If you consider yourself to be laid back and exremely patient – this is the resort for you. On the other hand, if you expect prompt service and a knowledgeable staff, do not venture to the Island of Bimini. After arriving by boat and idling for approximately one-half hour, our party of eight was given our slip and the dockmaster carefully explained how to clear customs. We completed the paperwork and then went to check-in only to find out that our reserved three-bedroom Millenium townhome (which was to be located across from the infinity edge pool) had been sold out from under us. Our options, at that point, were either a smaller three-bedroom Treehouse located at the far end of the resort where construction was taking place, or two two-bedroom condos nearer to the pool and diagonally across from one another. We chose the two-bedroom condos due to their proximity to the pool and marina. We would spend the next two days in these condos and then move to an available beach home adjacent to the pool for the balance of our stay. After some negotiating, the management agreed to keep the price of all these units the same as the original Millenium townhome. The housekeeping staff did their best to clean the two units promptly, but either due to a small staff, or a holiday
week, the units were not ready for several hours. All was not lost, however, as it took over one hour to move our belongings from the marina to the condos. There is only one tram that circles the property, but the marina provides luggage carts to those who want to move items on their own (a good option). After successfully moving into our condos we headed for the beach and pool. The units are well-appointed with marble flooring, granite countertops in the kitchen and bathrooms, down comforters, televisions in every bedroom and the living area as well as washer and dryer units. There are sleeper sofas and the furniture is a combination of rattan and cream colored linen fabrics. Bimini Bay also provides shampoo, conditioner, soaps, and soft towels. There are no blow dryers and if you want to do laundry, you must bring your own detergent. The pool area is beautiful and well-kept. Plenty of towels and seating is provided as well as a full-service poolside grill where service was prompt and courteous. The infinity edge is beautiful and the beach is long and lazy. Very soft sand is great for kids who want to build sandcastles (bring your own buckets, shovels, beach chairs and floating devices) and the turquoise water is surreal. Our dinner that evening was at the property's Casa Lyon. The service, although courteous, was lacking dramatically in promptness, Also, the waitresses and waiters had little knowledge about wine and menu selections. Our food, which arrived almost two and one-half hours after initially ordered, was cold and the portions small for the price paid. Although it was well-prepared and tasted fine, it was not worth the wait or the price. The restaurant needs to be fine tuned which will ultimately result in an elegant place to dine. The property only has two venues for eating and definitely requires more options. They are also in the midst of building additional units, a golf club, casino, and marketplace, as well as single-family homes. Construction will continue for approximately two more years. One other note: Reserve your golf cart (the main form of transportation on the island) well in advance. They are in very short supply and a must have for visitors. Our group will return to Bimini Bay Resort, as it is definitely the only upscale property on the island and provides the creature comforts that many expect. But, be sure to bring everything that you require as there is no place yet to purchase items (including the basic bread, milk, coffee, cereal, cleaning products, etc.). As far as the island itself, Bimini has approx. 1500 residents. There are two roads (a low road and high road) that go from one end of the island to the other – 7 miles long. There is one other resort that was functioning at the time of our trip – the Big Game Club – where we did eat. The food was adequate and the service was much better than at Bimini Bay Resort. It is possible to walk the 4-5 miles to Big Game from Bimini Bay, but a golf cart is a better choice. Remember to drive on the left and beware of rushing motor scooters and older model cars. The road, which supposedly accomodates two vehicles, is very narrow and there are no traffic signals. Signage is very limited. To sum up – our four night
stay was restful and filled with water sports – fishing and snorkeling. The lazy days of Bimini was a nice break before returning
to the hustle-bustle of South Florida. The resort is worth visiting, but only if you have a relaxed attitude.