As I sit at my computer in cold, snowy Wisconsin, I dream about being back in the chairs on the beach at Whymsical Wishes. What a wonderful vacation it was! George, the owner, provided us with a lot of good information prior to our stay, answering any and all questions we had about the property and the island. The house was easy to find and was the perfect accomodation for our family of 5 (2 adults, 3 sons: 20, 18, and 15). The 4 bedrooms were spacious, each with an a/c unit and very comfortable queen-sized bed. There were 2 bathrooms with fluffy towels, as well as soap. The kitchen had pretty much everything we needed for cooking meals and the living room had a nice tv and comfortable furniture. There was wi-fi, although a little spotty. That was actually a big plus for the vacation - I didn't check my phone every 10 minutes! The beach was within a 30 second walk (maybe a minute, since I walked a little slower so my coffee didn't spill). It is on the Caribbean side of the island, so very gentle waves and turquoise waters that are so clear. There is a small coral reef within walking distance that is perfect for beginner snorkellers. There are rocks as you go into the water, so I would recommend shower shoes, but otherwise the sand was white and soft. George had chairs and a small table set up for us. He checked in on us when he saw us, to make sure we were enjoying our stay and didn't need anything. He loaned us snorkel gear and his kayaks, so we could paddle around in the ocean. He also loaned us a book detailing all the beaches around the island, which was invaluable. I never felt like George was hovering, but more like a good friend who you'd see and chat with in the neighborhood. We were there over Christmas and were honored and delighted to be invited to Christmas dinner with his other friends and relatives!
This is a perfect place for anyone who doesn't like all the tourists you would find at a resort. There is a grocery store about 10 min down the road that has virtually everything you need, including some organic and gluten-free items! There are some small take out restaurants, as well as fancier restaurants in the larger settlements. At 80 miles long, with one main road, it is easy to explore Long Island and check out new areas.
Be sure to check out Dean's Blue Hole, Turtle Cove and Gordon's beach on the very south end of the island. I highly recommend this property and Long Island, Bahamas! I want to go back now!!
