Harbour Island
Harbour Island, Bahamas: Famous for its stunning Pink Sands Beach and charming, colorful Dunmore Town. A tranquil escape with a relaxed island vibe.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Harbour Island
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Harbour Island, Bahamas: Famous for its stunning Pink Sands Beach and charming, colorful Dunmore Town. A tranquil escape with a relaxed island vibe.
"Harbour Island is a picturesque paradise with its iconic pink sands and vibrant, colorful streets."
🚗 Golf Cart Rentals
Rent a golf cart for easy island exploration! It's the primary mode of transport and a fun way to see the sights.
💰 Budget-Friendly Stays
Look into hotels like Royal Palm or Tingum Village for more budget-conscious options.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pink Sands Beach
Eastern Shore
World-famous for its soft, rosy hues, this stunning beach is a must-see. Perfect for long walks and breathtaking photos.
Dunmore Town
Main settlement
Explore the colorful colonial-style cottages and charming boutiques of this quaint island town.
Waterfront Dining
Various locations
Savor fresh seafood and island flavors with stunning ocean views at one of the island's many restaurants.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Island Pace
Book Accommodations Early
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Golf Cart Rentals
Rent a golf cart for easy island exploration! It's the primary mode of transport and a fun way to see the sights.
💰 Budget-Friendly Stays
Look into hotels like Royal Palm or Tingum Village for more budget-conscious options.
📸 Pink Sand Photos
Visit Pink Sands Beach for iconic photos! The color is most vibrant in the morning light.
🍽️ Local Eats
Don't miss trying local Bahamian cuisine. Ask locals for their favorite spots!
🌴 The Ultimate Harbour Island, Bahamas Travel Guide – How to Get There, When to Visit, and What to Do 🏖️
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Golf Cart Rentals
Rent a golf cart for easy island exploration! It's the primary mode of transport and a fun way to see the sights.
💰 Budget-Friendly Stays
Look into hotels like Royal Palm or Tingum Village for more budget-conscious options.
📸 Pink Sand Photos
Visit Pink Sands Beach for iconic photos! The color is most vibrant in the morning light.
🍽️ Local Eats
Don't miss trying local Bahamian cuisine. Ask locals for their favorite spots!
☀️ Sun Protection
The Bahamian sun is strong! Pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. :sunwithface:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Harbour Island is praised for its stunning Pink Sands Beach and charming, colorful Dunmore Town, offering a tranquil and picturesque escape. While many enjoy the island's beauty and relaxed vibe, some visitors note that dining can be overpriced and mention instances of perceived racism or entitlement from other tourists.
"I work down here in this area I make my money majority of people are very nice but you have a lot of people that think they're entitled to the world are you supposed to stay behind. I have two or three jobs one of my jobs is security and I work down there for my security company I didn't like to experience a lot of people didn't follow simple rules because they felt like they were entitled because they had money but I didn't allow anybody to talk to me like I'm trash what overall to visit there and eat there it is good environment but it can be very racist. Make sure when you visit this place you have your money on deck and you're in and out of where you're going to visit inside of harbor Island. The food is overpriced"
Windyfeeddapeople (Windyfeeddapeople)
"I lived on Harbour Island for 12 years...a townhouse right on the water at Island Place Condos
Loved the vibe being just across a short bridge away from downtown Tampa and Water Street/Sparkman Warf areas."
Rob S.
"I loved living in this side of town. So beautiful and convenient."
Ronnie An
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Most visitors fly into North Eleuthera Airport (ELH) and then take a short taxi ride to the dock for a water taxi to Harbour Island. The water taxi ride is quick and offers scenic views.
Golf carts are the primary mode of transportation on Harbour Island. You can rent them upon arrival. They are perfect for navigating the island's charming streets and reaching its beautiful beaches.
No, Harbour Island is a car-free island. The main way to get around is by golf cart, which adds to its unique charm and relaxed atmosphere.
Yes, water taxis operate frequently between North Eleuthera and Harbour Island. These are the main ferries connecting the islands.
The closest airport is North Eleuthera Airport (ELH). From there, you'll take a short taxi to the ferry dock for your onward journey to Harbour Island.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no general admission tickets required to visit Harbour Island itself. However, you will need to pay for your water taxi fare from North Eleuthera and potentially for activities or attractions on the island.
Pink Sands Beach is a public beach and is accessible at all hours. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and safety.
No, Dunmore Town is the main settlement on Harbour Island and is freely accessible to explore. You can wander through its colorful streets and browse the shops.
Golf cart rental prices can vary, but typically range from $50-$100 per day. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season.
Yes, booking hotels and places to stay in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular resorts like Coral Sands and The Dunmore, as they tend to fill up quickly.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Must-do activities include relaxing on Pink Sands Beach, exploring the colorful streets of Dunmore Town, enjoying waterfront dining, and taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters.
The best time to visit Pink Sands Beach is generally in the morning when the light is soft and the pink hues are most pronounced. It's also beautiful at sunset.
While Harbour Island is more known for its beaches, there are opportunities for snorkeling and diving. Inquire locally about the best spots and tour operators.
Dunmore Town features charming boutiques selling resort wear, local crafts, and souvenirs. You can also find art galleries and specialty shops.
Absolutely! Harbour Island is incredibly picturesque with its colorful buildings, pink sands, and stunning ocean vistas, making it a photographer's paradise.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Popular dining spots include The Dunmore, Coral Sands, and The Landing, known for their ambiance and cuisine. For more casual eats, explore local cafes and restaurants in Dunmore Town.
Dining on Harbour Island can be on the pricier side, especially at resort restaurants. Exploring local eateries in Dunmore Town might offer more budget-friendly options.
Be sure to try fresh seafood, conch dishes (like conch fritters or cracked conch), and traditional Bahamian peas 'n' rice.
Many restaurants are accommodating and can prepare vegetarian or vegan dishes upon request. It's always best to inform your server of any dietary needs.
Yes, you can find charming cafes and hotel restaurants offering breakfast. Many offer delicious local and international options to start your day.
📸 📸 Photography
Pink Sands Beach is a must for its unique color. Dunmore Town's colorful cottages and the waterfront offer endless photo opportunities. Don't forget the charming golf carts!
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – offer the most beautiful light for photography, especially on Pink Sands Beach.
While a professional camera can capture stunning shots, your smartphone is more than capable of taking beautiful photos of Harbour Island's vibrant scenery.
While dedicated photography tours might be limited, many local guides can help you discover the most photogenic spots on the island.
Harbour Island is ideal for landscape, beach, architectural, and lifestyle photography, capturing its colorful charm and relaxed island vibe.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider staying at family-friendly resorts that offer amenities like pools and kid-focused activities. Many restaurants are accommodating to children, and the overall relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to manage family outings. Exploring Dunmore Town's colorful streets can also be an engaging activity for younger visitors.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and drinks for beach days to save on costs. Exploring Dunmore Town on foot and enjoying the natural beauty of Pink Sands Beach are free activities. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for potentially lower accommodation rates.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Many of the island's boutique hotels and resorts offer a romantic ambiance, with fine dining options and beautiful ocean views. Enjoying a quiet dinner in Dunmore Town or a private moment on the beach makes for an unforgettable romantic getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Pink Sands Beach
Visitors often describe the experience of walking on Pink Sands Beach as surreal and incredibly romantic. The gentle waves and soft sand make it perfect for leisurely strolls, sunbathing, and capturing unforgettable photographs. The best time to witness the vibrant pink color is typically in the morning light, though it remains beautiful throughout the day.
While the beach itself is a natural wonder, the surrounding area also offers opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and simply soaking in the serene island atmosphere. It's an essential stop for anyone visiting Harbour Island, offering a truly unique and memorable beach experience.
Exploring Dunmore Town: A Colorful Escape
The town is a hub for local life, featuring a variety of shops selling everything from resort wear and local crafts to art and souvenirs. You'll also find some of the island's most popular restaurants and cafes here, perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal or a refreshing drink. The architecture itself is a major draw, with beautifully maintained gingerbread-trimmed houses that are a photographer's dream.
Getting around Dunmore Town is best done on foot or by golf cart, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in its picturesque surroundings. Don't miss the opportunity to explore its hidden corners and discover its unique character. It's a place where you can truly unwind and appreciate the simple beauty of island living.
Island Transportation: Golf Carts and Water Taxis
To reach Harbour Island, visitors typically fly into North Eleuthera Airport (ELH). From ELH, a short taxi ride will take you to the ferry dock. From there, water taxis provide frequent and efficient service to Harbour Island. This short boat journey offers beautiful views of the surrounding waters and is an integral part of the arrival experience.
While golf carts are ideal for on-island travel, the water taxi is essential for connecting Harbour Island to the mainland. Both modes of transport contribute to the island's relaxed and exclusive atmosphere, ensuring a peaceful and enjoyable visit for all travelers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit