The Royal West Indies is a smaller, laid-back hotel. It is just a short walk to local restaurants, shops, and a grocery store. As there is only a European meal plan option, these are great to have nearby! There are several accommodation options including one, two and three bedroom condos with full kitchens or kitchenette studios. There is a washer and dryer in the rooms as well. At the resort there is one quiet pool and one activity pool, lots of chairs and beach umbrellas (so there is no need to get up early to save them), and a lot of free non-motorized water sports to choose from. This is definitely a great option for those who prefer a more intimate option.

The West Bay Club is also an intimate and quiet property. It is located near the end of the main hotel strip. If you don’t want to hang out on the main hotel beach just go up toward Smiths Reef. You will be all alone! This resort is very modern with high-end rooms. It has a basic pool, but who wants to hang out by the pool anyway when you have the clear blue ocean right there! There is even waiter service at the beach. You can always head over to the Gangsevort (next door) for poolside drinking if you want a little more posh vibe.

Beaches Resort was by far my favourite resort as it truly is great for everyone. There are four separate sections (Caribbean, French Village, Italian Village and Key West) so it really is “stay at 1 play at 4”. There are 19 restaurant options to choose from and it is completely all-inclusive with no reservations required (except the Japanese restaurant, Kimonos)! Even snorkelling and scuba diving are included! The Beach here is amazing! Absolutely breathtaking, crystal clear water, bright white sand and you can walk out forever before it gets deep. There is a Sesame Street program for kids, a teens club, and a water park with a pirate ship, slides, lazy river, and a surf simulator. This resort will not disappoint!

The Ports of Call Resort includes a complimentary Continental Breakfast. It is an excellent location; close to a supermarket and just a five minute walk from the beach and dive shops (there is a shuttle to the beach if you don’t want to walk). The property is well-maintained and very clean, with wifi in the rooms. The staff are very friendly and accommodating. Beach chairs are provided (umbrellas are available for a fee), and paddle boarding is included. There is even a mini playground for the kids.

The Ocean Club West is a residence property, meaning each unit is privately owned and rented out. If you are looking for a clean, comfortable condo on a prime section of Grace Bay, this is where to get it! The rooms have well-equipped kitchens, washer/dryers, and furnished porches. They sleep up to six people, so are ideal for larger families looking for an affordable vacation. There are tennis courts, a fitness center, free bicycles, and a spacious pool area for your use. Beach chairs and umbrellas not a problem to reserve. There is also an affordable seaside cafe, as well as a grocery store and nice restaurants a close walk away.

The Grace Bay Resort offers something for everyone. The room options range from studio to 3 bedrooms and are all very spacious. Boasting a larger beach front than other resorts in the area, there are kayaks, paddle boards, and sailboats available. This hotel has a casual upscale vibe and an adult section with an adult only pool available. While they only have a European meal plan, there are a few restaurants on the property with menus that have enough diversity that it should please every palette. The staff truly treats you like a friend, without being overzealous or pestering.

The Villa del Mar is a small boutique style hotel. The rooms are clean and modern and all have large balconies. There are studios with kitchenettes and full kitchen rooms available. This resort is just steps from the beach and walking distance to shops, restaurants, and a grocery store. The grounds are quite pretty; there are two pools and a hot tub for your use. The Villa del Mar has its own staff on the beach with included set up of beach chairs, umbrellas and various beach toys for the kids.

There is a Fish Fry every Thursday evening from 5:30-9:30 pm. Here you can experience live music, culture, and lots of food! Be sure to go early, though, there aren’t many tables and the lines are long! We still had a blast. The music, costumes, food and vibe were a lot of fun. It’s something you must try during your stay.