Escape the crowds at this small boutique resort in the Bahamas

by Carolyn Ray 

It’s sunrise and I’m standing knee-deep in waves, watching a stingray sweep the ocean floor for breakfast just a few feet away. I don’t feel any fear, I know he’s not interested in me – but it reminds me that the Pacific Ocean is a wild place, one that I respect deeply An orange glow spreads across the water and I close my eyes, say a small prayer of gratitude, and turn toward the small boutique resort where I’m staying on a remote island south of Nassau in the Bahamas at Careula Mar Club. I’m not the only one enjoying the sunrise, I spot several other women who share my reverence for nature.

I start each day on South Andros this way, knowing that my time is limited; in the five days that I’ve been at Caerula Mar, I’ve come to appreciate its wildness and simplicity. This luxury resort is perfect for solo women who that want to escape the crowds. 

The appeal of a remote location

When Canadians Sarah and Bryan Baeumler first discovered Caerula Mar Club in 2017, they saw it as a potential spot for travelers who wanted to get back to the basics, reconnect with nature, and savor the simplicity and beauty of Andros.

Little did they imagine their journey would include the hotel shutting down due to COVID-19 and the family quarantined together on the island. (Watch the HGTV show “Island of Bryan”. to follow their journey.)

“We believed the island and the resort had the ability to evoke a feeling of contentment after a long day at the beach, when your skin and hair are kissed with sun and salt and you know everything is going to be all right,” says Sarah Baeumler.

“First, I want to create a space of psychological safety. Trust and confidentiality is integral because we, as women, show vulnerability,” she says. “Secondly, you have to have the right team, one that leads with a service mindset and takes initiative. They look for the little things, are always observing and watching for how people connect, then making introductions or arranging seating plans to facilitate dialogue.”

The final goal, Dean says, is to curate the right blend of people and topics, supported by rituals that bring people back. In all of her retreats, Dean gives participants bracelets to show unity and rocks to show a connection with the earth. In this case, we are all treated to a beautiful gold bracelet designed by Sarah.

“The most rewarding part is to see women connecting deeply, develop long-lasting friendships,” Dean says.

Villas and clubhouses with ocean views

With 18 clubhouse suites and 5 private villas on 10 acres, Careula Mar Club features sustainable, natural materials and breezy outdoor spaces that allow guests to immerse themselves in nature and connect with their surroundings.

When you travel as much as I do, having an outdoor balcony is absolutely critical. I stayed in a suite near the pool, which had a deck with comfortable couches and chairs – perfect for working outside, as I did, or gathering with friends in the evening.

The villas are beyond stunning, with ocean views surrounded by palm trees and sand. There’s even a honeymoon suite, which I didn’t see from the inside, but imagined myself looking out at the ocean from my bed. Dream away!

Everything is a short walk to Lusca restaurant which I can honestly say had not only delicious food but a wonderful staff. On our last night, they even joined in in our dance party which made the retreat even more memorable. There’s also a coffee bar, open all day, a pool bar, a spa and gym.

Organic connections that support connection

Baeumler says Caerula Mar Club offers retreat guests a beautiful combination of camaraderie, encouragement and self-reflection.

“Caerula Mar, by design, offers a footprint that allows for space for each of these elements to flow organically, whether an inspiring moment around a fire pit with like minds, a solitary stroll down the beach for moments of introspection and relaxation, or a group setting with one of many backdrops from whimsical to beachfront,” Baeumler says. “The spot is just good for the soul and a way to reconnect with yourself and that around you.”

“Caerula Mar has truly been a life changing project for our family,” she says. “We have loved seeing the growth thus far and are looking forward to continuing to expand our offerings and our community in the future.  Whether this is in The Bahamas, or on a larger global scale, we hope to continue to inspire and connect like-minded travelers to live each day with intention.”

For small groups or solo travelers

With the trend to solo travel, small-group retreats and remote locations, Caerula Mar Club is perfectly positioned. For a buyout, the absolute maximum is 60. That means a head on every pillow, including daybeds and a rollaway bed or two (for this reason, Sarah recommends 56 for comfort). Our group had single occupancy per bed and only one person per bedroom in the two-bedroom villas, so the maximum occupancy is 30.

Getting there

The largest island in the Bahamas, South Andros is less than 200 miles from Miami, with minimal development. There are flights available from Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport and Nassau on airlines such as Western Air, and Makers Air. There are two airports on Andros Island, so make sure you fly to South Andros (Congo Town Airport) and travel light on these small planes. Check flight time before you book at the resort, and be prepared for delays.

 At the time of writing, a Bahamas Health Visa is required for all travellers. Check local travel requirements  https://travel.gov.bs/

Disclaimer: I spent five nights at Caerula Mar Club and covered the cost myself. The resort did not review this article in advance. 

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