I can’t stop raving about The Abacos. This 120-mile long chain of delightfully quaint islands and cays scattered in the northern part of the Bahamas is special because life there is slow-paced and visitors get to enjoy an authentic Caribbean experience. I found all my local interactions 100 per cent true.
For other sun and sea chasers like me, I suppose it also makes sense to mention that the waters there are crystal clear and multiple shades of blue. Plus, the lack of hustle and bustle and the abundance of pollutant-free air make it easy to forget watches and Wi-Fi. You can spend wonderful carefree hours diving and snorkeling; deep sea, reef, or bone fishing; day sailing or sunset cruising. I’m a woman, so of course I’m going to say it’s great for a bikini-clad babe to work on her hammock-inspired book-in-hand chill out vibe too!
But above everything else, The Abacos is a boater’s paradise. This is where men go and beer follows. That means tons of great bars, one almost at every ferry or dinghy stop.
Check out our post on the best sunglasses for the beach.
Must-Visit Beach Bars in The Abacos
Cracker P’s Bar and Grill on Lubbers Quarters
You pull up to the dock and walk straight into an indoor/outdoor space that vibrates with positive energy. Perhaps the only thing more expansive than the panoramic views and the bar itself is the owner’s engaging personality. Patrick and his wife, Linda, and their staff make you feel at home from the get-go. The bar has an extensive rum list, a specially crafted hot sauce, and a casual menu chock-full of seafood options. You simply must try the cheesy fish dip! Even my hips will tell you it’s sinfully good. And ask about their legendary Full Moon Parties. I heard they are not to be missed.
www.crackerps.com
Curly Tails in Marsh Harbor
This spot is a great place to unwind, meet up with friends and enjoy some libations and food while you bask in the view or wait for the ferry to Great Guana Cay. It is a casually chic hangout that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and they have a wide selection of fine wines, premium liquors and beers. Try their conch fritters or grouper burger, and look around for the fast-moving curly tail lizards for which the bar got its name.
www.abacocurlytails.com
Nipper’s: The Place to Be on a Sunday Afternoon
It is a colorful and vibrant bar in Guana Cay that sits atop a sand cliff, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Locals and visitors converge there for the weekly pig roast and to sip some of the best frozen drinks you’ll find anywhere. If you go on Sunday, expect a crowd and be prepared to have fun. It gets loud, and sometimes a little crazy so no party poopers are allowed.
www.nippersbar.com
Snappas Chill and Grill for Cocktails
It has a relaxing atmosphere and friendly staff, and it’s right on the water. I watched the sunset from there on the second night of my trip and it was simply breathtaking. They offer daily Happy Hour specials from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and live entertainment on Fridays and Saturdays.
www.snappasbar.com
Cheers mates!
