Go warm up on HARBOUR ISLAND, BAHAMAS
Harbour Island is a tiny island reached by water taxi from another tiny island that a tiny planes flies into. Needless to say it is remote. Which most great places are these days. We used to come to Harbour Island when we were little girls with our family and when we returned in our late teens, it was even more perfect than we remembered. So perfect in fact, that Mary chose to have her wedding here in 2007 which was an excellent combination of laid back beachiness, rum inspired fun and Bahamian sophistication. One of the most beautiful white powdery sand beaches, with just a hint of pale pink, that stretches for miles and miles with turquoise water that is crystal clear and free from anything you might not want to step on—is enough to make Harbour Island a destination worth traveling all day to get to. The beach and water are just two of it’s many charms, however. The town is picturesque with brightly painted clapboard cottages lining narrow lanes that golf carts and the rare car zip down. Roosters and wild horses make up some of the other island traffic. Don’t let the remote, modernized Robinson Crusoe vibe fool you though, there are actually some pretty swishy places on the island to enjoy Goombay Smashes (the local rum drink) and amazing conch dishes. Harbour Island’s star has risen a bit recently due to some publicity surrounding India Hicks, a model, entrepreneur and Prince Charles’ cousin, who is a proud local on the island. The island has also attracted nearly every A list celebrity which is glamorous, but anyone who loves Harbour Island hopes it won’t go to it’s head and spoil the unfussy, unspoiled nature of the island.
EAT
Queen Conch
The pink shack right next to Governor’s Dock, this is the best cracked conch and conch fritters ever!!
Dunmore Deli
242-333-2644
The only gourmet deli on the island. Delicious sandwiches to eat on the porch or take to the beach. Limited upscale groceries. Patrick can also cater parties very adeptly.
Sip Sip
242-333-3316
Hard to miss this large acid green house right on the beach. This is the spot for lunch for tourists and locals alike. Delicious lobster salad amongst other traditional items executed with an international twist and fruity cocktails. Wander up straight off the beach.
Dunmore Beach Club
242-333-2200
877-891-3100
www.dunmorebeach.com
We love this old school small hotel right on the beach—it was the setting for Mary’s wedding reception! All three meals are served on their outdoor patio or inside the dining room. If the weather permits ask to have dinner outside in the gazebo overlooking the beach. Ryan, the chef delivers exciting and delicious upscale cuisine that is matched by the formal service and setting.
The Landing
242-333-2707
www.harbourislandlanding.com
This is our favorite dinner spot on the island. The intimate red bar is an elegant yet cozy setting for a before and after dinner drink and the food in the restaurant is outstanding.
STAY
Dunmore Beach Club
242-333-2200
877-891-3100
www.dunmorebeach.com
For old school charm and pastel colored rooms right on the beach. The staff is also lovely.
Ocean View Club
242-333-2276
ben.oceanview@gmail.com
A more bohemian feel – stay in one of the little cottages on the property. We love “Mayonnaise.”
Brialand Real Estate
242-333-2278
www.brilandrealestate.com
We often rent houses as it is more economical with a group and there are so many fabulous ones to choose from.
SPECIAL NOTE
Bring cash as sometimes the lines go down and credit card machines and the one ATM are out of service. That being said, keep your cash and other valuables in a safe as sadly there is theft on this little island paradise.