Out Islands Are In
Seek your own paradise on one of these Bahamian Out Islands. bahamas.com
ANDROS ISLAND STATS Andros Island is the largest yet least-developed-per-capita island of the chain, located west of much-visited Nassau on New Providence. TAKE NOTE Come here to bonefish. This elusive fish lurks around the island's flats and in its tidal bights. THE SCENE Modern-day explorers and, of course, laid-back fish chasers who hang around evenings in jovial reverie, trading tales of the one that got away. CHANCES ARE GOOD THAT YOU'LL want to stop by Mangrove Cay between Middle and South Bights for the sense of authenticity that lingers in its small villages of fishermen and spongers. WHERE TO PARK IT At the winsome waterfront bungalows of Tiamo Resorts you can fish, dive or kayak and tuck into Bahamian-styled seafood. Rates from $570. tiamoresorts.com
LONG ISLAND STATS Long Island sits in the southern half of the Bahamian archipelago just below Cat Island. TAKE NOTE Dean's Blue Hole — the world's deepest at more than 600 feet — is north of Clarence Town. Jump into its waters from surrounding cliffs or dive its depths which, while unfettered by the aquatic life of the island's reefs, provide an otherworldly feeling of serenity. THE SCENE Dive and snorkel enthusiasts are among those looking for beautiful scenery and plenty of beaches. CHANCES ARE GOOD THAT YOU'LL visit Clarence Town's hillside churches, built by Father Jerome, the same gent who battled obeah on Cat Island. WHERE TO PARK IT With a dive operation, marina, airport and tennis club, Stella Maris Resort Club, located in a palm grove on the east coast, is a leisurely base. Rates from $155. stellamarisresort.com
HARBOUR ISLAND STATS This tiny islet is east of parentisland Eleuthera, also an Out Island. TAKE NOTE Beaches in shades of pale pink ring the entire island. THE SCENE Home-owning glitterati of all disciplines (models, designers, playboys, über-rich businessmen) are, thankfully, none too stuffy; this island maintains its barefoot, bikinis feel. CHANCES ARE GOOD THAT YOU'LL at least come for a day from Eleuthera. You will absolutely want to stay here until the last ferry returns, usually around 7 p.m., which means you'll have time to grab an early dinner at chichi-but-charming Sip Sip or a juicy burger at Ma Ruby's. WHERE TO PARK IT If you're sleeping over, try the British-colonial-style Coral Sands Resort, which occupies an enviable position on Pink Sands Beach. Rates from $280. coralsands.com
MAYAGUANA ISLAND STATS The easternmost isle in the Bahamas chain, Mayaguana is also the least-visited of all the islands. TAKE NOTE For a ride, stick out your thumb; if you hope to snorkel, bring your own gear; if you want beach time, you'll likely have many of them to yourself. THE SCENE There isn't one. Locals (mostly fishermen) number just over 300, and a rare visitor (mainly fisherfolk) is about all you'll stumble across, unless you count the numerous hutia, a sort of cross between a rat and rabbit found throughout the Caribbean. CHANCES ARE GOOD THAT YOU'LL come across sharks, barracuda and stingrays while you're fishing the shallows. WHERE TO PARK IT Baycaner Beach Resort owner "Shorty," who grew up on the island, can set you up on fishing or snorkeling trips — whatever you like. Rates from $88. baycanerbeach.com
GREAT INAGUA ISLAND STATS Great Inagua is the southernmost island in the Bahamas. TAKE NOTE The Inagua National Park is home to the world's largest population of West Indian ß amingos with more than 50,000. Visit during the January-to-April mating season or the nesting season in May. THE SCENE Birders (a unique species noted for binocular adornment and trusty Audubon guides). CHANCES ARE GOOD THAT YOU'LL tour Morton Bahamas Ltd.'s salt facility north of Matthew Town where giant pumps pour seawater into huge, shallow pans for evaporation. Flamingos stalk the pans looking for shrimp and snails. WHERE TO PARK IT Walkine's Guest House just south of Matthew Town has five homey rooms, and owner, Eleanor, will prepare meals of your choosing for a little extra. Rates from $75. 242-339-1612