Discover Harbour Island: Bahamas’ Pink Sand Paradise

Tucked just off the northeast coast of Eleuthera, Harbour Island—affectionately known as “Briland” by locals—is a slice of island elegance mixed with laid-back Bahamian warmth. Famed for its three-mile-long pink sand beach, pastel-colored colonial houses, and the use of golf carts as transportation, this small yet stunning island is one of the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets.
 

From celebrity sightings to casual beach walks, Harbour Island effortlessly blends luxury and local life. Whether you're staying at a five-star beachfront resort or sipping cocktails at a beach bar with your toes in the sand, this is the kind of destination that invites you to slow down and soak it all in.

📍 Where Is Harbour Island?

Location: Just off the northeastern coast of Eleuthera in the Bahamas

Size: Approximately 3.5 miles long and 1.5 miles wide

Main Town: Dunmore Town

Getting There: Fly into North Eleuthera Airport (ELH), then take a 5-minute water taxi

🌟 Top Things to Do on Harbour Island

1. 🌸 Walk the Famous Pink Sands Beach

Undoubtedly Harbour Island’s crown jewel, Pink Sands Beach is a must-see:

Color: The pink hue comes from microscopic coral organisms called foraminifera

Length: Stretches over 3 miles along the island’s eastern shore

Best Activities: Walking, horseback riding, sunbathing, and sunrise photography

Good For: Couples, families, and solo travelers looking for serenity

2. 🛺 Ride Around in a Golf Cart

Harbour Island is car-free for most visitors—everyone uses golf carts!

Fun & Functional: Rent one upon arrival; it’s the island's primary transportation

Easy to Explore: You can see the whole island in less than a day

Tip: Book in advance during peak season (December–April)

3. 🏛️ Visit Dunmore Town

This charming historic town offers a perfect mix of:

Colonial Architecture: Pastel-painted cottages and old-world charm

Boutique Shops: Handcrafted souvenirs, designer resort wear, and local art

Cafes & Bars: Relax with Bahamian coffee or a tropical cocktail

Local History: Named after Lord Dunmore, a British loyalist who settled here in the late 18th century

4. 🍹 Dine and Drink Beachside

The island is dotted with incredible restaurants and beach bars:

Sip Sip: Famous for lobster quesadillas and casual luxury

The Landing: Upscale dining in a historic property

Rock House: A stylish hotel with an excellent restaurant and bar

Da Vine: Wine bar and sushi spot with a Bahamian twist

Queen Conch: Beach shack with unbeatable conch salad

5. 🌊 Snorkeling and Diving

The surrounding waters of Harbour Island are crystal-clear and vibrant:

Devil’s Backbone Reef: A stunning (and shallow) coral reef system perfect for snorkeling

Blue Hole Excursions: Dive into natural sinkholes just off Eleuthera

Boat Rentals & Charters: Hire a local captain for a personalized snorkel or fishing trip

6. 🐠 Fishing and Boating Adventures

Anglers and water lovers will find plenty to enjoy:

Bonefishing: Flats fishing near Harbour Island is world-class

Deep-Sea Fishing: Target tuna, mahi-mahi, and more

Sunset Cruises: A romantic way to end the day

7. 🏖️ Explore Nearby Islands

Harbour Island’s location makes it a great base for day trips:

Eleuthera: Just across the water—rent a car for Glass Window Bridge and local beaches

Spanish Wells: A peaceful fishing community with great local seafood

Sandbars & Uninhabited Islets: Accessible by boat for a private beach picnic

🏨 Where to Stay on Harbour Island

Though small in size, Harbour Island offers a wide range of accommodations—from luxurious beachfront resorts to cozy boutique hotels and private villas.

Top-Rated Places to Stay:

Pink Sands Resort: Iconic and upscale, right on the pink beach

Coral Sands Hotel: Stylish, romantic, and ocean-facing

The Dunmore: Timeless elegance with modern comforts

Valentines Resort & Marina: Great for yachters and longer stays

Rock House Hotel: Adults-only chic with personalized service

Airbnb/Villas: Many visitors opt for private homes with ocean views

🍴 What to Eat on Harbour Island

Must-Try Dishes:

Conch Salad: Fresh and citrusy with a tropical kick

Cracked Lobster or Conch: Fried golden and delicious

Grouper Fingers: A Bahamian staple served with tartar sauce

Peas & Rice: A classic island side dish

Rum Cake: A moist, spiced treat often served warm

Local Favorites:

Arthur’s Bakery: Fresh pastries and hearty breakfast plates

Bahamas Coffee Roasters: A great stop for morning coffee

Angela’s Starfish Restaurant: Delicious home-cooked Bahamian food

Cocoa Coffee House: Smoothies, wraps, and chilled vibes

🗓️ When to Visit Harbour Island

Best Times:

High Season (Dec–April): Warm, dry weather, ideal for beach days and events

Shoulder Season (May–July): Fewer crowds and slightly lower prices

Hurricane Season (Aug–Nov): Deals available, but travel insurance recommended

Events & Festivals:

Junkanoo (December 26 & January 1): A colorful celebration of Bahamian culture

Bahamas Independence Day (July 10): Expect parades, music, and festivities

Annual Regatta: Local sailing races and island-wide parties

📚 Cultural Tips

Currency: Bahamian Dollar (B$), but USD is widely accepted

Language: English

Dress Code: Casual but chic—resort wear by day, dressier for dinner

Etiquette: Friendly and relaxed; greet locals with a smile

Religion: Churches are central to many island communities—respect Sunday quiet hours

🛫 Getting to Harbour Island

Step-by-Step Travel:

Fly to North Eleuthera Airport (ELH)

Direct flights from Nassau, Miami, Fort Lauderdale

Taxi to the Dock (5–10 min)

Water Taxi (5 min) to Harbour Island

Approx. $5 per person

Operates all day with frequent service

🧭 Travel Tips for First-Timers

Book Early: Hotels fill quickly, especially around holidays

Bring Cash: Some smaller businesses may not accept cards

Bug Spray: Especially useful in the evenings near water

Sun Protection: The Bahamian sun is strong—bring reef-safe sunscreen

Plan for Downtime: Embrace the slower pace; it’s part of the charm

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Who Will Love Harbour Island?

Couples: Romantic sunsets, boutique resorts, and beachfront dining

Families: Safe, clean, and welcoming for all ages

Solo Travelers: Friendly locals and peaceful surroundings

Luxury Seekers: Upscale accommodations and gourmet food

Photographers: Pink beaches, blue seas, and colorful streets await

🔚 Final Thoughts from Your Travel Guide

Harbour Island is one of those magical places that exceeds expectations. It offers just the right balance of luxury, authenticity, and natural beauty. Whether you're admiring the pastel houses of Dunmore Town, enjoying a beachside lunch at Sip Sip, or simply watching the waves roll in on Pink Sands Beach, this island leaves you recharged, relaxed, and ready to return.

So if you're dreaming of a place where time slows down, sunshine glows a little softer, and life feels beautifully uncomplicated, Harbour Island is calling your name.