Bimini, Bahamas
Note: We have returned to Bimini since the original writing of this post and learned that “Big Mike” had unfortunately passed away. From speaking with the locals, we learned that his food stand lives on in his honor and memory. RIP - Big Mike
Just look at this picture and tell me honestly if you’ve ever seen a more beautiful beach in your entire life?
No seriously, Bimini is this breathtaking from every possible angle. I’ve been to quite a few Caribbean islands and yet this one intrigued me in a completely different way. It’s one of the few that I could see myself going to and staying for days at a time.
Beyond just the beauty of this beach (see what I did there?) the sand itself was like a soft blanket and the water was so clear you could literally see for miles. It was absolutely stunning and completely peaceful.
But that’s only part of the reason you came to this article. The other draw is the FOOD! Mr. Webb and I were on the touristy side of things just long enough to realize that riding the tram took us to the resort areas only. If you know anything about us, know that we live to get off the beaten bath and find an adventure! So we asked the locals where was the best spot to get a fresh conch salad. The overwhelming response was one place: Big Mike’s.
They drastically undersold how delicious and FRESH this food is! To begin with, Big Mike’s is not a restaurant but an oceanside stand (my favorite kinda place!) Big Mike himself is catching fresh conch and breaking it down into a fantastic ceviche’ right in front of you as you sit at his makeshift bar. Not only that, but he is grilling up some generously seasoned pork chops, ribs, and chicken!
While you are waiting for your meal (and make no mistake, there is a wait), you can can pull up to the bar or at a table and have a local beer, mixed drink, or get yourself a gully wash!
No, I’m not making up words. Gully wash is the name of a signature drink native to the Bahamian islands. It is typically made with coconut coconut water and condensed milk mixed with gin, and there is an option to order it “unleaded” without any alcohol.
But where’s the fun in that?!
Mr. Webb and I both got a leaded gully wash and sipped S L O W L Y which is recommended because this drink is a creeper!
And as we sat there soaking in the sun, the gorgeous view, the merry company, and dived into these heavy plates… everything just sort of paused and slowed down. Island time definitely doesn’t move like regular time. Even now I can feel the entire experience again as if it just happened. I can’t tell you enough how much I fell in love with Bimini in the 8 hours I spent there.
I know we only scratched the surface and that’s what makes me want to go back for even more!