Treasure Cay Hotel Resort & Marina

Treasure Cay Hotel Resort & Marina, located in the Abacos Islands, may just be the Bahamas' best kept secret. Nestled in the charming town of Treasure Cay (pronounced key), the serene destination is the perfect spot for visitors in search of relaxation and escape. It's easily accessible by plane and the island's international airport is a quick one-hour flight from Nassau or Miami, but it's just as easy to reach by boat: 110 nautical miles from Nassau to Treasure Cay, and 188 miles from Miami.

"The resort's marina is one of the largest, most up-to-date, and well protected boating facilities in the Abacos, with 150 slips, deep waters that can accommodate vessels up to 102 feet, and amenities such as WiFi and cable television connections. And if you're fortunate enough to hook up with the local kids, you can get your boat washed for a very fair price," says Cliff, Treasure Cay's dockmaster. "Come see me, we will take good care of you."

Once you've docked you can immediately get busy with the relaxation part of your stay, because you can reach almost everything on foot.

The grocery store, post office, and numerous shops are an easy stroll from the docks. Treasure Cay has all the conveniences of a resort destination plus the appeal of a quaint, intimate community. There are several excellent dining options on site as well. The bright, airy Spinnaker Restaurant & Lounge surrounded by gardens and overlooking the marina serves upscale versions of local dishes like cracked conch and grilled mahi, as well as pastas and steaks.

The thatch-roofed, waterfront Coco Beach Bar & Grill is a casual spot with live music, burgers and fish sandwiches, and great drinks. The Tipsy Seagull, the poolside bar, has a lively salty-dog vibe and a wickedly delicious Goombay Smash, the popular rum-fueled Bahamian cocktail.When you're ready for a bit of a jaunt, head to Nippers Restaurant & Bar on nearby Great Guana Cay. The Sunday afternoon pig roasts are legendary.

The resort's beach is widely recognized as one of the best in the Caribbean, 3.5 tranquil miles of white, sugar-soft sand. Just offshore is a wonderland of marine life to explore via kayaking, snorkeling, or scuba diving. The area also has some of the best sport fishing in the Bahamas, and the resort will happily arrange excursions for deep-sea angling. The first-rate 18-hole golf course, designed by Dick Wilson, may lure you away from the water for a few hours, but not to worry”the course has gorgeous views of the glittering sea.