Harbour Island Bahamas
Just a short two-hour direct flight from the Atlanta Airport, lands you in the Bahamas (i.e. a true slice of paradise).
We were fortunate enough to experience the incredible beauty of one of the many islands- thanks to two of our favorite people tying the knot (and a full weekend of festivities) on Harbour Island.
With its’ super convenient location to the southeast US and the ease of getting around once your on the island, it’s a mystery to me why we didn’t discover this gem of a destination earlier on.
Read on to learn more about the logistics of getting to Harbour Island, how to get around, and where to eat, drink and explore once you’re there.
How to get there & getting around the island:
We flew directly to North Eleuthera Airport (ELH) from Atlanta on a convenient 2-hour direct flight. Once we stepped off onto the runway, we made our way through the small, open-air airport; customs, baggage claim and immediately hopped into one of the many taxi cabs waiting outside. After the 5 minute cab ride to the water taxis, it’s another quick 5 minute scenic ride to the Government Dock. Although it may seem like a lot of logistics, it’s all fairly quick, easy and most importantly – worth it !!!
After grabbing a taxi from the Government Dock upon drop off ($5/per person taxi ride) to our hotel; we were greeted by our golf cart rental rep. We signed a few papers and it was a quick and easy transition to get our golf cart keys and off we went!
A golf cart is 100% the way to get around the island in my opinion. This way you are not dependent on taxi cabs and waiting or trying to find a ride. There are several reputable golf cart rental companies that came recommended from the bride and groom. We ended up using Major’s Golf Cart Rentals and were happy with service.
(Other options include Conch and Coconut or Ross Rentals)
Where We Stayed:
- Coral Sands Hotel: We were able to stay using our Chase Reserve credit card points which is just one of many of the hotels we’ve been been to stay at thanks to this perk. Coral Sands has several different accommodation levels – from private bungalows and cottages to a more basic room or suite at the main Inn.
- The Dunmore: Several friends stayed at this iconic hotel just a 5 minute walk down the beach from us at Coral Sands. If you’ve ever randomly searched photos for “Harbour Island” there is a decent chance you will come across the blue and white striped beach/towel shack. From a budget standpoint, this is a next level up for cost but everyone seemed pleased with their stay!
There are several other hotel options to check out on the island including large rental homes which would be perfect for a big group. I can only speak to the 2 above from our personal stay as well as friend’s stay during the weekend.
Where to Eat & Drink:
- The Dunmore: this iconic hotel is one you’ve likely seen photographed if you’ve come across photos from Harbour Island and I mentioned in the ‘places to stay’ as well. We enjoyed an amazing lunch complete with tuna nachos, fresh catch fish tacos, and topped off with their signature frozen lemonade. All the whole, enjoying views of the turquoise water and white sand below! Highly recommend dining at the Clubhouse restaurant (make reservations if you’re trying to eat dinner there)!
- The Landing: Our favorite spot of the trip for dinner! 100% make reservations if you want a chance to dine here. We split their fresh catch of the day, chicken curry, dessert and more. Everything was a hit and loved the quaint homey atmosphere as well!
- Cocoa Coffee: our daily coffee and smoothie run spot! One of my favorite things to do in a new destination is find a great coffee shop and this one checked off all the boxes. A quick 5 minute golf cart ride from our hotel and I was able to enjoy an iced latte, green smoothie or a vibrant pitaya / açaí bowl to kick off the day. (Try their Pitaya bowl, ‘Straight Outta Ocean’, Spirulina or ‘Green Power’ smoothie!)
- Arthurs Bakery: another island must-visit! If you’re going for breakfast, you will not regret ordering the banana pancakes – they were mouth watering, I promise! And if you go for lunch, the lobster melt was simple yet to die for.
- Sweet Spot Cafe: A plant-based Juice bar / Cafe. Includes a menu full of fresh cold pressed juice, bowls and smoothies; vegan desserts and organic snacks (expect to pay a pretty penny!!). This is a great spot if you have special dietary needs (gf / df /etc.).
- Latitude 25 and the Beach Bar: The two options available at Coral Sands Hotel. You can enjoy a more ‘ fine dining ‘ experience at their main restaurant, Latitude 25 or a more casual lunch at their ‘Beach Bar‘ overlooking the ocean. We tried both and you can’t go wrong! (For lunch try the Greek Salad from the beach bar
Lastly – if you are planning a special event / wedding etc. I cannot speak highly enough of the destination that our friends chose to get married. The Other Side is like an upscale, beachside eco-‘Glamping’ paradise. I don’t have words to properly describe just how amazing it was but WOW our friends did good! Pictures below show the tranquil beachside set up where the wedding was held as well as the pool that jets out over the ocean where we attended an after-wedding pool party. (NOTE: You do have to take a water taxi to get here as it’s not on Harbor Island)
Looking for more warm-weather destinations? Check out my Turks and Caicos, St Thomas USVI, or Belize travel guides!