Our family of 5 was lucky enough to experience Tourmaline and the beautiful island of Eleuthera early March 2020 (before the world shut down). It was one of our most favorite vacations we have ever taken. Getting there is seamless. Tourmaline is in the middle of the island we were glad we flew into North Eleuthera (we had a car waiting for us, a must so you can explore!) as we enjoyed every minute of the beautiful hour long drive to Governor's Harbour and Tourmaline. You'll pass over Glass Window Bridge, which is where the Carribean and Atlantic meet and is breathtaking. Do your research, as this bridge does close when the seas and winds are strong. Tourmaline is perfectly situated right on the ocean side and every night we slept with windows open and enjoyed the sound of the surf below. The house itself was perfect for our family of 5. The lasagna and wine, compliments of the host, the first night, were delicious and such a welcome treat after a day of travel with 3 kids (8, 11 and 13). The housekeepers, the groundskeepers, Shirley, Pam and Perry and everyone at Tourmaline truly went out of their way to make our stay a super special one. Our kids loved the pool in the afternoons after a day of beaching and exploring. The house is perfectly situated on one of the prettiest stretches of beaches on the Atlantic side and its right in the middle of the island. We explored beaches from the southern tip to the northern tip. There are tons of options for groceries, and restaurnants nearby as well. Here are a list of our favorites:
Beaches: Lighthouse Beach (Southern tip). James Cistern (In Hatchet Bay Cave) and Twin Sisters Beach for good shells and snorkeling. If the tides are right stop at Queens Baths across from Twin Sisters. Surfers Beach for big waves and surf if that is your thing. Ten Bay beach and Alabaster/Receivers Beach are beautiful Carribean beaches for snorkling and close to the house. Beach right in front of house was one of our favorites though! Go at low tide and walk to the left past the rocks.
For groceries, Rock Sound market, Midway Cost Cutters were our favs. Island Farms (Tues and Fri fresh baked goods) or Bacchus for produce and wine. Don't miss Tippys, Buccaneers, Bougainvillea. All these places have live music various nights. We dressed up one night and went to 1648 at French Leave and it was wonderful too. Da Perk great for coffee and lunch. To-do, rent boat through Captain Kidd and explore nearby islands! All incredible!