Grand Bahama Island: Getting Grander

by Paris Permenter & John Bigley

Lovers find diversions ranging from golf courses to dolphin excursions to romantic botanical gardens on this island.

Looking for a quiet getaway that's filled with plenty of sun and sand? A luxurious resort where you can scuba dive, play golf, or just walk hand in hand then spend the evening dining under the stars? Grand Bahama Island may just be the answer.

What's grand is becoming even grander thanks to extensive expansion and renovation projects underway on Grand Bahama Island. Over $600 million in hotel and development projects have begun, paving the way for a repositioning of the island to attract more affluent travelers in search of a longer stay.

With its miles of white sand beaches, much of the appeal of Grand Bahama Island lies in its ability to provide fun in the sun. One of the top aquatic attractions is UNEXSO's The Dolphin Experience (800-992-DIVE). Visitors enjoy close-up encounters with these marine mammals; two programs allow guests to stand in the water or to swim with the dolphins (a more limited program). Reservations are required for both programs.

Away from the sea, however, clients find land-based attractions as well. The 12-acre Garden of the Groves (242-373-5668) is home to over 10,000 varieties of flowers, trees, and shrubs from around the world. Quiet, shaded paths wind through the gardens. The Lucayan National Park (242-352-5738) is home to 40 acres of mangroves, pine, and palm trees. Numerous caves are found here as well as a secluded beach, hiking trails, and picnicking.

Shopping ranks as one of the top activities for travelers. The Port Lucaya Marketplace and Marina offers shops selling perfumes, clothing, and crafts, and often live music fills its outdoor waterfront. Travelers find goods from around the globe at the International Bazaar, and nearby the Bahamas Arts and Crafts Market sells locally made jewelry and baskets.

Golf is a growing focus on Grand Bahama Island. Since 1962, the island has been home of the Dick Wilson-designed Lucaya Golf and Country Club (242-373-1066). The 72 par course has hosted several Caribbean championships. The new links-style Robert Trent Jones, Jr.-designed Lucayan Reef Course (877-OUR-LUCAYA) will also be the home of the Butch Harmon School of Golf, opening in December. Additional golf options are available at the Emerald and Ruby Courses at the Bahamia. Both 72 par, these courses were designed by Dick Wilson and Joe Lee and recently underwent a redesign by the Fazio Golf Design Group.

For more information on Grand Bahama, call the tourist board at 800-448-3386 or see http://www.bahamas.com.