Maca Bana

Maca Bana is a small, rustic-luxe boutique resort with seven unique, upscale villas. Each of the villas is self-contained, featuring a fully stocked kitchen, sitting area or living room, and a large private deck with a hot tub. It feels more like a collection of cozy, upmarket vacation homes than a resort or hotel, as each of the rustically designed villas is fully separate and there are no shared, common areas for guests -- save for the peaceful infinity pool.The vibe of the resort is upscale and eco-friendly, yet laid-back and comfortable. The property is set in a lush, green, jungle-like setting, and with the many fountains, ponds, flowers and plants on the property, it feels like a well-groomed tropical hideaway. One of the ponds is home to at least a dozen amiable turtles. The property is calm and quiet, and guests largely keep to themselves here, though a social atmosphere can be found down at the beachfront Aquarium restaurant and bar. The two-bedroom villas are great for families or groups, while the overall romantic atmosphere is also well suited for couples. A car or taxi is needed to reach a supermarket or any outside restaurants, as not much is in walking distance (except for the airport).

Maca Bana is situated on a steep, two-acre section of hillside perched high over the peaceful strip of sand known as Magazine Beach. The decent-size beach here is especially serene and nice, and feels remote, as it’s only shared by one other resort at the far end. Views of the coast up to the capital of St. George’s can be enjoyed on any clear day. It’s located on the southwest tip of the island, where waters can be a little choppy.The resort is not close to other restaurants or bars, and a car or taxi is needed to reach any shops or a supermarket, as nothing is in walking distance. You can’t get much closer to the airport, though, as Maca Bana is located across the road from the entrance, less than a five-minute drive. It’s about a 25-minute ride by car to St. George’s, the quaint colorful capital of Grenada.

The hotel says that the villas are “artistically designed,” which means they have unique style details such as branch-like beams on the staircases and decks and bamboo-covering on the refrigerators. The use of woods, craftsman-design details and the perch high on a hill give the feel of a luxe treehouse.The decor is breezy and beach-themed, with natural woven finishes, bamboo and neutral tones. The two-bedroom layouts are great for families. The villas have beautiful kitchens, featuring new, stainless-steel Miele appliances that are top notch. Saying that the kitchens are well-stocked is an understatement -- they've thought of everything guests could need, including blenders, toasters, espresso machines, separate coffeemakers, an ample spice rack, and some basic food items already in the fridge.The large updated bathrooms have glass block walk-in showers. Rooms have huge walk-in closets, flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, and surround-sound audio systems. The highlight of the villas, though, are the large decks that include a private hot tubs and sweeping views of the coastline and the beach below.

The resort’s popular restaurant, called The Aquarium, sits right on the beach, steps from the water. The spacious restaurant is built into the side of a cave, and when you enter, you glimpse a series of waterfalls that fall into a pond full of turtles. It’s the place to be for locals and tourists alike on Sundays, when there is a big barbecue and live music. The restaurant offers international and Caribbean dishes, and uses organic produce. Adjacent to the restaurant, there is a beachfront bar and lounge area called La Sirena Beach Bar.It’s a steep walk down the hill to reach the restaurant and beach area, so it’s not convenient if you forget something back up at your room. This area of shore, called Magazine Beach, is extra quiet and peaceful, as it's only shared by one other resort, the Rex, at the far end of the beach. This property is located close to the tip of the island, though, and the ocean waters can be choppy at times. Lounge chairs, kayaks, and snorkeling gear are available for hotel guests on the beach. There is a small infinity pool that is surrounded by trees and  sits on a bluff overlooking the coast, making for a picturesque setting. There is no fitness center at the resort, but private yoga and Pilates classes can be arranged at your villa for a fee.  Likewise, there is no on-site spa, but in-room massage treatments can be arranged.