Harbour Island Visitors Guide
Laura Schulthies
Laura Schulthies
Vanessa Howard
Vanessa HowardThe Bahamas has over 700 islands full of incredible natural beauty, friendly locals, and charming Caribbean architecture. Known as Briland to its residents, Harbour Island is an “out island” of the Bahamas. You’ll find it just off the northern tip of the larger island of Eleuthera. This island is known for its charming historical pastel-painted cottages, boutique hotels, and three stunning miles of soft, pink sand stretching the length of Harbor Island’s eastern side. We’ve curated a guide for the perfect trip to Harbour Island in the Bahamas. Enjoy!
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Contents
A Bit Of History
One of the first capital settlements and one of the largest cities, Harbour Island, better known as “Briland,” is around 3.5 miles long by 0.5 miles wide. Harbour Island was originally home to the Lucayan and Arawak People until Christopher Colombus famously discovered the Bahamas in 1492 and almost completely wiped out the local indigenous populations by the middle of the 16th century. The island remained uninhabited for over 100 years, and the complex coral system around the island made it notorious for shipwrecks until ministers fleeing religious persecution from England settled the island around 1650. In 1973, the colony claimed its independence and became a member of the British Commonwealth with its flag, parliament, and national anthem.
Harbour Island Today
Today, Harbour Island is an idyllic escape with three stunning miles of pink sand beach, beautiful Bahamian architecture, and fantastic food. Although getting to Harbor Island takes a bit of effort, the island life is worth it! This little slice of island paradise isn’t about all the glitz and glam like other Caribbean destinations. Harbour Island is where you escape to exhale stress and inhale peaceful ocean breezes, view the picturesque surroundings, and witness the beautiful sunrises and sunsets that make you never want to leave.
Is Harbour Island Safe?
Harbour Island, in the Bahamas, is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, like any other place, it’s not entirely crime-free. Petty crimes such as theft and burglary can occur, especially targeting tourists. Just make sure to pay attention to your surroundings.
Where Is Harbor Island?
click map to enlarge
The island is around 60 miles from Nassau, 200 miles from Miami, and 2 miles East of Eleuthera.
Bahamas Map
When Is Harbour Island Hurricane Season?
Harbour Island hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, with peak months being August, September, and October. The risk of hurricanes hitting Harbour Island has increased in the past few years, but they are unpredictable and not a guarantee even during peak season. Hurricanes are infrequent in Harbour Island, and when one does come, satellite forecasts generally give adequate advance warning. Be sure to check weather reports before your trip, and we always recommend getting travel insurance during these months just in case of inclement weather.
How To Get To Harbour Island
The easy accessibility of Harbour Island may surprise you!
By Air
There are no direct flights to Harbour Island, but it’s only a 50-minute flight from the Florida coast. If you’re flying in from Europe or the Western United States, you’ll fly to the Bahamas first by way of Nassau (LPIA) or North Eleuthera Airport (ELH). Upon arriving at the airport in the Bahamas, you’ll clear customs, grab a taxi, and head to the dock for a quick boat ride to Harbour Island. It takes around 10 minutes in a cab to get from the airport to the boat dock, which is around $5 per person ($10 if just one person).
You can also charter a plane from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or North Eleuthera with companies like Zulu Air, Tropic Ocean Airways, and Tradewind Aviation.
Arrival By Water Taxi
A five to ten-minute water taxi ride from North Eleuthera is around $5 per person. Water taxis are always available during the day and run to Harbour Island until 9 pm. The water taxi service is very aware of the arrival and departure times of flights, so they will have boats waiting for guests at all times. They drop you off at the government dock on Harbour Island, where you can either jump into another taxi or rent a golf cart to transport you to your hotel. While this may sound complicated, it works as a well-oiled machine.
Arrival By Ferry
A ferry from Nassau to Harbour Island runs Friday to Sunday, departing New Providence around 8:00 am, stops at Spanish Wells at 10:15 am, and arriving on Harbour Island at 11 am. Keep in mind that the ferry offices are only open on weekends from 9 am to 4 pm. The same ferry returns to Nassau late in the afternoon, making it easy to spend a day on the island when visiting the Bahamas. The Nassau ferry port is approximately a 45-minute taxi ride from the Nassau Airport. You can find the ferry schedules here, and the cost is around $135 per person one way.
Golf Cart Rental
While you’re on Harbour Island, the primary mode of transportation is golf carts, and you can get almost everywhere on the island within 15 minutes. While you can explore the island on foot, a golf cart is a more efficient way to buzz around. Remember that golf carts can be hard to come by during the busiest times of the year. It’s best to make golf cart reservations in advance during Harbour Island’s busy seasons. Typically, golf cart rentals cost about $55 per day for 2 passengers and $80-$150 per day for 6 passengers. It’s a good idea to check with your hotel to see which golf car rental company they recommend on the island. Some accommodations offer bicycles for guest use, providing another eco-friendly and fun way to explore Harbour Island.
Things To Do In Harbour Island
Harbour Island's Top Highlights
There is plenty to do on Harbour Island, and whether you want to relax on the beach, explore, or shop, this island has something for you!
1. Relax On The Beach
Harbour Island is most renowned for its breathtaking Pink Sand Beach, stretching three miles along the Atlantic Ocean. The beautiful turquoise waters are very gentle, perfect if you have babies or toddlers in tow. Sit back, relax, and dig your toes into the soft, powdery pink sand. If your hotel doesn’t offer umbrellas and loungers, you can rent a spot at Mrs. V’s, which is right at the entrance to Pink Sand Beach at the end of Court St. If you need a break from the sun, take a dip in the refreshing waters and grab a rum punch from a nearby hotel.
Other fantastic beaches nearby include Rainbow Bay Beach, which is on Eleuthera and ideal for snorkeling. If you’re looking for a more secluded beach, check out Ben Bay Beach on North Eleuthera.
2. Indulge In Shopping
Harbour Island is home to a surprising amount of charming shops. You’ll want to choose a beautiful handmade straw bag while visiting the island. You can even add your name or initials to your straw accessories at A&A Hidden Treasures and pick them up later during your visit. Global tastemaker India Hicks has a boutique on Harbour Island called The Sugar Mill, which features brands from around the world. The Blue Rooster boutique shop is another favorite among Harbour Island visitors. Here, you’ll find floral caftans and pearl jewelry. Don’t miss the Princess Street Art Gallery, where you can grab a unique print to take home as a souvenir.
3. Boat Around Harbour Island
One of the best ways to explore the beauty of Harbour Island is from the water. Charter a boat with island favorites, such as Tyman Charters, to see the best of Harbour Island. You can opt for a half-day or full-day excursion, where you can see beautiful sea turtles swim with the stingrays and feel like a kid again by playing on the ocean swings! Additional adventure options include cliff jumping, reef fishing, and searching for starfish.
4. Try A Goombay Smash
You have to try Harbour Island’s signature drink, the Goombay Smash. This is a rum-based drink with a taste similar to a piña colada, but better! This tropical cocktail is a treat for your taste buds and is a must while relaxing on the pink sand beach of Harbour Island. The best places to grab a Goombay Smash are Malcolm 51, Valentine’s Resort Bar, and Rock House Hotel.
5. Explore Dunmore Town
The main settlement on Harbour Island is Dunmore Town, known for its picturesque pastel-colored colonial buildings, boutique shops, historic homes, art galleries, and charming cafes. It’s the perfect place for an evening stroll. Dunmore Town is one of the oldest settlements in the Bahamas. It was known for its shipbuilding and sugar refinement work in the late 1800s. This quaint and colorful town has a laid-back, authentic Bahamian vibe and is a must-do during your time on Harbour Island.
Where To Stay On Harbour Island
The Best Hotels & Resorts In Harbour Island
Royal Palm Hotel
Price: $$$ Average Reviews: 4/5
The Royal Palm Hotel is a Bahamian-owned hotel specializing in deluxe accommodations. Its rooms provide an array of amenities in a fantastic location. The hotel offers 1 and 2 bed premium rooms, along with deluxe suites which feature kitchenettes. All recently renovated rooms offer air conditioning, cable TV, a separate dining area, and a private balcony or patio. The Royal Palm Hotel is within easy walking distance of the famous pink sandy beaches, excellent restaurants, and charming shops.
Valentines Resort and Marina
Price: $$$$ Average Reviews: 4/5
Valentines Resort and Marina offers an incomparable setting for boat enthusiasts, yacht owners, and families with a flair for ocean life. The resort boasts ultra-luxurious suites and 50 boat slips in a gorgeous world-class marina. Each suite offers cable TV, modern kitchen appliances, and a large balcony overlooking the gorgeous pool, gardens, and marina. During your stay, dine on-site at Cocoa Coffee House, Rooster Tail Bar, and the Boathouse Restaurant. Or indulge at the on-site Dermalogica Skin Center and Spa and enjoy the saltwater pool. Valentines also offers a Dive Center, a leading PADI dive resort facility in the area.
Coral Sands Hotel
Price: $$$ Average Reviews: 4/5
The Coral Sands Hotel is on the beach next to The Dunmore. The hotel has recently been renovated and is excellent for families. This luxury hotel offers rooms with flat-screen TVs, air conditioners, and refrigerators. Enjoy the pool and a complimentary breakfast during your stay. With a friendly staff and a popular lunch spot overlooking the water called The Beach Bar, you can escape the sun to have lunch while watching the waves gently wash onto the beach. Coral Sands is an excellent base for your Harbour Island adventure.
The Oceanview Club
Price: $$$$ Average Reviews: 4/5
The Ocean View Club is your Harbour Island “home away from home.” This small family-run boutique hotel aims to please and is a favorite among frequent visitors to the island. The resort offers an eclectic mix of accommodations with 5 cabins, which include tent cottages, 3 beach shacks, and 7 rooms that vary in size – suites, ocean view rooms, and smaller kids rooms. The Oceanview Club is also home to one of the best restaurants on the island, where you can dine on breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The best of Harbour Island is at your fingertips when you stay at the Oceanview Club!
The Dunmore Hotel & Resort
Price: $$$$ Average Reviews: 4/5
Without a doubt, The Dunmore is one of the most luxurious hotels on Harbour Island. This elegant hotel offers the atmosphere of a private club and the charm of bygone eras, and the Dunmore is impeccably decorated with vintage rattan, pink conch shell, and a 1960s resort glam vibe! Calming and contemporary, these boutique oceanfront accommodations include cottages and residences. The Dunmore offers 2 oceanfront villas along the beach and 1 villa inland called the Hilltop cottage.. You’ll have beachfront access to the famous Pink Sand Beach and private patios, perfect for enjoying your time in paradise. Check out the pool, Clubhouse, fitness center, and the fabulous restaurant, The Dunmore Restaurant, where dinner reservations are required.
Pink Sands Resort
Price: $$$$ Average Reviews: 4/5
Escape to Pink Sands Resort, where you’ll find the ideal mix of comfort, convenience, and luxury with thoughtful spaces to explore, get lost, or find moments to unwind. Set within 20 lush tropical acres along the famous Pink Sand Beach, you’ll have a choice of designer homes, cottages, and villas. Each offers breezy and elegant decors, espresso machines, and private patios with umbrellas and lounge chairs to inspire total relaxation. Enjoy curated wellness programs that provide massage, bodywork, yoga, and meditation practices for relaxation, rejuvenation, and restoration. Or lounge by the pool and enjoy a complimentary breakfast during your stay. Make sure to dine at one of the on-site restaurants, including Malcolm 51 and Blue Bar & Kitchen, and check out the exclusive dining experiences. If you’re looking for relaxation on your trip to Harbour Island, Pink Sands Resort is the place for you.
Where To Eat On Harbour Island
The Best Restaurants In Harbour Island
Arthur’s Bakery
Start your day right on your next visit to Harbour Island by visiting Arthur’s Bakery for some of their delicious glazed donuts! You’ll know you’re in the right place when you see the famous pineapple fence. Keep in mind a line will begin to form almost as soon as Arthur’s opens at 8 am. Offering an impressive list of coffee drinks and delightfully delicious baked goods, Arthur’s Bakery is a must-visit! Favorites include coconut muffins, freshly baked bread, and key lime pie.
Queen Conch
If you’re searching for a great lunch spot while exploring Harbour Island, head to Queen Conch. You’ll find this eatery on the bay side of the island. The seemingly rickety little conch hut has conch shells piled high next to it and the freshest, most delicious conch salad you’ve ever had. The conch salad is a delightful Bahamian spin on ceviche. Make sure to order your conch salad with mango and apple for a healthy, sweet, and spicy meal. This restaurant serves conch in every way you can think of, including fritters, salads, sandwiches, and wraps. The dinner views at Queen Conch are breathtaking and can’t be missed. Queen Conch is now accepting cash and cards.
Coral Sands Beach Bar
Check out Coral Sands Beach Bar and Restaurant for amazing views, perched above the island’s famous Pink Sands Beach. The chef creates delicious lunch options that go perfectly with the bar’s tropical cocktail menu. In addition to seafood specialties, including conch fritters, lobster rolls, and grouper sandwiches, the restaurant also serves fresh salads and gourmet pizzas. It’s the perfect lunch spot to overlook the beach with a fun tropical cocktail and their popular lobster salad sandwich. For dinner, dine on steak and seafood pasta paired perfectly with an impressive wine selection.
The Dunmore Restaurant
As one of Harbor Island’s most well-known and beloved establishments, The Dunmore is both a hotel and restaurant. You can’t beat the ambiance, decor, and incredible views here. If you want to enjoy dinner at the Dunmore Restaurant, make your reservation as soon as possible. Can’t get a dinner reservation during your stay? We recommend grabbing lunch at the Dunmore Restaurant. For lunch, try the cajun spiced chicken or seafood pepper pot. Wash it down with the tropical Rum Dum or the Dunmore Dark Rum Daiquiri. For dinner, try the Curry Grouper, Fresh Catch, or Beef Tenderloin. Keep in mind that this restaurant does have a resort casual dress code. They require collared shirts and pants for men through Easter, and shorts are acceptable during the summer months with collared shirts.
The Landing Restaurant
If you’re looking for contemporary fusion cuisine in a beautiful setting, The Landing Restaurant is the perfect dining experience. Serving up only the freshest local produce and freshly caught local fish and seafood, you can’t beat the location of The Landing. This restaurant’s emphasis on fresh, quality ingredients ensures creative dishes you’ll love. The Landing serves a fantastic breakfast, and we recommend the eggs benedict or the ricotta hot cakes. For dinner, be sure to try The Landing’s Gingered Lobster with Lemongrass risotto cake, asparagus, and sprouts or the Spicy Crab Capellini served with Local stone crab, romaine lettuce, lobster oil, Gremolata, chili, and lime. Save room for decadent desserts like White Chocolate Coconut Cream Pie, Banana Brown Sugar Upside Down Cake, and homemade ice cream and sorbet!
What To Pack For Your Trip!
The Caribbean is an enchanting wonderland of relaxation and adventure, one can easily have the trip of a lifetime here. Packing for such a vacation shouldn’t be hard, so we’ve put together a checklist to help you pack and included some of our favorites as well. Check out our What To Pack For Your Trip Guide.
Check out our guide for what to bring on your Caribbean vacation!
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