Curator’s statement
Harbour Island is special to me because it’s been a family tradition, we’ve spent a week here every summer, and it’s a place that keeps drawing us back. I know the island inside and out, the iconic pink sand beach paired with the crystal-clear turquoise water is breathtaking every single time. Beyond the natural beauty, it’s the warmth of the locals and the incredible food that make it feel like home away from home. For me, Harbour Island is the perfect blend of relaxation, connection, and timeless memories.
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Where to stay on Harbour Island
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Things to do on Harbour Island
Scuba diving with Valentines Dive Center
Boat tour with locals: Some of the best experiences are with local guides who know the hidden cays, sandbars, and secret swimming spots. It’s the perfect way to see more than just the island itself.
Kayak or paddleboard the clear waters: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and spend the morning gliding over calm turquoise water, you’ll often spot turtles, rays, and colorful fish right beneath you.
Snorkeling the reefs: The coral reefs around Harbour Island are full of marine life. Snorkeling trips can take you to shallow reefs where the water is so clear it feels like swimming in a natural aquarium.
Scuba diving adventures: For a deeper look at the underwater world, diving here offers shipwrecks, vibrant coral gardens, and the chance to see larger marine life.
Relax on Pink Sands Beach: Three miles of soft, blush-colored sand paired with crystal-clear waves—it’s one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and the heart of the island experience.
Island hopping & sandbar picnics: Take a boat to explore nearby islands and enjoy a picnic on a secluded sandbar surrounded by nothing but blue water.
Horseback riding on the beach: A dreamy way to experience Pink Sands Beach, local stables offer guided rides right along the shoreline.
Explore Dunmore Town: Wander through the pastel-colored cottages, boutique shops, and art galleries for a taste of the island’s charm beyond the beach.
Fishing trips: Whether deep-sea fishing or reef fishing, locals can take you out for a day on the water to catch mahi-mahi, snapper, or even bonefish in the flats.
Sunset cocktails by the water: End the day with a cocktail (try a Goombay Smash!) while watching the sky turn pink and orange over the harbor, it’s simple but unforgettable.
Places to eat & drink on Harbour Island
Dinner at the Rock House Restaurant
The Dunmore: A chic beachfront spot with a relaxed, elegant vibe. Their fresh seafood dishes and tropical cocktails are perfect for a sunset dinner by the ocean.
Rock House Restaurant: One of the island’s most iconic fine-dining experiences, with a menu that combines fresh Bahamian ingredients and international flair. The poolside setting makes it extra special.
Coral Sands Beach Bar: A casual, toes-in-the-sand spot to grab a tropical cocktail or light bites. It’s great for laid-back afternoons or post-beach drinks.
The Landing: A boutique hotel and restaurant with a farm-to-table approach. Their wine list is excellent, and the candlelit dinners feel intimate and romantic.
Valentines Marina Restaurant: A lively spot right on the marina, perfect for watching the boats come in while enjoying conch fritters, seafood platters, and island cocktails.
Aunty Mabel’s or Queen Conch: No Harbour Island trip is complete without trying a local conch salad stand. Fresh, zesty, and made to order, it’s an authentic Bahamian experience.
Da Vine Wine Merchants: The place to go for wine lovers. It’s a cozy spot to sip and sample a wide range of wines and spirits brought in from around the world.
Arthur’s Bakery: A charming local café perfect for a morning coffee and pastry before heading to the beach.
Sunset drinks at Romora Bay: A laid-back bar with front-row seats to Harbour Island’s spectacular sunsets, ideal for ending the day with a Goombay Smash or Kalik beer.
Need to know
Harbour Island may be small, but getting there takes a little planning (I can help)! Most travelers fly into North Eleuthera Airport, then take a short taxi ride and a quick water taxi across to the island. Golf carts are the main mode of transportation once you’re there, and they’re both fun and practical for getting around. While Harbour Island has a reputation for luxury, there are accommodations and dining options to fit a range of budgets, from boutique resorts to local conch shacks. Keep in mind that the pace here is laid-back—it’s a place to slow down, enjoy the views, and connect with the community. And of course, don’t forget to pack reef-safe sunscreen, the pink sand beaches and clear waters are breathtaking, but protecting them helps keep this paradise pristine.
Travel Advisor
Samantha Aguirre
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