50-57 have these and more on their menus. Give them a call or stop in.
Island girl on the small private dock by the South Bar Cannons in Harbour Island. White knit dress, from Norma’s Gift Shop, 332-2002/332-2479. GHB. Beba white slippers, from Sophisticated U, 332-0099.
Fisher folk at the dock in Tarpum Bay, where local fishermen come in with their catch of the day and locals and visitors alike, stop to bag their sea food, ready for in-home preparation. Local small-scale fishermen across the islands are an important part of the social and economic fabric of the island grouping. They contribute to the health and well-being of the people as well as to the palates of restaurant diners. Tarpum Bay dock.
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feature
It’s all about:
On the water... Through out the year, and increasingly more often during the cooler, winter months, boaters and sailors with vessels of all colors, shapes and sizes dot the coastal bays in Eleuthera, Harbour Island and Spanish Wells. The Eleutheras play host to adventurous souls, discovering the beauty of the islands for the first time, or taking in the familiar treasures of quiet, sheltered coves, striking cliffs, and seemingly endless pink sand strands.
Sailing life for me
Juli and Bob Frazee, a sailing couple, from Cassanovia, New York were in Eleuthera during the month of February 2018. It was their very first time to the island, they said, even though they had been sailing together up and down the US coast on holidays for about 40 years. They had done a Bahamas sail four years ago with Eleuthera on the itinerary, they shared, but ran short of time, after touching only a few islands and had to make their way back home, up north. In 2018, they finally took the opportunity to make their way to Eleuthera, describing their sail along the coastline, saying, “We loved coming down the west coast and seeing all
Governor’s Harbour
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the cliffs, and rocky outcrops and the caves, which we had not seen before, and didn’t realize that Eleuthera had so much of that, and that there is pink sand on the other side! That was stunning coming down and seeing that.” While moored at Governor’s Harbour’s tranquil bay front, and refilling their water supplies, the Frazee’s shared a bit about the time they had spent so far on island, “We’ve been down here four days, and we’ve just enjoyed it! We spent one night up in Mutton Fish Bay, and then spent a couple of nights in Hatchet Bay harbour… We usually eat out each night, and we restocked our provisions from the grocery stores.” Juli smiled as she added, “Bob also got his hair cut today at the barber shop here in Governor’s Harbour. So, he’s now looking all sharp, and says the barber made him look twenty years younger!” During the couple’s remaining five days in Eleuthera, they planned to rent a car to tour further down the island by land and hoped to go as far south as Powell Point, at the Cape.
Seen In The Photos:
Bob and Juli Frazee at the Bay Front in Governor’s Harbour, filling up on water and taking their small dinghy back to their boat safely anchored in the Harbour surrounded by fellow seafaring folk. Below is a photo of sunset at the Hatchet Bay community dock on the tranquil harbour where the couple had moored to spend two nights.
Hatchet Bay
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Feature
Life Saving Art
Lavarrick O. King,
A growing number of talented Eleutherans have begun to embrace the creative arts in a real way, taking the decision to nurture and use their talents to generate meaningful livelihoods through unique crafts, jewelry and accessories, as well as fine art and more. 39 year old fine artist, Lavarrick Orlando King, resident in Hatchet Bay, Central Eleu-
Hatchet Bay, Eleuthera
thera, and talented in a variety of paint mediums, including his most recent exhibit of water colours, dubbed “Eleuthera Cry”, held at Ocean Tally, is working diligently to do just that. During the exhibit, Lavarrick spoke about his art and his new life in Eleuthera. Do you have any roots or ties in Eleuthera? I do have roots in Eleuthera. My maternal grandmother was from Hatchet Bay, Earla King. That’s actually what got me home to Eleuthera, and I currently live in Hatchet Bay.
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go to school, but never said, ‘let’s work on that’. So, I pretty much spent my 20’s and my early 30’s chasing females, instead of being more attentive to my craft, my talent. It’s now been five years that I’ve been doing my art professionally - I finally took the initiative to say, ‘I’m going to do this for myself’. How many exhibits have you staged now in Eleuthera?
How would you describe your new body of artwork? With this exhibition I decided to go with watercolour, because I like to push myself. Growing up, I knew that watercolour was a difficult medium,
and its unforgiving. But as an artist I felt the need to push mysef, so I did. I did an exhibition in 2016 which included more sceneries and landscapes. However, this time I wanted to go for faces. The reason I went with “Eleuthera Cry”, is because,
This is my second solo exhibition. The first was in December of 2016. Next, I would love to do a ‘Welcome to Harbour Island’ exhibit in Harbour Island. That’s something I would really like to do. I’ve already been invited to do something there, so we’ll see how that goes. This was my part-time job, I bartendered here at Ocean Tally, but the restaurant is no longer open. So, I’m now fulltime into the art. I have to make this my life. I’ve spent the past 19 years working within the hospitality industry and I don’t think I’m going to give another year. Can you make a good livelihood, working full-time with your art? It can be a great livelihood. I’ve been able within the past few years to build a small clientele that’s growing. There are clients here now who have bought from me before, and just purchased another piece at this exhibit. So I have a small list now, and I’m looking at growth. I’m five years in, and I’m still young. As talented as I may seem to be, it’s not all about the talent. I’ve realized that it’s also about growing your personal brand, your name, who you can get to back you, and the networking also. I’m getting out more, doing the networking, because this is my job now, and this is what has to pay the bills. Who are your target market here in Eleuthera?
although when you think about coming to an island, you think of Pina coladas, Caribbean music, nice beaches and all that good stuff, I wanted to show everyday living. Not necessarily the hardships, but the everyday experience of living on the island, that visitors won’t normally see, unless you get into the communities and you really take a look. How did you get started in art? It was given to me. For as long as I’ve known myself I’ve been drawing. I began with the pencil… I was just telling someone, that I don’t think parents push their children enough when they see their talents. My mother always knew that I drew, day in and day out - while going to school, coming back from school. But, you know, you’re not pushed to pursue it. Of course, she said, you should
Good question. I love to target new homeowners in the Bahamas, and all art enthusiasts. Harbour Island is right there, and I’ve sold paintings to guests in Harbour Island that don’t even own homes there, but I’ve taken my paintings to where they are staying. However, for me it’s not so much about who, but I would love for my art to be all over the world.
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island map - north & central
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ISLAND MAP - CENTRAL & sOUTH
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As long as you find it impressive. I’m a beginner, so I’m not overpricing my work. I’m staying within a range that’s comfortable, but at the same time I’m not trying to rob myself either. For this exhibit, for example, the range is between $1,500 to $3,000 - easy on the ears, and on the eyes. What did you do before moving to Eleuthera and what inspired your move? I’ve been in hospitality for 19 years, bartending, mainly in New Providence, where I grew up. I started when I was about 18, and came up under a number of senior bartenders. I’ve worked at the Dragons at Atlantis, Hard Rock Café, also Johnny Rockets, before moving. I would have to say, ‘climate change’ was the catalyst for moving to Eleuthera. When I say climate change, I mean that I grew up in the city, I’m a boy, and I did boy things - then the city started to change - the guns started coming into Nassau, and every other day there was a murder. My life at that time, I was spiraling to be honest. For me, there were two choices, and I love life. So I made the conscious decision to move. If I have to tell anybody, it was the best decision I’ve ever made in life - because Eleuthera was everything that I needed at that time. I have never regretted my decision. What advice would you have for other young artists who want to make their career in art real, and not just a sideshow? If they are serious about it, I would just say to keep working at it. For the young artist coming up, I would tell them to not make the mistake that I made by just sleeping on my talent. They tell you practice makes perfect. I didn’t just wake up yesterday, and know how to do all of this. I had to work at it. So I would tell them to keep working at it.
Artist, Lavarrick King
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There Out
The Eleutheras are an amazing mix of natural treasures, with stunning cliffs, ocean holes, miles of powdery beaches, mysterious pond eco-systems, historic caves, coppice forests..., and one incredible spot at the southern tip of the island hits almost all of those marks - Lighthouse Point. A must see.
Beach to party vest dress, multi-combo bikini bottom, and sea-inspired necklace: Dilly Dally, Harbour Island, 333-3109; Beach bubbles bracelet: Blue Seahorse, Governor’s Harbour, 470-2358.
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Off the shoulder white top: Sophisticated U, Palmetto Point, 332-0099.
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Sustainable Development Planning, Shaping & Growing
One Eleuthera Foundation The One Eleuthera Foundation and its’ innovative approach to impacting Eleuthera communities as a non-profit social enterprise has yielded groundbreaking results on island, through a variety of projects and programs, and plans to expand well beyond their South Eleuthera base are ongoing. Lighthouse Point, which inspired the formation of One Eleuthera, through the development of a sustainable plan for the area and other special heritage and conservation sites on Eleuthera, called ‘A Shared Vision’ in 2010, when a mega-development threatened, has once again become a focal point of their efforts, as Disney Cruise Lines launched a campaign in 2018 to acquire the site for a cruise port development. Working with local partners the foundation has proposed an alternative to the large foreign investor. “One Eleuthera is working with, and has formed a coalition with the Bahamas National Trust, The Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve and the Leon Levy Foundation,” said Shaun Ingraham, One Eleuthera’s CEO, “and we have got commitment and funding to purchase Lighthouse Point... Our plan creates 106 jobs in the construction phase and 111 permanent jobs, with an annual output of about $4 million - going directly to local people and entrepreneurs… Disney’s plans for the Lighthouse area, may look similar, with the big difference being who owns it, and where the profits are going.” The coalition is comprised of established Bahamian companies, with no doubt about what has already been invested locally, said Mr. Ingraham. “We’ve been here and working - we didn’t just swoop in for economic gain. We are companies that have people’s interests at heart. The non-profit entity we are forming to own and manage Lighthouse Point - Bahamians will be able to become members, with an opportunity to attend meetings and AGM’s and have a say in what the development looks like.” “The key focus of One Eleuthera Foundation is really about Bahamian ownership - properties that are culturally or environmentally sensitive,” Mr. Ingraham, added, saying, “If Bahamians cannot own their own land, their own historic sites, can’t educate themselves, feed themselves, then what are we…? The trend in the Bahamas has been a buying up of the coast, and Lighthouse Point is one of the last mass spaces, approximately 900 acres, that can be left for Bahamians, to go and enjoy recreationally, for job opportunities - based on One Eleuthera’s, ‘A Shared Vision’ plan, and for responsible economic development.” One Eleuthera’s current non-profit social enterprise model, said Mr. Ingraham, “Flips the current leakage in the tourism sector,
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Featured model, Ladwana Carey, bathing in the warm waters at Lighthouse Point beach; Multi-colored bikini set: Dilly Dally, Harbour Island, 333-3109
Spectacular vistas across Lighthouse Point, South Eleuthera
which is approximately 85% - when someone spends a dollar, 85 cents go out, and 15 cents stay in the country. With One Eleuthera, 85% stays in and 15% goes out.” Currently one of the largest employers in South Eleuthera, with approximately 75 employees (45 staff, and 30 ‘learn and earn’ apprentices), the One Eleuthera Foundation said Mr. Ingraham, has only two foreign employees on staff. “Since we started this campaign ten years ago, I think we have more than proven that we are a good Bahamian enterprise, that deserves the chance. In those ten years, we’ve established a school, a bank, a hotel, supported breast cancer outreach, educated students, developed the Eleuthera Arts and Cultural Center, supported two fire stations/emergency operation centers in South Eleuthera, and much more. Over $25 million have been invested through our programs,” shared Mr. Ingraham. “We have not done a good job in telling our story,” he added, and indicated that a push to do just that was taking place - with a number of town meetings hosted during August 2018. The One Eleuthera Foundation continues to expand, revealed Mr. Ingraham. “We have an aggressive new strategic plan, themed, “Igniting the Passion”, which includes an expansion of our Center for Training and Innovation (CTI) to James’ Cistern with Camp Symonette CTI, utilizing the Gary London building there, and we are expanding the credit union to Governor’s Harbour. We are also in conversation with the Harbour Island community to expand the One Eleuthera Foundation model to the North Eleuthera area.
Local fisherman plying the waters around incredible Lighthouse Point.
One Eleuthera is also investing in the vendors located outside of the Princess Cays gate, said CEO Ingraham, helping them to diversify and develop their product, as well as assisting with marketing, to expand their clientele to land tourists - visitors and locals driving to South Eleuthera. “They currently see minimal impact from the cruise ships, so we are also speaking with management at Princess Cays.” Support to local schools, an ongoing initiative, will continue, he said, and an expansion of the recycling project, with a stronger presence would take place. Exciting new digital innovations are also on tap for the foundation’s projects. One Eleuthera’s hotel product, based on sustainable tourism concepts, called The Retreat At CTI, in Rock Sound continues to develop their on-property farm, and future restaurant, with a farmto-table focus. “As a training institute we want to not only train our students how to cook healthily and tastily, but also retrain palates,” explained Mr. Ingraham. The ‘slow food’ movement, where healthy, seasonal, organic food is something to be enjoyed and experienced, as opposed to rushed ‘fast food’ - a concept growing in popularity - is also being explored.
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The idyllic location that’s at the heart of heated discussions
Lighthouse Beach
Pictured here are scenes around Lighthouse Point beach at the southernmost end of Eleuthera. The incredibly beautiful pink-sanded strand, and the vast property surrounding the area, now fully accessible to visitors and locals, was targeted as a possible cruise port for a major cruise line in 2018. This proposal was countered by local social enterprise, the One Eleuthera Foundation and its conservation partners with an alternative plan for sustainable development, and continued unfettered access to locals and visitors.
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Ladwana on a high point at Lighthouse, with visitors enjoying the space on the beach.
Residents of Spanish Wells in North Eleuthera successfully opposed the targeting of nearby Egg Island by the same major cruise line in 2017.
Harbour Island palm t-shirt, multi-combo bikini bottom, and Ipanema slippers: Dilly Dally, Harbour Island, 333-3109.
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LEON LEVY NATIVE PLANT PRESERVE Outreach and Education The Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve (LLNPP) in its eighth year at the heart of Eleuthera, in Governor’s Harbour, continues to expand its reach and grow its impact as Eleuthera’s first National Park, which preserves much of the natural flora and fauna history of the Bahamas. Neatly tucked along the Banks Road it is a ‘must explore’ for all residents and visitors looking to take in the natural treasures on Eleuthera. The site offers miles of intimate trails, displaying the island’s coppice forest ecosystems, mangroves, traditional bush medicine plant varieties, a beautiful freshwater wetland feature showcasing native freshwater plants and freshwater turtles, as well as a lath house used for the propagation of native plant species and an edible history section, showcasing the story of the Bahamas through what people ate, and how those edible plant foods came to be here. Outreach to and education of the Eleuthera public is a primary aim of the Preserve, and Heidi Johnson, the Preserve Manager since 2017, is eager to continue the vibrant relationship the nature sanctuary has with schools on the island, and to grow their relationship with the Eleuthera public, making more residents and visitors aware of how they can benefit from what the Preserve has to offer. “We want every Bahamian to think of this as theirs. “This is a gift to the island of Eleuthera and the Bahamas. “Any way we can work to partner, consult and advise, we are here. “Anyone can come and make inquiries and feel that this is theirs. “Every chance that you can get to
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come and interact with nature, you will always be the better for it. “We are the beneficiaries of our environment, and as many people we can reach and teach about protecting it - makes the Bahamas, and Eleuthera environments a little safer and more protected,” shared Heidi.
Preserving the knowledge“BUSH MEDICINE” “Many Bahamians connect with our plant life through the stories of bush medicine, if they were lucky enough to have grandparents and seniors to impart that knowledge to them. Much of that is being lost now, with a dying out of certain oral traditions. So, we help to continue that discussion here, especially with the children who come to do field trip tours, interacting with our staff. We aim for them to take in the information on more than just a surface level, and to be able to remember it and ideally be able to identify these plants when they come across them in the wild. They have sustained generations of Bahamians, and for those types of traditions to be lost would be doing ourselves a disservice.”
Shift in Focus ‘SPACE TO LEARN’ During the next year, the Preserve plans a shift of focus to being even more of a resource for teachers that encourages the use of spaces at the Preserve for lessons outside of the classroom, enhancing students’ experiences with nature, using a multidisciplinary approach. “We know it’s going to be a delicate process, as we are aware that teachers usually have a very busy calendar year, however,
Mangrove wetland water feature at the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve located along the Banks Road in Governor’s Harbour, Central Eleuthera Ph: 332-3831.
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Outreach and education at LLNPP
Visiting scientists and researchers are invited to give lectures and share their work, pertinent to the island throughout the year at the Levy Preserve. Seen above is Dr. John Mylroie, Professor Emeritus of Geology in the Department of Geosciences at Mississippi State University, lecturing on his theory about the origins of the unique Cow and Bull rock formations near the Glass Window bridge.
whenever we can, and when they can make themselves available, we are working to put in place resources here for them, so they can come and avail themselves of what we have, and the children can benefit from a more enriching lesson,” expressed the innovative young local Manager, adding, “There is always something new to see here, because the environment changes every day. We are also looking to add more components that are children specific, because we know children need to be engaged. They
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are more tactile. They need to be able to touch and see and experience and have that exchange.”
More... A visit to the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve, would certainly be a memorable one, smiled Ms. Johnson, praising her staff, “The experience from the time you walk through our gorgeous foyer until your departure - you will be greeted and warmly welcomed. I can’t say enough
about my staff, because without them, this special place would not run efficiently. From our gift shop staff, to our education officer, who is phenomenal. She does great work with our students - long hours sometimes trying to coordinate things, but we get it done. Our ground staff - they are mainly behind the scenes, but you get to interact with them during guided tours. They are just wonderful, warm, and you get the passion and the love for what they do when you meet them, and they make every-
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Local teachers and educators take in the natural history learning opportunities for their students at the Preserve.
one feel welcome. We want people to come back and be repeat guests. The love for the Preserve shines through in all of our staff members.” As part of the BNT’s network of managed parks, the Preserve also plays an important role in communicating the message of protection, preservation and conservation - including advising and consulting with communities on preserving special areas. Recent public meetings about Sweeting’s Pond, where rare seahorse species have been found, are an example of recent efforts to engage the community on how an area can be utilized for their benefit and protected for future generations of Bahamians to enjoy. “The more information we can impart, from the youngest to the oldest, the better informed they are, the more conscientious they can be about the decisions that they make concerning their environment; and when
Explore... a place to learn.... they meet someone who is not from here, they can communicate with confidence the things to take into consideration when visiting our natural treasures,” shared Heidi. Bringing attention to just a few of the many ways residents could benefit by engaging with the Preserve as advisors, Heidi, pointed to the prominent and important place the island’s native plants have within the ecosystem, and encouraged more people to introduce them into their immediate home and yard environments. She emphasized how advantageous it was for the entire island, extolling some of the special features of native trees and plants, like being drought tolerant - lessening the need to water constantly, withstanding certain insect pests, their hardiness in standing up to hurricane and storm conditions - more so than exotic, imported plants, their critical role in encouraging pollination for sustained plant life, attracting butterflies and bees, providing
homes and sustenance for a myriad of bird life, as well as medicinal and food uses. The Preserve is open every day of the year, including holidays, from 9am to 5pm. The admission fee is $10 for adults, $6 for children, and senior citizens $8. Admission is free to Bahamas National Trust members. A single BNT membership is $30 per year, and other membership tiers are available for seniors, students, families, as well as corporate. The Preserve opened to the public in March of 2011 and was jointly created by the Bahamas National Trust (BNT), a non-profit organization which manages the national parks in the Bahamas, and a private not-for-profit foundation founded in 2004 by the estate of philanthropist and investment prodigy, Leon Levy.
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Pure
Force
COW & BULL
Catching a photo of the last remnants of the ‘Rage’ wave action near the Cow and Bull during March 2018.
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Just south of the famed Glass Window Bridge, where the powerful forces of the Atlantic Ocean are held at bay by a veritable sliver of land characterized by undulating cliffs rising out of the depths forming time tested barriers to the vast expanse of deep blue. sits two unique rock formations called the Cow and Bull.
These two giant boulders have been viewed by tourists and locals visiting the Glass Window Bridge area for the longest time, and have fostered the question: How did they get there? Various geologists have taken up the challenge to crack the mystery of their origin. Some have suggested the gradual weathering and erosion of the rock surface, while others venture upon giant wave action.
In 2015, two scientists, James Hansen and Paul Hearty put forth a provocative theory, reported on in a Washington Post article written by Chris Mooney. The two men claimed the boulders, perched so beautifully, were prime evidence of ongoing climate change, and clear tell-tale signs of what disasters may lie in store for the earth, if climate change were to continue. Their theory was: approximately ten millennia ago, climate change, similar to that of our present global warming, occurred. The major contrast in temperatures then created ‘massively powerful superstorms’, which in turn caused vicious waves, which quite easily propelled the boulders to where they lie today. Some geologists and critics don’t quite agree with this interpretation of the geological features and evidence. More recently in 2018, Dr. John Mylroie, Professor Emeritus of Geology in the Department of Geosciences at Mississippi State University, lectured on his theories about the origins of the unique Cow and Bull rock formations near the Glass Window bridge, taking a much less sensational approach, at the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve to an avid audience. He opined that the boulders could be the erosional remnant of larger boulders displaced as a result of cliff rollback during coastal bank margin failure - taking into account the presence of caves within the boulders, the significant change in coastline over time, as well as the change in the size of the boulders during that time, due to thousands of years of destructive dissolution. With many questions still unanswered, further work is being called for in the study of the offshore bank margins in this area of Eleuthera. So for now, the ‘Cow and Bull’ remain as one of the island’s awe inspiring attractions, yet to be fully explained, near the world renowned Glass Window Bridge.
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Glass Window At & Surroundings It’s an ocean that has left and continues to leave its mark on Eleuthera, shaping channels through cliffs. They are perfect picture taking spots on calm days, but become the entry point for large waves when the Atlantic begins to roar.
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Enjoy ! Appreciate the awesomeness of the Ocean or Sea; Sand or Sky; Reflection or Shadow... Here time is a friend. Experience It!
Beaded orange tunic, Beba white slippers: Sophisticated U, Palmetto Point, 332-0099. Model: Ladwana Carey Photographer: Elizabeth Bryan
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when the wave heights are low
Glass Window Blues... Hidden Beach, just north of the Glass Window Bridge.
Daffodil Brazilian cut crocheted bikini top and bottom: Tri-Gems Gift Shop, Tarpum Bay, 808-0261/699-5260.
Cliff formations worldwide attract the attention of visitors with the sense of intrigue they create through their sheer size and stature, and the magnificence of the seemingly endless deep blue ocean lapping along their sides. The Glass Window Bridge with its regal cliffs along the east coast, and the beautifully calm aquamarine shallows along its west coast, is a curious picture of immediate opposites. The mood of the ocean side adds to the mystique
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of the spot which barriers the capital island of New Providence from the Alantic Ocean. On days when the Atlantic is ‘raging’ with seas towering, as it did in spectacular fashion during March of 2018, and pressurized water is forced out of the geyser at the bridge, or through the cavernous opening under the bridge, the contrasting calmness of the western coastline is awe-inspiring.
The calm western side is often referred to as the Caribbean Sea, but geographically this is generally considered incorrect. Maps refer to it as the Bight of Eleuthera, and others as a part of the Great Bahama Bank. More recently a campaign has been ongoing by Commodore Tellis Bethel of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force to have the territorial waters of The Bahamas called the Lucayan Sea.
Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean along the east coast.
View of the Glass Window Bridge looking south.
Geyser at the Glass Window Bridge.
The Cut, on the eastern side of the Glass Window Bridge.
exploreWithUs
EXPLORE
*
Governor’s Harbour and the adjoining Cupid’s Cay are rife with history of the founding of the modern democratic Bahamas. On Cupid’s Cay you’ll also find the location of the first US Consulate General established in 1789. Blue Holes - There are several on the island including: 1) ‘Sapphire’ Blue hole in North Eleuthera, has a rich color, obscure location, off the main road leading to Preacher’s Cave; 2) Boiling Hole in Rock Sound which connects to an offshore hole via a series of underground caves for a distance of about 0.25miles; 3) The Ocean Hole in Rock Sound which is the largest of the Blue Holes on the island. It is connected underground to the Atlantic Ocean according to a study done.
The Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve on the Banks Road in Governors’ Harbour offers an educational stroll through the natural vegetation of this island. Learn more on page 76.
Cow & Bull: See page 80. Slave Ruins Historical sites in South Eleuthera, in Bannerman Town settlement, close to Lighthouse Point and Princess Cay.
Glass Window Bridge One of Eleuthera’s most alluring attractions, The Glass WIndow Bridge is a narrow passing where nature displays its magnificence. The deep blue Atlantic, aquamarine bight (a part of the Great Bahama Bank), cliffs, sounds - each day is different. When the Atlantic is RAGING, towering water comes over the bridge Motorists are warned against crossing when this is occurring. It’s a few minutes north of The Cove or Daddy Joes. Also it’s just a short trip from Harbour Island and about 40-45 minutes north of Governor’s Harbour by car.
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ELEUTHERA ISLAND listing
Seahorse photo
Ponds - Bird life is one of theSchool beautiful - Island benefits the more than 200 inland ponds add to Eleuthera’s natural environment. Seahorses are another less obvious but awesomely intriguing find in some of the ponds and research has shown Sweeting’s Pond just north of Hatchet Bay to have them in abundance. There are 3 known species on the island according to researchers.
Old churches - There are storied Christian Churches across the island grouping. St. John’s Anglican in Harbour Island (above) for example is the oldest Anglican Church in the Bahamas - built in 1768. Below: Decked out in all white, members of the Central and South Eleuthera Regional Women’s Ministry of the Bahamas Conference of the Methodist Church at their Conference 2018 Worship Service, held at the Savannah Sound Methodist Church on July 1st, 2018.
Caves - Hatchet Bay caves are especially magnificent, with still unexplored areas. Preacher’s Cave is significant because it served as shelter for the first “Eleutheran Adventurers” shipwrecked Bermudians looking for religious freedom who turned out to be the first European settlers of the Bahama Islands. Rock Sound Caves, Ten
Bay Cave and caves in Green Castle and Bannerman Town are some of the known places to explore.
The Townships
This Bronze Plaque at the Governor’s Harbour Admin building was laid by the Rt. Hon. Lynden Pindling, first Prime Minister of an Independent Bahamas and Hon. Philip Bethel (Eleuthera Supply) MP at the time of Independence and one of the surviving signatories of the country’s constitution of The Bahamas.
Trefgarne Bridge Located at the guarded bridge to the private Windermere Island, the monument reads in part: This bridge, the first in the Bahamas over the sea, was planned, surveyed and designed by the first Lord Trefgarne of Cleddau, who died 27th September, 1960. It was built for Lord Trefgarne and his Associate in the Enterprise, The Hon. Harold G. Christie C.B.E, M.H.A. by The Hon. Sir Roland Symonette M.H.A. and is a lasting tribute to Lord Trefgarne’s foresight and endeavour and to the co-operation of all concerned, including the community of Savannah Sound. October 1960.
Visit, interact with the people, smile, say hello and appreciate what makes The Eleutheras so special. See more Page 109.
Rough Surf at Surfer’s beach is world renown for its wave action on the north coast of Eleuthera Island Shores just south of Gregory Town. Surfers use this and other north coast locations. Above: Camper experiences Eleuthera surf thanks to Bahamas Out Island Adventures. Lighthouse point It’s about 2 hours from Harbour Island or 1 hour from Governor’s Harbour, but it is well worth the journey in a vehicle capable of travelling the rugged road from Bannerman Town to this spectacular location of expansive beach areas, panoramic views, towering cliffs and unforgettable moments.
Edwin’s Turtle Lake located south of Governor’s Harbour along Queen’s Highway on the road to Palmetto Point in Central Eleuthera.
Queen’s Baths - natural pools (right) surrounded by breathtaking cliffs. It is found north of Gregory Town before the Glass Window bridge.
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EXPLORE...
OUR islands
districts
Carting it around Harbour Island.
our beaten roads Airport Beach, Governor’s Harbour.
Sightseeing at the Glass Window Bridge.
renowned landmarks Don’t ever rush a visit - Here your time is “Free”. Use it to appreciate the beauty of the Eleuthera’s culture, and our coastal and inland natural landmarks. See sunrises and sunsets, close up features and
distant vistas. Share moments with others or just cherish that awesome space around you...
beaches uncrowded
Swimwear: : Tri-Gems Gift Shop, Tarpum Bay, t 808-0261/699-5260.
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Harbour island
& townships Administrative Districts NORTH district • Harbour Island • Spanish Wells • North Eleuthera
World Famous Pink Sand Beach and much more on the “Home of The Friendly People”, like diving, fishing, horse back riding and exploring - See the Harbour Island section (Pages 112-121).
spanish wells Boat tours / Fishing trips / Peaceful rest/ The Devil’s Backbone See the Spanish Wells section of this publication (Pages 122-125).
North Eleuthera • Preacher’s Cave - See Map (Pages 64-67) • ‘Sapphire’ Blue Hole - located just off the road leading to Preachers’s Cave - is small and beautiful in color. Take a dive! • Glass Window Bridge - Just north of Gregory Town is Eleuthera’s narrowest point, just 30 ft. wide, where dramatic cliffs separate the deep Atlantic from the shallow Bight of Eleuthera.
north of ghb airport
CENTRAL district • North of GHB airport • Governor’s Harbour • South of Governor’s Hbr
• Expansive, amazing Hatchet Bay Caves • Surfers Beach in Gregory Town • Atlantic Cliffs all along the east coast • Boat tours/Fishing charters (See Page 8, 115, 127, 137)
Governor’s harbour (GHB) • Historic Cupids Cay (site of first U.S. Consulate General) • Haynes Library • Fish Fry on Friday • Beautiful Century Old Churches • See the Central Eleuthera section (Pages 126-129)
south of ghb • Palmetto Point beaches (northside Unique Village beach and southside) • Savannah Sound (protected turtles and a variety of sealife abound in the natural sound).
tarpum bay SOUTH district • Tarpum Bay • Rock Sound • South of Rock Sound
• Winding Bay beach • Roadside Vendors conch meals • Boat tours/Fishing trips (See Page 137)
ROCK SOUND • The Ocean Hole • The Boiling Hole • Rock Sound Caves • Northside beach
South of rOCK SOUND
Atop a cliff at Lighthouse Point Beach. White top: Sophisticated U, 332-0099; Sea inspired necklace: Dilly Dally, 333-3109.
• Public Tennis Courts (Wemyss Bight) • Cape Eleuthera Resort & Marina (Cape Eleu.) • Slave and Church Ruins (Bannerman Town) • Lighthouse Point & Beach (Bannerman Town) • See Map (Pages 64-67, 131)
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onthebeach
Hidden Beach, Glass Window Bridge.
... wet
The glass-like aquaramine west coast side of the Glass Window Bridge is not unlike swimming in a heated pool, minus the chlorine.
Daffodil Brazilian cut crocheted bikini top: Tri-Gems Gift Shop, Tarpum Bay, 808-0261/699-5260.
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beaches Pink Sands Beach, Harbour Island. Its easy for any of our beaches to feel like its being discovered for the first time. They often appear untouched even to the most discerning eyes. While the more popular ones will have fellow discoverers there are many that will play host to only you. Here are a list of names to look for on the map! North
Ben Bay Near Gene’s Bay Dock ( (S) Tay Bay Opposite Preachers Cave (FF) Upper Cove Qn’s HWY near The Current (FF) Bottom Harbour near The Bridge (A) Twin Sisters Near The Glass Window Bridge (S) Gaulding Cay Gregory Town (S) south of The Bridge Holiday Beach Gregory Town (S) Lovers Beach Gregory Town (S) Surfer’s Beach Gregory Town (A)/(S) central
Hatchet Bay Beach Hatchet Bay (FF) Hidden Beach Rainbow Bay on The Atlantic (FF) Rainbow BeacH Rainbow Bay looking at the sunset (FF) The Cliffs Beach Between JC and Rainbow Bay (FF) James Point James’ Cistern on The Atlantic (S) JC BeacH James’ Cistern (Calm Bight) (FF) Airport Beach Near GHB Airport on The Atlantic (S) Alabaster/Receiver’s Near Airport (Calm Bight) Twin Cove BeacH Near Governor’s Harbour (S) Fr. Leave/ Club Med Bank’s Road in GHB (A)/(FF) Poponi Beach Governor’s Harbour (S) Unique Village Beach North Palmetto Point (FF) Papaw Bay Beach Palmetto Point (FF) south
Double Bay Beach Near Savannah Sound on The Atlantic (S) Pink Eleuthera, Bahamas T-Shirt: Norma’s Gift Shop, Governor’s Harbour, 332-2002/332-2479.
key
(S) Secluded, (FF) Family Friendly, (A) Adult See locations on Map (Pages 64-67). Beaches are listed from north to south.
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onthebeach
beaches More
Ten Bay Beach Near Savannah Sound Bight (A)/(FF)
Winding Bay Beach Tarpum Bay (S) North Side Beach Rock Sound (S) Whiteland Beach
Rock Sound
(S)
Jack’s Bay Beach
Rock Sound
(S)
Cotton Bay Beach
Cotton Bay
(S)
Lighthouse Beach
Bannerman Town (Active)/(FF)
the bahamas...
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Colors...
Ne aring a day’s end at the beach when the skies are fair, cherished moments are s pent bathed in a glow of yellow f rom the setting s un and washed by the waters carrying its rays. I t is... In spir atio n al because of its vibrance Calm i ng because of its warmth Plea sin g because of its beauty
Island Life
Ten Bay beach, Central Eleuthera.
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Recycled paper necklace.
Lighthouse Beach
Twin Sisters beach, Glass Window
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Sunburst crocheted halter top, with white crocheted bikini bottom (Gaulding Cay beach).
Feature Tri-Gems Gift Shop, with local designers, Sheila Laquinta Moss, and Nakita Algreen, produces a variety of unique crocheted beach and island wear, including bikini tops and bottoms, sarongs, shorts, halters, beach covers, hats, bags, and more. The pair also carries a one-of-a-kind jewelry line, crafted out of recycled paper, as well as sea glass and pineapple inspired designs. Surrounding photos feature Eleuthera model, Ladwana Carey, highlighting a beautiful sampling of these local creations at Gaulding Cay beach near the Glass Window bridge on the Bight of Eleuthera coast, and at Airport beach, just south of the Governor’s Harbour airport on the Atlantic coastline. For more information call 1-242-8080261 / 699-5260 / 433-8228 / or 4708721 or Email: we.tye.knots@gmail.com.
Beach bottled treasure necklace, and sea glass dangle earrings.
onthebeach
Locally crafted beach wear White crocheted bikini top, with Aruba Sea crocheted beach shorts (Airport beach).
Caged sea glass necklace, and black halter top. (Gaulding Cay beach)
Recycled paper ring: Tri-Gems. (Beach bubbles bracelet: The Blue Seahorse, 470-2358).
Turquoise crocheted beach cover (Airport beach).
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onthebeach Twin Coves Beach, Governor’s Harbour. Essentially two very special beaches in one, with the first cove on the lee side offering beautiful pool-like shallows, perfect for swimming with the kids. The second cove facing the Atlantic deepens fairly quickly moving away from the shore, and is a snorkeler’s paradise (see snorkel guide on page 35).
Enjoy ! Appreciate the awesomeness of the Ocean or Sea; Sand or Sky; Reflection or Shadow... Here time is a friend. Experience It!
Twice the fun Twin Coves Beach, Governor’s Harbour
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onthebeach
When sailing into Harbour Island, the entrance is a protected bay between Eleuthera and Harbour Island. The complete vacation in this island grouping is all about experiencing one and then the other!
Twin Sisters beach, Glass Window
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White Eleuthera, Bahamas t-shirt, Pink bikini: Norma’s Gift Shop, Governor’s Harbour, 332-2002/332-2479.
The allure of ‘Pink Sand’ has been a major attraction for both Eleuthera and Harbour Island, with coral hued strands of varying sizes flanking coastline along their lengths. The renowned beach bearing the “Pink Sands” name, takes up an impressive chunk of the Atlantic side of Harbour Island and is a powerful draw for beach lovers to these islands. Some of the local resorts in Eleuthera offer assisted trips to Harbour Island for their visitors wishing to spend some time at this beach or experience other facets of the award-winning island.
Harbour Island
Ivory top with lace sleeves: Sophisticated U, Palmetto Point, 332-0099. Blue sea fan necklace: The Blue Seahorse Gift Shop, 470-2358.
Consider:
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an island paradise called ‘Briland’
The Ministry of Tourism, with offices in Harbour Island and Governor’s Harbour are available to assist with information on vacation options in The Eleutheras. Governor’s Harbour - 1-242-332-2142 Harbour Island - 1-242-333-2621
Twin Sisters beach, Glass Window
Guests of a wedding party from Italy, in keeping with the 2018 world cup fever, brought the soccer ball out with them on to the beach prior to the main event under the tents.
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The Eleutheras attract large and small wedding parties throughout the year and on this day in Briland, it was a fairly big grouping all the way from Italy, who participated in the exchange of nuptials on the world famous Pink Sands beach. With boutique hotels, and corresponding beach chairs and umbrellas dotting the wide expanse of pink sand which covers more than 3 miles of Harbour Island’s east coast facing the Atlantic Ocean, Pink Sands Beach is one of the most popular strands in The Eleutheras.
Basking in its soft powdery sand and warm waters, featured model, Savannah Oliver (facing page), sports handmade jewelry from The Blue Seahorse, Governor’s Harbour, 470-2358 (blue sea fan earrings, beach bubbles bracelet), and a multi-colored twist bikini set from Norma’s Gift Shop, Governor’s Harbour 332-2002 / 332-2479.
Consider:
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In Briland it’s only ever a few minutes away....
Travel to and from Harbour Island and Eleuthera.
Allow for approximately 10 - 15 minutes to drive between two neighbouring settlements on Eleuthera. Drive within the speed limits of 45mph on open roads and 15mph in towns. The Ferry ride between Eleuthera and Harbour Island is about 5 mins. and there may be a short wait time on the dock. Times are approximate. Governor’s Harbour to Harbour Island 1hr 15min Rock Sound to Harbour Island 1hr 55 min Cape Eleuthera to Harbour Island 2hr 30mins Harbour Island to Lighthouse Point 2h 45mins - including ferry ride, careful driving and slow going on the final road to Lighthouse Point from Bannerman Town. If your senses can take the combination of beauty in these two location then do the trip! Stay overnight - see listings: on pages 20-34
Memories are made of days like these, on Pink Sands beach...
Twin Sisters beach, Glass Window
Pink bikini set: Norma’s Gift Shop, 332-2002/332-2479.
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live free!
From Eleuthera make it a day trip ...one or more...
Drive to Three Island Dock Take a 5 min water taxi. Stay a while!
Pink Eleuthera, Bahamas t-shirt: Norma’s Gift Shop, 332-2002/332-2479. Harbour Island palm t-shirt: Dilly Dally, Harbour Island, 333-3109.
BRILAND SPOTS TO STOP IN: Arthur’s Bakery, Crown and Dunmore Street Cocoa’s Coffee House, Bay St. at Valentines Dilly Dally, King and Dunmore Street Princess St. Gallery, Princess Street Valentine’s Resort & Marina, Bay Street Pink Sands Hotel, Chapel Street Romora Bay Resort, Colebrooke Street Royal Palm Hotel, Off Dunmore Street Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Bay Street Michael’s Cycles, (Cart Rentals) Colebrooke Street Also visit these sites: p 118 -121
333-2285 333-1323 333-3109 333-2788 333-2142 333-2030 333-2325 333-2738 333-2621 464-0994
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Special Choices...
Island living in The Eleutheras
Shop the island’s towns to find vacation wear, daily grocery and convenience needs, souvenirs, unique gift creations, fine art and more, from small grocers and vendors to specialty fresh breads and farm produce providers, such as the Island Farm (above) in Palmetto Point, Norma’s Gift Shop, and Bacchus Fine Foods in Governor’s Harbour, Dilly Dally in Harbour Island, Three Sisters in Spanish Wells, or any of the many craft stores throughout Eleuthera. Island creations are also displayed at many of the vendor stalls at homecoming festivals where unique items from the skilled hands of Eleutherans can be found. Also, look out for fresh locally farmed goods in stores.
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Expert straw-work artisan, Emily Mavis Munnings (above), showcasing a sampling of her exquisite collection of designer straw bags. Call 1-242-553-5394 for your Mavis M. original.
Artist, Shorlette Francis-Cartwright, specializing in recycled glass, showcased this beautiful creation for a good cause, during a One Eleuthera Foundation fundraiser to raise awareness of breast cancer, and celebrate local survivors. For more information on her one-of-a-kind recycled creations contact Shorlette at 1-242-438-7488.
Octis Organics entrepeneur extraordinaire, Calae Burrows, has created a unique line of Bahamian herbal teas, cooking spices from locally grown herbs, and luxurious body products, utilizing mineral rich native Bahamian pond salts. Her Octis line of products can be found in better stores throughout Eleuthera and New Providence. For more information, call 1-242-808-1736/ or 1-242-554-5869.
take the time to explore some of the highlight spots just off the main road of the various towns...
Get outfitted for the beach - Flamingo pink beach mat: Dilly Dally, 333-3109; Straw hat: Sophisticated U, 332-0099; Multi-colored bikini: Norma’s Gift Shop, 332-2002/332-2479.
Bacchus Fine Foods an organic and gourmet market, located on the Banks Road, Governor’s Harbour, offers a variety of organics, fresh produce, meats, seafoods, wines, cheeses, coffees, desserts and more. Yacht provisioning is also available. Call: 1-242-4706563 / 470-9019. Email: bacchusfinefoods@gmail.com | fb: bacchusfinefoodseleuthera | inst: bacchusfinefoods
Fashion as vibrant and colorful as the island itself - Orange and white body skirt: Sophisticated U, 332-0099; Multi-colored crocheted shoulder bag, Caged sea glass necklace, White crocheted bikini top: Tri-Gems Gift Shop, 808-0261/6995260.
sophisticated u
Queen’s Highway, palmetto point Ladies’ and Mens’ Clothing and Footwear Tel: 1 (242) 332-0099 OPEN: Tuesday to Saturday - 10am to 6pm (1pm - 2pm Closed for Lunch, Closed Mondays)
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Shop
The Eleutheras have a wide variety of well-stocked grocery stores, hardware and homeware shops, gas stations and convenience stores as well as souvenir and gift shops. Shopping for island vacation wear, beach essentials, unique jewelry, int’l haute couture, and locally designed fashions - they are all available here. See below for locations nearest you, contact information and other details.
Local Options Eleuthera Supply Ltd. when the time comes
BURROWS: “One Stop Groceries”
JOJO THE MAKEUP ARTIST
Governor’s Harbour
Queen’s Highway, Gov. Harbour
Groceries, Toys & Household Goods, Hardware Section. Tel: (242) 332-2728 E: eleutheraagencies@hotmail.com
Tel: (242) 332-2999
Tarpum Bay Shopping Center
Hall’s Grocery & Beauty Supplies
HARBOUR ISLAND Makeup Application, Eye Brow Grooming, Strip & Invidual Lashes. Tel: (242) 525-9613 E: jojothemua@gmail.com Web: jojothemua.com
Jemmak’s
Pindling Drive, Rock Sound Queen’s Highway, Tarpum Bay “Everything For Anything, We Deliver What Others Only Promise.” Tel: 1 (242) 334-4022, E: juco23@gmail.com
Bert’s For The Best
Groceries, Dry Goods & Beauty Supplies
Tel: 1 (242) 334-2004
JC Discount Superstores
deep creek Convenience, Drugs and Beauty Supplies Tel: 1 (242) 334-8005, (242) 457-1287 / or 3597375 E: levy@coralwave.com
James’ Cistern & Gregory Town
Queen’s Highway, Tarpum Bay
Norma’s gift shop ltd.
Queen’s Highway, Governor’s Harbour “Island Wear, Beach Wear, Souvenirs, Gifts, Fragrances and more” Tel: 1 (242) 332-2002 / 332-2479; Email: palms50@hotmail.com
“Groceries, Household, Dry Goods, Notions” Tel: 1 (242) 334-4253
Two convenient locations to serve you! Fully stocked with Groceries, Electronics, Household Products, Drugs and Gift Items. Tel: (242) 335-6049 -JC / (242) 335-5672 GT E: jacedo@batelnet.bs
Highway Service Station
Petty GT Seven Eleven
Queen’s Highway, Governor’s Harbour
Queen’s Highway, Gregory Town
“Much more than just a Gas Station! A little bit of gourmet, gifts and snacks, gasoline, tires, batteries, oils and lubricants” Tel: 1 (242) 332-2077; E: highwayservicestation@coralwave.com
“Groceries, Convenience Items, Gas” Tel: 1 (242) 335-5711
hill top farms Queen’s Hwy, gregory town “Tourist Attraction, Farm, Petting Zoo, Fresh Eggs, Natural Drinks, and more.” Tel: 1 (242) 335-5244 Web: www.eleutherahilltopfarms.com
Dingle MotoR
Queen’s Highway, Rock Sound Gas, Groceries, Convenience - plus Batteries, Tires, Oils, Diving Equipment and Spears.” Tel: 1 (242) 334-2031 E: sjanette@gmail.com
Buywise Hardware/Carey’s Groc.
Queen’s Highway, Tarpum bay Building Materials, Appliances, Electrical and Plumbing Supplies, also, Auto Parts and Supplies. Tel: 1 (242) 334-4180
Tip Top
Captain Bob’s Marketplace
j & a lIQUOR STORE
Nesbitt Street, Harbour Island “Full Line of Groceries, Seafoods, Meats, Gourmet & Specialty Foods.” Tel: 1 (242) 333-3628 E: captainbobsmarketplace@gmail.com
The Princess Street Gallery
Top of Hill - 12th Street, Spanish Wells Tel: (242) 333-4222 E: info@buddabahamas.com W: buddabahamas.com | fb: JALiquorStore Open: Mondays - Saturdays | 9a.m. - 8p.m.
Princess Street, Harbour Island “Fine Bahamian Art .” Tel: 1 (242) 333-2788, W: www.harbourislandgallery.com E: charles@harbourislandgallery.com
Kay Markets “Guy Harvey” Collection & MORE
Three Sisters Variety Store
New Dunmore Subd., HarBour Island King Street, Harbour Island A little bit of everything! Tel: 1 (242) 333-2251 E: tiptopstore1926@gmail.com
Dilly Dally
King & Dunmore St., Harbour Island “Bahamian Gift Shop.” (P.O. Box EL-27002) Owner: Val Albury Tel/Fax: 1 (242) 333-3109 E: dillydallyhi@hotmail.com
“One Stop Shop - Groceries, Household, Drugs and Notions.” Tel: 1 (242) 333-3844 E: kaymarkets@hotmail.com
Carrying: Flip Flops/T-shirts Hats/ Swimwear/Tank tops/Dresses and much more. Tel: (242)
333-4040
Spanish Wells
Harbourside Gift Store and Golf Cart Rentals On The Dock, Spanish Wells Gift Store, Golf Cart Rentals, Bahamian Crafts, Apartment Rentals Office: 1 (242) 333-5022, Cell: (242) 557-7617 E: Andre@HarboursideBahamas.com W: www.HarboursideBahamas.com
visitwithus
Bay Street, Harbour Island, Eleuthera
Meridian Hwy, tarpum bay “We make what you want” Tel: 1 (242) 699-5260 Email: we.tye.knots@gmail.com Web: www.facebook.com/trigems242
Boiling Hole, Gov. Harbour
“Handmade art, crafts, jewelry, gifts and more.” 1 (242) 470-2358
Local kids with visitors inclusive of camp teachers all form a part of the face of the Bayfront in Governor’s Harbour during the summer months when Haynes Library partners with others such as the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve to enrich the youth experiences in paradise!
Riding for Hope along the bay front in Governor’s Harbour. Serenaded at the annual Winter Residents party.
our settlements
Beauty on parade in Spanish Wells.
Welcome to our closely knitted group of township communities, and enjoy the smiles, the warmth, the energy that is Eleuthera.
Teens enjoying holiday Junkanoo in Tarpum Bay.
WELCOME TO
Pink Sands Beach, Harbour Island, Eleuthera
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OTHER FACTS
Eleuthera Division of the Royal Bahamas Police Force on parade in The Bluff.
Independence celebrations in Lower Bogue included plaiting the May pole.
noirtheleuthera
The Townships
North Eleuthera quick facts & information
Location - Ferry rides away from Spanish Wells & Harbour Island. 2h north of Rock Sound Airport and 1h North of Governor’s Hbr.
administrator Mr. Ivan Ferguson. The Administrator works between offices in Harbour Island, Spanish Wells & Upper Bogue. He was appointed in Summer 2017 and serves at the discretion of the Ministry of Local Government.
AIRPORT - North Eleuthera airport (ELH) services both international and local flights. As seen in the map insert below, it easily services travel to Spanish Wells, Harbour Island and North Eleuthera. It is about 20 mins. north of Gregory Town, and 1 hour north of Governor’s Harbour.
North Eleuthera is Diverse. Fishing, Farming and Service jobs, both private and public sustain livelihoods. The townships here are inextricably linked to their more densely populated neighbours, Harbour Island and Spanish Wells. Service providers and airport workers from these communities are often the first to greet the tourists who come in to ELH - Eleuthera’s busiest airport.
•
Summer fun, jumping off of the dock at Gene’s Bay.
•
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•
•
North Eleuthera High School is located in Lower Bogue The Laura L. Anderson Primary School is located in The Bluff, The Glass Window Bridge connects North and Central Eleuthera. North Eleuthera Airport in Lower Bogue is a short taxi ride away from a water taxi to Harbour Island and just a little bit longer taxi ride to get the water taxi to Sanish Wells.
Centenarian: Laura. L. Anderson The township of The Bluff in North Eleuthera has a very special distinction among others by having a number of residents who have lived full, healthy lives, surpassing the life span of many others across the world, and amazingly living past the century mark. Mrs. Laura Anderson, a very distinguished member of The Bluff community through her lifetime of contributions to her hometown, celebrated her 100th birthday, during February of 2018. Before joining the centenarian club this year, in 2017 the North Eleuthera Primary School was renamed in her honour as the Laura L. Anderson Primary School. So during her most special of birthdays, she chose to spend it with the students and staff of the school, for which she is now a living patroness.
Mrs. Laura L. Anderson surrounded by an adoring group of students from the primary school renamed in her honour in The Bluff, North Eleuthera.
During the short service, students from different grades performed songs, recitals and dance routines for the birthday lady’s entertainment before the special moment of presenting Mrs. Anderson with her 100th birthday cake. Mrs. Anderson, who shared that she was still in good health, was able to stand and cut the first piece of cake, before presenting it to a former student nearby. She was also presented with gifts of fruit baskets, which she said she was delighted to receive, since she really enjoyed eating fresh fruits. She gave a response to all present, in a clear and resounding voice, which gave testament to her strength, saying, “I want to say a very special thank you to everyone who is here. Not only the teachers, the principal, and the pastors, but to all the parents and all the children as well. I want to thank you for being so kind and showing your love to me. I appreciate this, and I am praying that God will bless you all, from the oldest to
the youngest, and that the young children will grow up in the spirit of the Lord, living a godly life. So when Jesus comes, we will all be ready to go with him. Amen!” Following the 100th birthday service, Mrs. Anderson, who taught at the school for many years before retiring, expressed how she felt about the school taking time out to celebrate with her, saying, “I feel so wonderful! I said, how could they think I’m so important, but God is good. I’ve done my best, and tried to help the school in all the years that I was there. I was happy to see one of my students still there teaching … God is so good. I give Him thanks every day, because He has been so good to me. My memory has not failed. I was good at Math, and I haven’t forgotten any of it. So I thank God for that. I’ve given Him my heart, my everything. So whatever comes my way, He is taking care of me - so I don’t have to worry.”
Preacher’s Cave
Spanish Wells
Gene’s Bay
ELH
The Bluff The Current
Harbour Island Three Island Dock
The Bogues
Glass Window
Gregory Town
The Bluff & Blackwood
703
Lower Bogue
618
Upper Bogue
190
The Current
142
Current Island
38
People
Find: The Cove Daddy Joes, & Gaulding Cay beach
Enumerated in 2010
The Eleutheran Magazine | 111
harbourisland
Harbour Island Home Of The Friendly People
&
Major marinas, restaurants, beach expanse, and seasonal festivals. Population: The Dept. of Stats, 2010 data had the island’s population set at 1,762. Visitor numbers swell on holidays, inflating this number at times. Quick Fact: The North Eleuthera Airport (ELH) is a 5 minute land taxi and 5 minute water taxi away - A new airport is a part of the plans announced by the Bahamas government in 2018.
Pink Sands Beach, along the Atlantic coast of Harbour Island.
112 | The Eleutheran Magazine
Nightlife on the Bay Street waterfront.
Getting There: Fly in to the North Eleu-
sail into an island marina.
vacationers, and has been dubbed as one of the best islands in the Caribbean. The
thera Airport (ELH) and take a taxi to ‘Three Island’ dock, 3 mins. away by car. A short
People and More: This small, beautiful
local populace, better known as ‘Brilanders’,
5 minute ferry ride will take you directly to
island, located off the coast of North Eleu-
provide warm hospitality to all guests. It’s
the Harbour Island dock. Bahamas Ferries
thera, is world renown as an idyllic destina-
a must see, even if you vacation elsewhere
also offers daily excursions from Nassau, or
tion for jet-setting seasonal inhabitants and
on the Eleutheras.
Local water taxi operator, ‘Papa Grant’, relaxed as he awaits his next set of passengers | Siblings smile during a Harbour Island street festival.
Harbour Island Moments: Photos by Elizabeth Bryan
harbourisland
Bri’land
Harbour Island Dock - comings and goings
The main dock pictured above is where visitors to Harbour Island get their first taste of this unique community of locals, winter residents, and an array of boutique hotel and restaurant owners and operators. You are most welcomed to the island home of very friendly people.
114 | The Eleutheran Magazine
TOURS & FISHING
Captain Kid & Son Charters (242) 557-7351 Fishbone Tours (242) 332-6524/359-7271 Lil Shan’s Watersports (242) 333-3532
Dex Adventures (242) 554-5670 Ocean Fox (242) 333-2323 Bonefish Stuart (242) 333-2072
Soon Back... Wistfully headed home, after another unforgettable visit.
Hugh and Kristi Herman, from Houston, Texas, while boarding a water taxi from the main dock on Harbour Island, headed to Three Island Dock, North Eleuthera to catch a flight home, shared smiling that they had been visiting Harbour Island for the past five years, and had just finished up their 14th trip to the island, “We just love it!”
‘Coming Back to the Island’ There are many fascinating stories about how visitors first arrived on Harbour Island, however, there are even more about how many times or why they choose to keep coming back. How does your story begin?
Our Settlements
The Eleutheran Magazine | 115
harbourisland
ISLAND vibrance SEA, SUN & SMILES ‘Island Fun and Freedom’
J
unkanoo, street festivals, goombay summer, and regattas, are just a few of the exciting events hosted on Harbour Island throughout the year. Plan to take part and have fun, during your next trip.
THIS PAGE Stepping lightly on the soft sand at Pink Sands Beach.
Young Brilander, modeling stunning beach and Androsia wear during a street fashion show.
Model and Owner of Cocoa Coffee House, Gem Austin, showing off Briland’s unique architecture. Striking a pose with the uniformed Royal Bahamas Police Force officers on duty.
FACING PAGE Showcasing designer costumes for members of the Eleuthera Fete Crew at the Junkanoo Carnival 2018 costume reveal party event, hosted at beautiful Romora Bay Resort & Marina.
Smiles as the Junkanoo drumline section performs, filling the holiday night air with the throbbing beat of the national tradition. Costumed revelers and visitors dance together.
Junkanoo crowds dancing in the streets to the rhythm of the goat skin drums and the cowbells.
116 | The Eleutheran Magazine
briland experience
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harbourisland
island notes Historic & Interesting sights
Information compiled and made available by the Sir G. Roberts Library in Harbour Island.
South Bar Cannons The largest concentration of historic cannons on Harbour Island are just visible above ground level on the top of the hill overlooking the southern harbour entrance. As you walk into the site, the cannons are along a path to the left of the road, just before it ends. These cannons are from a range of dates. (Please check in at the South Bar office before visiting this area)
Girl’s Bank, Lone Tree Site
Mint V-Dress Beach Cover: Norma’s Gift Shop, Governor’s Harbour, 332-2002/332-2479.
Commonage Land Nassau had once again capitulated to the force of the Spanish. In 1783, Colonel Andrew Deveaux assembled a private expedition to wrestle New Providence back from them. A total of 120 men from Harbour Island were recruited along with a loan of 50 fishing boats. For the services in the recapture, Harbour Island and Eleutheran recruits were granted “commonages” on the mainland. With documentation, families of these recruits today can claim and cultivate this land.
Shipbuilding Harbour Island was a major boat and ship building center. Shipbuilding reached its peak in 1922 when the “Marie J. Thompson”, a four masted schooner, was launched. It was said to be the largest ship ever built in the Bahamas. The shipwrights worked just to the north of the government dock.
Methodist Church The original Methodist mission on Harbour Island was established in 1800 and the church was constructed at the corner of Chapel and Dunmore streets in 1843. Funds for the construction were funded by an initial $2,000 community contribution and the labour of 150 residents. The related cemetery
St. John’s Anglican Church This, the oldest Anglican Church in the Bahamas was built in 1768. The Parish of St. John’s was established by an Act of Parliament to be comprised of both Harbour Island and Eleuthera. Originally it was built with 44’ x 24’ stone walls, a wooden floor, and a shingled roof. In 1806 the church was
118 | The Eleutheran Magazine
was established on church property to the east and behind the church structure.
Summer fun, jumping off Harbour Island’s Main Dock
Pink Eleuthera, Bahamas t-shirt: Norma’s Gift Shop, Governor’s Harbour, 332-2002/3322479
destroyed by a hurricane. It was reopened in 1835, only to be leveled and replaced again in 1866, this time adding a little bell tower. The Residency Lord Dunmore, Governor of the Bahamas 1787-1796, built a summer house for himself on Harbour Island as a refuge from the vapours and gossip of Nassau. Originally built in 1787, it was demolished in 1912 and replaced, and has served as the Administrator’s residence until about 2004. Currently, it is badly in need of repair and restoration. Fort Point This is at the northern end of the curved har-
bour around which Dunmore Town developed. The 1718 Cockram map shows a cannon placement here that would have complemented the cannons placed at the harbour’s southernmost point, now called Round Head. The crossfire possible from these two positions would have been very effective protection for the town Pink Sands beach Temperance Square A two story building once stood at Temperance Square. The upstairs housed Munroe Sail Loft, while the downstairs was used for “temperance meetings”. In 1897 the obelisk monument was dedicated to Dr. Thomas Johnson, the first
South Bar Cannons
White Knit Dress: Norma’s Gift Shop, Governor’s Harbour, 332-2002/332-2479.
The Eleutheran Magazine | 119
harbourisland qualified Bahamian doctor. He had studied medicine at Harvard. Subsequently, he served as the island’s physician for many years. Known as a specialist in bush medicine, he is buried in the Methodist cemetery. First Assembly 1729 In 1728 Governor Woodes Rogers was given authority to “summon and call General Assemblies of the said freeholders and planters in our islands”. The first Assembly of 24 members was elected in early September 1729 and convened on September 29th, 1729. The monument, near the public dock, commemorates the Harbour Islanders at this Assembly John Thompson Sr., John Roberts, John Thompson Jr., and Seaborn Pinder.
St. John’s Anglican Church
Haunted House More a property of considerable curiosity than historic interest, the house is now a decaying private residence. It was built in 1941 by Colonel Glen Stewart for his English bride, Jessie. Unoccupied for many years, the property was sold in 1964 to a Greek shipping heir, George Lavanos, who according to “legend” purchased it for his bride, who refused to stay in the house. It remained, fully furnished, until 1979 when an accidental fire destroyed the structure. Sir G. Roberts Library Harbour Island library is the second oldest public library in the Bahamas. Established in 1853, the Lieutenant Governor granted 6 pounds sterling towards, “the establishment of a library and reading room” located upstairs on Church Street. It was re-located due to Hurricane Betsy in 1965. The new building was constructed in 1968 on the old cemetery site in honour of Sir George, a native of Harbour Island who became President of the Senate. He was highly respected by all.
Spying an Osprey atop the Girl’s Bank, Lone Tree
120 | The Eleutheran Magazine
Hill Steps and Tunnel These beautiful steps were cut into the coral rock by prisoners, and were probably constructed to connect the Cleare family to their Lumber and Shingle business (the building no longer exists, to the left of the steps) and their home at the top of the
hill (presently occupied by Rock House). A tunnel under the Hill steps connects the Landing Hotel with the Rock House. It has been closed off and currently serves as a wine cellar for the Landing Restaurant.
added tip: OLD DUNMORE TOWN Rent a golf cart and view the historical homes on a drive through old Dunmore Town
Pink Sands Beach
Straw hat: Sophisticated U, Palmetto Point, 332-0099; Pink beach sheet: Dilly Dally, Harbour Island, 333-3109
Seahorse cover up, sea-inspired necklace: Dilly Dally, Harbour Island, 333-3109
The Eleutheran Magazine | 121
spanishwells
In Spanish Wells QUICK FACTS
Population: The Dept. of Statistics, 2010 data has the population of Spanish Wells set at 1,551 people. Industry: Fishing & Farming. In season, Spanish Wells farmers service much of Eleuthera with fresh
A parade through Spanish Wells for Little Miss Samuel Guy beauty pageant contestants.
farm goods through local vendors or via delivery. At the start of the 2018 lobster season in August, fishermen reported significant poaching in the Southern Bahamian waters as a threat to this industry.
Getting There: Fly in to the North Eleuthera Airport (ELH) and take a taxi to Gene’s Bay Dock, 10-15 minutes away by car. A short 5 minute ferry ride will take you directly to Spanish Wells on St. George’s Cay. The island is bridged to Russell Island. Golf Cart rentals are available on the docks of both Harbour Island and Spanish Wells at $10-20 per hour $40-50 per day with weekly rates also available. Bahamas Fast Ferries offers daily trips to and from Nassau from Spanish Wells and Harbour Island. More.. Touring Spanish Wells by sea is favourite among visitors and guides are available to help visitors do just that. The island comes alive in July with Independence and then Fisherman’s Fest celebrations that take on a slightly differing flavour each year rich in local and wider Bahamian culture.
122 | The Eleutheran Magazine
Spanish Wells Seagillian cycling is a exciting event held on the Independence Weekend that sees cyclists of all ages making good speeds on the flat streets circling the small island. Several of these cyclists also participate in the Tour de Lootra, a 100 mile trek one way across Eleuthera, between Cape and North Eleuthera, organised by local Eleutheran from Spanish Wells, Chad Albury, who has competed internationally with the Bahamas National Cycling team for many years. The tour held its fourth annual ride in May 2018 with a crew of 45 riders braving the long roads, many small hills and winding curves. SHOP, EAT, STAY: We recommend two places to eat on Spanish Wells - you can’t miss the S hipyard R estaurant , located at the easternmost point of the island, and on the top of the hill, 12th Street, you will find the unique B udda ’ s S nack S hack . Shop at: T hree Sisters Variety Store (333-4040) Check out: J & A Liquor Store (333-4222) Stay at: H arbourside Rentals (333-5022 or 557-7617) Real Estate: Damianos Sotheby ’ s (333-4590); Coldwell Banker (470-5861); HG Christie (422-9070) Tours & Fishing: Captain Kid & Son Charters (557-7351). See page 8 for more info.
Water taxi to Gene’s Bay, North Eleuthera Seagillians Cycle Fest held annually in July
Little Miss Samuel Guy Pinder All Age pageantry
Chuck says he’s been a visitor to The Eleutheras for 39 years ever since he was introduced to The Bahamas by his his sister-inlaw 40 years ago.
Bahamian superstar, KB, at Fishermen’s Fest
Chuck Boudreau, from Sambro, Nova Scotia, a rural fishing community in that maritime Canadian Province, giving the thumbs up on his way back over to Eleuthera after visiting to the local fishing community of Spanish Wells - visible in the backdrop.
The Eleutheran Magazine | 123
spanishwells
Spanish Wells Moments... The 8th Annual Fishermen’s Fest held in Spanish Wells on St. George’s Cay this year was a well-planned two day event with popular Bahamian headliners performing including: Ira Storr & the Spank Band featuring the legendary KB, and the energetic D Mac during the Saturday night lineup. Talented local bands and performers took center stage on the Friday evening, with: The Brilanders, and The High Rock Bank - all of whom did not fail to disappoint the appreciative crowd gathered on the grounds of the community park to enjoy the festivities. Weather cooperated with the organizers this year, and the Fest Committee saw a fair crowd enjoying the entertainment on Friday evening, with an even larger crowd out on the Saturday evening, and the community again reported full accommodations and transportation occupancy during the Fest weekend.
Photos show young and older, relaxing at the public park on Saturday afternoon, during Fishermen’s Fest 2018 as well as scenes around Spanish Wells, during the Festival weekend. Photos on this page and facing page by Alexander Symonette.
124 | The Eleutheran Magazine
In addition to continuous evening entertainment, which began at about 8pm each evening inside the public park site on the west coast of the island, special games and activities were hosted for the young and older through the weekend. On Friday afternoon they kicked off with a kids fishing tournament, where three age groups competed to catch the prettiest, ugliest and biggest fish on the afternoon. A lion fish derby was also hosted on Friday, where boats competed to bag as many invasive lionfish as they could, for cash prizes.
The tourism industry continues to blossom in Spanish Wells, with additional rooms under construction, and a growing second home owner’s market. The Fishermen’s Fest, celebrates the opening of the lobster fishing season, which sees island fishermen head out to sea for the August 1st starting date.
During the Family Fun day on Saturday there were ongoing kids games, local entertainment and activity stalls, as well as a hot dog eating contest, young kids treasure hunt, and a ‘float your boat’ competition. A spectacular fireworks show was part of the excitement on Saturday night, in between headliners, along with a junkanoo rush-out, and exciting fire dancing. Adult hoopla on both Friday and Saturday night, was a return hit, along with souvenir and jewelry vendors, and homemade coconut ice-cream.
The Eleutheran Magazine | 125
ELH
Central Eleuthera
Glass Window
Gregory Town Hatchet Bay Rainbow Bay James’ Cistern GHB Airport
quick facts & information
Governor’s Harbour Palmetto Point (N&S)
Entering the center of Governor’s Harbour
Savannah Sound
Da Perk
HG Christie
Population 2,436 enumerated in the 2010 Census
travel (by car): About 40 miles by car, from Savannah Sound to Gregory Town. other Administrative Center: Governor’s Harbour Administrator: Gilbert Kemp Main Ports: Governor’s Harbour International Airport (GHB), Cupid’s Cay Dock, Hatchet Bay Dock.
The Pulse Fishbone Beach Bar and its beautiful waterfront dining with views of Windermere Island across the sound is now open in Savannah Sound, complementing Midway Cost Cutters, a fully air conditioned, nicely stocked grocery store, The new Eleuthera Community Health Initiative (ECHI) medical center opened in August 2018, headed by Dr. Arlington Lightbourne from the Bahamas Wellness Center in New Providence, offering first phase general services, with plans to offer more comprehensive emergency and diagnostic services later in 2018. Construction activity in Governor’s Harbour, with new second homes, and commercial buildings continue to flourish. American Airlines added a new year-round flight into Eleuthera onto its roster to begin in November 2018. The Bahamas Daybreak mailboat upgraded both passenger and freight services to Eleuthera. Also the Philautia Hotel development has been announced to cover a 40 acre area along the incredible beach within the former Naval Base site. The Ministry of Tourism, through its main office in Governor’s Harbour is always willing to assist with information. Contact them at 332-2142.
Fishbone Beach Bar
The Townships Gregory Town: Find: Cliff side landmarks - Cow & Bull, Queen’s Bath, Glass Window Bridge and Atlantic View points. Resorts: The Cove Eleuthera, Daddy Joe’s and others (See Listing) .
James Cistern: Seaside town
Hatchet Bay:
Governor’s Harbour: The administrative center of Central Eleuthera. Hosts most head offices of Government Departments, banks, real estate agencies, telephone companies, courier services and insurance services, as
Home of the safest harbour in the country, a protected harbour with an entrance cut through that allows welcomed visits on calm days, and shelter in times of storm
known for its North coast beaches of James’ Point and JC Beach, also home to JC Discount Superstore and Leo Rose Restaurant & Bar.
BY SEA: No visit to Eleuthera is complete without spending some time on the sea and taking in the breathtaking views in
addition to appreciating the splendid sea life. The Harbours in Hatchet Bay and Governor’s Harbour are the most frequented for stop overs. For importation of goods, ports in these two Central Eleuthera towns are also frequented - with Hatchet Bay receiving freight vessels mainly from New Providence and Cupids Cay Dock in Governor’s Harbour being frequented by vessels from Florida as well as New Providence.
Eleuthera Supply
Norma’s Gift Shop
Nature/Adventure Tours Bahamas Out Island Adventures Gregory Town Primary Contact: Mr. Tom Glucksman Phone: (242) 335-0349(242) 551-9635 Email: info@bahamasadventures.com Website: http://www.bahamasadventures.com
Water Tours / Fishing Charters Pascals Restaurant at Skybeach Club
well as numerous vacation homes and resorts. The GHB airport is 15 min. north of town. Robust construction continues throughout the township.
Palmetto Point: Home to the Cancer Society’s Wellness Center/ Headquarters, Tropical Dreams resort, Unique’s Restaurant, fabulous beaches and more. Some impressively large trees rise above the settlement which connects to the famous Banks Road. The member of parliament for South &
Central Eleuthera, Mr. Hank Johnson, is a native.
Savannah Sound:
Home to Ministry of Education’s Resource Center, a private high school, beautiful beach locations like Ten Bay and Double Bay, as well as a natural sound, teeming with protected turtles, and managed conch beds. Midway Cost Cutters supermarket and Fishbone Beach Bar and Grill are awesome additions to the town.
Paul Petty Governor’s Harbour Mr. Paul Petty Phone: (242) 332-2963 or (242) 557-7209 Overview - A licensed fishing/diving guide for many years. Paul is also often forefront in lending assistance when others may be in distress at sea.
Fishbone Tours Savannah Sound Mr. Julias Rankine Phone: 332-6524 / 464-0039 / 359-7271 Web: www.fishbonetours.com
Jeremy Lewis James Cistern (242) 422-9055/470-1763/699-5310 Email: jeremybiglewis@yahoo.com Web: www.eleutherafishingcharters.com
BY AIR: If your arrival point was Governor’s Harbour Airport (GHB) then you arrived directly in at Central Eleuthera. 1 hr. away from ELH airport in North Eleuthera and about 45 minutes away from RSD airport in South Eleuthera. You’re within minutes of spectacular beaches, resorts, restaurants, people and more. The Island’s main tourism office is in town and its management and staff are always eager to assist. The Eleutheran Magazine | 127
centraleleuthera
Community Highlight Gregory Town
Fun with fashion during Independence day 2018.
Kim and her daughter Susan from Connecticut were on a graduation celebration trip during the month of June, and enjoyed the Pineapple Festival while on island.
Each year Gregory Town, located just south of the Glass Window Bridge, and well known as the Pineapple capital of The Bahamas, plays host in a myriad of ways to locals and tourists alike. One of the most popular events, held in June, at its new location on the northside of the town is the Pineapple Festival. Hundreds of visitors and residents gather to enjoy the entertainment, and fresh pineapples in season at that time. Along the Gregory Town coast, sits the exclusive luxury resort, The Cove Eleuthera and as you travel just north of town, you’ll find Daddy Joe’s Restaurant across from the entrances to Gaulding Cay Beach. These are just south of the famous Queen’s Bath, Cow & Bull, Twin Sisters Beach and -.
Jumping into the bay near the Gregory Town gazebo. Men enjoying games of whist and dominoes, during the sunny holiday afternoon.
The town has well stocked small grocery stores, with Petty GT Seven Eleven (3355711), and JC Discount (335-5672). Craft and souvenir stores, as well as gift shops can also be found.
All smiles and decked out in national colors, ‘Lady Di” (left).
Pineapple Farmers, like the well known, ‘Lady Di’ are cultural icons within the Eleuthera community, and although famous for her fresh pineapples, she also produces a cottage line, called Lady Di’s Tropical Delights, including jams, jellies, hot sauces, and bottled tomato. Other fresh fruits she is known for cultivating in their seasons, are star fruit, avacadoes, mangoes, tangeloes, bananas, and key limes. (335-5006/470-7235) Community spirit is alive and well and was captured here in the summer of 2018 as men, women and children came out to celebrate the 45th Independence holiday together. The community played games, hosted races, held a fun fashion show, and ate together - all while proudly sporting the national flag colours in a celebration of Independence.
Cheering on the foot races during Independence celebrations.
129 | The Eleutheran Magazine
southeleuthera
South Eleuthera
Rock Sound
Center of Administration A resident Doctor serves the Clinic. Other important buildings/services include the South Eleuthera Administration Building, Government Offices, Rock Sound Airport, South Eleuthera
Police Main Building, Bank of The Bahamas, Electricity Generation Plant for South Eleuthera, One Eleuthera’s main offices and the Center for Training and Innovation (CTI) located on the site of the former Rock Sound Club. The Retreat at CTI also recently opened its doors. Recommended
• • •
The Lumbershed: Hardware/Household Dingle Motors: Gas, Convenience The Market Place: Supermarket/Hardware/Automotive/Banking/Insurance services available on the property.
• • •
Sammy’s Restaurant Hall’s Variety and Beauty Supplies The Retreat at CTI: Eco/Sustainable Tourism
Sights: The Ocean Hole | Rock Sound Caves | North Shore Beach
Tarpum Bay A seaside community with an active Bayfront, Cultural Center and Junkanoo Culture.
Recommended: • Barbie’s Snacks • Bert’s For The Best • Your Friendly Store: Groceries • Tarpum Bay Shopping Center: Household, Hardware, Appliances, Furniture.
•
Roadside Vendors Conch meals
•
See the business directory for other listings in Tarpum Bay
OTHER SETTLEMENTS Waterford, is home to Davis Harbour Marina. There is also Green Castle, Waterford, Wemyss Bight, Deep Creek, and Bannerman Town. Deep Creek leads to Cape Eleuthera, home to the Island School and Cape Eleuthera Resort & Marina. Bannerman Town is the gateway to captivating Lighthouse Point/Beach and Princess Cays - the private cruise ship Island Getaway. Church ruins in Bannerman Town
130 | The Eleutheran Magazine
New Ventures, Ocean Holes, Island Scapes, Community life...
Center for Training and Innovation, Rock Sound Overlook at Lighthouse Point beach
2018/2019 overview
• Population • Travel • Other
Junkanoo smiles and local drum beats at Earth Day Fest 2018
Population 2,971 enumerated in the 2010 Census
travel (by car): About 30 miles by car, from Tarpum Bay to Bannerman Town or Cape Eleuthera. other Administrative Center: Rock Sound
Administrator: Gregory Knowles Main Ports: • Rock Sound International Airport • Rock Sound Dock (in need of repair) • Davis Harbour - Waterford (private) • Cape Eleuthera (private) • Princess Cays (private)
Largest settlements by population (2010 Census): Rock Sound 961 ppl Tarpum Bay 766 ppl Green Castle 370 ppl Remaining towns: 874 ppl
Tarpu m Ba y Rock Sound Green Castle Cape Eleuthera
RSD
Deep Creek Waterford Wemyss Bight Bannerman Town Lighthouse Point
Goat skin rhythms by students of Preston H. Albury High School at Earth Day Fest 2018
The Eleutheran Magazine | 131
directory Business
Lower Bogue ,
North Eleuthera
Jimmy's Liquor Store 335-2101
Shopping
North Eleu Craft & Snack 335-1700
Shopping
Freedom Tours 335-1700
Service
Bahama Hoppers 335-1650
Airline
North Eleuthera Service Station 335-1128
Shopping
Shop Smart 335-4042
Shopping
Builder's Square 335-1446
Shopping
D & T Nursery 335-1446
Shopping
Johnson's Groceries 335-1340
Shopping
Bluff , North Eleu shopping Center 335-1880
Shopping
Harbour Island, Daddy D's 333-3700
Dining
Arthur's Bakery & Internet Café 333-2285
Dining
Johnson's Rentals 333-2376
Service
Pigly Wigly 333-2120 Princess Street Gallery 333-2788
Shopping Shopping
Dunmore Deli 333-2644
Dining
Briland Booze 333-2645
Shopping
The Sand Dollar 333-3576
Shopping
Bahamian Shells & Tings 333-2839
Shopping
Dunmore Realty 333-3100
Real Estate
Tip Top 333-2251
Shopping
Dilly Dally 333-3109
Shopping
Cocoa Coffee House 333-1323
Dining
Valentine’s Resort/Marina 333-2142
Resort
Romora Bay Resort & Marina 333-2325
Resort
Davine Wine Merchants 333-2950
Shopping
Captain Bob’s Marketplace 333-3628
Shopping
Spanish Wells, Food Fair Supermarket 333-4675
Shopping
Pinders Supermarket 333-4049
Shopping
Damianos Sothebys Realty 333-4590
Real Estate
Three Sisters variety store 333-4040
Shopping
Generation Gap 333-4464 Harbour Side Rentals 333-5022 Budda’s Snack Shack/JA Liquo 333-4111 The Shipyard Restaurant 333-5010
132 | The Eleutheran Magazine
Dining Shopping Dining Dining
St. Patrick’s Anglican Church bell tower, Governor’s Harbour. Animal print dress, matching straw hat, and Beba slippers: Sophisticated U, Palmetto Point, t 332-0099.
Palmetto Point ,
Central Eleuthera
Agape House Daycare 699-5188
Service
NUA Insurance 332-1256
Service
Lakia's Variety Store 332-0188
Shopping
Millard's Grocery Store 332-1239
Shopping
Paint Paradise 332-1375
Shopping
Tacy Auto Parts 332-1256 Tropical Dreams 332-1632 W.D. Electrical, A/C & Refrig 332-0445 CS Service Center 332-1096 Carl Sands Construction 332-0246 The Cove Eleuthera Resort, Gregory Town.
Daycare
E-Z AUTO 332-1950
Wind Chimes Rest. & Sports Bar 455-0452 Paradise Service Plaza 332-0033 Big Daddy’s Rental Cars 332-1592 Island Farm 332-0141
Service Where to Stay Service Shopping Service Nightlife Shopping Rentals Shopping
Smart Roofing & Construction 464-0123
Service
Mate & Jenny’s Pizza 332-1504
Dining
Unique Village 332-1830 Eleuthera Dental Center 332-1477
Where to Stay Service
Tia’s Shop 332-1897
Shopping
Freedom Ice-Cream Parlour 332-0399
Takeaway
Unique’s Hardware 332-1288
Shopping
James’ Cistern, Central Eleu. Big Rock General & Deli 335-6008
Shopping
J.C. Discount 335-6049
Shopping
East & Final Grocery 335-6570
Shopping
D & D Service Station 335-6444
Shopping
LeoRose Sunset Beach Bar & Grill 335-6223
Dining
Hatchet Bay, Central Eleu. Bay Liquor Store 335-0068
Shopping
Lutra Pure Water 335-0499
Shopping
Bay Inn / Twin Brothers 335-0730 Gateway Service Station 335-0455 Front Porch Delights 335-0727 The Queen’s Bath, near Glass Window Bridge.
Rainbow Inn 335-0294
Dining Shopping Dining Dining
Gregory Town,
Central Eleu. Ida's Delights 335-5023
Shopping
Island Made Gifts 335-5369
Shopping
Jay's Laundromat 335-5655
Service
Mr. Bones Liquor Store 335-5489
Shopping
Petty GT Seven Eleven 335-5711
Shopping
J.C. Discount 335-5672
Shopping
Daddy Joe’s 335-5688
Dining
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centraleleuthera
dGovernor’s irectory Harbour Business
Dornell’s Treasures
Pammy’s Takeaway
Eleuthera Petroleum
332-2843
332-3829
332-6351
Burrows Liquor
Janet’s Upholstery
Harbour Inn Restaurant 332-2686 (Catering)
Governor’s Harbour Bakery 332-2071
332-2310
332-2167
Eleuthera Tourism
Kid’s R Us Daycare
The Blue Room 332-2736 (Takeaway)
Great Expectations Boutique - 332-3484
332-2142
332-2757
Eleuthera Supply
The Eleutheran
The Teakettle
Eleuthera Beverages
332-2728
1-242-422-9350
332-2992/359-7333
332-2124
Sophie’s Boutique
359-7216
Shopping Touch of Class
Ronnie’s Enterprises
Where To Stay Sky Beach Club
eating out Buccaneer Restaurant
332-2733
Real Estate Damianos Sotheby’s 332-2820
HG Christie 332-3404
Coldwell Banker
332-2000
Top of the Line
332-2487
Office General Valerie’s Souvenirs
332-2620
Awesome Kitchens
Pineapple Fields 332-2221
Kiss Boutique 332-3862
445-8914
Villa Allamanda 332-3934
Ma’s Bargain Mart
Service The Photoshop
551-1582
332-1263
332-3778
Burrows Grocery
Eleuthera Pest Control
Suncrest House
332-2999
332-2617
359-7333
700 Wines
Griffin’s Auto Repair
332-2629
332-2345
332-3476
Da Perk
332-2984
332-2641
J’Anna’s Gift Shop Byron’s Hardware
332-3422
332-2307
332-3220
Sunset Inn & Rest.
332-3767
French Leave Resort
332-3456
Tippy’s Restaurant 332-3331
Clear Water Dive Shop 332- 2146
Pascals Ocean Front 332-3422
Highway Service Station 332-2077
Fired Up!
L
atoya Rankine, lit up the atmosphere and wowed visitors and locals with spectacular fire balls at this special event hosted by Rainbow Inn Restaurant, where in addition to a live band, dinner guests were treated with this burst of local talent. On this evening of bright smiles Latoya was the main attraction!
‘
My full time passion’, is how she describes her alluring fire dancing craft, which she has been delighting audiences with for the past 12 years, performing for resorts, as wells as private and special events in New Providence, and now Eleuthera, since she returned home in August of 2016. Her performance included a native dance showcase, as well as her literally playing with fire - manipulating unique torch pieces - as they danced to her tune and lit up the night at her command, to the delight of the party goers.
134 | The Eleutheran Magazine
Talented Latoya, whose list of accomplishments includes certification as a private pilot, and performances with Emanji Circus Art, also now teaches dance at a local primary school. She offers her services through, Fusionz of Culture (470-8303). Rainbow Inn Restaurant hosts holiday-theme evenings at various times in addition to their twice weekly pizza nights! For more information call 335-0294.
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southeleuthera
directory Business
Rock Sound
Hall’s Variety Store 334-2004/334-2438
Sawyer’s Food Store 334-2123
Step by Step Shoe Store 334-2976
Gibson & Son Upholstery 334-2403
Unique Island Treasures 334-2103
Faith 4 Life Gift Store 334-2855
In Da Hole 334-2967 Best Bet Souvenirs 334-2872/3/4/ Eddie’s DepT. Store 334-2322 rock sound beverage depot 334-2607 Rock Sound Hardware 334-2253/334-2257
Saunder’s Elec & Maintenance 334-2866 Eleuthera Stationery & Office Supplies 334-2494 Leary’s Import & Export 334-2494/422-9782 Sturrups Liquor Store 334-2219 AID (Automotive ...) 334-2060
one eleuthera foundation (CTI) 334-2948
rentals & tours 470-8212
Ingraham’s Beach INN 334-4066
hall’s Service Station 334-2986
The Cottages 334-2031
All dat & more beauty 699-6342
The Lumber Shed 334-2031
papa site Liquor store 334-2111
The Market Place 334-2203
Farmer’s association 467-9454
rock oven pizzaria 470-2039
south eleuthera mission 334-2940
dingle motor service 334-2031
apple hole meat mart 334-2612
North Side Restaurant 334-2573
family affair serv. station 334-2165
Wild Orchids restaurant 334 -2000
neta’s snacks 334-2318
A&M Clothing Store 334-2804
quick fix construction 358-7615/334-2921
Sammy’s Place 334-2121
gibson pest control 807-8359
Veta’s Place 334-2425 R & R Enterprise 334-2667
THE CAPE
Up South
The Island School 334-8552 CAPE ELEUTHERA RESORT US 844-884-1014 ELEU 242-334-8500
DEEP CREEK Jemmaks 334-8005
pinder’s marine 470-0758/334-8330
Davis Harbour marina 334-6303
Eleu. Island Tours 225-4408
Down home sports bar 456-9654
Seaside Estates 334-8179
WEMYSS BIGHT
seaview fitness center 359-7806
waterford
Sharil’s inn 334-8111 /470-5439
shay’s grill & chill 334-6458
A&T’s Restaurant 334-8347
Free breeze motel 334-6200/225-1858
Rochique’s Boutique 334-0003 Ship To Shore Restaurant 334-0111 Kel’s Takeaway 334-0104
community library 699-5036
GREEN CASTLE Avon Gift Shop & Library 334-6493 Brown’s Grocery 334-6009 miller’s dive shop 436-3644 w&W service station 334-6420/448-0316 scarlet rest. & bar 334-6551
Tours in South Eleuthera MILLER’S DIVE SHOP (Capt. Daryl Miller) scubaeleuthera.com 242-436-3644
< that page: Landmark Adventures Emily, John, and Elizabeth, visiting spring breakers from Colorado and Michigan, enjoying snorkeling around Lighthouse Point beach.
A summer cool down at the Ocean Hole in Rock Sound, South Eleuthera. for these youngsters from Governor’s Harbour.
this page:: New Ventures Beautiful smiles from friendly staff at the new Jack’s Bay Club in Rock Sound.
Mirth and laughter at the re-opening event of Wild Orchids Restaurant’s new waterfront location in Rock Sound.
PINEAPPLE TOURS (Lyle Brathwaite) 242-470-7876 ELEUTHERA TOURS (Donald Anderson/Kristel Kingston) eleutheratours.com 242-225-4408 ELEUTHERA ADVENTURE TOURS (Thomas Sands) eleutheraadventuretours.com 242-334-2356 CALVIN JOLLY Wemyss Bight 242-557-7948 OCEAN FOX (Al Curry) oceanfox.com 242-334-6300
The Eleutheran Magazine | 137
directory Business
IN FOCUS: Art in The Park
Your friendly store Grocery and Produce 334-4600
Old Dad’s Scooter Rental 425-6758
Bert’s For The Best 334-4253 Grocery
Bayshore Snacks & Drinks 334-4467
Carey’s Buywise 334-4180 Hardware & Home
Ethel’s Cottages & Rentals 334-4030/4233
D & J Takeaway Restaurant 334-4130
Carey’s Groceries & Drugs 334-4247
Pop’s Body Shop Rentals/Auto 334-4160 Tarpum Bay Shopping Center 334-4022 Hardware/Household Terry Ingraham’s Heavy Equipment 464-0199
Barbie’s Snacks Restaurant 334-4028 Tarpum Bay Library 334-4603 island crush pizzaria Restaurant 554-5884 just looking boutique 815-3503 simply sweet kids 334-4028
D & D’s Restaurant & Bar 225-8307
Art
in the Park, is a new event that was launched at the Levy Preserve in Governor’s Harbour in March 2018 to gather a cross-section of Eleuthera based artists and artisans, displaying a wide variety of art forms in an ideal setting. For the art lovers who walked through the Preserve’s display area some of the local items available included: crafted jewelry, fine art, ceramics, intricate straw-work, eye-catching sculptures, carvings, photography, handbags and accessories. It was a great opportunity to pick-up a hand-crafted island gift, or decorative art as well as to sample Eleuthera bush teas with their unique blends, and taste local Bahamian desserts.
Some of the artists displaying their works included; talented fine art painter, Kevin Cooper; based in Gregory Town, fine artist - Theoron Johnson; craftsman specializing in wood, Jamaal Bethel of James’ Cistern; creative artists behind The Blue Seahorse collections, Holly Burrows and Katiana Evans; Visual fine artist, Jerreth Albury based in Lower Bogue; Lavarrick King (p62), fine artist based in Hatchet Bay; ceramics fine artist, Imogene Walkine; artist and author, Eula Bourne; underwater photography enthusiast, Rea Bethel(p35); and many others, who made the event well worth the visit. Heidi Johnson, Levy Preserve Manager, shared that it was likely this event would become an annual one at the beautifully inspiring location.
Fine artist, Theoron Johnson showcasing his work.
Kinky’s Korner Auto Shell/Auto 334-4208
Artist, Lavarrick King’s work being admired.
Tarpum Bay
Helpful Telephone Numbers Island Administrators
Police
North Eleuthera
Police Contact Numbers
Harbour Island Spanish Wells Upper Bogue
(242) 333-2275 (242) 333-4054 (242) 335-1364
Central Eleuthera Governor’s Harbour (242) 3322112/3
South Eleuthera Rock Sound
(242) 334-2034
Eleuthera Tourist Office Located opposite the Governor’s Harbour primary school, Queen’s Highway, Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera. Tel (242) 332-2142 Fax 242) 332-2480
Head Quarters (GH....332-3500 Governor’s Harbour....332-2111 OR....332-2117 O/C Governor’s Harbour....332-2723 Gov.Harb. Airport Station....332-2323 Deep Creek Station....334-8207 Tarpum Bay Station....334-4033 Rock Sound Station....334-2244 Rock Sound Sgt. Office....334-2212 Rock Sound Airport Station....334-2052 Lower Bogue (Airport.)...335-1208 Harbour Island....333-2111 O/C Harbour Island....333-2327 Spanish Wells Station....333-4030 Gregory Town Station....335-5322 Hatchet Bay Station....335-0086
hospitals - None Harbour Island Tourist Office Dunmore Street Tel .....242) 333-2621 Fax .....(242) 333-2622
Banking / ATM’s First Caribbean Intl Bank Gov. Harbour - (242) 332-2300
Royal Bank of Canada Gov. Harbour - (242) 332-2856/8 Harbour Island - (242) 333-2250
Commonwealth Bank Spanish Wells - (242) 333-4131
Bank of the Bahamas Rock Sound - (242) 334-2620
Clinics Governor’s Harbour Clinic ......(242) 332-2774 Doctor .....(242) 332-2020 The Levy Medical and Health Center was donated in 1963 by the Harrisville Company in honor of June and Austin T. Levy who started the Hatchet Bay Plantation. There is a resident Doctor and Dentist who are stationed in the Central Eleuthera district.
hours, and is the District Medical Officer.
Spanish Wells Clinic ......(242) 333-4064
GETTING HERE: From Ft. Lauderdale or Miami Silver Airways US ..... (800) 231-0856 NE ..... 335-1278
Cargo Boats from Nassau Eleuthera Express................... 323-2166 Bahamas Daybreak..................557-7220 Current Pride............................393-1064 Bahamas Fast Ferries Nas.....323-2166 GH.....332-2077; HI.....333-3133
Cargo Boats from US
American Eagle
Seacor Shipping....................332-3066 Bimini Shipping..................305-634-8858
US .....1 (800) 433-7300 NE .....335-2055
From Nassau Southern Air Nas.....225-1117/225-1119/2014 GH.....332-3270; NE.....335-1720 BahamasAir Nas.......377-8451; GH ..... 332-2648 RS.....334-3000; NE.....335-1152 Pineapple Air Nas.......377-0140; GH ..... 332-3811 RS.....334-2125; NE.....335-2081 Bahamas Fast Ferries Nas.....323-2166 GH.....332-2077; HI.....333-3133
Customs Brokers Elite Customs BrokersGH….........332-3066 Paul Simmons Customs Brokers...332-2571
The Eleutheran Newspaper 1-242-422-9350 services@theeleutheran.com www.EleutheraNews.com
Rock Sound Clinic .....(242) 334-2226 Doctor .....(242) 334- 2226
Harbour Island Clinic .....(242) 333-2227 Doctor .....(242) 333-2225 The staff consists of a Doctor and Nurses. The Doctor is on call 24
The Eleutheran Magazine | 139
holidaysandevents
Junkanoo
Events
The Energy of 2018 Christmas Past Christmas Coming During December and January, there are four full weekends of Junkanoo events which take place throughout The Eleutheras. The hosted in a different township each year on mainland Eleuthera. The culturama continues in Harbour Island, and as far south as Deep Creek during the New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s holiday. In early January, during the Majority Rule holiday weekend, Junkanoo groups converge on Governorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Harbour, from townships across Eleuthera and Harbour Island to compete. The season culminates with the Eleuthera
thriving national tradition of colourfully themed costumes and heart pounding music on parade, begin during the Christmas holiday weekend, with a Junkanoo competition
140 | The Eleutheran Magazine
Junior Junkanoo competition, normally held during the final Saturday in January, where primary and high schools compete for bragging rights.
7
The Eleutheran Magazine | 141
holidaysandevents
The 2018 / 2019
Calendar
Mark your dates
Harbour Island, Eleuthera, Spanish Wells
bahamas Holidays Jan 1 Jan 10 Apr 19 Apr 22 Jun 7 Jun 10 Jul 10 Aug 5 Oct 14 Dec 25 Dec 26 Jan 1
| Tuesday | Thursday | Friday | Monday | Friday | Monday | Wednesday | Monday | Monday | Wednesday | Thursday | Wednesday 2020
2019
| New Year’s Day | Majority Rule Day | Good Friday | Easter Monday | R. Fawkes Labour Day | Whit Monday | Independence Day | Emancipation Day | National Heroes Day | Christmas Day | Boxing Day | New Year’s Day
(jUN - dEC) | Monday | Friday | Tuesday | Monday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday
DAYS OF NOTE 2019
May 21 Jun 1 Jul 10 Aug 6 Oct 8 Dec 25 Dec 26
Feb 14 Mar 10 Apr 21 May 12 Jun 1 Jun 16 Nov 3 Nov 30 Dec 24 Dec 31
2018
| Whit Monday | R. Fawkes Labour Day | Independence Day | Emancipation Day | National Heroes Day | Christmas Day | Boxing Day Valentine’s Day Daylight Saving Time start Easter Sunday Mothers’ Day Hurricane Season Starts Fathers’ Day Daylight Saving Time ends Hurricane Season Ends Christmas Eve New Year’s Eve
mark your calendar 2019 Jan | TBA Feb 22 | Sunday Mar 2 | Saturday Mar | TBA Apr 17 | Wednesday Apr 10-14 | Wed - Sun Apr | TBA Jun 6 | Thursday Jun 7 | Friday Jun 7 | Friday July 6-10 | Friday-Tuesday July | TBA
142 | The Eleutheran Magazine
| 4th Annual Eleuthera Junkanoo Parade | A Taste of Eleuthera | 6th Annual Hope Ball (Cancer Society) | Annual Second Homeowner’s Reception | Homecomings: Rock Sound/JC/L. Bogue | Eleuthera All That Jazz Festival | Earth Day Festival (One Eleuthera) | Deep Creek Conch Fest (June 7-10) | Homecoming: Palmetto Point (Jun 7-10) | 32nd Ann. Pineapple Festival (June 7-8) | Homecomings: Green Castle/Bluff/Sav. Sd. | Spanish Wells Fishermen’s Fest
Junkanoo
The energy, color and vibrancy of the Junkanoo parade within The Eleutheras are all seen here on the shining faces of young and older participants in the national tradition.
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holidaysandevents
Jazz on the Beach & Street
t
he Eleuthera All That Jazz Festival 2018 was a vibrant and musically colorful celebration, with multiple performance venues across the island. Two new venues this year at both ends of Eleuthera, including ‘The Other Side’ in North
Eleuthera, and Jack’s Bay Club in South Eleuthera, added to the breadth of the unique music festival experience. The four day event, founded and chaired by Patricia Oakes Leigh-Wood, supports the Haynes Library in Governor’s Harbour, with direct proceeds going towards annual projects and operations at the historic community organization, while the wider impact supports others throughout the island. An incredibly talented group of jazz musicians, both local and international, came together for the Festival and wowed audiences, with headliner, Myra Maud, returning, along with international artists, Tommaso Starace, Massimo Colombo, the Steve Koven trio, and Solomon Hicks. Bahamian tal-
144 | The Eleutheran Magazine
Artists enjoying the beach at ‘The Other Side’..
ents in the line-up included Adrian d’Aguilar and The Jazz Cats, Tino Richardson, Lamont Gibson, Osana Neely, and Kevin Dean. The now famously free event at the Governor’s Harbour Fish Fry on the Friday saw residents and visitors dancing the night away. Eleuthera All That Jazz 2019 is scheduled to take place from April 10th to April 14th. For more information, E-mail: eleutheraallthatjazz@gmail.com, visit the Website: www.eleutheraallthatjazz.com or
reach out to the Haynes Library at 242332-2877.
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Essential
InFormation
Eleuthera is a small part of an archipelagic country. It is not administered as a cohesive island, but rather as an amalgamation of Districts administered separately by appointed civil servants who serve as Administrators. Each report to the Minister of Local Government in New Providence who is also responsible for their appointment.
Electricity - 120 volt, 60 cycle (same as the US and Canada). One of those island scenes at Gene’s Bay dock, in North Eleuthera - visitors in the cool shade await taxis to take them on to the North Eleuthera Airport, after spending some time in Spanish Wells. Area - Districts: The Eleutheras are comprised of several islands with three islands having the vast majority of the population. There were a total of ~3,915 counted households on these islands as per the 2010 census: •
•
•
•
•
•
Mainland Eleuthera is 110 miles long and ~ 2 miles at its widest area. Pop. Census. 2010 is 8,202 people. (M4,058, F-4144, Households - 2718) Harbour Island, the next largest, is 3 miles long and ½ mile wide. Pop. Census. 2010 is 1,762 people. (M-873 F-889 Households 597) Spanish Wells on St. George’s Cay is ½ mile wide by 2 miles long. Pop. Est. 2010, is 1,551 people. (M-754 F-797 Households 600) Current Island, just off the settlement of Current is home to approx. fifty (50) Eleutherans. Eleuthera’s population changes very little over time because of the significant migration away from the island of young adults. The people of Harbour Island and Spanish Wells through commonage rights own large areas of land in mainland North Eleuthera.
Beaches - See Contents Pages (6 & 8)
Business HOURS Most shops and businesses are open from 9am-5pm. Monday thru Saturday. Government offices are open Monday thru Friday. Several family owned and operated stores within towns may stay open until sundown or even later. Many food stores are open for a few hours on Sunday usually until around 10am. Keep in mind that many gasoline service stations are closed on Sundays, though for the few reduced opening hours, service stations attached to stores may also open their gas pumps. Capital The ‘capital’ of Eleuthera is Governor’s Harbour. The town is home to most government offices and offices of several national companies. The Superintendent of Police in Eleuthera (Officer in Charge of Police in Eleuthera) is also based in Governor’s Harbour. Other centers Rock Sound is the center of commerce and local government for South Eleuthera. It has the office of the Administrator of South Eleuthera. Spanish Wells & Harbour Island are more densely populated islands with thriving businesses and a common locally based Administrator. Climate Type: Subtropical maritime. Seasons: Summer (or wet season)
146 | The Eleutheran Magazine
which is from May thru September and Winter (or dry season) which is from October thru April. The remnants of North American cold fronts bring comfortably cool weather during the winter months with generally no experiences of frost, snow, sleet nor extreme temperatures. Seldom will temperatures fall below 60oF and they will often reach as high as 75oF during this time of the year. In summer the warm temperatures seldom go above 90oF and may fall to 78oF or lower at night. Humidity is typically fairly high (Average ~ 65%) . Summer rains enrich the green colour in the natural vegetation, leads to a plethora of flowers in island gardens and by extension insect repellent comes in fairly handy just before and after sunset. Hurricanes: The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1st to November 30th. In 2017, Eleuthera was generally spared from the ravages of several extremely strong hurricanes, including Irma and Maria which wreaked havoc throughout the Caribbean. Driving RIGHT IS WRONG! This cannot be emphasised too much. Drive on the left side of the road. For tourists, a ‘home’ driver’s license is good for up to three months. Rent a car and
drive safely on the left. Streets linking towns are dark at night and there are many twists and turns. Drive Carefully! Getting Here - by Air There are several airlines which service the Eleutheras via the three airports in North, Central and South. Bahamasair, Southern Air and Pineapple Air offer regular competing daily service to and from Nassau. Bahama Hoppers with their private terminal at North Eleuthera airport, offers Air Charters throughout The Bahamas, Turks & Caicos and the Dominican Republic. North Eleuthera airport receives the most flights from the United States directly. Government Prior to independence in 1973, The Commonwealth of The Bahamas was a British Colony. To this date, The Bahamas remains a member of the Commonwealth and also holds membership in several international bodies, including the United Nations and Organization of American States. The Bahamas is also a member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). The political system is based on the British parliamentary system. The Parliament comprises the House of Assembly and the Senate. Members of the House are elected directly every five years (Last Election - May
helpful tidbits 2017). The members of the Senate are appointed by the Governor General. The Prime Minister proposes the majority of the Senators, the Opposition Leader proposes 1/4 of the Members, and the remaining (1/3 of the number the Prime Minister proposes) members are appointed on the advice of the Prime Minister after consultation with the Leader of the Opposition. The Prime Minister is the head of the Executive Branch of Government and heads a Cabinet with a minimum of eight other ministers, one being the Attorney General. The Family Islands’ Local government districts elect councils for town planning, dump site management and maintaining government buildings. Current Leaders • Governor General Dame Marguerite Pindling replaced Sir Arthur Foulkes (summer 2014) • Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dr. Hubert A. Minnis of the Free National Movement. • Opposition Leader: Hon. Philip Davis of the Progressive Liberal Party. Gratuities - Customarily, gratuities or tips are paid to hospitality industry personnel who render good service. The accepted norm is 15 per cent of the total cost of services. Some establishments include gratuity in the final bill. Health Services Nurses, area doctors and volunteer emergency personnel are on the front line of health care on the island. A new private clinic called the Eleuthera Community Health Initiative opened in Palmetto Point in summer 2018. Closest Hospitals: • Public: Princess Margaret Hospital in Nassau. • Private: Doctor’s Hospital in Nassau. • Flying to Nassau takes about 20 min, and up-front payment is often necessary for airlift. There are government clinics in most townships which are open from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. The district doctor is on call to handle emergencies only. Clinics are not equipped to handle serious emergencies; patients are stabilised and sent into Nassau. There are ambulances on the island. Dial 919 for emergency situations.
People All colors, friendly, & resourceful. Population (2010 estimates of people) 8,202 - Eleuthera 1,762 - Harbour Island. 1,551 - Spanish Wells. Radio, TV & Tel. There are 17+ radio stations in the Bahamas. Most are FM stations. ZNS-104.5 FM, and 1540 AM are the national stations managed by the Bahamas Broadcasting Corporation. SPLASH FM - 92.5 is one of the local stations located in Spanish Wells. Cable TV, Internet, and Telecommunications services are modern. A new mobile carrier (ALIV) was introduced in 2016, as a competitor to BTC. Topography - Eleuthera is long and narrow with several rolling hills. The highest point is 168 feet in Gregory Town. Money & Banking • The Bahamian dollar is pegged to the US dollar on a 1:1 basis. • A Value Added Tax of 12% applies to the purchase price of goods and services. See the Gov. website or an administrator’s office, for more info on exemptions or reimbursements. Customs duties are paid on imports at the port of entry. Language ENGLISH is spoken by the vast majority of people. Creole is spoken by the Haitian and Haitian-Bahamian population, present in just about all settlements on the island. Transportation Renting a car is your best option if a car does not accompany the accommodation of choice. Taxis are found at all airports and can take you to your destination and often assist with your rental. Ferry services connect Spanish Wells and Harbour Island to the main land. Biking is another option, however, especially in Central Eleuthera, the rolling hills are demanding for the average rider - also bear in mind that the island is 110 miles long. Time - Spring Forward & Fall Back. Our islands are on the same time clock as the eastern US. We observe Eastern Standard and Daylight Saving times. Day Light Saving period runs from the second Sunday in March to the second Sunday in November.
Lionfish Flair: Innovative, beautiful, island made jewelry & accessories thanks to Lionfish and other natural resources available in Rock Sound. 1- (242) - 334-2860
