The Salty Starfish Travel Club's Adventure in Eleuthera, Bahamas
- Jacob Allen
- Mar 26
- 10 min read
Updated: Aug 26
A Journey to Paradise
The Salty Star Travel Club embarked on an exhilarating week-long adventure to the stunning Eleuthera, Bahamas, in 2023. The promise of sun, sand, and epic exploration awaited us. Our journey kicked off with a smooth flight into Nassau. From there, we took a quick Bahamas Air charter to the Rock Sound Airport in southern Eleuthera. As we landed, the excitement in the air was palpable. Jacob Allen was ready to whisk us away to our spectacular beachfront rental in Tarpum Bay.
Tarpum Bay Beach House
The moment we arrived at our beach house, we were instantly captivated by the exceptional surroundings. Once inside, we were greeted by elegant beachy decor and spacious living areas with an open concept that exuded comfort. Each bedroom was a private oasis, complete with its own ensuite bathroom. This allowed everyone to unwind in style.
As we ventured out the back door, we were stunned to find the beauty of our very own private beach! The soft, powdery sand stretched for miles, with no neighbors in sight. Kayaks and paddle boards beckoned us to the water, while a cabana equipped with Bluetooth speakers promised spontaneous dance parties under the sun. Lush coconut and papaya trees swayed in the breeze, inviting us to explore. After taking in the breathtaking views, we grabbed our swimsuits and dashed to the beach.
When we arrived at our beach house, it was stocked with delicious food, refreshing beverages, and local Bahamian rum. This allowed us to fully embrace relaxation without having to venture into town. I wanted to ensure that our members were taken care of, so they could seamlessly vibe into a state of deep chill.
Day 1: Arrival and Chill
Our first day consisted of unpacking and relaxing after a long trip from the states. After unpacking, we couldn’t resist the allure of the beach. The sea called to us, so we spent the afternoon and evening hours soaking in the sun. We reveled in the warm Bahamian climate, cocktails in hand.
We vibed all day in the sun and witnessed what was, for many, a first Bahamian sunset...
As the sun began to set, we gathered around the outdoor dining area, where we enjoyed a delicious dinner prepared in the fully equipped kitchen. The vibrant colors of the sunset painted the sky, creating a picturesque backdrop for our first evening together.
Day 2: Beach Day!
Day two began with the sun rising over our private paradise. We wasted no time diving into the day. The morning was spent basking on our secluded beach, which felt like our personal slice of heaven. The pristine waters were perfect for kayaking. Nicole and Johan paddled out to explore what this salty paradise had to offer while others soaked up the sun.
As the sun dipped lower in the sky, we set off for Governor’s Harbor to eat at Tippy’s, a local beachfront bar bursting with character and flavor. The atmosphere was electric, with the sound of waves crashing in the background and laughter filling the air. It was July 4th in the Bahamas, and the locals put on an impressive fireworks display for the Americans visiting Tippy's that night. I was quite surprised to see fireworks. It set the scene for what lay ahead in our epic Bahamian adventure.
Tippy’s Menu Recommendations:
Appetizers: We devoured conch fritters—crispy, golden bites that were a perfect start to our meal—and fresh fish tacos that were both flavorful and rich.
Main Courses: The grilled lobster was a standout, succulent and perfectly seasoned, while Tippy’s famous burger was a hearty crowd-pleaser.
Drinks: We quenched our thirst with rum punch and local Kalik beer. Both were refreshing after a day in the sun.
After dinner, we returned to our villa, where we gathered on the beach to witness a magnificent sunset that painted the sky in vibrant colors. The evening ended with laughter and the waves gently serenading us as we celebrated July 4th in the Bahamas!
Day 3: Harbor Island Adventures
On day three, our adventure took us to northern Eleuthera. We set out to explore the legendary pink sand beaches of Harbor Island. Our first stop was Gregory Town, where we checked out local shops and took pictures of the church there. I stop at this location and take pictures on every visit to Eleuthera. The church and its backdrop are irresistible to a photographer's lens!
Our next stop was the breathtaking Glass Window Bridge, a natural wonder where the deep blue Atlantic Ocean crashes against the lighter Caribbean Sea. The contrast was mesmerizing and made for some incredible photos.
Our day was vibing while we adventured north. However, fate had a twist in store for us when our GPS led us to Jean’s Dock instead of the intended dock for Harbor Island. But every cloud has a silver lining. This detour allowed us to catch a water ferry to Spanish Wells, a fishing village known for its stunning beaches and friendly locals.
Upon arrival, we rented golf carts and set off on our adventure. We zipped around the island, exploring colorful cottages and lush landscapes. Our quest led us to a breathtaking white-sand beach that felt like our very own paradise.
For lunch, we stopped at the Sands Bar and Grill, where I indulged in a mouthwatering lobster cheddar burger. Umm, yummy! The atmosphere was laid-back, and the sun shining on the sea showcased amazing blues to soothe the soul.
Feeling adventurous, I suggested we trek to Ben Bay Beach, a secluded stretch of paradise that required navigating through dense jungle trails and mangroves. The path was challenging, with twists and turns and a few creepy crawlers along the way. However, the reward was worth every step—a pristine deserted beach.
Ben Bay Beach! Not a soul around! We had it all to ourselves!
We spent the afternoon soaking in the sun, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and snorkeling in the secluded bay. The thrill of discovering such a hidden gem made the effort all the more rewarding, as we shared the beach and its secrets. We enjoyed our hidden slice of paradise until the sun went down.
Day 4: A Day of Rest and the Fish Fry
After three exhilarating days of adventure, we welcomed a day of rest on day four. Our morning began with refreshing swims and leisurely naps under the warm Bahamian sun. We fired up the grill for a delicious barbecue lunch. We enjoyed grilled red snapper caught that day from the docks, along with BBQ chicken and fresh salads while lounging in the beach cabana.
As the day turned to evening, we dressed up in our best Bahamian attire—I wore a fantastic, bright shirt—and ventured to Governor’s Harbor for the Friday night Fish Fry. This lively street party epitomized the local culture. The Friday Fish Fry has become an Eleuthera tradition.
Fish Fry Delicacies
Dishes: We feasted on barbecue chicken, fresh red snapper, rice and peas, and the must-try Bahamian macaroni and cheese, which was amazing!
Drink: We indulged in the famous Rum Bubba, a secret recipe cocktail that was a hit with everyone. They advised us not to drink more than two, or we'd be dancing in the streets naked. Well, I put that theory to the test!
The energy was electric as we danced, mingled with locals, and even joined in a spontaneous dance contest in the street. The infectious spirit of the community made the night unforgettable. We felt a deep connection to the island and its people.
The drive back to our villa was an adventure in itself. Navigating narrow, unlit roads required focus, but we arrived home safely with full bellies and sore feet. We danced, socialized, and lived life to the fullest!
Day 5: Lighthouse Beach
On the fifth day, I chartered a private boat for Eliza and me to explore the stunning Lighthouse Beach, my top choice for the best beach in the world. With its untouched shores, majestic cliffs, and beach caves, it truly is a magical place. We departed early to join our charter with Big Mac Charters, where Captain Little John awaited us with a boat full of equipment ready for a day of romance and adventure.
Our journey began with a visit to a vibrant reef off the southern coast of Eleuthera. As we approached, the water shimmered in shades of turquoise, revealing a bustling underwater world teeming with life. The coral was resplendent in vivid hues of pink, orange, and purple, creating a breathtaking start to our adventure. Eliza was filled with excitement and a hint of nervousness as she experienced her first snorkeling excursion on a true reef. Watching her face light up as she discovered the reef's hidden treasures was a moment I will cherish forever. Together, we were mesmerized by the underwater kaleidoscope of colors, as schools of fish darted gracefully through the coral formations, and delicate sea fans swayed gently with the currents. Every minute underwater deepened our connection with the sea and all its inhabitants.
Lighthouse Beach
Next, we headed to Lighthouse Beach, where Little John anchored just off shore. We had to swim for it! Upon stepping onto the soft, white sand, it felt like we discovered our secluded paradise meant just for us. The beach's isolation offered a sense of adventure and romance that was indescribable.
We climbed the cliffs near the lighthouse, exploring its ruins and taking in sweeping views of the sea. The descent to the beach was a bit treacherous, requiring us to navigate a steep trail, but the sight that awaited us was nothing short of awe-inspiring.
We spent the day swimming in the turquoise waters, lounging on the beach, and basking in the serenity of this untouched paradise. Sharing these moments with Eliza felt like a dream. The feeling of pure bliss filled our souls as we lay together on the soft sand. Sadly, due to Disney's acquisition of the area, access to Lighthouse Beach is now limited, making this experience even more precious.
On our way back, Captain Little John surprised us with a stop at another stunning reef for yet another amazing snorkeling experience. We ended the day with dinner at the marina at Northpoint Restaurant and Bar. We enjoyed conch fritters and shrimp while sharing a moment that neither of us wanted to end.
Day 6: The Club's Most Epic Adventure
On our sixth day, we rose bright and early for a full-day charter with Eleuthera Outdoor Center. This trip promised to be an epic adventure, and it did not disappoint. From reef snorkeling to swimming with pigs, turtles, and stingrays, every moment was filled with excitement.
The highlight of the day was swimming with the famous pigs—these adorable creatures swam right up to us, and the joy on our members’ faces was infectious. Nicole and Johan, new to such experiences, were alive with wonder and newfound love for the sea. Next, we swam with stingrays and fed the turtles. The guides at Eleuthera Outdoor Center were fantastic. They provided incredible service and were knowledgeable about everything Eleuthera! Top-notch company and highly recommended. [Link for Big Mac Charters is at the bottom of the page.]
Our guides took us to a pristine reef on the Atlantic side of the island after our stop with the pigs. Vibrant sea life and the thrill of the open sea took over our souls as we explored the salty depths. Trigger fish, stingrays, blacktip Caribbean reef sharks, octopuses, hogfish, and lionfish were just a few of the reef inhabitants we encountered.
Next, we stopped on a deserted island where we made fresh conch salad—truly a taste of local culture. We plucked the conch from the bottom of the sea at the reef we just finished exploring. Our hosts prepared a fresh conch salad for us, paired with coconut water taken right from the coconut trees on the island for us to drink. We also had cold, delicious Kalik beer included in the charter! Fresh conch, onions, peppers, and lime, orange, and lemon juices all enhanced the flavor. It was the best conch salad I've ever had! My taste buds danced that day!
Day 7: Last Full Day
On our final full day, we embraced another beach day. We took time to soak up the sun and appreciate the beauty around us. We swam, snorkeled, and danced as we relished every moment, knowing it was our last in this paradise. This was the day I decided to have an all-day reggae dance party—one last time on the beach. My soul felt complete, truly integrated into the Bahamian Island life.
In the evening, we dressed up for a five-star dining experience at The French Leave Resort 1648. The exquisite menu showcased fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and the ambiance was perfect for our final night together. After indulging in delicious dishes, we strolled along the beach, taking in the sights and sounds of Governor's Harbor one last time.
Departure Day
As we loaded the cars, the air was filled with bittersweet silence. It allowed us to reflect on the adventures we had, recalling the memories we now share. Travel is transformative, and when you add the human element, it creates a bond that even time cannot break. The experiences we just lived are worth more than gold. It shows that the old saying is true: "Some people are so poor, all they have is money."
While traveling with the Salty Starfish Travel Club, you have a unique opportunity to forge deep connections with fellow adventurers. Shared experiences create lasting friendships. The club’s curated itineraries explore breathtaking destinations and encourage personal growth. Participants can step outside their comfort zones and embrace new perspectives. As members journey together, they discover the transformative power of travel, enriching their lives and broadening their horizons in unprecedented ways.
Fun Facts about Eleuthera
Top Beaches: Pink Sands Beach, Lighthouse Beach, and Ten Bay Beach. There are over 137 beaches in Eleuthera!
Top Restaurants: Tippy’s, The Sandbar, The Fish Fry, and French Leave Resort. These are just a few of the amazing eateries on the island.
Contact for Big Mac Charters: Big Mac Charters Website
Contact Eleuthera Outdoor Center Website
Top Beach Bars: The Sandbar on Spanish Wells, Tippy's, Governor's Harbor, and the Glass Window Bridge bar for its sweeping views. There are many amazing bars in Eleuthera; these are only a few.
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