Posted by: Editor on Feb 28, 2005 – 10:41 AM
outislands Just one mile from better-known Eleuthera, Harbour Island is a small island with a historical claim to fame…its principal city, Dunmore Town, was the original capital of the Bahamas.
The city still retains its colonial atmosphere, with New England style architecture evident in colorful clapboard homes, painted in pastel colors and framed by white picket fences and gardens filled with flowers. The three-mile-long, half-mile wide island’s biggest attraction, however, is its three miles of pink powder sand beach, with hotels right on the beach, and friendly locals who welcome visitors to their island.
Harbour Island can be reached by water taxi from Eleuthera (from the States, fly from Miami or Fort Lauderdale to North Eleuthera, rather than Nassau). High season (most expensive) is similar to most of the Caribbean – December through April, and around major holidays – and be aware that since fall is the time of storms (hurricane season), you’ll find less selection of open hotels and shops at times during the fall. Be sure to check so you don’t arrive to find many establishments closed.
What will you find when you get to Harbour Island? A casual atmosphere, where dressing up is minimal, and a lack of pretentiousness reigns supreme. You won’t find hotels with business centers here (not as the norm), and don’t expect formal kids’ clubs, championship golf courses or spas. What you will find are friendly inhabitants (who call themselves “Brilanders” – the island is locallly known as Briland) who are willing to share the beauty and good will of their island, fabulous pink sand beaches, good hotels and local food. There’s some great diving, too, and some of the best bonefishing around. A local resident has said it far better than I can, with reasons why you should – or shouldn’t – visit.
Hotels can be luxurious or simple. Choose from Pink Sands, with 18 acres on the ocean, offering a casual retreat and twenty-five cottages (with air conditioning and a number of amenities). There’s a pool, tennis courts, gym, and gift shop, too, or the Dunmore Beach Club, where you’ll find air conditioned rooms, but TV and phones are noticeably absent. It’s a quiet retreat, somewhat elite, with prices including meals ranging from $470 to $749, September through April. Or you may enjoy the Rock House, the Landing, Romora Bay Club, Runaway Hill Club, Coral Sands Hotel or Valentine’s Resort and Marina.
Enjoy fine dining at many of the hotels, including Poseidon at the Coral Sands, the Pink Sands, Ludos at Romora Bay Club, Dunmore Beach Club, Runaway Hill Club or The Landing. For more casual fare, try Arthur’s Bakery for doughnuts, croissants and cookies, lobster sandwiches, grilled Cuban sandwiches or jerk chicken Caesar. Or you might consider a number of other local establishments, including Sip Sip (conch chili and carrot cake), the Blue Bar, Harbour Island Marina, Avery’s, Angela’s Starfish Restaurant or the Queen Conch, where you can get conch salad made fresh right in front of you. Each has their special fare and local atmosphere galore. You’ll also find some great shopping, including such spots as The Blue Rooster and Miss Mae’s. Major hotels also have some good shopping available.
In all, Harbour Island is a place to relax and escape the pressures of today’s modern world. If you go with your family, you’ll find a new togetherness born of working together as you enjoy sandy beaches and warm waters, playing a board game, exploring local shops and meeting friendly folks. Couples will find an escape where they can enjoy each other without interference from ringing telephones or the blaring sounds of televisions, email interruptions, etc. Swim in the ocean, explore the island on a golf cart, go deep sea fishing, bonefishing, or try diving. Enjoy good local food and an occasional splurge on international cuisine. And send me some pictures when you get home!
Note: By William Todd, About.com