Located in the Bahamas, just northwest of Eleuthera Island, Harbour Island offers some of the most breathtaking views in the Atlantic. Referred to as “Briland” by locals, it’s a destination renowned for its stunning pink-sand beaches and the stylish jet-setters who frequent this resort destination, including famous names like Uma Thurman and Elle Macpherson.
Visitors should not miss their chance to experience the famed pink sand. On the island’s east side, three miles of beautiful beaches get their magnificent hue from foraminifera, small sea creatures with reddish-pink shells.
While it may be tempting to spend all your time on the beach, do take the opportunity to venture into the water. Harbour Island’s shore is safeguarded by a unique reef system, maintaining crystal-clear waters that are ideal for snorkeling. For those interested in deeper ocean exploration, the island offers excellent professionally guided dive tours—think shipwrecks, coral reefs, and underwater caves.
If you’ve never had a Goombay Smash, this island is the perfect place to try one. This official drink of the Bahamas combines several rums and tropical fruit juices, making it an ideal way to unwind after a long day under the sun.
Shopping is another popular activity on Harbour Island. Known as the Nantucket of the Caribbean, tourists can browse through colorful, upscale boutiques filled with unique finds. Be sure to stroll through Dunmore Town to explore the curated shops that line its charming streets.
To ensure you have a memorable souvenir, make a stop into A&A Hidden Treasures for timeless pieces, like a silver palm plait bag. Other must-have gifts include Barbara Hulanicki’s silk scarves, available at the Siren Song gift shop at the Coral Sands Hotel.
1. Stay at an oceanfront cottage at Coral Sands Hotel
The newly renovated, 39-room property offers charmingly spacious cottages (one and two bedrooms) with private entrances to the stunning turquoise waters and blush seashore of Pink Sands Beach. The owners, Jorge Mora and Silma and Tom Sherman, enlisted Eddie Lee to update the 50-year-old property, preserving its vibrant island colors while adding a modern yet cozy feel.
The Coral Sands Beach Bar serves as the perfect spot for lunch amidst dips in the Atlantic Ocean, while the upscale Latitude 25, which reopened in November 2018, fuses Moroccan flavors with the delightful local island fare during dinner.
2. Rent a golf cart and explore Dunmore Town
While locals drive cars around the 3.5 by 1.5-mile island, the most enjoyable way for tourists to navigate is by golf cart.
With its pastel facades and English colonial houses adorned with vibrant fuchsia bougainvillea, Dunmore Town represents the picturesque heart of the island. Simply wandering along its quaint streets reveals charming restaurants, boutiques, and vibrant churches. The town features a small Pigly Wigly grocery store for all the essentials.
3. Grab coffee and freshly squeezed juices at Cocoa
If you crave a strong caffeine fix, fresh acai bowls, or freshly squeezed juices, look no further than Cocoa. This bright, lemon-yellow café is located across from Valentines Marina. Dine on the charming white wooden terrace or take your coffee for a stroll along the marina—it’s a perfect way to kick-start your morning.
4. Promenade along Pink Sands Beach
The highlight of your visit will undoubtedly be spending time swimming and sunbathing at the spectacular Pink Sands Beach. It’s pure paradise. However, ensure that you also wander along the shoreline to discover other charming boutique hotels, esteemed restaurants, and stunning real estate.
5. Eat lunch at Sip Sips
In Briland, the local term for “gossip” is “sip sip,” which explains why this restaurant is the go-to spot for everyone on the island. Indulge in the famous lobster quesadillas and spicy margaritas while enjoying a stunning view over Pink Sands Beach. Open only for lunch, you’ll certainly find yourself eager to return before your trip ends.
6. Purchase a monogrammed woven tote
Upon arriving at Harbour Island’s dock, you’ll notice that everyone carries colorful, embroidered jute woven totes. These bags are one of Briland’s specialties, and A and A Hidden Treasures provides the best-quality totes, along with other woven accessories and quick custom embroidery services.
This shop, located outside Dunmore Town, may be a little hidden but is definitely worth seeking out.
7. Order conch fritters at Queen Conch
Just a short distance from the landing dock in Dunmore Town, the wooden terrace of Queen Conch overlooks the bay. This venue is perfect for a sunset snack, with all conch dishes prepared right before your eyes. Favorites include conch ceviche, conch fritters, and cracked conch.
Should you get lost, keep an eye out for the towering pile of conch shells to your left, marking the restaurant’s location.
8. Go horseback riding at sunset
Experience the romantic glow of sunset at Pink Sands Beach. If you’re feeling adventurous, find Marty’s lineup of chestnut horses grazing on the beach between Coral Sands Hotel and Pink Sands Resort. Typically, Marty rides the shoreline in his cowboy hat, and in true island fashion, reservations must be made directly with him as he does not have a phone.
9. Have dinner at Rock House and The Landing
When it comes to the best dining locations on Harbour Island’s bayside, it’s a tough call between locals’ favorite, Rock House, and the popular The Landing. Both are must-tries.
Rock House showcases a clean and simple colonial-style interior designed by J. Wallace Tutt (responsible for Gianni Versace’s Miami mansion) with alfresco dining around a stunning pool amidst towering palm trees. Be sure to order the Roasted Bahamian Lobster Tail accompanied by a Goombay Smash—it’s the island’s signature cocktail.
In contrast, The Landing’s sleek, plantation-style design by India Hicks (Princess Diana’s youngest bridesmaid) features a Hemingway-esque bar where enjoying a cocktail before dinner is a must. Don’t forget to reserve a table on the veranda, and make sure to try the Goat Cheese Ravioli.
10. Bar hop and dance the night away
Although retiring early is common on Harbour Island due to its relaxed atmosphere, weekends bring a shift, as lively bar outings become the norm.
Gusty’s Bar welcomes early arrivals, while Daddy D’s provides a fabulous space for late-night dancing, complete with lively tunes spun by Daddy D himself under flashing disco lights. After a night of dancing, join your fellow revelers at the Vic Hum Club, the island’s oldest bar, where late-nighters engage in fun ping-pong tournaments and basketball games.
