at Long Island’s Tiny’s Bahamas Escape to Paradise Paradise never tasted so good!

By Nikia Wells

Photographs Courtesy Of Tiny’s Beach Bar

Website: www.tinysbeachbar.com

Instagram: @TinysBeachBar

Facebook: Tinysbeachbar

Long Island is an oasis in the southern tip of The Bahamas known for the warmth and welcoming nature of its people, the wonders of its untouched coral reefs, stunning flats, blue hole, and its rich fishing and sailing culture. This little piece of paradise is quiet, laid back and showcases elements of Bahamian culture and traditions that have been preserved for generations. The island’s residents and visitors often remark that the area’s tranquillity is unmatched.

When Jason Whitaker and Michelle Rickman first visited Long Island, they were entranced by the island’s authentic charm, which eventually led them to create Tiny’s Bahamas. “We fell in love with the people of Long Island,” noted Rickman. “It was the perfect spot for both seeking adventure and simplicity. There is an authentic island charm and character – the gin, blue water and miles of white sand beaches take our breath away, everyday…”

The duo also noted that they view Long Island as a piece of paradise and wanted to share their “dream lifestyle” and their love for the island with other visitors by creating a moderately priced boutique-style property for those wishing to experience a laid-back escape.

Tiny’s Bahamas is centrally located near Salt Pond Harbour on Indian Point Road and was always intended to be a peaceful haven for those wanting to fully embrace the true beauty of Long Island while escaping the trappings of busy highways, congested cities, and hectic days. The property offers three seaside beach cottages. The 500-square-foot Pink Palms Cottage has one bedroom, a full kitchen and is surrounded by the shade of mature coconut palms and a stunning elevated view of the blue waters that The Bahamas is known for. While the Seagrape and Key Lime Cottages are both 400 square feet beachfront efficiencies with front porches that are perfect for enjoying the crisp, gentle Long Island breeze.

Tiny’s Beach Bar, which is also located on the property and managed by Michael Turnquest, offers visitors and residents alike a relaxing dining experience, complete with thatched roof patio-style décor, internationally inspired dishes, and a cheerful vibe.

Turnquest is no stranger to the hospitality field and manages two other restaurants on New Providence. But Long Island has long had a special place in his heart. Both of his parents are from the island, and it was always his dream to return there. Prior to taking over operations at the Beach Bar, he was also the very first guest at Tiny’s Bahamas during the 2016 Long Island Regatta, so it was a full-circle experience for him to both join the Tiny’s team and return to the island that he loves so dearly.

Tiny’s Beach Bar’s menu is a mix of Bahamian, Caribbean and international dishes that incorporate as much fresh and locally sourced ingredients as possible. “Our kitchen and our staff really take the extra step to serve fresh food and original dishes,” added Rickman. She notes that it can sometimes be challenging to source fresh ingredients on a small Family Island, but Tiny’s is dedicated to supporting Bahamian fisherman and farmers.

Turnquest credits his team of local culinary talent, which includes cook Angel Hudson, and manager Patchara McPhee, as well as Nassau-based chef Jonathan Rolle for training the on-the-ground team and creating the stellar dishes on the menu. Tiny’s often features weekly specials, and Turnquest notes that he loves everything that the culinary team creates, but that his favourite dish is the rack of lamb and the Caesar salad.

Rickman also noted that her current favourite dish is the vegetable burger which includes a handmade patty. She also highly recommends the chicken burger, and their seasonal lobster, which she describes as a showstopper.

A visit to the Beach Bar would also not be complete without a Tiny’s Tonic prepared by their charismatic bartender, Percy “PJ” Taylor. This specialty drink includes dark rum, tonic, a dash of fresh sweet orange juice and their “secret weapon” – native Long Island sour oranges. Turnquest also noted that guests “love” PJ’s signature rum punch.

Tiny’s Bahamas and Tiny’s Beach Bar, telephone 242-828-9324 for the Beach Bar and 242-472-8104 for Cottage Rentals. UA