Harbour Island, nestled in the Bahamas, is a dreamy destination known for its stunning pink beaches and charming colonial architecture. With its compact size, getting around is a breeze, making it easy to discover the island’s hidden gems and must-see attractions.
Dive into this guide to uncover the best places to stay and make the most of your visit to this Caribbean paradise.
Our pick of the best hotels in Harbour Island: 🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: The Cove Eleuthera
- ✨ 5-Star: Pink Sands Resort
- 🏨 4-Star: Coral Sands Hotel
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Valentines Resort & Marina
- 💸 Cheap: Bay Inn Estates
- 🏢 Apartment: The Sugar Apple Lodging
Quick Harbour Island Neighborhood Guide: ☀️
- 🏙️ For Town Charm and Shopping: Dunmore Town
- 🏖️ For Pink Beaches: Pink Sands Beach
- 🌅 For Sunset Views and Dining: Bay Street
- 🏡 For a Local Experience: Quiet residential areas
1. Where to Stay on Harbour Island – Prime Locations 🏨
Dunmore Town
🚶♂️ Walkable streets: Strolling through Dunmore Town, you’ll be captivated by the pastel-hued cottages and picket fences that line the streets. The area is incredibly walkable, making it easy to explore on foot or by golf cart. Speaking of which, cart rentals are the preferred mode of transport here – it’s a fun way to zip around the island!
🌟 Central location: You’re just steps away from some of the island’s top attractions, including:
- Pink Sands Beach (a must-visit for its famous pink sand)
- Princess Street Gallery (for local art)
- Lone Tree (an iconic photo spot)
- Government Dock (great for people-watching)
🍽️ Foodie paradise: We recommend trying the conch salad at Queen Conch – it’s a local institution! For a more upscale experience, The Landing offers fantastic farm-to-table cuisine with a view. And don’t miss Sip Sip, a beachfront spot perfect for a leisurely lunch.
🌅 Sunset tip: For the best sunset views, head to the dock area in the evening. It’s a great spot to mingle with locals and fellow travelers alike.
🏖️ Beach access: While Dunmore Town is on the bay side of the island, the beautiful beaches are just a short cart ride away.
🎉 Night vibes: Daddy D’s nightclub is a popular spot for dancing, while Gusty’s often features live music. For a more low-key evening, many of the beach bars offer cocktails with a view.
Pink Sands Beach
🌸 Pink science: The beach’s rosy tint comes from tiny red organisms called foraminifera, which mix with the white sand to create that pink hue. It’s most vibrant at the water’s edge, so I recommend taking a leisurely stroll along the shoreline to fully appreciate its beauty.
🏄♂️ Water fun: You can:
- Go snorkeling to explore vibrant coral reefs
- Try your hand at paddleboarding or kayaking
- Take a refreshing swim in the calm, shallow waters
- Book a fishing charter for some deep-sea action
🍽️ Seaside dining: Several beachfront restaurants serve up delicious Bahamian cuisine and fresh seafood. I highly recommend trying the conch fritters or grilled lobster while enjoying panoramic ocean views.
- Blue Bar & Kitchen: this beachfront restaurant offers stunning ocean views and a menu featuring dishes like spicy jerk chicken and Stone Crab Platter. It’s an iconic spot with a terrace directly overlooking the pink beach, providing a perfect setting for breakfast, lunch, or seaside drinks.
- Malcolm 51: this fine dining restaurant offers a refined atmosphere and a menu that celebrates Harbour Island’s culture with contemporary flavors. Guests can enjoy dishes like grilled octopus and grass-fed filet while dining indoors or in the garden.
- The Dunmore: beachfront restaurant offering Caribbean-inspired dishes in a setting that blends casual fine dining with contemporary Mediterranean cuisine. Guests can dine on the oceanfront patio or in the retro-glam indoor dining room.
🚤 Island transport: Getting to here is part of the adventure. After flying into North Eleuthera Airport, you’ll take a short water taxi ride to Harbour Island. Once on the island, the most popular way to get around is by golf cart. Renting one is a fun way to explore the island and zip between your hotel and the beach.
Bay Street
🛣️ Island’s backbone: Bay Street is the vibrant main thoroughfare of Harbour Island, hugging the western shore of this tiny Caribbean gem. Stretching for about half a mile, it’s the perfect place to start your island adventure.
🌈 Lively atmosphere: This bustling street is lined with charming pastel-colored buildings, quaint shops, and some of the best restaurants on the island.
🗺️ Must-visit spots: Here are some must-visit spots on Bay Street:
- Valentine’s Marina: A great place to watch luxury yachts and fishing boats come and go
- The Straw Market: Pick up authentic Bahamian souvenirs and handcrafted goods
- Government Dock: The main arrival point for water taxis from North Eleuthera
- The Landing: A historic building now housing a chic restaurant and bar
🍽️ Foodie paradise: Bay Street is also home to some of the island’s best dining options. I recommend trying the conch fritters at Queen Conch – they’re crispy, flavorful, and Bahamian. For a more upscale experience, Rock House offers gourmet cuisine with a stunning view of the bay.
🏎️ Easy exploration: Getting around Bay Street is a breeze. While it’s easily walkable, many visitors opt to rent a cart – the preferred mode of transport on this car-free island.
Quiet residential areas
🌴 Island charm: Wandering through these neighborhoods, you’ll find charming cottages painted in pastel hues, lush tropical gardens, and friendly locals going about their daily lives. The pace here is slow, and the atmosphere is wonderfully serene – it’s the Bahamas at its most authentic.
🗺️ Area highlights: Here are some highlights of the quiet residential areas:
- Picturesque colonial-style homes
- Hidden beaches with fewer crowds
- Local fruit stands selling fresh mangoes and coconuts
- Quaint churches with interesting historical significance
🏎️ Explore freely: I recommend renting a cart to explore these areas. It’s the preferred mode of transport on the island and allows you to easily navigate the narrow streets and discover hidden corners.
🍽️ Hidden eateries: Try Ma Ruby’s Restaurant for authentic Bahamian cuisine – their conch fritters are to die for! For a quick snack, look out for small food stands selling homemade treats like coconut bread or guava duff.
🌅 Scenic views: The residential areas also offer some of the best views on the island. Head to the hilltop area for panoramic vistas of the turquoise waters surrounding Harbour Island.
🏝️ Compact island: Remember, Harbour Island is tiny – just three miles long and half a mile wide. Even in the residential areas, you’re never far from the main attractions. A short golf cart ride can take you back to the pink beaches or the restaurants of Bay Street in no time.
🎉 Local events: Visit the local community center or bulletin boards to find out about any events happening during your stay. You might stumble upon a local festival, fish fry, or craft market that offers a true taste of island life.
Best accommodation in Harbout Islands: 🏨
⭐ Best hotels
- Pink Sands Resort – offers luxurious accommodations with private cottages and direct access to the famous pink beaches. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a swimming pool, tennis courts, and fine dining options.
- Valentines Resort & Marina – features spacious suites perfect for those looking to explore the waters. The resort includes a fitness center, spa services, and on-site dining with fresh seafood.
- The Cove Eleuthera – offers a serene retreat with stunning ocean views and luxurious amenities. Guests can enjoy private beaches, an infinity pool, and gourmet dining options.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Bay Inn Estates – provides comfortable and affordable accommodations with a relaxed atmosphere. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool, garden areas, and easy access to nearby attractions.
- Coral Sands Hotel – features elegant accommodations with direct access to the famous pink beach. The hotel boasts a restaurant, a freshwater pool, and a variety of activities for guests.
- The Sugar Apple Lodging – provides cozy and charming accommodations with a friendly atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast, lush gardens, and proximity to local attractions.
2. Factors to Consider When Choosing Accommodation: Key Decision-Making Points 🤔
💰 Budget matters: Harbour Island offers a range of options, from luxury resorts to more modest guesthouses. I recommend setting your budget first, as this tiny paradise can get pricey. Remember, oceanfront rooms typically cost more than those set back from the beach.
Money Saver: Consider staying in the quieter residential areas for more budget-friendly options. You might snag a charming private cottage or guesthouse that’s easier on the wallet.
🏖️ Location, location, location: Decide what’s most important to you – beachfront bliss, sea views, or a quiet spot in town? The island may be small, but each area has its own vibe.
- Pink Sands Beach: For that iconic pink sand experience
- Dunmore Town: If you want to be close to shops and restaurants
- The sea: Great for boat enthusiasts and sunset views
Insider Tip: If you’re after those postcard-perfect beach views, look for accommodations on the eastern side of the island facing the Atlantic.
🏨 Amenities checklist: Make a list of must-have amenities. Are you after:
- A luxurious spa for ultimate relaxation?
- Water sports equipment for ocean adventures?
- A fitness center to keep up your workout routine?
- Restaurants on-site for convenient dining?
Top Tip: Many hotels offer complimentary beach gear like chairs and umbrellas. If this is important to you, check before booking.
🚗 Transportation options: Carts are the main mode of transport on Harbour Island. Some hotels offer complimentary carts with your stay, while others can arrange rentals.
Time Saver: If you plan to explore the island, staying somewhere with easy cart access can make your trip much smoother.
3. Places of Interest – Must-See Attractions 🌟
🏖️ Pink Sands Beach: No trip to Harbour Island is complete without visiting its famous Pink Sands Beach. Stretching for three miles along the eastern coast, this beach is a true natural wonder. The sand gets its unique pink hue from tiny red organisms called foraminifera mixing with the white sand. It’s not just pretty – it’s also incredibly soft underfoot!
🏘️ Dunmore Town: Step back in time as you wander through the charming streets of Dunmore Town. This historic settlement is a treasure trove of pastel-colored colonial buildings, picturesque churches, and quaint shops. Don’t miss:
- The Loyalist Cottage: A perfect example of 18th-century local architecture
- St. John’s Anglican Church: Dating back to 1768
- Government Dock: Great for people-watching and soaking in the local vibe
🌳 The Lone Tree: This iconic weathered tree on the beach has become a symbol of Harbour Island. It’s a favorite spot for photos and a great landmark for beach walks.
🛥️ Briland Club: Even if you’re not arriving by boat, the marina is worth a visit. It’s a great place to admire luxury yachts, enjoy a sunset drink, or book a boat tour.
🏊♂️ Underwater adventures: The waters around Harbour Island are teeming with marine life. Popular spots include:
- Current Cut: One of the world’s top drift dives
- Devil’s Backbone: A challenging reef known for its shipwrecks
🛍️ Shopping in Dunmore Town: For a taste of local culture and some unique souvenirs, check out:
- Straw Market: For authentic local crafts
- Princess Street Gallery: Showcasing local art
- Blue Rooster: A chic boutique for island-inspired fashion
4. Best Time to Visit Harbour Island – Seasonal Guide for Travelers 🗓️
🌞 Winter (December to February): This is peak season on Harbour Island, and for good reason. With temperatures ranging from 70°F to 75°F, it’s perfect for escaping colder climates. The island buzzes with energy and festive vibes.
Insider Tip: Book your accommodations at least three months in advance for this popular period.
🌸 Spring (March to May): Spring brings warmer temperatures, typically between 75°F and 80°F. It’s an ideal time for outdoor activities and water sports. The island is less crowded than winter, but still lively.
Money Saver: Look for deals in late spring as the high season winds down.
☀️ Summer (June to August): Contrary to what you might think, summer can be a great time to visit. Yes, it’s warmer, but constant breezes make it comfortable. Plus, you’ll find fewer crowds and potentially lower rates.
Top Tip: Don’t let hurricane concerns deter you. They’re rare in Harbour Island, and the community is well-prepared.
🍂 Fall (September to November): This is the quietest time on the island. If you’re looking for solitude and the lowest rates, this is your season. The island takes on a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
Time Saver: Many hotels close for maintenance from late August to November, so check availability before planning your trip.
Insider Tip: If you’re planning a short trip, avoid public holidays when many businesses close. Check the local holiday calendar when planning your visit.
5. Transportation to Harbour Island – Getting There and Around 🚢✈️
✈️ Flying In: Your journey typically starts with a flight to North Eleuthera Airport (ELH). Here are your options:
- Direct flights from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Atlanta, or Charlotte to ELH
- Fly to Nassau, then take a short domestic flight to ELH
Insider Tip: Book flights to ELH early, especially during peak season. They fill up fast!
🚕 From Airport to Dock: Once you land at ELH, it’s a quick cab ride to the dock:
- Taxi fare: $5 per person ($10 if you’re solo)
- Journey time: About 10 minutes
Money Saver: Share a taxi with other travelers to split the cost.
⛵ Water Taxi to Harbour Island: The final leg of your journey is a scenic boat ride:
- Cost: $5 per person to the main dock, $6 to other marinas
- Duration: 5-10 minutes
- Available until 9 PM daily
Top Tip: No need to book in advance. Boats leave regularly and wait until they’re full.
🏎️ Getting Around the Island: Harbour Island’s charm lies in its compact size. Here’s how to explore:
- Carts: The island’s preferred mode of transport
- Rental cost: Around $50-$65 per day for a 4-seater
- Many hotels offer complimentary carts
- Walking: Perfect for short distances in Dunmore Town
- Bicycles: Some hotels provide them for guests
- Taxis: Available but less common than carts
Time Saver: If you’re staying for a week, many cart rental companies offer a “pay for 6 days, get the 7th free” deal.
FAQs about trips to Harbour Island ❔
Where to stay in Bay of Islands, NZ?
The Duke of Marlborough Hotel in Russell and The Waterfront Suites in Paihia are two highly-rated options in the Bay of Islands. Both offer scenic waterfront locations and easy access to attractions in the area.
How much are hotels near Pink Sand Beach?
Hotels near Pink Sand Beach are typically 37% more expensive than the average hotel in Harbour Island, which is $294 per night. Specific rates will vary by property and season, but expect to pay a premium for beachfront locations.
What are the best cheap hotels in Harbour Island?
Tingum Village Hotel offers down-to-earth cottages at more affordable rates compared to luxury resorts on the island. For budget-friendly options, consider guesthouses or vacation rentals in the quieter residential areas away from the beach.
What are the best hotels near Dunmore Town?
Pink Sands Resort and Valentines Resort & Marina are two highly-rated upscale options located right in Dunmore Town. Both offer easy access to shops and restaurants while still providing beach access and resort amenities.
Which hotels are closest to North Eleuthera Intl Airport?
The search results don’t provide specific information about hotels near the airport. However, most accommodations on Harbour Island are a short water taxi ride from the North Eleuthera airport dock, so proximity to the airport is not typically a major factor in choosing where to stay.
