Island Seas Resort

Island Seas' main entrance –- without a hotel neighbor on either side -- feels both isolated and a little outdated upon arrival. There are two separate areas divided by a road that contain the resort's three-story buildings. The front section has easier access to the pool, beach, restaurants, and lobby, while the back section offers garden views and more peace and quiet. When entering the lobby (in the front section), there are two separate unmarked areas for check-in and guest services -- there may be a wait not only to speak to someone, but also to get into the room. Guests can change into their swimsuits in the public restrooms next to the fitness center and coin-operated laundry room.

The center of action is Coconuts Bar & Grill, located under a covered pavilion and with a few tables under direct sunlight. The pool is popular with families and has plenty of lounge chairs, while older couples can often be found having lunch or drinks at the bar midday (though the swim-up bar is not usually in operation). Service overall is slower paced.

The beach has plenty of lounge chairs and space in either direction for sunbathing and swimming. The sea here experiences a strong tidal force, so the beach does become more narrow during certain times of the day. In the morning, guests can catch a sunrise to the side and walk along the beach. During the day, guests of all ages can be found spread out along the sand napping, reading, snorkeling, using jet skis, or horseback riding. Expect visits from both vendors and photographers.

At night, guests can often be found drinking beer while playing shuffleboard, horseshoes, or billiards. Despite the fact that most guests have an option to cook in their units, both restaurants stay pretty active during peak times, and there is a relaxed evening vibe, though it ends early. Without a late-night shuttle to Port Lucaya, only guests who have cars will have access to any nightlife -- though Grand Bahama is not known for having much choice.

The resort sits alone on the south side of the western part of island without any resort neighbors. Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO) and the main ferry terminal are both located in Freeport, which is not far from the resort -- about a 15-minute drive. Guests can either take a taxi, or rent a car in order to have access to the grocery store (the on-site convenience store sells essentials only, not including alcohol). Grand Bahama Island is a large island with just over 40,000 full-time residents and there's plenty of space to explore small villages, snorkel sites, and even some hikes.

The resort has a total of 189 units, which are housed in three-story buildings in two different sections of the resort. Both one- and two-bedroom options are available, and the best ones are the ocean-facing units with views of the beach and turquoise sea. At night, the screened-in windows can be opened to allow the noise of gentle waves. All units feel roomy and have a fully equipped kitchens that open up to the living room, where guests will find a dining table and sofa bed. (Two-Bedroom Suites can sleep six people.) Decor is basic, but renovations in 2014 added new appliances, mattresses, and linens.

Essentials such as coffee, dish soap, toiletries, and paper towels can be purchased at the convenience store. Each unit has a flat-screen TV and DVD player in the living room, as well as a second TV in the bedroom. Maid service does not occur daily -- rather about once per week, usually halfway through the stay.

The resort’s biggest draw is a stretch of uncrowded sand and waves along Silver Point -- just watch out for local vendors selling a range of products, both legal and illegal. The beach is nice and sandy and has a rising and falling tide, so there may be times of the day when guests have to move their lounge chairs in order to stay dry.

There is an indoor restaurant called Seagrapes open for dinner, and an open-air restaurant called Coconut Bar & Grille (separated by a small bridge over the pool). Both have similar prices to other restaurants in Freeport. Coconuts Bar has range of island-themed cocktails but service can be painfully slow, and those expecting to use the swim-up pool bar may be disappointed to see it under repair or simply not in operation.

The free shuttle service allows guests to get to Port Lucaya for lunch or late afternoon lunch (it stops running early in the evening before dinner). Many guests, though, rent a car so that they can have access to the grocery store nearby. Other dining options within walking distance include Bernie’s Bonfire, a 10-minute beach walk from the resort -- a few days a week it holds special events, such as lobster and beer night.

A fitness center added in 2014 is located near the lobby, next to the token-operated laundry facilities. Essentials such as food basics, laundry soap, and toiletries can be purchased at the convenience store.

There is a daily or weekly fee for Wi-Fi and this can be purchased at the front desk.