Buttonwood Reserve, tucked into a sleepy seaside corner of Eleuthera Island in the Bahamas, was the site of one of the most relaxing, memorable vacations we’ve ever enjoyed. Booking was easy and transparent and customer service friendly and responsive. The resort itself is spacious and versatile, ideal for couples, individual families, best friend getaways, reunions or small business retreats. There are plenty of opportunities to gather, but ample privacy too.
Buttonwood is a 30-minute scenic drive from the tiny airport in Governor's Harbour. This assumes you don’t stop a full hour on the way (as I highly recommend) at Eleuthera’s narrowest point, where a coral cliff side climb is rewarded with arresting views of azure Atlantic waves crashing on one side and crystal-clear, blue-green Caribbean glass-like on the other.
Each unit is clean, sunny and bright, furnished with comfortable, ocean-inspired decor with a tasteful modern twist. Gorgeous natural light streams through the wide windows in every room. With an ocean-facing entrance deck and rear terraces overlooking the Caribbean, the whole vibe is buoyant and breezy. Sunsets on the balcony are better than fireworks - an explosion of crimson, gold and pink eventually fade to a clear black canvas of sky, speckled with countless stars. Watch long enough, you might catch a few streaking silently across the expanse.
The open-air private pool is surrounded by ample lounge chairs and shaded by mature palms, thick tropical shrubs and broad white trellises. A two-minute golf cart ride, and you're at an amazing beach - Atlantic or Caribbean - take your pick. The latter is stunningly picturesque and serene, while former is equally frame-worthy and awesome for wave-jumping.
If you’re itching to venture out, choices are copious - but none kitschy or touristy. Though all destinations are publicly-accessible, they feel almost exclusive. Buttonwood’s property manager offered great insider tips and key details on nearby powder-sand beaches, underground cave exploration, heart-stopping cliff jump-offs, boating charters, lively weekend nightlife scenes in downtown Governors Harbour and five-star dining at local restaurants and resorts. If you prefer dining in, in-suite kitchen has all modern appliances, utensils and conveniences.
Buttonwood Reserve is a gem of a resort on a treasure of an island - a phenomenal place to experience this rare paradise.