Compass Point

This cheerful little compound of candy-colored beachfront cabanas is the least touristy feeling resort in Nassau/New Providence. Part of the reason is its location: set along the narrow-but-pretty strip of Love Beach, on the island’s northwestern coast, it’s far from the madding crowds and chain resorts of downtown Nassau. Also in its favor is the property’s history; originally built by Chris Blackwell, founder of Island Records, as a place for visiting recording artists like Jimmy Buffett and AC/DC to lay their heads, the place still has a funky, arty feel to it. Half of the 18 gaily painted cabanas are set on stilts right at the water’s edge; guests can fall asleep to the sound of rushing waves below. Others sit on a hillside and overlook the property’s lush gardens, winding pathways, and chaise-surrounded pool. Though all the mod-con amenities are here (including a small spa, a one-computer Internet room, and a tiny boutique open around the clock), the major pastimes are simple ones: sunning and canoodling around the pool; plunging off the resort’s dock; and indulging in Bahamian cuisine and fruity cocktails on the property’s expansive, open-air patio (an after-work gathering place for locals).

Tip: Friday night karaoke parties on the patio bar bring the house down every week; prepare by brushing up on your Island Records favorites (any Bob Marley tune will do just fine).

Room to Book: Cabana No. 113, set at the very edge of the property, is closest to Love Beach and farthest from wailing karaoke singers.