Though Florida and the Bahamas are perennial vacation destinations, they’re also home to islands containing hidden gems that feel worlds away from their most popular cities and resorts. And with Tradewind’s new Southeast hub, which services the Bahamas and southeastern U.S., these secluded vacation destinations are more accessible than ever.
Tradewind’s base near Palm Beach services all of the Bahamas and Florida, including hard-to-reach locales that have previously only been accessible via connecting flights or long ferry rides. With many destinations just a 30-minute to 1-hour Tradewind flight away, the following secluded destinations no longer require a full day of travel. Continue reading to learn which destinations should be on your upcoming vacation bucket list.
Fowl Cay
This secluded private island resort is an adventurer’s paradise—and once you arrive, everything is taken care of for you. Each of the island’s six villas includes a fully stocked kitchen, golf cart for traversing the island, all meals and drinks, access to the island’s restaurant, pool, and other amenities, as well as access to a powerboat with unlimited fuel. Tradewind flies directly into Exuma International Airport, which is just a short boat ride from Fowl Cay. Even those who have visited the Bahamas dozens of times will find remarkable beauty in the chain of islands that comprise Exuma, where you can motor to white sand beaches with crystal clear waters—and find not another soul around.
The Cove Eleuthera
A beacon of serenity, The Cove Eleuthera embodies the essence of secluded luxury, offering an escape from the ordinary. The allure of The Cove lies in its understated elegance and natural beauty, where guests are enveloped in the splendor of pristine beaches and azure waters. Whether indulging in sumptuous oceanfront accommodations or savoring culinary delights at the resort’s renowned restaurant, every moment at The Cove is imbued with tranquility and bliss. Venture beyond the beaten path and discover a sanctuary where time stands still, and worries fade away amidst the timeless allure of Eleuthera’s shores.
Kamalame Cay
Another off-the-beaten-path Bahamian destination is Kamalame Cay, a 96-acre private island off the world’s third-largest barrier reef. Though the vibe is unpretentious, there’s a reason it’s a favorite destination for celebrities who enjoy the complete privacy of this secluded spot. Guests at Kamalame Cay stay in oceanfront cottages or villas, each with access to its pristine white sand beach. Meals are served in The Great House, a central gathering spot for all the island’s guests, or at its more casual outpost, SugarCane. A stay at this resort includes access to paddleboards and snorkeling equipment for exploring the reef, as well as services at its spa, the only overwater spa in the Bahamas. Guests of the resort arrive via San Andros International Airport or Fresh Creek International Airport, both of which are a short trip from Kamalame Cay.
Little Palm Island
Billed as America’s only private island resort, Little Palm Island in the Florida Keys is a 5-acre private oasis that’s only a short boat ride from the mainland, but feels worlds away. Guests arrive aboard The Truman, the resort’s boat; named after former President Harry S. Truman, who spent time here. Though the island is not large, the all-suite property gives guests a sense of seclusion—and the fact that children under 16 and cell phones in public places are not allowed adds to that tranquil feeling. Most guests are adults, drawn to the luxury property, its myriad amenities and the fact that this private island destination doesn’t require a passport. The resort’s boat launch is just 30 minutes from Key West International Airport, which is accessible via Tradewind’s new Florida base.
The Other Side
Hoteliers Ben Simmons and Charlie Phelan operate the well-known Ocean View Club on Harbour Island, but its sister property, The Other Side, is the hidden gem of Eleuthera. Described as having a “home meets safari vibe tempered with a few conventional hotel amenities,” this solar-powered resort gives Swiss Family Robinson vibes with its safari-style communal and private sleeping tents. Don’t let the word “tents” fool you, though. The Other Side is the epitome of barefoot luxury, with communal spaces for eating, drinking, and lounging, and sleeping quarters with four-poster beds, sun decks, outdoor tubs, and air-conditioned walk-in showers. The resort is a short drive from North Eleuthera Airport, as well as a brief boat ride away from Harbour Island, which means guests can easily access the property but also have access to the rugged landscapes of Eleuthera.
Sunset Key Cottages
Though just a 7-minute boat ride from bustling Duval Street on Key West, Sunset Key Cottages maintain a sense of seclusion. Perfect for travelers who enjoy the liveliness of Key West but want a more tranquil environment for their getaway, this 27-acre private island features 40 one- to four-bedroom cottages and one of the area’s best restaurants, Latitudes, as well as a poolside tiki bar. The resort’s amenities, including the Spa at Sunset Key, mean you won’t need to leave the island if you don’t want to—but if you do, the resort’s boat makes traveling to and from Key West a breeze.
The hidden gems on the islands of Florida and the Bahamas can be a bit hard to find—and for good reason. However, with Tradewind, they’re no longer hard to get to. And once you arrive, the sense of seclusion will wash your cares away.
To learn more about Tradewind flights to Exuma, Andros, Key West, Eleuthera, and more, please visit our website. To receive a private charter quote, submit an inquiry here or contact our specialists at sales@flytradewind.com or 1-203-267-3305 option 2.