This cottage places you next to Lucayan Archipelago and within a 15-minute walk of Twin Coves Beach. The cottage includes a kitchen, a balcony, and a fenced private yard.
PLEASE READ THIS ENTIRE LISTING DESCRIPTION SO YOU UNDERSTAND THE OVERALL PROPERTY AND THE INDIVIDUAL UNIT YOU ARE RENTING.
ELEUTHERA IS VERY SAFE; Eleuthera is a very safe island even for women traveling alone and going out at night. There is some petty theft, but even that is occasional nature and violent crime against tourists is extremely rare.
WHO WE ARE AS HOSTS; You can book with confidence as we have been Premier Hosts on VRBO/HomeAway since 2016 and have thousands of great reviews for all of our 20+ listings.
GENERAL INFORMATION; Villa Allamanda was born from the vision of prominent local Bahamian John McCardy one of the island’s most respected architects. He designed and built the property in 2013 and still continues making improvements on a regular basis…as he says, “the passion for perfection will never end.” He wanted to create a very unique vacation rental experience like no other on the island that takes in the amazing and dramatic dual ocean views, but a space that also envelops the guest in soothing garden oasis all while offering top of the line accommodations. Around every nook and cranny there is something special to find with little sitting areas, gorgeous bromeliades and flowers, palm trees and birds. He pours his heart and soul into the property and he greets every guest personally on check in and is there is a flash if you have any issues. There are a total of eight air conditioned units in the three story villa, plus one free standing cottage called Mel’s Manor which is your rental. ***So if you have a large group and all want to be together, yet have your own space and privacy this is the perfect place for that also!!! Each unit comes with their own space and all have smart TVs with cable TV and free high speed fiber internet. There is even a back-up generator if the power goes out which in Eleuthera happens quite often! There is both city water and a huge rain cistern tank so if the power goes out you will always have water. There are no shared bathrooms or kitchens and being an architect everything was designed with privacy in mind and with a noise reducing design. The only shared spaces are outside on the 3rd floor wrap around exterior deck overlooking both oceans and the jungle like property grounds on the main floor outside. Free and safe parking on the property is provided. We provide a ton of photos and caption each one so you know exactly what you are looking at and so you are informed on what to expect before you book your stay. John provides himself on offering all guests a first class experience!
YOUR UNIT; Note – the unit you are renting is called Mel’s Manor which is named after John’s daughter. It is free standing one bed room air conditioned cottage away from the main building and is in fact the most private unit available. It has its own little pathway to the entry door and it set among the gardens and trees. There is a covered front porch at the entry which is a lovely place to hang out. The unit is bright and airy and allows the nature outside to be part of the experience. There are cypress wood tongue and groove vaulted pickled stain ceilings and terracotta tile floors along with a ceiling fan above the bed. It sleeps four people, but let us explain the sleeping arrangements; There is a very high quality and comfy queen bed with top of the line linens for two adults and then there is a loft which has ladder that can sleep two kids upstairs on two twin mattresses. It is not set up for four adults. The unit is bright and airy with vaulted ceilings and is painted like all of the units with fun Caribbean colors. There is a very nice mini split high efficiency AC unit for fast cooling, a small kitchenette and a custom bathroom with walk in shower. The kitchenette has a small sink, microwave, toaster oven, coffee maker and assorted kitchen items for preparing and eating some basic meals, making breakfast or warming left overs. Note this is not set up to cook full meals and sit at a dining room table for a formal dinner nor is there a full oven or range, just a toaster oven. There are USB phone chargers and a hairdryer provided also. Of course you have the basics such as; seasonings, soap and shampoo, linens, towels, beach and bath towels, kitchen towels, toilet paper, paper towels, trash bags, kitchen sponge and dish soap, etc. There is a small library of books for your reading pleasure. Beach chairs and beach umbrella is also provided. You can see the photos section for a better visualization of the interior and exterior of your unit.
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION; We are located in Cigatoo Estates in central Eleuthera which is less than a four minute drive from Governor’s Harbor. The location is fantastic for exploring all the way to the southern and northern island tips as you are right in the middle. Some of the island’s best restaurants, bars, beaches and attractions are less than a ten minute drive. Just to name a few you have Twin Coves Beach, French Leave Beach, Allabaster and Receivers Beach and Sky Beach Club all very close. ***Note Twin Coves Beach and French Leave Beach are two of the very top rated beaches on the entire island and that is saying a lot. You can walk to Twin Coves Beach which is a fifteen minute walk or drive at three minutes. French Leave Beach is about a 5 minute drive. As for restaurants you have 1648 Restaurant, Tippy’s, Pascal’s, and Buccaneer Club, all five minutes away, to name a few. Those restaurants are some of the most sought after eateries on the whole island. You have the world famous Friday Night Fish Fry street festival just five minutes away and also Ronnie’s the only real nightclub on the island. We are very close to many attractions also like the Haynes Library, Leon Levy Preserve, Edwin’s Sea Turtle Lake, etc. Important things such as health clinics, the main police station, churches, food stores, liquor stores, shops, banking and ATM, gas stations, etc. are all five minutes away. The island is 110 miles long with one road going tip to tip with some very bad pot holes, so it is very important to pick a good home base location otherwise be prepared to do a lot of driving with super expensive gas prices!
EXTRA PERKS STAYING WITH US; We offer a large fleet of SUV rentals as an option during your stay directly from John the owner. The vehicles are in excellent condition and very nice comparatively speaking on the island, reliable, always spotless and he is always there is you ever had an issue. If you want tours for fishing, swimming with the pigs, snorkeling etc. we have the best captain in all of the Bahamas and have been using him for years. Our guests always get first dibs on any trip with him even if he’s busy. There is an outdoor gas grill with free gas and a charcoal grill with free charcoal you can use in the garden grounds area. The snorkeling and spearfishing is some of the very best on the island right near our property both on the Atlantic and Caribbean sides. There are USB charging stations in every unit. John the owner lives on site and knows everyone and everything about Eleuthera. So you really have a personal concierge on site during your stay. Don’t worry about privacy as he leaves all guests alone unless they require his assistance. There is a laundromat just 5 minutes away. We offer an awesome 20+ page trip planner document that tells tons of very helpful information about renting vehicles, planning tours, swimming with the pigs, how to get to the island, etc. and that is only for our guests.
ELEUTHERA IS NOT FOR EVERYONE; If Miami Beach is your thing we respectfully suggest you pick a different destination. Eleuthera is a sleepy island with some flaws; bad roads, dated infrastructure, more frequent than back home power / water / internet outages, geckos sometimes will be in a home and painfully slow service at certain places. In Eleuthera people are genuine, helpful and kind. The crime is very low unlike the rest of the Caribbean. It is unspoiled and gorgeous and mostly empty going back back 75 years in time. You will explore the most stunning beaches you have ever seen and have them usually all to yourself. We love the island as do our guests.
Marielbys – your property manager when booking your stay John – owner and your on island host
The cottage is air-conditioned and features a kitchen and a balcony, and there's space to spread out with a separate bedroom. A Smart TV comes with cable channels, and guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a fenced private yard, a coffee maker, and a ceiling fan. Bathrooms are shared.
Property manager
Marielbys and Tommy
Languages
English
Similar properties
Ocean Sounds Cottage - 5 Minute Walk To Twin Coves Beach
Ocean Sounds Cottage - 5 Minute Walk To Twin Coves Beach
Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
General
Garden
Unit size: 350 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21
Check-out
Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Pets
This property doesn't allow pets
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 3:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 21
Property Registration Number 10017430
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.
Property is also known as
House
Frequently asked questions
What can I see close to this cottage?
This cottage is located in Governor's Harbour, just steps from Lucayan Archipelago. You'll also find Central Eleuthera Beach and Twin Coves Beach within a short drive.
Is there parking available at this cottage?
No, there isn't parking available at the cottage.
Is this cottage adjacent to a casino?
No, this cottage is not connected to a casino.
Is there an indoor pool at this cottage?
No, there is no indoor pool at this cottage.
Is Caribbean / Atlantic Ocean Views / Near Twin Cove Beach / Garden Oasis Setting. a good place to stay for couples?
Couples will appreciate amenities at this cottage, including a kitchen and a smart TV in each accommodation with some featuring ocean views.
Are there hot tubs at Caribbean / Atlantic Ocean Views / Near Twin Cove Beach / Garden Oasis Setting.?
No, this cottage doesn't have a spa tub.
Does this cottage include breakfast service?
No, this cottage doesn't offer breakfast.
Does this cottage allow pets to stay for free?
No, pets aren't allowed at this cottage.
Are there connecting rooms at this cottage?
No, this cottage doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.
Where is the closest airport to this cottage?
The closest major airport to this cottage is Governor's Harbour (GHB), which is 6.5 mi away (11 minutes by car). Another top airport is Rock Sound (RSD-Rock Sound Intl.), which is located 28.7 mi away (45-minute drive).
Are there rooms with balconies at Caribbean / Atlantic Ocean Views / Near Twin Cove Beach / Garden Oasis Setting.?
Yes, every accommodation at Caribbean / Atlantic Ocean Views / Near Twin Cove Beach / Garden Oasis Setting. comes with a balcony with some featuring ocean views.
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 12 out of 12 reviews
10 - Excellent
12
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 12 reviews
8 - Good
0
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 12 reviews
6 - Okay
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Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 12 reviews
4 - Poor
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Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 12 reviews
2 - Terrible
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10/10
Cleanliness
10/10
Amenities
10/10
Property conditions & facilities
10/10
Eco-friendliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
William L.
May 27, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great stay!!
Perfect stay in the Eleuthera!
William L.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Caitlin W.
Apr 11, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Clean, well maintained close proximity to Governs Harbour
John maintains a meticulous property and operation. You can tell he takes pride in his work. Since we were renting one of his vehicles (highly recommended and a must to explore the island), he gave us a great rundown of the do’s and don’ts, some recommendations, and how to reach him if we needed anything.
If and when we go back, we’re definitely staying at Villa Allamanda. It’s in a good location about 5mins from Governor’s Harbour; so everything you need is closeby. Furthermore, being in the geographical center of the island makes it easy to explore both ends of the island.
Anyhow, we can’t thank John enough. He’s truly a wonderful person with an amazing property.
Cheers to an amazing trip!
Marc-Andre
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2025
10/10 Excellent
Ericka M.
Feb 13, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
lovely stay
Great location, lovely property. John is super helpful, friendly and accommodating. We had a great time in Eleuthera.
Ericka M.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2024
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveler
Dec 31, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Christmas Family Vacation
It is a lovely property! The owner and manager John and his wife were wonderful!!!
Verified traveler
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2023
10/10 Excellent
Anne S.
Dec 21, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Our stay at Villa Allamanda
Loved our stay in this beautiful setting - private, lush gardens, gorgeous view of the ocean. Stayed in Mel's Manor - small, as described, but very comfortable. Plan for some bumpy roads - potholes, etc, when beach hunting and exploring - this is part of the Eleuthera experience! Love this Island!
Anne S.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
10/10 Excellent
Jessica R.
Aug 29, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Villa Allamanda
Place was clean, very easy to connect with property manager and he was very helpful! The pictures online did not match the property we were booked in or stayed at but they were very nice.
Jessica R.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2023
10/10 Excellent
Vera M., Austin
Apr 17, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful Stay
Great central home base for checking our the island! I loved all the plants and trees on the grounds.
Vera M.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023
10/10 Excellent
Carl W.
May 24, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Our stay was amazing to say the least. The property was immaculate and beautiful.
John and his staff were amazing. It made our first trip to Eleuthera a memorable one and we will be back!
Carl W.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2022
10/10 Excellent
kelly w.
Mar 17, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Excellent Holiday!
This place is a true gem and John is so helpful and knowledgeable. The rooms are all great and Mel's cottage, where we stayed was cute as a button. Process was smooth from the time we arrived to time we left. Highly recommend renting a car from John as well as many amazing beaches to explore!!
kelly w.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2022
10/10 Excellent
Shawn R.
Jan 10, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Eleuthera wedding
We just loved John, the owner.
Shawn R.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2022
10/10 Excellent
Carol W., San Diego, USA
Aug 6, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
A little cottage in a tropical gatden
My son stayed in the cottage. The lush garden provided much needed shade in such a tropical place. John helped him to get around as he could not rent a car being under 25. The place is too far from governors harbour to walk or cycle there but there are amazing beaches nearby to explore. He lives his stay.