Abaco Club on Winding Bay
The Abaco Club on Winding Bay is designed to take members and guests away from the rigors of everyday life.
What vision comes to mind when you think of getting away from it all? A secluded beach? A beach bar? Standing on a golf course’s ocean cliffside green? A soothing spa treatment? Sipping a cup of coffee on a deck at sunrise as waves lap on the shore? Sounds heavenly, doesn’t it? The Abaco Club on Winding Bay in The Bahamas has all that and more.
The small, offshore barrier islands and cays that surround Great Abaco Island offer some of the finest boating and fishing in the world. Plus it hosts the fourth-largest reef system in the world that stretches for more than 100 miles. It’s home to innumerable species of spectacular sea life. Then there’s the warmth of the Bahamian sun, the crystal clear, turquoise waters, a horizon that reaches far beyond, and all the activities that go with it—fishing, snorkeling and diving, golf, tennis, and especially lazing by the pool or the beach. Letting the tensions ease is essential.
At the Beach
Winding Bay has more than two miles of soft sand beach protected by a coral reef and the small island of Sugar Cay. The main beach club area is tucked in behind the Ocean Point peninsula that keeps ocean swell at bay and offers a clean sand bottom that’s perfect for swimming.
The beach is the starting point for snorkeling, kayaking, Hobie Cat sailing, paddleboarding, and other water sports, including FunCat electric catamarans and water hammocks.
The Course and the Court
A big advantage to Abaco Club’s location is the property’s lengthy layout along the shoreline that allows for a Scottish-style links golf course. Designed by renowned golf course architects Donald Steel and Tom Mackenzie, it features pot bunkers and dunes, undulating fairways and greens and magnificent settings. A new, world-class practice facility with a double-ended range and a short-game practice area get you ready for your round. The Web.com Tour visits the Abaco Club in January to hold its Bahamas Great Abaco Classic.
For tennis buffs, there are two all-weather, hard surface tennis courts (the same ones used at the U.S. Open Tennis Championships) located in their own private enclave among the palms. Regular club competitions and instructional sessions are available as well as tennis camps, workouts and more.
Bahamian Fare
Part of enjoying The Bahamas is the island fare. Flippers Beach Bar serves made-to-order breakfast and lunch with an island smile. It’s part tiki hut, part sidewalk cafe, part casual bistro. It’s a low-key spot to relax with family and friends. Wednesday evening is barbecue night with the sounds of a local “rake ‘n’ scrape” band, beach bonfire and s’mores. Evening cocktails on the poolside patio and dinner are served at The Cliff House, an octagonal clubhouse that overlooks Winding Bay. Taste the catch of the day or try the fresh lobster, blackened grouper and conch chowder.
If you prefer a gourmet meal at home, the Abaco Club’s private catering chef will personally cook for your family and guests. Whether it’s for 2 or 20, from island-inspired menus with local produce to the fish you hooked earlier in the day—cleaned, filleted and prepared perfectly.
Body and Mind
The Abaco Clue rejuvenates and revitalizes your body and soul and a visit to the Club’s luxurious, full-service spa takes it to a new level. Therapeutic treatments like the Royal Hibiscus Signature Facial will leave you looking your best and feeling refreshed. To keep you in shape, both in body and mind, the fitness center features state-of-the-art Life Fitness equipment and
offers a range of wellness and exercise programs, including sunrise workout sessions on the beach.
On the Water
If you didn’t arrive by boat, you can schedule an excursion aboard the Club’s 54-foot motor yacht, The Duchess of Longwood, for a day cruise, a snorkel trip or island picnicking. Many Club members do own boats, and the Abaco Yacht Club at Little Harbour has marina services and docks for boats to 50 feet. Boat rentals and charters are also available.
The Club is partners with Blackfly Lodge to offer the best in blue water and flats fishing with guides to make your day a success.
The Abaco Club is a special place, a home away from home where members, their families, and guests can enjoy extraordinary experiences. Whether you’re searching for the Bahamian home of your dreams or wish to belong to a club offering the very finest in tropical beach activities, the Abaco Club cordially invites you to visit them on Winding Bay and discover its many charms.
By Steve Davis, Southern Boating May 2019