Perched close to enthralling Eleuthera’s northern tip, tiny Harbour Island packs a punch when it comes to picturesque beaches and Bahamian charm. Brilliant for travellers looking to simply kick back on sparkling Pink Sand Beach, the island is also home to lively Dunmore Town, which features an appealing array of restaurants, independent boutiques and small-scale live music venues. Accommodation options range from heritage homes to glamorous seaside resorts with top-notch eateries of their own, fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Many of the best places to stay on Harbour Island are set either within pretty Dunmore Town, or on the sand — whichever you choose, the other is within easy reach.

Known as ‘Briland’ to locals, Harbour Island is just three miles long and half a mile wide. Dunmore Town is near the heart of the island, and can be an ideal base — or a great spot for an afternoon wander. Expect pastel-painted buildings housing intriguing shops, galleries and eateries. Princess Street Gallery is a particular highlight.

World-famous Pink Sand Beach sits to the east, and is perfect for strolls, swims and sunbathing. Out on the water, you’ll find top-notch snorkelling, diving, fishing, kayaking and sailing. Northern Eleuthera is a mere mile away by water taxi, making it well-suited to day or half-day trips. Striking Spanish Wells is also a fun destination for a boat ride, snorkelling, lobster fishing and swimming with pigs!

Whether you’re drawn to Harbour Island by its small size, charming architecture or hip reputation, do plan your trip well in advance. This is a particularly beautiful corner of the Bahamas, and the best places to stay on Harbour Island fill up fast.

The Best Places to Stay on Harbour Island

For a Dunmore Town Stay

• Bahama House is an 11-room retreat in the heart of Dunmore Town. Spacious, individually decorated guestrooms feature four-poster beds and quirky artwork, plus there's a freshwater pool and hand-crafted tiki bar for an evening rum punch or two. There are heaps of lovely eateries in the area. An intimate stay for couples, friends or families — who can book a two-bedroom cottage — in a historic building.
• Rock House offers ten inviting guestrooms and suites on Dunmore Town's historic Bay Street. Open since the 1940s, this boutique spot is a bit of a Harbour Island classic. Highlights include the sophisticated vibe, excellent cuisine and lovely swimming pool. A grown up property, with the feel of a private residence rather than a hotel.
• The Landing is a hip, India Hicks-designed boutique pad in Dunmore Town. Expect 13 characterful, plantation-style rooms in a 200-year-old heritage house, a generous wine cellar and delicious dishes crafted by Chef Madelene Pedican in the world-class restaurant. A quirky choice for foodies and explorers.

For a Beach Break

• Pink Sands features 25 chic rooms, suites and villas set along superb Pink Sand Beach. The two-bedroom cottages and villas are ideal for families, and little ones will adore exploring the 26 acres of gardens, building sand castles on the beach, playing tennis or sampling the many water sports. The slick bar and locally-sourced menu of outstanding restaurant dishes will be a sure-fire hit with the grown ups! Small and luxurious.
• The Ocean View Club is a lovely beach property for couples or families. Family-run, small and relaxed, this is a brilliant spot to unwind amidst marvellous design in a tented cottage or room just steps from the sand. A laid-back pick for travellers who will appreciate a chilled vibe and fabulous interiors.
• The Dunmore has the feel of an exclusive beach club, with glamorous suites, cottages and villas set across 10 acres of beachfront grounds. This is a wonderful place to hide away as a honeymoon couple or families on holiday together, with the advantage of venturing out to a 1960s-inspired clubhouse, beach-facing bar and smart fitness centre. Expect watersports and soothing massages, too.
• Coral Sands is a striking seaside hotel set on nine beautiful acres of gardens just outside Dunmore Town. There are three miles of white sand on your doorstep, as well as 39 elegant rooms and suites featuring cool tiled floors and dark wood furniture. Stroll from the pool to the library, the billiards room, the tennis court and the superb French-Bahamian restaurant. A charming choice for active couples, families or friends.
• Runaway Hill Club sits on a bluff overlooking Pink Sand Beach. Choose to stay in the main house or a nearby cottage to enjoy picturesque ocean views, feast on locally-grown produce, and embark upon an abundance of activities organised by the club's friendly team. A simpler stay for families or groups, with lashings of classic Bahamian style.

For Keen Sailors, Anglers & Divers

• Valentines Resort & Marina is a wonderfully family-friendly choice for active travellers, with heaps to do on both land and water. Accommodation options are flexible and offer space for children or groups, whilst the marina is the largest on Harbour Island. There's excellent diving and sports fishing, too. One for outdoorsy adventurers.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Harbour Island?

• Fly to North Eleuthera International Airport and take a short water taxi ride across to Harbour Island, just 4 miles from the airport. Most hotels will be happy to coordinate an airport pick up for you in advance, although affordable water taxis also leave regularly.
• There's so much to see in the Bahamas! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel between November and mid-April for warm, dry weather. The hurricane season — July to October — is best avoided. The Christmas and New Year season is especially busy, so book your trip well in advance. Travel in late April or May for great hotel deals.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Eleuthera.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the Bahamas.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.