Harbour Island - Image 1

Harbour Island

4.7
·178 reviews·, The Bahamas

A picturesque island paradise famed for its unique pink sand beaches and the charming, colorful streets of Dunmore Town.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late May

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
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Harbour Island - Image 1

Harbour Island

Best Time

Late May

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A picturesque island paradise famed for its unique pink sand beaches and the charming, colorful streets of Dunmore Town.

4.7
(178 reviews)

"Prepare for an expensive but friendly, warm people and Pink Beach."

Vertical photo
TIP

Golf Cart Rentals

Rent a golf cart for easy exploration! Walk down the pier for better deals than from guys like 'Daybreak'. :oncoming_automobile:

Pink Sand Beach Bliss

Walk the miles of soft pink sand. Few shells, but the color is unforgettable. :shell:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pink Sand Beach

Pink Sand Beach

Eastern Shore

Miles of soft, powder-fine pink sand kissed by gentle turquoise waves. A truly unique and breathtaking natural wonder.

Dunmore Town

Dunmore Town

Main Town

Quaint streets lined with colorful colonial cottages and charming boutiques. The heart of Harbour Island's picturesque appeal.

Coral Sands Hotel

Coral Sands Hotel

Pink Sand Beach

A charming and quaint hotel offering a serene escape with beautiful ocean views and a welcoming atmosphere.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Pink Sand & Island Pace

Harbour Island is famed for its stunning pink sand beaches and a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere. Prepare for a slower pace of life and embrace the island's charm. Transportation is primarily by golf cart or on foot, so pack comfortable shoes and be ready to explore at your own rhythm.

Budgeting for "Billionaire Island"

Known as "Billionaire Island," Harbour Island can be an expensive destination. While there are budget-friendly hotel options, be prepared for higher costs for dining and activities. Planning your budget in advance is key to enjoying this luxurious getaway without overspending.

Best Times

When
Late May
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Crowd
Low
When
Mornings
Why
Quieter beaches, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Sunset strolls, lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Deserves a permanent spot on the feed!! Srsly the cutest and most quaint hotel 🩷🩵 !! #coralsands #harbourisland #bahamas #traveltips #travel #hotel
@monikafperry
45K likes • 481.4K views

Golf Cart Rentals

Rent a golf cart for easy exploration! Walk down the pier for better deals than from guys like 'Daybreak'. :oncoming_automobile:

Pink Sand Beach Bliss

Walk the miles of soft pink sand. Few shells, but the color is unforgettable. :shell:

Seated at Hotel Harbour Island, surrounded by the sea breeze and harbour’s calm charm. A perfect blend of peace, comfort, and timeless beauty — sometimes all you need is a quiet place by the water to pause, reflect, and breathe in serenity.” 🌊✨🏝️ #HotelHarbourIsland #IslandEscape #OceanBreeze #PeacefulVibes #HarbourLife #TravelDiaries
ramyadavjnp
23 likes • 0 views
✨ Priced to Sell – Harbour Island Life! ✨ 🏡 3BR | 3.5BA | 3 Level Townhouse-Style Condo 🛁 Each bedroom = private bath + walk-in closet 🚗 Oversized 2-car garage + extra parking 🛠️ Fresh updates: new primary bath, A/C, impact windows, appliances 🌴 Resort-style amenities: pool, clubhouse, fitness center 🎶 Walk to Bechmark (always Amelie in our hearts) Arena, Water Street, Riverwalk & Sparkman Wharf...
heather_cameronrealty
22 likes • 0 views

Budget Hotel Choices

Consider Royal Palm or Tingum Village for budget-friendly stays. :moneywithwings:

Island Pace

Embrace the slow island life. Everything moves at a relaxed pace here. :clock1:

✨🏡 Open House This Saturday! 🏡✨ 📍 Harbour Island • 12–4 PM Your weekend plans just got better. Forget brunch lines—come tour a home that doesn’t come with a waitlist. 🌴 Come see a patio big enough for yoga mats, cigar chairs, and an offer table all at once. Views included! This isn’t just a home—it’s a vibe. And it’s waiting for you. 📅 Saturday, 12–4 PM 📍 Harbour Island Come for the house, s...
jaypowell_fl_realtor
21 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Golf Cart Rentals

Rent a golf cart for easy exploration! Walk down the pier for better deals than from guys like 'Daybreak'. :oncoming_automobile:

Pink Sand Beach Bliss

Walk the miles of soft pink sand. Few shells, but the color is unforgettable. :shell:

Budget Hotel Choices

Consider Royal Palm or Tingum Village for budget-friendly stays. :moneywithwings:

Island Pace

Embrace the slow island life. Everything moves at a relaxed pace here. :clock1:

Colorful Island Style

Enjoy the vibrant, flowing fashion and friendly locals. :dress:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(178 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Harbour Island is celebrated for its stunningly beautiful pink sand beaches and the charming, quaint atmosphere of Dunmore Town. Visitors praise the friendly locals and the relaxed island pace, making it a highly recommended getaway. However, some note that the island can be quite expensive, and certain natural elements like reefs and dunes have been impacted.

"Nicknamed "Billionaire Island", be prepared for an expensive but friendly, warm people and Pink Beach. The clothes are flowing and brightly colored. Carts or walking are the best modes of transportation after taking the water taxi to the island from Eleuthera Island. Few shells on the beach. The rich have removed the reefs and destroyed parts of the dunes."

Lauri Barber

"Great time! Highly recommend this for vacation"

Lia Papadopoulos, Realtor Advisor

"Very pretty island with plenty of food and drinks. We spent 4 days on and off the island and would highly recommend harbour Island to anyone looking for a getaway. Great food, great atmosphere, friendly locals. Be sure to rent a golf cart and go exploring."

V Johnson

What People Like

Beautiful pink sand beaches
Charming Dunmore Town
Friendly locals

What People Dislike

Expensive destination
Impacted reefs/dunes

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach Harbour Island is by taking a water taxi from North Eleuthera. You'll typically fly into North Eleuthera Airport (ELH) and then take a short taxi ride to the dock for the water taxi. The water taxi ride itself is scenic and relatively quick. Reddit

Yes, Harbour Island is very walkable, especially in Dunmore Town. For longer distances, golf carts are the primary mode of transportation. Many visitors find renting a golf cart to be a fun and convenient way to explore the island. Reddit

The water taxi is the standard and most efficient way to travel between Eleuthera and Harbour Island. These operate frequently throughout the day. Reddit

While golf carts are the main transport, you can find taxis for specific needs, though they are less common than golf carts. Many accommodations can assist with arranging transportation. Reddit

No, you cannot drive your own car to Harbour Island. Vehicles are not permitted on the island, and transportation is limited to golf carts, bicycles, and walking. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no general admission tickets required to visit Harbour Island itself. However, you will need to pay for the water taxi to get there from Eleuthera, and there may be fees for specific activities or attractions. Reddit

Golf cart rental prices can vary, but expect to pay around $75-$100 per day. It's advisable to shop around and negotiate, especially for longer rentals. Reddit

The Pink Sand Beach is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy its beauty freely. Reddit

Water taxis typically run from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's best to check the latest schedules upon arrival in Eleuthera, as hours can vary seasonally. Reddit

It is highly recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons, as hotels can fill up quickly. Reddit

🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience

Must-dos include strolling along the Pink Sand Beach, exploring the charming streets of Dunmore Town, enjoying local cuisine, and perhaps a sunset boat trip. Renting a golf cart is also a popular way to see the island. Reddit

Mornings are often ideal for visiting the Pink Sand Beach as it's less crowded and the light is beautiful for photos. Evenings are also lovely for a peaceful stroll as the sun begins to set. Reddit

Expect a relaxed, friendly, and warm atmosphere. It's known for its laid-back island vibe and welcoming locals. Reddit

According to some visitors, there are not many shells on the Pink Sand Beach, as the rich have reportedly removed them. However, the sand itself is the main attraction. Reddit

Light, comfortable clothing is best. Think sundresses, shorts, and light shirts. Many visitors embrace a colorful and flowing fashion style. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Harbour Island offers a variety of dining options, from casual beachside eateries to more upscale restaurants. Popular choices often include fresh seafood and local Bahamian dishes. Reddit

Dining on Harbour Island can be on the pricier side, reflecting its 'Billionaire Island' reputation. It's advisable to budget accordingly for meals. Reddit

Look for fresh seafood like conch fritters, grilled fish, and lobster. Bahamian specialties often feature peas and rice, and plantains. Reddit

While many places are upscale, you can find more casual spots and local eateries that offer more affordable options. Exploring Dunmore Town can reveal these gems. Reddit

Options may be limited, but many restaurants are accommodating. It's best to inquire about vegetarian or vegan dishes when ordering. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Pink Sand Beach is iconic, especially during sunrise or sunset. Dunmore Town's colorful cottages and charming streets also make for beautiful shots. TikTok

Early mornings offer soft, beautiful light and fewer crowds for capturing the serene beauty of the beach and town. Golden hour in the late afternoon is also stunning. TikTok

Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or your accommodation for current rules before flying a drone. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beaches and townscapes. A good zoom lens can be useful for details. Don't forget waterproof protection for beach shots! TikTok

The pink hue is most prominent when the sand is wet, so shooting near the water's edge is ideal. Adjusting white balance in post-processing can also enhance the color. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Harbour Island offers a safe and charming environment for families. The Pink Sand Beach is perfect for kids to play on, with its soft sand and gentle waves. Renting a golf cart can be a fun adventure for the whole family as you explore the island. Dunmore Town's colorful buildings and quaint shops provide a visually stimulating experience for children. Consider packing plenty of sunscreen, hats, and light clothing for comfortable days under the Bahamian sun. TikTokReddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While known as "Billionaire Island," budget-conscious travelers can still enjoy Harbour Island. Look into more affordable accommodation options like the Royal Palm Hotel or Tingum Village Hotel. Pack snacks and consider a few self-catered meals if your accommodation allows. Exploring the Pink Sand Beach and Dunmore Town on foot or by renting a golf cart for a day are cost-effective ways to experience the island's main attractions. Reddit

💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways

Harbour Island is an idyllic destination for couples seeking a romantic escape. The Pink Sand Beach provides a stunning backdrop for sunset strolls and intimate moments. Enjoying dinner at one of the island's charming restaurants, perhaps with ocean views, adds to the romantic ambiance. Renting a golf cart for a leisurely drive through Dunmore Town or finding a secluded spot on the beach can create lasting memories. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of Pink Sand

Harbour Island's most famous feature is its breathtaking Pink Sand Beach. Stretching for miles along the island's eastern shore, the sand gets its distinctive rosy hue from microscopic coral insects called foraminifera. When these tiny organisms die, their red and pink shells mix with the white sand, creating a soft, pastel-colored shoreline. The effect is most pronounced when the sand is wet, making the water's edge a photographer's dream. Visitors often describe the sand as feeling like powder underfoot, a truly unique tactile experience. TikTok

While the pink color is the main draw, the beach also offers calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and wading. Unlike some other tropical destinations, the reefs have been impacted, meaning fewer shells are found here, but the sheer beauty of the colored sand more than makes up for it. It's a place to relax, soak in the sun, and marvel at nature's artistry. Reddit

Navigating Harbour Island: Golf Carts & Island Life

Getting around Harbour Island is an experience in itself, with golf carts being the primary mode of transportation. Cars are not permitted on the island, which contributes to its peaceful and unhurried atmosphere. Renting a golf cart allows you to easily explore Dunmore Town and venture to different parts of the island at your own pace. It's recommended to secure your golf cart rental upon arrival, and some travelers suggest walking down the pier to find better deals compared to other rental spots. Reddit

Beyond golf carts, walking is a delightful way to discover the charming streets of Dunmore Town. The colorful colonial-style cottages, boutique shops, and local eateries are best appreciated when you can stop and linger. The island's compact size means most attractions are within easy reach, fostering a sense of community and encouraging a slower, more mindful way of travel. Embrace the island's rhythm and enjoy the freedom of exploring without the hustle and bustle of traffic. TikTokReddit

Accommodation: From Budget-Friendly to Luxury

Harbour Island is known for its luxurious accommodations, earning it the nickname "Billionaire Island." However, there are options to suit different budgets. For those seeking more affordable stays, hotels like the Royal Palm Hotel and Tingum Village Hotel are frequently mentioned as good choices. These establishments offer a comfortable base for exploring the island without the premium price tag of some of the more exclusive resorts. Reddit

For travelers looking for a more upscale experience, numerous boutique hotels and private villas dot the island, many offering direct access to the Pink Sand Beach. These often feature amenities like private pools, gourmet dining, and personalized service. Regardless of your budget, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, as accommodations can fill up quickly. TikTokReddit

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