Over the years we have established a tradition of escaping the dark, cold days of the East Coast for a week on the pink sand beach of Harbour Island (you can see photos from past trips here and here). This tiny outpost in the Caribbean Sea is less than four-miles long and eschews the feel of a traditional beach destination in nearly every way. On Harbour Island, you won’t see a chain resort or a hundred-room hotel – instead, this small but decidedly chic island opts for discrete accommodations in luxuriously quaint boutique hotels and historic homes scattered down the beach and in the 18th-century Dunmore Town. Golf carts are the transportation of choice for both locals and tourists, making the island feel that much more relaxed and charming. Dreaming of a trip to Harbour Island? Scroll down for my travel guide!
Planning your destination wedding in the Bahamas? Seeking Harbour Island wedding photography? Contact me!
STAY
- The Dunmore: My favorite hotel on Harbour Island, the Dunmore is 1960’s resort glam at it’s finest. Designed by Nassau-based Amanda Lindroth, this 10-acre property features breezy patios, vintage rattan, pink conch shells, and scallops and stripes galore.
- Ocean View Club: We have stayed at this 12-room boutique hotel countless times and always find ourselves coming back for the indescribable magic of their beachfront cottages. Perched on the top of the famous pink sand beach, the cottages (my favorite is Pips and Marleys) have a Robinson Crusoe meets Vogue feel. If you stay here, be sure to ask the hotel staff to organize a day trip to their sister property on Eleuthera island – The Other Side.
- Bahama House: In the heart of charming Dunmore Town, this 11-room hotel feels more like a stylish friend’s beach retreat that features a freshwater swimming pool and a hand-carved tiki bar.
EAT
- The Landing: This gorgeous and buzzy boutique hotel designed by island resident and tastemaker India Hicks is one of the hottest spots on Harbour Island and dinner reservations are an absolute must. We always dine there at least 2-3 time per visit, both for dinner as well as the famed weekend brunch (trust me – order the ricotta hotcakes). Be sure to stop at the beautiful bar for a nightcap.
- Da Vine Wine Merchants: I never expected to eat sushi in the Caribbean, but the sushi at Da Vine wine bar is the real deal.
- The Dunmore: If you opt to not stay at the Dunmore, at least one lunch and dinner at the gorgeous hotel clubhouse is mandatory. For lunch – the tuna poke bowl is unmatched!
- Ocean View Club: With much of the food they serve coming from their local farm on North Eleuthera island, eating under the canopy tent at the Ocean View Club while the sea breeze blows through the windows is an absolute dream.
- Rock House: This beautiful boutique hotel overlooking the harbor offers an elegant Caribbean setting for fine dining. I highly recommend going at sunset and enjoying the beautiful views.
DO
- Shop: The shopping on Harbour Island is unmatched. I always joke that I have an ‘Island Molly’ wardrobe thanks to the years I’ve spent picking up beautiful pieces in the local shops. Favorites of mine include the Blue Rooster, India Hicks’ Sugar Mill, and Dake’s.
- Pink Sand Beach: One of my favorite things about Harbour Island is that, because it’s so small, there isn’t much to ‘do’. However, a daily walk on the famous pink sand beach is a must. Within ten minutes of strolling you’ll very likely not see another soul. It’s incredibly peaceful and romantic.
- Dunmore Town: The historic gingerbread-style houses of Dunmore Town are as charming as can be! Spend a morning strolling through the little streets and picking out your favorites.
- Scuba Dive: Let the team at Valentine’s Dive Center organize your perfect day of snorkeling or scuba diving on their lovely boats.
Harbour Island wedding photography by Molly Carr
