Thanksgiving in Paradise
Escape the clouds this Thanksgiving in paradise and listen to our top tips for a getaway for you and the family! Thanksgiving is a special time to give thanks and share delicious food with friends and family. So, we are giving you are top tips for cruising the Bahamas this Thanksgiving. Whether that be on a yacht at anchor or in a marina or at a cozy cottage taking in the Bahama views.
Boating in The Bahamas.
There is no finer journey than the one that leads you to paradise. Whether you’re planning a quick there-and-back trip to Bimini or a leisurely island-hop across multiple islands, The Bahamas’ crystal-clear waters and warm temperatures make it an irresistible destination for boating. Less than 50 nautical miles from coastal Florida lies the Boating and Fishing Capital of the World. Explore more than 700 islands, many only accessible by boat, in the clearest water on Earth. Fish to your heart’s content. Snorkel underwater caves and reefs teeming with brilliant marine life.
The Abaco’s
Abaco the second largest island in The Bahamas, is best known as a yachtsman’s paradise. Abaco and its cays are scattered over 130 square miles of aquamarine water. Its two major islands, Great and Little Abaco, have a myriad of small cays flanking the mainland.
Our focus is going to be on Elbow Cay, also known as Hopetown. A 5 mile long and 3 mile wide beautiful island. Hopetown is a short 15 minute ferry ride away from the mainland – Marsh Harbour. Flights to Marsh Harbour are available from Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Orlando, New Smyrna Beach and Nassau in the Bahamas.
The island is commonly known for its candy cane lighthouse. The historic Elbow Reef Lighthouse is one of the last working, kerosene-burning lighthouse in the world. It adds to the nautical charm, and the calm waters anchoring a breeze. It’s the perfect place to dock your yacht and begin your Elbow Cay adventure.
Hope Town is surrounded by stunning beaches. Whether you’re into sunbathing, beachcombing, or water sports. Whilst being surrounded by coral reefs, underwater caves, and a plethora of marine life. It is an island for every generation, from great-grandparents to toddlers. There is something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Elbow Cay offers it all and there’s a slice of paradise waiting for you.
From the two maps you will see the number of surrounding islands there are within is such a short distance to enjoy and explore. There are some that are known for certain things which are: Man O War Cay, which is a 10 minute boar ride from Elbow Cay.
Man-O-War Cay is one of the early Loyalist settlements in The Abaco’s, and beginning in 1798, its residents started farming. In 1820, a shipwrecked sailor named Benjamin Albury met Eleanor Archer, who worked on a farm, and they married in 1821. Their descendants are the Albury’s of today, industrious people who operate the many family-owned businesses found on this cay. A well-known store on Man O War is Alburys Sail Shop which is well-known for its colorful fashionable items that are all made from a sturdy canvas fabric, traditionally used for sails. All their designs have tropical surroundings in mind and some of their more popular items include bags and hats of various sizes.
Another favorite for tourist is No Name Cay also known as Piggyville. Where the normal thoughts of “Pigs” get scrapped, and they usually live a better life than most of us! These pigs are friendly, extroverted creatures who happily swim and pose for photos with their human admirers.
Next up is Baker’s Bay which is on Great Guana Cay – it is a Golf & Ocean Club which is a members-only community set across 585-acres of opulent white-sand beach. It features a Tom Fazio-designed golf course, 6½ majestic miles of sugar-white beach, epic cuisine from our own organic farms, a world-class spa and luxurious residences. The community also has a deep-water marina where members can choose from a host of large, fast, and comfortable boats and, of course, the beaches and sunsets are spectacular.
On the other side of Great Guana Cay is where you’ll find two little beach club hangouts called Nipper’s Beach Bar & Grill and Grabber’s Bed Bar & Grill. Great Guana Cay is one of the most pristine and beautiful cays in the Bahamas. If you’re looking for peace and quiet – it’s there. If you’re looking to socialize or party – that’s right, there too. They are both known for their exceptional Sunday Funday parties, where locals, tourist and regular visitors or sometimes a couple of celebs come from near and far.
Lastly, there is Pete’s Pub & Gallery which is on Little Harbour which is as south of the Abaco’s. The Gallery was originally started by Pete’s father, the famous Sculptor, Randolph Johnston, as part of his Bronze Casting Foundry and Studio, which he built in the 1950’s, when he settled in Little Harbour, seeking a paradise in which to create his original works of art. The Gallery exhibits three generations of Johnston art works. Sculptures are cast in Bronze in Little Harbour at Johnston Studios Foundry using the ancient lost wax casting method. Johnston Studio’s remains the only bronze foundry in the Bahamas.
Peter Johnston is the founder & owner of Pete’s Pub & Gallery. A famous beach bar & art gallery in Little Habour, Abaco, Bahamas. Pete’s Pub attracts thousands of visitors each year. Pete is a master Artist, talented Chef and renowned host. His escapades in the tropics have earned him the nick name of Pirate Pete. Known for his prolific work as a naturalist and sculptor of marine wildlife, Mr. Johnston is recognized as master craftsman and is one of the most celebrated Bahamian artists. His artwork is coveted by patrons and collectors around the world. This is an island you’ve probably never seen before – with unreal views and glorious food.
The Abaco’s offers it all and there’s a slice of paradise waiting for you – whichever island you may choose to visit!
Bahamas Thanksgiving Feast
Bahamas Thanksgiving is always one to experience and enjoy. A Bahamian Thanksgiving Dinner includes Deep Fried Turkey, Mash Potatoes, Apple Sage Stuffing, Green Beans with Almonds, Sweet Potato Casserole, Cranberries and Gravy. Finished up with a choice of multiple pies to choose from, whether that be a traditional Thanksgiving Pumpkin Pie or a special of a Bahamian dessert! Other restaurants on the island are Abaco Inn, Seaspray, Firefly, On Da Beach, and Hopetown Inn & Marina. Any restaurant you pick we can guarantee you won’t be disappointed.
