Summer is here, and that means it’s the perfect time to get away and experience paradise. Better still? Paradise is just a short distance off the Florida coastline.

If you’re thinking of getting away to The Bahamas this summer, we would love to see you at Sandy Toes! We offer a little bit of something for everyone, an adventure everyone can revel in, the perfect relaxation spot and something new to discover every single day. Whatever you’re looking for in tropical heaven, you’ll never run out of things to do in The Bahamas. Here’s a look at how you can spend your summer vacation with us.

Places to Explore

Our little corner of the world is your own little slice of paradise. Here’s a closer look at the beautiful areas waiting to be explored on your Bahamas vacation.

Rose Island

Sandy Toes is located on Rose Island, a small, gorgeous island about 12 miles long located 4 miles east of Nassau and Paradise Island.

If you’re a big James Bond fan, you’ve seen Rose Island before–it was featured in the 1965 James Bond film Thunderball, the site of a crash landing. The original 007, Sean Connery, even lives in The Bahamas.

There won’t be any crash landings, but Rose Island is even more beautiful than it looks in the movies.

Centuries ago, Rose Island was home to a pineapple plantation. These days, Rose Island is home to just a few private homes and, of course, Sandy Toes. In fact, the island is virtually uninhabited, making it the perfect spot for a summertime getaway.

It’s a long, skinny island with a protected “harbour” area called Lower Harbour, where Sandy Toes is located. Our property runs sea-to-sea, meaning no matter where you stay, you’ll see the pristine ocean waters in almost any direction.

Nassau and Paradise Island

Four miles away is Nassau, the capital of The Bahamas. If Rose Island is a secluded, quiet slice of tropical heaven, Nassau and Paradise Island combine the laid-back ease of tropical utopia with the lure of a big city. In short, paradise.

Nassau is the original tropical paradise. If you think of blue skies and sandy beaches, you can picture Nassau pretty well. Yet Nassau is also the bustling hub of The Bahamas, offering modern amenities. Downtown Nassau is about twenty square miles of historic architecture, modern murals, bright colors, and living history.

Nassau is full of rich history, having sheltered everyone from pirates to freed slaves to blockade runners to rum smugglers to runaway lovers. These days, though, it’s the perfect place for you to escape and make your own memories.

Better still? If you’re itching for a little taste of the city before you return to the peaceful haven of Rose Island, it’s just a short boat ride away.

Things to Do in The Bahamas

We can make you this promise: in The Bahamas, you’ll never run out of things to do. The islands may be small, but they’re packed to the brim with personality and adventure, no matter what flavor of adventure you’re in the mood to find.

Swim with pigs? Learn about pirates? See some of the islands’ beautiful native birds? Swim with our colorful underwater neighbors? Sit on the beach and let the sand soak up all your troubles?

Like we said–there’s an adventure for anyone in The Bahamas, especially on our peaceful Rose Island. Here’s what you have to look forward to on your vacation with us.

Swim with Pigs

Looking for a life-changing experience? If so, you have to experience swimming with pigs on Rose Island.

Rose Island is known for being home to wild pigs. The pigs you swim with at Sandy Toes, however, aren’t wild. They’re actually pigs rescued from local farms, raised in our wildlife sanctuary among royal peacocks, curly-tail lizards, and reef life.

Our nine sweet Sandy Toes pigs (Babe, Wilbur, Pumba, Larry, Curly, Mo, Ginger, Pepper, and Spice) are the nicest pigs you’ll meet in The Bahamas. They love spending time with humans, luxuriating in attention, and, of course, going for a swim! These big and little guys all have big personalities, and they’ll happily paddle next to you and nuzzle a snack out of your hand.

Explore Bahamian History

Bahamian history is even more colorful than the birds that flock on our islands.

We mentioned earlier that Rose Island was featured in a James Bond movie, but The Bahamas as a whole has been the site of several films. If your interests run more toward swashbuckling pirates than sophisticated international spies, why not pay a visit to the Pirate Museum in Olde Town Nassau?

The year is 1716, and your adventure begins on a moonlit dock to the sound of pirates celebrating in a nearby tavern as the water laps against the ships. You’ll walk alongside the pirate cutlass Revenge and journey into the place some of the most notorious pirates in the Caribbean called home.

Snorkeling

If snorkeling in The Bahamas isn’t on your bucket list, here’s a tip: it should be!

Shallow, clear water, sandy beaches, and year-round warm weather make The Bahamas perfect for snorkeling. From undersea cave systems to coral gardens to blue holes (ocean pools of freshwater floating on saltwater) to the stunning colors of our local marine life, The Bahamas offers a once-in-a-lifetime snorkeling experience.

One of the highlights of the Sandy Toes Full Day Excursion is our snorkeling tour. You might run into all sorts of fish, including barracuda, clownfish, and lionfish, but you’ll also encounter other amazing sea creatures from spiny lobsters to sea turtles–even dolphins.

Full-Day Excursions

If you want a complete adventure, why not book a full-day excursion and let us be your tour guides?

Our full-day excursions offer the complete island experience. Your day begins with a specialty drink upon arrival. You’ll have your own private island and private beach with a range of activities, including swimming with the Rose Island pigs, daily guided snorkeling tours, a hammock garden, and beach games. If you want to sit back and relax, no worries! There’s island music and a shaded north deck overlooking the beach, the perfect spot to kick back and take it all in.

To keep you ready to continue your adventure, you’ll get a full Bahamian lunch as part of your package, including: barbecue chicken, hot dogs, peas n rice, mixed green salad, vegetable pasta salad, fresh-baked rolls, and complimentary lemonade.

But best of all? Starting in August, we will be offering exclusive island experiences for groups of 2-10, including the famous swimming pigs, private boat transportation, access to a secluded destination, snorkeling tour and lunch service (4 hrs) for $2500 VAT inclusive. you can book the morning slot from 8:30am to 12:30pm or the afternoon slot from 1:00pm to 5:00pm. (Other time slots are offered but subject to availability) This product is available for a limited time during summer 2020 so get it while it’s hot!

Revel on the Beach

Of course, if you’re looking for a low-key experience, we wouldn’t blame you for spending a day just soaking up the rays on the beach. After all, when the beaches are so pristine and peaceful, why would you want to go anywhere else?

The beaches on our beautiful Rose Island are the stuff of dreams. The island is largely uninhabited, which means the beaches remain untouched and gorgeous. With the sand in your toes, the sun shining overhead, the waves rolling in and the sea air in your lungs, you’re in the perfect place to just drink it all in. Your troubles melt away under that beautiful Bahamian sun, where nothing matters except reveling finding the perfect beach spot.

And hey, if you want to limit your day’s excitement to a crazy Caribbean cocktail, we certainly wouldn’t hold that against you! The better to cool off in the tropical sun and leave all your worries behind. It’s even better when paired with a beachside massage.

Thinking of a Summertime Escape?

Who says a summertime escape has to be a far-off dream? You can experience your own tropical paradise this summer with us.

At Sandy Toes, we’re here to provide your perfect tropical getaway. If that sounds like the perfect way to spend your summer, we would love to have you join us! Click here to check out our our 2 bedroom eco-luxury villa. This summer it’s all about exploring and partying in your own backyard! Get in touch to let us know if you have any questions about your paradise experience with us.

If that sounds like you, then luxury villas in the Bahamas are the perfect choice for your next vacation together. 

Whether you’re the type of couple that likes to just chill out and relax, or you prefer to go on exciting adventures together, the Bahamas is the place for you. 

With beautiful weather nearly year-round and breathtaking beaches across the archipelago, it’s nearly impossible to have a bad time in the Bahamas.

Here are just a few reasons why you and your significant other should come to the Bahamas for your next romantic getaway. 

Bahamas Weather Is Amazing

Imagine waking up beside your loved one with the sun streaming through your windows. As you step outside with your morning coffee or tea, you’re greeted with a light breeze blowing across your face. You take a deep breath of the warm, salty air and smile.

This could be your daily reality when you rent a villa in the Bahamas with your loved one! Nothing boosts happiness like a little bit of sunshine. Why not share those warm feelings with your partner? 

Even in the winter, the low temperatures average around 70°F (21°C). That sure sounds like paradise to us!

Rainy season hits the Caribbean islands from May to June, but the storms usually pass over quickly. If you’re visiting during rainy season, you and your lover can take advantage of the rainstorm by watching it from the windows of your Bahamas villa. It’s the perfect excuse to get cozy together.

Once the rain has passed, you and your significant other will still have plenty of time to explore the pristine beaches of the Bahamas.

Bahamas Beaches Are Breathtaking

If you’ve ever opened a Caribbean travel guide or magazine, you’ve seen the pictures of the clear blue water of the Caribbean.

Believe us, it’s not Photoshop. The beaches are even more beautiful when you see them in real life! The soft, white sand combined with the sunlight glinting off the Caribbean water creates a true picture of paradise.

You don’t have to take our word for it; you can find out for yourself when you stay in one of our Bahamas luxury villas.

Do you like to lounge around on the beach all day? You won’t find a better beach to chill out on than a Bahamas beach.

You and your partner might even want to book a relaxing beachside massage while you’re on your Bahamas vacation. Nothing cuts away the stress and tension from your body like a massage. It’s even more blissful when you get to experience your massage beside the ocean and with your loved one.

Do you and your partner want to chill out and day drink while also enjoying the beach? We’ve got you covered with our Bahamas beach bar.

If all this relaxation is starting to sound boring, don’t worry. There are also heaps of fun activities and excursions to get involved with when you’re staying in the Bahamas.

No Boredom in the Bahamas

For the couples who like to get out and explore together, you’ll find plenty to do on the Bahamas islands.

As you might imagine, snorkeling in the Bahamas is a popular pastime. The clear water makes it easy to see the beautiful reefs and colorful marine wildlife within the Caribbean seas. Even if you don’t have any experience with snorkeling before, the Bahamas is a great place to try it out for the first time.

Beyond snorkeling, water sports of all kinds are popular in the Bahamas.

Do you want to get in some fishing time? Do you love kayaking? What about windsurfing? 

No matter what you’re interested in, there are many fun activities in the Bahamas to enjoy together. You can even spend some time with the famous Bahamian swimming pigs if you’re getting tired of the standard beach activities.

There are also numerous national parks in the Bahamas if you and your partner are looking to get a bit more adventurous together.

For example, did you know that one of the world’s largest underwater cave systems is located in the Bahamas? If you and your partner are down to do a little bit of island hopping around the Bahamas archipelago, you’ll discover quite a rich variety of flora and fauna within the stunning national parks of the Bahamas. 

However you choose to spend your days, in the evening, you’ll probably want to return to a cozy, peaceful and private Bahamas accommodation. We’ve got you covered.

Villas in the Bahamas Are Private and Romantic

It’s great to have fun things to do when you’re on vacation. However, when you’re on a romantic vacation with your significant other, your accommodation is just as important as the destination itself.

Our private villas in the Bahamas provide you with a unique romantic experience. The villas are located on Rose Island, which is just a 20-minute speed boat ride away from the mainland.

That means you can enjoy all the convenience of having the mainland close by while still enjoying the seclusion and privacy of luxury villas in the Bahamas. It’s the perfect place to get in some quality time alone with your significant other.

You and your partner can enjoy stunning ocean views as soon as you wake up. Once you’re ready to venture out of the villa, you’ll be able to enjoy a romantic walk on the beach. Keep your eyes open for seashells and wildlife as you saunter through the sand together.

The Bahamas Are Waiting for You

Now that you’ve made it this far, we’re sure you’re convinced: luxury villas in the Bahamas are the best choice for any couple planning their next romantic getaway together. 

So what are you waiting for? Contact us today to help you plan the vacation of your dreams in the beautiful Bahamas! 

Christmas is just around the corner and with the amazing food, beautiful decorations and fun Christmas movies we all love comes something most of us can just about tolerate at best: Christmas shopping. Whether you click through page after page of online stores wondering which deals are actually real value for money or you give yourself a pep talk before battling amongst other Christmas shoppers searching for the perfect gift in real stores, Christmas shopping is something we’d probably all avoid if we could.

But instead of spending hours, days or even weeks searching for the perfect gift this year, you can stop right now because you’ve found it. A stay at a Bahamas beach bungalow! Who wouldn’t like to open that on Christmas morning?

Who is a Bahamas vacation rental for?

Staying at a Bahamas beach bungalow is a big gift, so it’s only really appropriate to give to someone close to you. But after that, it’s totally your choice. There’s probably no one in your life who would hate the idea of spending a couple of weeks at a luxury beach retreat, so you won’t have to worry about disappointing anyone.

Your partner. Can you imagine the look on their face on Christmas day when instead of unwrapping a piece of jewelry or aftershave, you tell them to pack their bags because you’re going on vacation? This gift becomes even more perfect if your partner is one of those people who already has everything, insists they don’t want anything from you this year (when they most definitely do) or is really hard to buy for. Plus, you get to go on vacation, too! You could hardly send your partner to paradise for two weeks on their own.

Your parents. When you think about how much your parents have done for you over the years, you probably owe them way more than a vacation, but it’s a good place to start. Some older people aren’t fully up-to-date when it comes to the latest technology and don’t realize all they need to do is sit down at a screen for a few minutes to book the vacation of a lifetime. And just because of this, they miss out bigtime. Instead of letting them miss out or spending a lifetime explaining how stuff like online booking works, book a Bahamas beach bungalow yourself and surprise them with it as a gift.

Your friends. It’s not every day you get to chill in the Bahamas with your friends. So if everyone in your circle is up for it, suggest putting your money together for a few Bahamas villa rentals. This way you won’t have to worry about Christmas shopping for each of your friends and you can all enjoy the anticipation together. By going in with other people, you’ll also get to make your money stretch much further and enjoy much superior accommodation, like luxury villa rentals. Bahamas vacations are already pretty affordable, but because you’re spreading the cost between you and your friends, you’ll get even better value for money.

Yourself. There’s absolutely no reason you can’t treat yourself to a stay at a Bahamas beach bungalow this year for Christmas. Whether you ask your family to give you money instead of spending it on gifts and you put that toward the vacation or pay for it entirely out of your own pocket, spending a week or two at a luxury resort in the Bahamas is the perfect self-reward for all the hard work you put in throughout the rest of year. Better yet, when you book the vacation for yourself, you’ll be able to pick the best rental for you in your ideal location on your perfect island.

Why is a Bahamas vacation rental better than a traditional gift?

They say, “Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer”, so why waste your money on anything else? Sure, most Christmas gifts are all well received and wanted at the time, but many end up totally forgotten about half way through January. But the experiences, adventures and memories created during a vacation really will last a lifetime. How’s that for value for money?

Not only will the person you treat to a Bahamas vacation rental get to enjoy their gift for years after you give it, but they’ll also be able to enjoy it for the days, weeks or months leading up to the departure date. With a traditional Christmas gift, the anticipation disappears as soon as the wrapping comes off. But with Bahamas vacation rentals, the excitement grows and grows until the big day arrives.

When shopping for a traditional Christmas gift, it’s almost impossible to get it right unless you ask exactly what the person wants and write it down word for word. Although this is an easy way to guarantee the person you’re shopping for gets the perfect gift, it totally ruins the surprise. But with a villa rental, the gift will be entirely unexpected (unless you’ve accidentally let a few hints slip out) and it really will be the perfect gift because the receiver can totally make it their own. You choose the accommodation, but the receiver still gets to do what they want every day, surrounded by pristine beaches and aquamarine water, thanks to you.

When do I book a Bahamas vacation rental?

When it comes to vacation rentals, it’s important to reserve as early as you can. This way you’ll have the biggest choice of dates and accommodation options open to you. But just because you’re giving a rental as a Christmas gift doesn’t mean the person has to fly out on December 26^th. Most people have already made plans for Christmas and New Year’s Eve, so to avoid accidentally clashing with schedules, it’s a good idea to plan the vacation for January or even February.

Of course, if you’re giving the gift to yourself, your partner or a group of friends, you know exactly what your plans are and can make you reservation accordingly. If you’re gifting the rental to your partner, make sure you don’t leave it too late to tell them – they still need time to pack and possibly get some time off work!

But if you’re giving the gift to your parents or someone else, it can be a bit trickier to find out the best time for them. If you don’t think it will catch them off guard and make them suspicious, simply ask them what their plans are for Christmas and New Year. If this is too obvious, you’ll have to come up with clever ways of asking carefully selected questions to determine the best time for them to jet off on vacation.

How do I wrap a Bahamas vacation rental?

You might think Bahamas vacation rentals aren’t as good as traditional Christmas gifts because you can’t wrap them. But that’s not true – you just need to be creative! The simplest way to wrap up this type of gift is to print off the booking info, place it inside a festive envelope and give it to the lucky recipient on Christmas morning, but there are plenty of other ways to give a Bahamas vacation rental, too.

To really throw the other person off the scent, put the booking information (or even just a photo of a stunning beach with “You’re going to the Bahamas!” written on the front) inside a small gift-wrapped box. Then put that inside a bigger gift-wrapped box. And put that box inside and even bigger gift-wrapped box. You get the idea. Carry on with this until you’ve got a huge box to put under the tree. As the person opens each box to reveal another box, the anticipation will grow and grow.

You can even turn the “unwrapping” of a Bahamas vacation rental into a game. Start off by collecting a bunch of items (or photos of items) which are related to a Bahamas vacation. For example: a swimsuit, a coconut, a pair of sunglasses and a toy plane would all be perfect. When you’ve got everything together, hide it all out of view and tell the recipient they’ve got to guess what their gift is before they can have it. One by one, bring out each of the clues until the person guesses correctly. This could take a while as not many people ever think they’ll get something as awesome as a Bahamas vacation for Christmas! If there are usually family and friends around when you’re unwrapping gifts, you can let everyone join in and help with the guessing.

What makes a Bahamas vacation rental the perfect Christmas gift

If you’re looking to treat someone special in your life to the perfect gift they’ll never forget, there really is no better choice than a Bahamas vacation rental. There’s minimal shopping involved, you don’t need to worry about whether the recipient will like it (believe us, they’ll love it!) and you’ll be helping them create memories they’ll be telling friends and family about for the rest of their lives.

So you’ve made it to the end of your workweek and to your much anticipated vacation departure day; it’s finally time for you and your girl to take that special trip to the Bahamas that you’ve been dreaming about for months on end now. Everyone is cool, calm and collected and it’s just the usual excitement and anticipation of escaping reality for a little while to travel to one of the hottest destinations around. She thinks she’s going for beautiful beaches and turquoise waters, but little does she know that this isn’t just an ordinary getaway full of eat, drink, sleep, repeat that you would do on a regular holiday. It’s a carefully orchestrated chess match that you have been plotting for FOREVER, which will hopefully result in you getting down on one knee at the end and asking those 4 important words.

Will you marry me?

That life changing statement can make a person feel like they are carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders. Perfection is expected as we watch Hollywood fairy tales and magazine covers set the bar unrealistically high with diamonds and couture, although the reality and hope is just to get through the day without tripping over your own two feet. A stressful situation on it’s own, this all-important proposal might have you shaking in your sandals, but the Bahamas is here to help you out!

Tropical Paradise? Check. Romantic atmosphere inclusive of oceans and sunsets? Check. Yep, the stage is set and all we are waiting for is you and that special someone to pick the most beautiful spot to promise each other commitment to for the rest of your lives. And hey, hopefully if all goes well  you’ll also be getting married in the Bahamas before you know it! So here is a little cheat sheet to take all the guessing out of it, and here are our top 10 most romantic, most perfect places for a proposal in the Bahamas.

1. The Cloisters – Originally built by Augustinian monks in Montrejau, France, this beautiful stone gazebo is located on Paradise Island across from the One and Only Ocean Club. Boasting beautiful gardens and original architecture, it has had quite the journey as it was disassembled and transported to its current location and rebuilt in 1968. It is a popular site for photo sessions, engagements, and Cloisters weddings as the guests enjoy this amazing green space while over looking Nassau’s harbor. https://www.oneandonlyresorts.com/one-and-only-ocean-club-bahamas

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               credit: Speer Photo

2. Jaws Beach – This remote beach is located on the very western side of Nassau, away from the big city life and all the noise affiliated with it. It’s quiet, still, and beautiful, and has a front row seat for daily sunsets on the turquoise horizon. The weather (if any) very rarely comes from the west so it usually makes for calm waters and beautiful scenery. You’re also not likely to run into many people out here so pack a little picnic and a bottle of bubbly, and make your way out to the beach boonies of the capital to pop the all important question and propose in The Bahamas.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   credit: HowHeAsked

3. Fort Charlotte – Not as “traditional” as the typical beach venue, beautiful Fort Charlotte sits perched high on a hill overlooking the Harbour. Built in 1788, this fort protected the west entrance from enemies and pirates as the location provides the best vantage point for keeping eyes on everything (Fun Fact – did you know that the cannons were NEVER fired in an act of aggression?). It was built for protection then, but used for VIEWS now! If proposing on top of a historical fort isn’t exciting enough, you can also explore the cool dungeons and underground passageways for a more unique experience.

4. Sandy Toes – This private island venue is located on beautiful Rose Island, which is just 7 miles east of the capital. The company runs daily excursions in small groups for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the resorts to really have a true “out island” experience. The property boasts 1000 feet of private beachfront and also has fantastic snorkeling and coves to explore and check out while you’re living the dream (underwater will you marry me)? A popular, premeditated package that this company also offer is your “treasure chest” or “message in a bottle” washed up on the beach (that is set up before your arrival) only to have your loved one discover it while you’re walking hand in hand. Food and beverage can also be organized whilst here so this is a no brainer, 100% home run. www.sandytoesbahamas.com (Sandy Toes also offers Bahamas wedding packages if you are thinking about getting married in the Bahamas). The “Retreat” (a separate space from the excursion side) offers a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 2 treetop bungalow, private luxury villa where you can rent exclusive overnight accommodations on a deserted island after the sun goes down; the perfect setting for a romantic proposal with no witnesses! Also, it’s a great place for a bahamas honeymoon.

5. On the Water! – This point belongs to no boat in particular, but if you are really looking to go above and beyond than it may be worth your while to look into a private boat charter to take you and sweetie pie out on the ocean for the day. With your own charter comes your own flexibility and schedule, and there are tons of cool “deserted” islands to get dropped off to that your captain will be happy to recommend. Want to stay on the boat? Look at more of a cruising style vessel like http://www.seasenorcharters.com which can offer amenities like cabins, washrooms and crew services on board for more of a luxurious experience. Chartering your own boat means you can also choose the time of day to head out, so maybe you want to try a sunrise catch them off guard proposal, or a sunset just ask me already you know the answer question, either will prove to impress!

6. Café Matisse – We haven’t forgot you foodies; there is nothing like enjoying an amazing meal with a little wine, a little atmosphere and a little candlelight to set up that special magical mojo. Not only does Café Matisse have some of the best food around, they are also well known for their STEALLAR service and setting that contributes to a truly amazing evening. The venue has cool indoor seating that is air conditioned and comfortable, but the real show stopper is the courtyard dining experience set with bistro lights and white table clothes. Waiters tend to your every need while you calmly read your menu by flashlight in a truly magical dining experience that one won’t soon forget. It’s a perfect set up to “accidently” drop your fork and end up on one knee in front of your partner. http://www.cafe-matisse.com/

credit: Cafe Matisse

7. Exuma – If you thought the waters around Nassau and Paradise Island were something to write home about, wait until you see our blues and greens of emerald Exuma water. This chain of islands lie east of the capital and you will either need to get there by boat or plane, so here a few suggestions in a suggestion to check out as they are all different from another and unique in their own way:

• Staniel Cay – Yacht club and boutique bungalows, this is a luxurious getaway to definitely check out in Exuma. It offers a Marina, restaurant and many activities and services all available on site. It’s also close to the swimming pigs! http://www.stanielcay.com/
• Compass Cay – A smaller Marina where you can park your boat to swim and feed beautiful nurse sharks!
• Sandals Emerald Bay Golf Resort – If you are looking for all the bells and whistles, expect what you’d receive at a high-end resort with all the trimmings. Spa services, water sports and let’s not forget one of the prettiest golf courses around (watch out for plenty of sandy and water hazards).

Whether it’s inside or outside, at the beach, or at a completely different island, any of the above venues are sure to please! The Bahamas already creates for itself such a magical atmosphere with its tropical climate and natural wonders that all you really need to do is insert yourselves (don’t forget the ring!) and the rest of the pieces will fall into place. Also, if you are looking for just a little something extra to really earn some brownie points, you may want to consider hiring a violinist to serenade the sweet sound of strings and feel the grove through the night (we would recommend checking out http://stringsntings.com/). Music holds a very special place in the heart and the flexibility of the musician to be able to travel to these unique venues certainly provides the wow factor! Also don’t forget the chocolate covered strawberries from Gray Cliff Chocolatiers which not only creates delicious desserts, but also those fine cigars to celebrate the “yes” after the “will you”?

So when you’re thinking about the perfect place to propose in The Bahamas, keep the islands in the back of your mind and remember, it’s always better in the Bahamas.

Forever yours,

The Sandy Toes Team

The Bahamas is a glorious place to be if you are considering getting married abroad and should definitely be pegged up there at the top of your “Dream Wedding Locations” list. It boasts so many different places and venues where you can say your “I do’s” while wearing that perfect beach wedding dress and standing next to the man you’re going to love forever. The endless stretches of white sandy beaches paired beside the beautiful shallow turquoise waters create the perfect backdrop for any bride who is thinking about getting married in Nassau Bahamas. The stage is set, the talent is cast, and now begins the intimidating planning of have your big day in a totally different country.

Sounds scary right? It’s difficult to make important decisions with miles looming in between, and of course you want only the best for you and your guests on this special occasion. It’s helpful having these big websites out there to shop around for some great food and catering, also to have local wedding planners on the ground who are experts in sourcing things like flowers, décor and even that DJ you want to get everyone shaking all night long. There are transportation companies to move you and your guests around and even lots of day excursions that everyone can partake in before and after the wedding for a little R and R.  Side note: We offer some of the best Bahamas wedding packages that will take care of everything for you. Amongst all these variables and vendors that will come together to form your destination wedding, by far one of the most important will be that of your wedding photographer. This is the person that will document and deliver your special memories that you will hold and cherish for the rest of your lives. Of course you want perfection and quality but also understand that you need character and personality in a person that you will be working so closely with. To help you on your journey and narrow your search, these are our top 5 recommended destination wedding photographers in Bahamas.

1. Heather Carey – http://www.heathercareyphotography.com/

Heather is a born and raised Bahamian who excels in shooting everything from weddings and engagements to portraits to real estate. She has spent time living in places like Spain, San Francisco, London and New York and has also been a part of the TV/film world working in production for lots of celebrities, networks and movies. She is passionate about her community and involved in many local groups and charities in and around the island. You can bet that she’ll greet you with a smile and listen to your wishes about how you envision your perfect day and in turn, she’ll tell you how she will capture that on camera for you. Heather brings a very calm feeling with her on a rather busy day and is always super centered and focused, she works very well with light and her pictures speak for themselves. Some of her projects include work with Pierce Brosnan, Tyler Perry, Steven Tyler, Janet Jackson, Salma Hayek, Shania Twain and productions such as Top Chef, Tommy Bahama and H & M. She is definitely a people person and will make you and your entourage feel super comfortable while documenting your special day.

2. Lyndah Wells – http://lyndahwells.com/

Lyndah is a gentle soul who truly believes in the fairy tale love that exists between two soul mates. She says for her, her photography is so much more than “making a living” and she feels inspired by her subjects behind the lens. She also suggests having “tangible” memories from the day such as albums and canvases in such a digital age, so make sure you have a look at those as well. Her work has been featured in print in top publications such as Destinations Weddings & Honeymoons, Munaluchi Bridal, Black Bride , Caribbean Journal and Nu Woman & digitally throughout the US and the Caribbean on blogs such as Style me Pretty, Fab You Bliss, Tulle & Tux, Frosted Petticoat, Bajan Wed and many more. Not only does Lyndah photograph weddings, but she also does beautifully tasteful boudoir shoots for those brides looking to do a little something extra for their partners. Keeping it classy, it’s a great addition to any wedding portfolio and something spicy to look back on well into the years of marriage. She draws inspiration from our scenic islands and Lyndah has a love for shooting against the bright Bahamian blues, so she would also be a great choice for a beautiful beach wedding.

3. Dante Carrer – http://www.dantecarrer.com

Having photographed over 300 weddings, Dante has ton of experience under his belt and has countless amazing photos to back it up. He is exciting and fun loving, and really let’s you do YOU at your event. He has a unique approach to sit back and document the experience from a journalistic perspective to capture the staged, candid and most unexpected shots through the entire day (and night)! He will let you tell your story with your people and always make sure he is in just the right place at the right time. Photography has taken him all over the world and his work has been featured in major publications around the globe including TIME, People, USA Today, The Daily Mail and The Washington Post. Some of his clients include The Bachelor Canada, The Lyford Cay Foundations, Global Pacific Produce, Atlantis Resort, The One and Only, GBOB and KFC. Don’t forget to ask about pre and post wedding shoots as well (bachelor/bachelorette, trash the dress) to get a whole weekend out of it! Dante loves to hang so it doesn’t matter if you are looking for something upscale or something super casual, he will fit right in.

4. Ben Jamieson – https://www.benjamiesonphotography.com/

Originally from Britain, Ben has been in the Bahamas for nearly 20 years and has been successful in operating a web design and development company. He transitioned into photography in the past 10 years and since doing so has taken the island by storm. He is a highly sought photographer for both local and destination brides and really captures such beautiful and stunning images of whoever may step in front of the camera. Ben is one of the top wedding photographers in the Bahamas and is always in high demand so make sure you book your weekend well in advance (especially in the peak of wedding season!)! He is involved in many different associations and organizations on the island and is always available with his services when ever they are in need. Some of his past clients include Barrons/Dowjones, City Life & Living Magazine and Stantec. Inc. He has a hilarious website and a very interesting and intriguing bio about his life until this point which as a reader, makes you fall in love with his realism and feels very relatable. Ben is smart and witty and will know exactly how to get the perfect shot – the proof is in the pictures!

5. Mario Nixon – http://www.marionixon.com/

Mario is a current resident in Nassau but hails from one of the out islands in the Bahamas called Eleuthera. He’s traveled a great deal and the bulk of his fifteen year career has been directed towards destination weddings, events and portraits photography. He also specializes in shooting family island weddings (as well as weddings here in Nassau) so if the big city is not your cup of tea and you are looking for something a little more remote, Mario can definitely assist in finding that deserted island. He shoots with energy and vigor and always encourages his clients to have fun and just an overall good time and in doing so, he can best capture the intimate moments and personalities of each individual. He is always looking for those creative angles that really make those special pictures so if you’re looking for the “wow factors” in your photos, make sure you look him up!

So to really summarize and document your dream day (or the events before and after), take car in choosing the photographer that is going to be the best fit for your event and the best fit for your crowd. It is so important to make these memories and freeze them in frames to look back on years and years after saying your vows, to share with your children and their children and so on and so forth. Whomever you choose, whether they are on this list or not, your Bahamas wedding photographer is an essential part in your special day so make sure you and your partner do your research. Any of the above would be happy to chat and answer any more questions you might have, but all of their work speaks volumes and each photographer portrays amazing camera skills and produces beautiful images as a result. It’s all about the chemistry and mojo that you have between each other, so choose the right one for you when planning your wedding in the Bahamas.

Stay sandy at weddings in paradise.

The Sandy Toes Team

Roughly 7 miles east of Nassau sits a long, skinny island that has become a desirable and favorite past time of Bahamians and travelers alike. As it is situated a little closer than another popular destination in the Bahamas known as the Exumas, it offers the convenience of the mainland for those people who may prefer the luxuries and accessibility of the capital, or who may have their hands tied with unfavorable boating weather and are unable make the crossing over the open ocean. It boasts beautiful reefs and white powder beaches, Rose Island is truly one of the hidden gems in the Caribbean and is on the rise of becoming one of the most popular destinations in the Bahamas.

One of the amazing things about Rose Island is that there are only a handful of persons who live there year round that are considered to be annual residents. Because the location is classified as mostly “uninhabited”, the government does not run any sort of energy lines or water to the properties and people who do live there. Everyone is responsible for their own power, their own operation, and their own means of finding transportation to and from Nassau. Inconvenience? No my friends, this is a blessing. As the cities grow and the carbon footprints increase, there is more wear and tear now than ever on our beautiful beaches. By remaining “off the grid”, Rose Island has a chance to uphold the integrity of the delicate environment and ecosystems, and the folks at Sandy Toes (an excursion and events venue) have done and ARE DOING their part to go green to help maintain this tropical paradise for visitors for years to come.

Among the many different products that Sandy Toes offers, one of the most grand and newest addition to the Sandy Toes umbrella is “The Retreat at Sandy Toes”, a 2 bed, 2 bath and 2 tree top bungalow luxury villa. The structure was erected in 2015 and also featured on HGTV’s Building the Bahamas; today it serves as a remote Bahamas vacation villa and provides a true escape for the traveller who is seeking absolute solitude.

Going Green on Rose Island

Inspired by #Earthday, this company has raised the bar once again to reduce their eco-impact on the environment by taking this overnight accommodation to the next level and completely solarizing the operation. A 4 KW solar system is now in place, which allows the villa to be totally self-sufficient and to be able to make and store all the energy from the sun that’s required to run the Retreat. Twelve photophilic solar panels and sixteen, 125 lb. batteries make up this gigantic system that soak in the Bahamian sun day in and day out. The energy bank is constantly being rejuvenated as the villa facilities are being used, and only requires about 30 minutes of juicy sunshine to top up daily.

In addition to the solar system, the villa is outfitted with high efficiency air conditioning and LED lighting that also contribute to the “green goal” of producing less waste. The villa also captures and recycles all of it’s own filtered fresh water by collecting and storing it in 10 large tanks located directly under the building. The water is drawn out and moved through the plumbing from a bilge pump powered by just a small 12 volt car battery that is trickle charged throughout the day. So whether it’s a shower, a load of dishes. or a hose to wash the sand off your toes, the water for the villa is always available and on demand. This past weekend, Sandy Toes welcomed its first “Green Guests” since the installation on the new solar system, Ken and Michelle Malnar from Maryland, US who were the first to utilize the renewable energy and start off with the clean slate. Here is what they had to say about their experience:

“Michelle and I were very excited to have the honor of being the first “Green Guests” at the Sandy Toes Villa.  We absolutely love being at Sandy Toes and at the villa, and it was even more special this time knowing that we were the first ones to be completely off the grid.  Enjoying the peaceful, beautiful solitude and amazingness of one of our favorite places on earth, and being part of energy sustainability at the same time?  Doesn’t get any better than that!  It was additionally special to me personally because I am involved in a company that is directly related to helping reduce energy usage in buildings.  It was a lot of fun telling my coworkers about the experience (they were more than a little jealous on a number of levels :).  And finally, I want to report that everything worked perfectly. We would have never known that we were off the grid if you hadn’t told us! Thank you again for the opportunity to be your first Green Guests.  It makes coming to Sandy Toes even more exciting, and we can’t wait to come back!”

Another benefit to solarizing the operation was removing the need to run a diesel generator over night. Gone are the emissions, the need for fuel, and the faint hum of the machine working in the background. And unlike a generator that will always output the maximum amount of wattage (even if you are pulling less that that), the solar system will only give you what is asked for. There is no extra energy wasted (even though it’s free!) and in turn is always available and always generating for the next flip of a light switch or cool of an air conditioner. So don’t feel guilty about watching TV or having a hot shower, this experience is totally clean, and totally free.

This luxury villa rental is doing its part to be one of the most eco-friendliest homes on the block, and in this case, the island. From the solar to the rainwater to the high efficiency appliances, Sandy Toes is doing their part to keep the beautiful in the Bahamas and encourages everyone else to take a quick look around to see where an environmental impact could be made. Maybe it’s putting a recycling box in the office or picking up a tin can off the side of the road, but if we all do just a small little something it will literally make all the difference in the world.

Stay green and sandy regards.

So maybe you’ve been to Nassau before or perhaps this is your first time to the Bahama Islands, but either way the busy city area will always be full of the hustle and bustle of people coming and going. You were probably envisioning laying on the beach sipping cool cocktails while listening to the waves roll in (insert Corona commercial) as you were packing your bathing suit and sunscreen for your upcoming vacation at a coastal villa. Now it’s almost time to unwind, turn off, and disconnect from the day to day grind; just a few more days until you reach ultimate relaxation!

Have you ever heard the term that you’ll need a “vacation from vacation”? Well we’re sorry to tell you that this couldn’t be truer for the average visitor to the Bahamas. From the moment you land at the airport or arrive on the ship, there is a flurry of activity and people to greet you, offer you a cab, sell you some water, or who knows what you may encounter. All of this harmless and friendly of course, but none the less is the beginning of what is sure to be a long day/week of things to do, places to go and people to see! We’re sure you have tours lined up and are planning on shopping some duty free goods, but how much of your schedule actually allows for those much forgotten “down days” on your Caribbean vacation?

Whether you’re staying at a resort or hitting up a public beach, there are bound to be many… people. Many more people that are trying to do the same exact thing as you are (“shhhh, keep it down, I’m on Vacation!”). It’s hard to turn down the volume on that couple laying beside you who are trying to take a perfect selfie to post on their spring break blog, or have to worry about finding public washrooms at the beach to shake off the sand, rinse, change into dry clothes (hopefully you brought some), get on the bus/in the taxi and get back to your place. Or maybe you strap on your hiking shoes and plan a downtown shopping excursion through a maze of local vendors, jewelry stores and souvenir shops. Well the days are ticking, you better get moving because you may run out of time to cover all those activities!

That looks pretty busy huh? How about actually planning on doing this?

And staying here?

Ahhhh…. That’s’ more like it! Well let us show you this little slice of heaven at The Retreat at Sandy Toes. This is one of the only luxury villa rentals in the Nassau area that can offer you complete exclusivity away from the crowds and congestion. It is just you and the island and after the sun goes down,it’s a whole different beast than your average hotel, motel, Holiday Inn experience.

Luxury Villa Rental

This 2 bed, 2 bath, 2 tree top bungalow villa sits perched on top of one of Rose Islands highest points, with a vantage point that overlooks the canopy of the tree tops to the south and the turquoise waters of the ocean to the north. It is able to accommodate anywhere from 1 – 6 people as the couch in the middle pulls out to a 3^rd bed if needed, so if you have one or two extra bodies in tow than there is sure to be room for everyone. A kitchenette inside will allow you to cook up a mean bacon and eggs, or if you’d rather grill some fillets and lobster tails on the charcoal bbq outside than that is ready to go. The villa is stocked with all the linens, bath, and beach towels for your visit as well as your basic beach house rental necessities.

A few unique features about this property (and we’ll get back to the location in a minute):

1) The shower facilities are actually located outside, attached to the inside bathroom. It’s like you’re showering in the middle of the rainforest with not a soul to see and no one to see you. The villa is also totally self-sustained on it’s own water supply and actually creates fresh water by reverse osmosis and also captures and holds rain water in tanks located right underneath the floors. The property isn’t even close to the lines of the Government supplied electricity, so generators are alternated to have power run to the villa and allow for all the comforts of new age (yes the lights work, yes there is a TV, and yes there is even Wifi if you need it!).

2) Check these puppies out. On the 2^nd story tree top bungalows, are two screened in rooms with hanging beds suspended from the ceilings. A favourite pastime of many guests is just to lay and sway in the tropical airs and really experience true bliss. This is what we’re talking about; so when you’re looking for Bahamas vacation villas for your next trip, really look for the ones that are going to deliver on your vacation experience. See for yourself:

So back to the location. The villa sits beside the Sandy Toes Day Excursion and includes access to these facilities in the vacation rental. Dive into the water and join in on the snorkel tour to look for colourful fish and creatures down low, while mom relaxes in the hammock gardens catching a little mid day siesta after the included buffet lunch (on excursion days). Your round-trip boat transportation is also included to get you from A to B and back again when it’s unfortunately time to go.

So that’s a little bit about the Villa but here is our sale pitch as to why Sandy Toes is the ultimate villa rental in Bahamas. There are very few places where you can really go (like REALLY go) to get away from it all. If you’ve ever visited our family islands like Exuma, Abaco and Eleuthera to name a few, these places are just a taste of what it is to experience an “out island” and what we like to call the REAL Bahamas. This is the Bahamas where it’s slow and easy, where there is no rush or no stress. Where sometimes stores open when they feel like it or you have to call ahead to a restaurant just to dine it (and preorder from one of five dishes that are being served that night).

The feeling is also reflected in the infrastructure; roads are smaller, almost path like and modes of transportation dwindle down to golf carts and feet. The people are friendly, there is so much family, and everyone knows everyone; they say good morning, good afternoon and good night to all who pass.

Rose Island is Nassau’s closest “out island” where we go even simpler than all of that. We don’t have roads or carts, but instead you can walk the shoreline of endless miles of beach into the sunrise or sunset. We don’t have stores or convenience stops but rather offer provisions to make sure you’re well stocked up for your stay. We don’t have locals and residents living beside you but you will find our friendly pet peacocks who might walk by and shake a tail feather. Your stay includes an amazing experience of the beautiful elements of the nature around you; bright green palms and scurrying hermit crabs, powder soft sand and tropical foliage. These are all the beautiful gifts that mother nature has given us in their raw form, unaltered and untouched. To be in a place that showcases these amazing creations and to feel at ease and centered, means that you can truly unwind and relax, and give your body, your relationships, and your mind that much needed “vacation” you are looking for.

A day in the life at The Retreat:

So the sun rises and the small crash of the creeping waves wake you up. You brew a pot of coffee and go sit out on the porch facing the ocean and just watch and listen for a bit. Maybe after everyone else has woken up, it’s time to go explore the island or head down to the beach for a swim and a match of beach volleyball. The football game starts at 1:00pm so you’ll head next door to the Sandy Toes Beach Bar to catch a cold beer and a fresh grilled cheeseburger while you cheer on your team and meet other visitors who are passing through for the day. The day rolls by quickly and it’s time for everyone to head back to noisy Nassau – but not you, you lucky duck. You just have a few steps back to your Villa where it’s time to rev up or wind down (whatever suits you), and watch the sunset over the white beach and blue water. After you’ve eaten fresh conch salad you dove up while snorkeling that day, you think later you’ll head down to the beach and have a bonfire to roast some marshmallows and make s’mores. After it’s time to head up to play some cards and board games and share laughs with your loved ones. By this point, everyone else has gone to sleep and you head up to the bungalows to stargaze and awe at the brightest, cleanest stars you’ll ever see.

The whole day has past and you didn’t even get heckled to have your hair braided or hear a car horn. Is that the kind of trip you’re looking for?

So before you get wrapped up in the commercial packaged deals to plan your all-inclusive trip to Nassau, Bahamas complete with Segway tours for mom and dad and dolphin swims for the kids, remember to ask yourself just exactly what you’re looking for. Are you looking for a trip to a hot place to pack your calendar full of things to do in Nassau, or are you really looking for a destination where one can unplug and recharge in an environment that will give you the best chance to do so. Put some thought into that next click before you book your vacation – just exactly what are you looking for?