Calabash Cove Resort and Spa

Calabash Cove makes a modest first impression, with a subtle wooden sign marking the entrance to a dirt parking lot and a low red-roofed building. Descending a short staircase down to the open-air lobby, however, guests are immediately greeted with sleek, contemporary decor and spectacular sea views. Spread across a hillside overlooking Bonaire Bay, the resort’s breezy restaurant and bar, sparkling infinity pool, and chic guest rooms all emphasize these scenic views. Pathways lined with tropical greenery and colorful flowers lead down through the sloping grounds, providing access to the cottages and a tranquil beach. 

The resort has a peaceful, secluded feel, with the well manicured foliage that surrounds the walkways creating a sense of privacy. From the cozy library to the pretty pier, the resort is dotted with lots of private nooks and spaces -- and with only 26 rooms, guests rarely have difficulty finding a quiet spot to themselves. Clientele are mainly couples, and while families are also welcome, the resort’s hushed, romantic ambiance may not make it an ideal choice for families with young kids. 

Calabash Cove Resort and Spa is set on a hillside overlooking Bonaire Bay. It’s located along a dirt road, a few minutes away from the highway running between Rodney Bay and Castries. Aside from the beach found on the property, there’s nothing of note within walking distance. The nearest hubs of shopping and dining are Rodney Bay, which is a 10-minute drive north, and Castries, a 15-minute drive south. Taxis are fairly expensive, making rental cars the best option for guests who want to explore beyond the resort. Most of the island’s top attractions, including the Pitons and the town of Soufriere, are located a 90-minute drive south of the resort. George F.L. Charles Airport can be reached in less than 15 minutes by car, while Hewanorra International Airport is an hour and 15 minutes away.

Junior Suites at Calabash Cove Resort are bright and modern, with off-white walls, dark wood furniture, and tiled flooring. Burnt orange bed runners, throw pillows, and curtains add tasteful pops of color. Each suite has a few comfy chairs or a loveseat, as well as a work desk. Flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi also come standard. Closets -- some of which are walk-in -- hold bathrobes and personal safes. All-inclusive packages add perks like minibars stocked with beer, wine, and full-size liquor bottles. Open-concept bathrooms include whirlpool tubs, separate walk-in rainfall showers with frosted glass doors, and toilet vestibules. Bath products by Gilchrist & Soames are provided. Sunset Oceanview Junior Suites include small balconies with views of the sea, as well as the pool or beach. Swim-up Junior Suites have shady porches with loungers and tables, which offer direct access to the common pool. 

Waters Edge Cottages are the highest-level room category, featuring all the amenities found in the Junior Suites along with a number of extras. Beautiful wraparound porches with operatic sea views offer private plunge pools, hammocks, and loungers. Constructed of mahogany, stone, and other natural materials, cottages feature separate living areas with sofas, flat-screen TVs, and wet bars. Bedrooms have four-poster beds, and bathrooms include outdoor rainfall showers -- note that only the bedrooms have AC. 

Calabash has several appealing amenities made all the more striking by showcasing the hotel's best feature -- its incredible views. The resort’s large outdoor pool features a lovely infinity edge overlooking the sea. Mahogany loungers with bold blue cushions, as well as Adirondack chairs and cushy daybeds, are dotted at different levels around the pool on various decks. Drinks and light snacks are served at the swim-up bar, which features a small dry seating area set under an octagonal shelter as well as submerged pool seating. The property’s green lawn slopes down to Mosaic Beach, a wide stretch of powdery sands located along Bonaire Bay. Loungers -- some of which are shaded by wooden shelters -- are provided for guests, along with free snorkeling gear and kayaks. An attractive wooden pier stretches into the sea.

The hotel’s restaurant, Windsong, is swanky yet minimalist, with wooden flooring and crisp white tablecloths. Set high on the hill, the open-air restaurant offers panoramic views of the sea as well as the city lights of Castries in the evening. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the restaurant features an Asian-inspired menu focused on seafood, which consistently receives positive reviews from guests. A la carte breakfast is included in room rates, and all-inclusive options are also available. The restaurant provides room service as well. Windsong shares its space with C-bar, a compact lounge that serves cocktails, wines, and beers. There are a few high-tops along the bar, as well as dark rattan armchairs with squishy red cushions. 

Ti Spa offers a variety of treatments, in rooms decorated with soft colors and natural woods. Many treatments incorporate local ingredients, some of which are sourced directly from the resort. Massages can be arranged in the spa or in-room. A small beauty parlor offers nail treatments, waxing, and hair care. The simple, air-conditioned fitness center doesn’t have a lot of equipment, but there are a couple of cardio machines, free weights, exercise balls, and yoga mats. 

Whispers is the resort's handsome library, which is stocked with books, magazines, and board games. With seating ranging from sofas to desks, the library can be used for reading, relaxing, listening to music, or meditating. A tiny boutique sells resort-branded clothing, souvenirs, and a few basics like sunscreen and mosquito repellent. Free Wi-Fi is offered throughout, and there’s a free parking lot in front of the lobby. Wedding packages and planning are available as well.