Find the Best Things to Do in Bahama Village
By Amber Nolan
Travel Expert
About Bahama Village
Years ago the Bahama Village had a reputation as being dangerous, and while it may have been overstated, no city is immune to crime. Tourists started paying closer attention to the 16-block area after discovering Blue Heaven, one of the most popular breakfast spots on the island. New dining options keep cropping up like Zula’s Colombian Grace, Santiago’s Bodega, and in 2010, La Creperie re-opened. Beyond the restaurant scene, there are several shopping opportunities, including the Bahama Village Market, an outdoor display full of trinkets and straw hats.
Eat
This flirtatious dessert shop is proof that New Year’s resolutions do come true! When husband-and-wife team Dani and Len decided that they would open a restaurant, little did they know just five months later it was on its way to becoming one of the most talked about places in the Keys for its decadent pastries, chocolate-covered wine glasses, and sensual atmosphere. Dimly-lit tables set the mood, with flashlights on the tables for guests to read the “suggestive” menu items like “Between My Red Velvet Sheets” cheesecake, and “The Missionary” apple crisp. It‘s so scandalous that reservations are advised.
Stay
As one of the cheapest digs in town, the Caribbean House is no-frills accommodations, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a welcoming place to stay. It’s pet-friendly, the brightly-colored rooms are tiny but very clean (each opens to a balcony), the staff is warm and helpful, and the location can’t be beat. With the Hemingway House, Mallory Square, and Duval Street just a short walk away (and free guest parking to boot), it’s easy to leave the car and forget about it for a while. Wireless internet, mini-refrigerators, air conditioning, and cable television are available in all the rooms.
Shop
You can't miss the entrance to this outdoor market; it's marked by an enormous decorative iron sign. Seashells, straw hats, and mini-Southernmost Point trinkets are just a few of the items for sale.