Six Senses Residences Grand Bahama, Olson Kundig

Positioned along the Grand Lucayan Waterway, Six Senses Residences Grand Bahama is a starting point for everything the island represents – tranquillity, a lively community, direct canal or beach access, and an unspoiled atmosphere. Just under 60 miles from Florida, Grand Bahama has been a longstanding haven for those chasing sunshine and leisure. During the 1960s and 70s, Freeport, known as the “Magic City,” flourished as a playground for travellers indulging in casinos and vibrant nightlife.

The Xanadu Hotel became an iconic retreat during that era, frequented by Hollywood luminaries. It wasn’t uncommon to find Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. enjoying jazz with a drink at the bar or see Cary Grant and Lucille Ball unwinding by the pool. These moments encapsulated the glamour of Grand Bahama’s golden years. However, there is far more to Grand Bahama than tourism. The island’s intricate history predates Columbus’s 1492 arrival, which merely marked the first European documentation. Exploring the shores of Deadman’s Reef uncovers stories of the Lucayans, who inhabited the island as early as 830 CE. Their culture and traditions inspired the design of Six Senses Grand Bahama, shaping the resort, spa, and residences.

Six Senses Residences Grand Bahama includes 18 canalside and 10 beachfront homes, designed by Seattle-based architects Olson Kundig. These residences are nestled within generous landscapes of native vegetation, blending seamlessly with their surroundings. Each home features four to six bedrooms, with no usage restrictions. Owners benefit from comprehensive maintenance services and enjoy full integration into a year-round Six Senses community. The resort’s amenities include a marina, beach club, restaurants, and wellness facilities, all accessible at any time.

Canalside homes have private boat slips and views of the waterway, while inner courtyards feature tropical gardens that echo the island’s natural beauty. Beachfront homes, on the other hand, face the ocean, balancing dramatic sea views with serene, private spaces ideal for poolside relaxation or intimate meals. Design Principal Tom Kundig sought to create harmony between shared and secluded spaces, drawing on the island’s Lucayan heritage. The designs blend modern technology with sustainability and focus on the tactile qualities of the island environment. The flow of breezes, the movement of water, and the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces were all carefully considered, ensuring the homes embrace their surroundings.

Weller Development Partners and Pegasus Capital Advisors are committed to sustainable development that benefits the environment and the community. Partnering with Six Senses and the Global Fund for Coral Reefs (GFCR), the project prioritises economic revitalisation, job creation, and low-impact tourism. The aim is to demonstrate how tourism can succeed without compromising coastal or marine ecosystems.

Local partnerships enhance this vision. Collaborating with initiatives like the Blue Action Lab and Coral Vita, the development team supports climate solutions and coral restoration. Coral Vita, a coral farm and Earthshot Prize winner, grows resilient coral species to combat changing ocean conditions. Plans also include expanding Marine Protected Areas to preserve Grand Bahama’s underwater treasures.

For residents, Grand Bahama transcends its geography. The aquamarine seas and golden sunshine depicted on the Bahamian flag signify the island’s spirit. The black triangle, symbolising strength and unity, mirrors the community’s resilience. This sense of togetherness is evident in the friendly waves exchanged between passing boats, the rhythm of Goombay music, the joy of Junkanoo celebrations, and the history-rich flavours in the local cuisine.

Here, everyone is welcomed like family. Whether attending the mid-week William’s Town Fish Fry or enjoying a locally inspired cocktail on a Six Senses porch, the island’s hospitality makes visitors feel immediately at home. The Grand Lucayan Waterway, often likened to the “Venice of the Caribbean,” runs alongside the property, offering seamless access to the island’s pristine landscapes without encountering a single car.

Life on Grand Bahama is deeply connected to the water. Whether navigating at speed or leisurely sailing, boating is ingrained in its culture. To the north, Walker’s Cay is famed for bonefishing, while the coral reefs and shipwrecks delight divers. Beneath the surface, parrotfish, angelfish, and conch thrive amongst barnacled relics. The lack of mooring availability around the island makes the private boat slips at Six Senses Residences particularly appealing to seafarers.

Just under 60 miles from South Florida, Grand Bahama is reachable by boat or air. Grand Bahama International Airport in Freeport provides frequent international flights (Miami 40 minutes, Toronto 3 hours, New York 2.5 hours, Los Angeles 5 hours). Domestic connections to Nassau link visitors to European routes, ensuring smooth global access. For private aircraft, both West End Airport and Freeport Airport cater to international arrivals, welcoming travellers from near and far.

For further information, visit grandbahamaresidences.com