Do you promise not to tell? One of the best kept secrets in the Bahamas is Harbor Island. This small romantic island, known as “Briland” by its inhabitants, is a short distance from the United States. A one-hour flight from Florida to North Eleuthera, followed by a short taxi and water taxi ride quickly whisks you to this Bahamian gem.
Harbor Island is less than 4 miles long and 1/2 mile wide. Its long and wide beach is famous for its compact pale pink sand. The likes of Fodors and Conde Nast call it one of the “best beaches in the Bahamas.” The beach, combined with great restaurants, hotels, and vacation home rentals, makes Harbor Island a destination of choice among Bahamian enthusiasts. It is not surprising to find some “rich and famous” there, they know they will not be persecuted.
At the center of Harbor Island is Dunmore Town. This quaint and friendly community features old Victorian structures adorned in colorful Bahamian pastel paint schemes. There are no high-rise hotels, fast food, or traffic jams on this island!
Golf cart rentals are the transportation of choice. Swimming, snorkeling, diving, fishing and just walking on the beach are some of the popular activities. To be sure, Harbor Island isn’t known for its shopping and nightlife, or its gambling. If you’re looking for big crowds, wild parties, or theme park rides, this isn’t your destination.
Harbor Island weather is lovely; especially during late winter and spring when there is little chance of rain. Ocean breezes soften the moderately warm temperatures that range from the 70s to the 80s during the day and the late 60s at night. Air conditioning during the season is unnecessary; ceiling fans are adequate. There is nothing better than falling asleep to the sounds of the ocean through an open window.
Dining out is informal. Top restaurants include Pink Sands Hotel, Coral Sands, The Landing, Rock House, Romora Bay Club, and Harbor Lounge. If you are looking for local food, Ma Ruby’s is not to be missed. And there’s more… Part of the joy of exploring the island is getting to know the restaurants. Compared to other islands in the Bahamas, Harbor Island has one of the best selections of restaurants, all in close proximity to wherever you stay.
On the ocean side, hotels include Pink Sands Hotel, Coral Sands Hotel, and Dunmore Beach Club. On the bay side, there is The Landing Inn and Rock House. Do we have a budget? There are other hotels to choose from. Visiting Harbor Island isn’t cheap, but if it were, everyone would be there, right?
Harbor Island vacation home and villa rentals are numerous. Location and size come at a price. If you want “beachfront”, the best locations are usually in the north and south along the east coast. If you want to save a bit, there are some good rentals in Dunmore Town and others located in the interior of the island. The beach is always minutes away.
Look for houses for rent online that offer more than a few photos so you know what to expect. Many rentals are handled by rental or real estate agents who may not provide many details, descriptions, map locations, or photos. Landlords who care to promote their home rentals often have separate websites and accept email inquiries directly.
The best Harbor Island home rentals are booked almost a year in advance of peak season. Those who want the best make early reservations; many are repeat customers. You can also take a “hold” position on various rentals in the hope that someone will call them off. Ask for references and double check policies for deposits and refunds.
If you are looking for a memorable and relaxed vacation in the Bahamas complete with sun, sea, great food and a romantic beach that will take your breath away, consider Harbor Island. See you at the beach!
Copyright © 2004 Perry Jose