Abaco, Bahamas, ocean beach setting, Dock, Convenient to Hope Town, Tropical

Queen's Hiway,Hope Town,
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  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 2 Bathrooms
  • Type: Villa
  • 2-6 Sleeps

Description

 
This unique 2000 sq. ft. home is a 5 minute walk south of the historical settlement of Hope Town. Its Atlantic Ocean setting overlooking the pink sand beach offers an opportunity to play in the surf, or snorkel/scuba dive the nearby reef. The property extends from the beach back to the protected creek leading a short distance to and from Hope Town Harbour where the famous candy striped lighthouse overlooks the settlement. Wynne Rae's private dock makes it easy to slip away to the exciting tourist locations on the boat-friendly Sea of Abaco.
 
The entire wall space across the front of the house is glass allowing an uninterrupted view of the ocean out front. There is a recently installed, full house AC system for the warm summer months. Alternatively, awning windows open to allow the constant Southeast Tradewinds to flow through the bedrooms and living areas assisted by 5 ceiling fans in the living area and one each bedroom. A wrap around deck, overlooking the ocean beach, extends along the entire front semi-circular perimeter for viewing sunrises in the morning, sunbathing during the day and stargazing at night while being mesmerized by the sound of waves lapping against the beach below.
 
There is a free wireless internet connection as well as a phone for local calls and a VHF for marine updates. Satellite TV is available for keeping connected to the outside world. A 20 KW, self starting, standby generator will automatically kick in should the regular power unexpectedly shut down. Thus electric appliances, lights and fans, and AC will continue to function including the all important water pump for an uninterrupted water supply insuring that there will never be cold showers or lack of water for ice cube making or toilet flushing.
 
ABOUT THE OWNERS
 
We have enjoyed coming to Hope Town since we were first married and still in college many years ago. Just prior to that, we learned that a deceased great aunt had come into possession of this property in some Florida land dealings just after the crash of 1929. She was a widowed rural Minnesota school teacher and lost her minimal cash investment in Florida but gained title to this spectacular property somehow through one of the other investors. Thinking the property of no value, she never told any other family members about it and never visited the Bahamas to see for herself. Finally, after her death, the property eventually came into our names in the 1960’s.
 
WE 'DONE REACHED'!!
 
After visiting the property and camping on the “beach out front” in those early days, we realized what a grand circumstance and special opportunity we had as a result of this unexpected inheritance. More visits were forthcoming, contacts made and eventual work permits granted to teach students working for a large company, Owens Illinois (locally known as Bahama Agricultural Industries Limited or BAIL), growing sugar cane for the first time on the main island of Abaco. The operation only lasted 3 years and we had no choice but to return to the U.S. to pursue our careers.
Why Jim Sheldon chose Hope Town
 
WE WERE ENLIGHTENED!!
 
That 3 year Bahama experience, with our then young daughters, was one of the best of our lives and we haven’t been the same since. We were eventually drawn to overseas living once again with the idea of “someday“ continuing to pursue our dream of having a vacation home on Elbow Cay. After 4 years of teaching at the Taipei American School in Taiwan where our daughters graduated from high school, we continued our overseas adventure by teaching at the American School of Dubai, UAE for the next 20 years.
 
FINALLY A PLACE TO SHARE!!
 
A few years ago, we as a family commenced building and upgrading the property. It took about 3 summers to complete the ramp to the top of the dune for golf cart access. It took another three summers to build the actual house. We had professional help but went to great pains to situate the house just right to maximize the prevailing breezes and make sure that it was as hurricane proof and open to the ocean view as possible. It all was worthwhile!! And thanks to Great Aunt WYNNE, we and countless other guests and renters have been able to enjoy the fruits of our labors. We gave the middle name of Wynne to one of our daughters and the name of Rae to the other. Hence the unique name for our Bahama vacation home, the WYNNE RAE.
What makes this villa unique
 
WE ARE BACK!!
 
We are currently retired and living in Florida but spend the month of July at the Wynne Rae with our kids and grandkids. We return in the fall when the rental season is a bit slack to continue to enjoy the Wynne Rae, Hope Town and all of Elbow Cay as well as unparalleled sailing with our own trimaran sailboat, TRI-ING TIMES, on the Sea of Abaco.
 
AND NOW YOU KNOW THE REST OF THE STORY.
 
About The Area
 
THE INVITING CRYSTAL CLEAR WATERS FROM A BOAT:  Of course, renting a boat is the real key for exploring the various inhabited and uninhabited islands and beaches from Little Harbour, 20 miles to the south, and the Treasure Cay resort area with its famous beach and golf course, 20 miles to the north. In between is the boat building island settlement of Man-O-War and the fast growing island of Guana Cay, both worthy of a visit. Also located along this stretch of off-shore islands, are the Fowl Cay and Sandy Cay protected areas for spectacular coral reef diving. Marsh Harbour, the main hub on the 100 mile long island of Abaco, is a short four mile boat ride across the crystal clear waters of the Sea of Abaco.
 
There are ample Google sources (Hope Town - Elbow Cay - Abaco) to search for a comprehensive review of 'Places to Visit and Things to Do'. But to name a few: Walk (5 mins.), bike, ride a golf cart to the picturesque Loyalist settlement for eating along the waterfront, shopping at the small gift shops and convenience stores, visiting the very interesting local museum, or just photographing the colorful historical homes and landscapes. The only remaining hand-lit lighthouse in the region is a favorite photo subject as well as a destination across the harbour for an exhilarating 360 degree view and even further photo opportunities. The southern part of the five mile long Elbow Cay barrier island offers more waterfront eating establishments, a full service marina, a local surfing beach and the lovely Tahiti Beach where the shallow waters on the protected Sea of Abaco are perfect for small children and another great backdrop for exotic picture taking.
 
Other Activities: Golf car excursions throughout the 5 mile long island. Arrange deep sea fishing or diving trips.
 
GETTING HERE IS QUICK AND EASY:  After your one hour flight to Marsh Harbour (MHH) from West Palm Beach (PBI), Ft. Lauderdale (FLL), or Miami (MIA), you will take a short taxi ride to Marsh Harbour for provisioning opportunities and continue on to catch the regularly scheduled 20 minute ferry boat ride to Hope Town. Your first sight, as you approach your island destination, will be the awe-inspiring red and white candy striped lighthouse signaling the entrance to the cozy harbour. The impressive and colorful settlement maintains the original charm of its historical past. At the ferry boat landing, you will be greeted by our agents and delivered to the Wynne Rae excited and ready to relax, unwind and enjoy the serenity of our little island paradise. As can be witnessed by viewing the photos and the comprehensive video above, this unique home has everything a vacationer could want for a relaxing, fun filled beach experience. LET’S GET STARTED!!
 
House Rules
 
Maximum occupancy: 6
 
Suitability
 
All ages will enjoy the Wynne Rae experience. Your rental golf cart will deliver you up the rather steep ramp directly to the back door. The nearby settlment of Hope Town is within walking distance via the main road on the back side of property or the beach on the front side. The extended beach out front is ideal for beach combing and children's play. Reef snorkeling is a short swim away. 
 
COMMENTS BY GUESTS FROM THE OWNER'S PERSONAL GUESTBOOK
 
This is the fifth time we have stayed in the Wynne Rae. That in itself is a testimony to how we feel about this property! The views, the lay out of the house, location near town, the updated appliances, everything for a perfect vacation….also, the location of the dock just down the hill a fifty yards away! Great memories! We will return!
Apr 2016
 
"We've come to think of this special place as a second home - feeling more at ease here than anywhere else we've been. We love the view, the excellent layout and the house supplies. Each year we've looked forward to going through the house to see what new things have been added. We liked the painted wicker and the new saying, I WASN'T BORN NEAR THE SEA, BUT I GOT HERE AS SOON AS I COULD. We've continued to be very grateful to the Sheldons who've allowed us to make this magical place a part of our memories."
Mar 2007
 
Our stay in your beautiful island home last week was wonderful! Thanks for sharing your home with us. Starting with a nice glass of wine from you, the week just got better and better. With all those open windows, and the sights and sounds of the ocean so close, we felt as though we were living outdoors all week. And we appreciated the private, away-from-it-all feeling that the setting provided. All the arrangements with the realty staff were easy and helpful. We thought Hope Town was a delightful and friendly town. For us, it was probably a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so lucky for us it was at your wonderful house. Thank you, thank you!
May 2010
 
"Upon our arrival, we loaded our luggage, fishing gear, and Scuba and snorkel gear to the top of a little hill with the most magnificent view I’ve ever seen. If we never stepped foot out of the house, we would have been happy campers. However, we had fantastic weather and accomplished what we set out to do. Fishing, skim boarding, cycling, boating, walking, eating, drinking and loving Hope Town! Thank you so much for the wonderful home and all of the amenities! We will be back!"
Mar 2007

Policies

Cancellation Policy   
 
Our cancellation policy is as follows: If you cancel more than 90 days prior to arrival, you will receive a refund less 5% of the total rental. If you cancel less than 90 days before arrival, there are absolutely no refunds unless we can re-rent the house for those same dates; there is a minimum of a 5% cancellation fee. Your rental is non-refundable during the two weeks before and after Christmas and Easter, regardless of your cancellation date, unless we re-rent the house. Again, there is a minimum of a 5% cancellation fee.
If there is a storm traveling, and the Bahamas goes under a hurricane warning, you will be able to re-book your stay, valid for a full calendar year. If you are here, and the Bahamas goes under a hurricane warning, we will ask you to return home, and will refund you only unused nights.
 
The Booking Process   
 
The Wynne Rae is looked after and managed by a local Hope Town agency. They handle the entire reservation process. They arrange for pick up and delivery at the ferry landed. They clean, do laundry and replenish the normal expendable items and make sure the the home is prepared for your arrival. They are available to answer your questions and help to make your stay as perfect as you had expected. WHEN YOU ARE READY TO BOOK, THE OWNER WILL PUT YOU IN TOUCH WITH THE LOCAL AGENCY. Their commission is charged to the owner, NOT the renter.
 

Amenities

  • Private Charcoal Barbecue
  • Bathtub
  • Shower
  • Hair Dryer
  • Twin Bed
  • Queen Bed
  • King Bed
  • Private Boat Dock
  • Playground
  • Child Friendly
  • Ceiling Fans
  • Air Conditioning
  • Dining Table Seats
  • Dining Table
  • Ground Floor Unit
  • Single Level - No Stairs
  • Walk-in Shower
  • Closed-Caption TV
  • TV
  • Cable TV
  • Satellite TV
  • Flat Screen TV
  • Stereo
  • CD Player
  • Television
  • Radio Music Library
  • Games
  • Reading Library
  • Telephone
  • No Smoking
  • Secluded
  • Linens Provided
  • Internet Access
  • High Speed Internet Access
  • Wireless Internet
  • Gas Stove
  • Fully Equipped Kitchen
  • Microwave
  • Dishwasher
  • Breakfast Bar
  • Water Filter
  • Utensils
  • Pots and Pans
  • Blender
  • Stove
  • Oven
  • Coffee Maker
  • Refrigerator
  • Ice Maker
  • Washing Machine
  • Washer/Dryer
  • Iron & Board
  • Skylight
  • Spacious
  • Vaulted Ceilings
  • Deck
  • Patio
  • Outdoor Shower
  • Outdoor Grill
  • Parking Available

Activities

  • Bird Watching
  • Boating
  • Deep Sea Fishing
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Kayaking
  • Movie Theatre
  • Museums
  • Paddle Boats
  • Sailing
  • Sightseeing
  • Snorkeling
  • Swimming
  • Whale Watching
  • Windsurfing
  • pier fishing, beachcombing, scenic drives
  • Waterfront
  • Oceanfront
  • Beachfront
  • Near Town
  • Near Shopping
  • Near Restaurants
  • churches

Additional Rate Information

Security Deposit : None
Cleaning Fee : None
Tax Rate : Read Below
Pets Allowed, Pet Fee - $250
 
We accept MasterCard or Visa Only.
 
Local processing fees and the Government VAT taxes are included in the price. No additional fees will be charged. Closed Sept 1 - Sept 29 for general maintenance and a break for caretakers. Quotes for fewer than 7 nights might be considered based on availability. A security deposit is not required. 
 
Fewer than 7 nights, quotes can be provided upon request. 
Closed Sept 1 - Sept 29 for general maintenance and a break for caretakers.

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Location


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Owner/Manager

Jim Sheldon

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Guest Reviews

All reviews are from verified guests
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Radogirl

We had a wonderful time

We had a wonderful time- the setting was stunning and the cottage lovely. I would stay here again in a heartbeat! The beach was so quiet and lovely. We saw many stingrays swimming along in the water from the deck! Amazing!

  • Submitted: Nov 19,2010

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Kevin

We had an absolutely amazing two weeks here

We had an absolutely amazing two weeks here. Swimming and snorkling with sharks, rays and turtles; cruising around the islands in a hire boat, fishing and relaxing to the sound of the sea and a beautiful view. Highly recommended.

  • Submitted: Aug 29,2010

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JOHN

MY FAMILY RECENTLY STAYED HERE FOR TWO WEEKS AND WE REALLY ENJOYED OURSELVES. THE VIEW FROM THE BACK DECK IS AMAZING AND LOCATION IS GREAT!

  • Submitted: Jun 23,2011

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Dolf R.

Incredible!

The photos do not do justice to Wynne Rae! The home is gorgeous! Our family of six spent a long weekend and absolutely loved it. The view has to be one of the best on the island! No need for a/c, as the ocean breeze is all you need. There are 2 refrigerators/freezers, so you have no shortage of cold-storage. Perfect sitting area overlooking the ocean! Home is well-maintained and well-managed. Rented golf carts and boat locally, and had a ball. We would HIGHLY recommend the Wynne Rae to any-and-everyone looking for a great home on a great island in a great location.

  • Submitted: May 16,2011

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Leslie Gall

Best vacation we've had in years. Perfect house!

Four of us (two couples) stayed at Wynne Rae for two weeks at the end of January. In Hopetown, there are a couple of different areas with rentals, including "the settlement," the in-the-village-proper area that's on the harbor, and areas further away at the ends of the longish island. Wynne Rae is a good compromise, located about five minutes' walk from town, but not far away like some rentals, where you might need to rent a golf cart. We rented bikes so we could zip into town, and also ride out to the resorts like Firefly (an incredible spot for lunch!). (We also loved Harbour's Edge and On Da Beach.) The house is directly above the beach with a view of pristine pinkish sand in both directions. Stairs lead down from the deck to the outside shower, which I loved, and the beach itself. There are reefs right out in front that we could snorkel out to, and a group of flat rocks a couple of feet into the water that were a home to some small fish. We rarely saw more than a couple of people on the beach on any one day. It's a very long beach that provides a nice long walk. We loved sitting up on the deck, just watching the water and the sky. Swimming in the clear azure water was a dream. The house itself it well set up. Everything you need to cook meals, washer and dryer, attractive and comfortable furnishings. For two couples the set up is perfect--we each had a bedroom and bathroom on opposite sides of the house. When we had questions, the owner and the island managers were very responsive. All four of us plan to return! We highly, highly recommend Wynne Rae!

  • Submitted: Jan 17,2016

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Chris W. Finke

Stayed 8 days ending in December, 2017

It was an absolute fabulous place to stay! It had the best of both worlds for us, an ocean view and right on the beach, which my wife loved and a boat dock behind the house in the back of the harbor that I loved! I would rate it a 9. Great place to stay and I can see us staying there again!

  • Submitted: Dec 21,2017

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Amy Paris Kuna

Wynne Rae is a Wonderful Vacation Home!

Stayed 8 days ending in January, 2018 This was our second year staying at the Wynee Rae. The home & grounds are just perfect; views from deck and house are the best around. Our group of six (kids included) were there for a week and the house set-up leaves plenty of space for all with privacy. The beach was well utilized by us this year. Great snorkeling right off the reef in front of house. Pristine waters and perfect sand for shell/sea glass hunting. In four hours on beach, maybe saw 6 other people walk by. Quick walk to On Da Beach for great kabobs and cocktails. Firefly is another beautiful close-by spot for sunsets and dinner. The house is well stocked and maintained. Very close to town and if you rent a boat, the Nigh Creek is just across street of house, so it makes for a simple docking experience. Golf carts are a plus to rent (do it early in your planning) but not necessary due to central location of house. If there was anything that I could suggest it would be to have actual beach chairs at house (although you could rent them locally). In all, this house is an absolutely wonderful place to vacation and we can't wait to return next year. Thank you to the owners and property managers for maintaining this home so well!

  • Submitted: Dec 27,2017


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