Hello,
Could someone tell me anything about the North Side? I am looking to rent a villa, and there are some very reasonably priced on the North Side - how far is it to 7MB, restaurants, shopping. How are the beaches there? We have 3 kids in the family.
Thanks

North side is about a 40 minute drive to 7 Mile Beach. There isn't a lot up in that area except for rental villas, so you pretty much have to drive at least 20 minutes to go grocery shopping in Red Bay. There is a restaurant at Rum Point and another one at Kaibo Yacht Club (near Rum Point as well), and I know there is one or maybe more smaller bars or restaurants along north side as well.
Beaches in that area can be pretty good, but it will depend on the villa. The north side seems to be more exposed to waves and currents than 7 Mile Beach, but the snorkeling should be pretty good. I've never stayed in that area, but have visited Rum Point on numerous occassions.
For shopping, you pretty much have to go to George Town or 7 Mile Beach, though there is some shopping in Red Bay as well (where the supermarket is).
You can also take the Rum Point ferry from Rum Point to the Hyatt on 7 Mile Beach.
It may depend on how old your kids are and what exactly you are looking for in accommodations, plus what exactly the villa has in regards to beach, pool, etc.
It's definately a quieter type vacation if you stay in that area.
Cheers, John

yn10-
We visited GC last summer with three kids and stayed in a great condo in Cottage on Frank Sound. The group of condo's is called Sea Cliff Resort. It is centrally located between 7-mile beach and our favorite area Rum Point. We could not believe the value for the price. We stayed 7 nights in a three bedroom, three bathroom, semi-private pool and great snorkeling for $1600 in early June. Highly recommend it!

I've been vacationing in North Side since 1976, so am very familiar with the area and most of folks who own and live there. I you can tell me the name of the villa you are renting, I can tell you about the beach there. The Hyatt ferry is not running yet, so a trip to GT or 7MB will involve a 45 minute drive. There are several restaurants I can point you to if you like. It's my favorite part of the island (been there 9 weeks already in 2005).

Thank you so much for all of your responses. The villa we're looking at is Far Tortuga and Studio. I would love to hear your feedback.

Know Vince and Deb Ann. Their place is very up-scale. Nice beach. But if you want to walk for miles on the beach, you need to go further west toward Rum Point. Love their home. You will be totally happy with the amenities there. Good location. Don't forget to go to Chisholm's for the local paper and "hot patties" each morning. Miss Erina is the BEST!