Getting to Harbour Island isn’t exactly simple—unless, of course, you happen to live in South Florida. Most visitors catch a short flight from Ft. Lauderdale to North Eleuthera, while some adventurous South Floridians opt to travel by boat. We chose the flight route, only to discover at check-in that a health visa was required. Cue a frantic hour of paperwork and approvals before we were officially cleared for takeoff. Thankfully, we made our flight, and what awaited on the other side was worth every bit of effort.
From North Eleuthera Airport, the journey is a little puzzle of planes, taxis, and boats. A five-dollar cab ride took us to the dock, followed by another quick boat taxi across turquoise waters ($5 per person again). On arrival, we were greeted by Michael Higgs, the kind and charismatic owner of Michael’s Cycles and Golf Cart Rentals. He handed us the keys to our golf cart—your essential mode of transport here—and personally dropped us off at our home for the week: The Salt Box.
Where We Stayed: The Salt Box
The Salt Box is no ordinary VRBO. This romantic, historical cottage sits right in the heart of Harbour Island and carries nearly two centuries of history within its coral stone walls. Built in 1820, the property blends old-world craftsmanship with charming Bahamian character. Two cottages rest on the property, and together they can accommodate up to ten guests—making it ideal for families or groups traveling together.
The interiors are a dream. The kitchen, for instance, feels like something out of a design magazine. Originally restored by interior designer Tom Sheerer, the space boasts Cuban tile floors, a semi indoor-outdoor layout, and an original coral stone hearth. Few homes can claim a working fireplace in the kitchen, but The Salt Box can.
I stayed in the master suite, and I’ll admit—it stole my heart. From the clawfoot tub to the chalky seafoam green walls (a traditional Bahamian nod to ward off wasps, as folklore says), the details made mornings feel bathed in magic. Outside, an open-air shower became my daily indulgence. And while we didn’t grill much, the property’s “Clam Shell” barbecue, built from stone quarried on site, added to the rustic, timeless charm.
In 2016, a guest cottage and pool were added, designed by architect Kiko Sanchez with interiors by Palm Beach favorite Amanda Lindroth. My parents stayed there, happily ensconced in spacious bedrooms with another dreamy outdoor shower and their own clawfoot tub.
Beyond the design, The Salt Box shines in its shared outdoor spaces. We spent afternoons lounging with music, evenings stargazing (I even spotted a shooting star), and mornings chatting over coffee. Work talk at the beginning of the trip gave way to conversations about baby chickens roaming the property and daydreams of living simply in the Bahamas.
What to Do on Harbour Island
No trip here is complete without time at Pink Sands Beach. Its powder-soft sand really does blush at sunset, and we made it a daily ritual. Renting umbrellas from nearby hotels is easy, especially if you order food or drinks from their beachfront restaurants.
For adventure, we booked a full-day charter with Ruben of Tyman Charters. Skipping the famous pigs (not quite my thing), we spent our hours exploring hidden sandbars, collecting shells, and swimming near private islands. We spotted turtles, stingrays, and starfish, all while listening to Ruben’s stories about life on the water. His knowledge and love for the sea made the day unforgettable.
Shopping here is also a joy. I couldn’t resist a personalized straw hat at A Hidden Treasure, while boutiques like Dake’s, Sugar Mill, and Blue Rooster offered plenty of charming finds.
Where to Eat
If Harbour Island is known for its beaches, it’s equally celebrated for its food scene. A heartfelt thank you goes to Zoë de Givenchy, founder of the beautiful home and tableware brand Z.d.G., who suggested several standouts.
Favorites included The Landing, The Dunmore, Queen’s Conch, and Ocean View Club for lunch. We also loved the plant-based dishes at Sweet Spot Vegan Café, cozy mornings at Cocoa Coffee House, and the elegant atmosphere of The Rock House. My parents adored Briland Club, while we often stopped at Valentines Marina for casual bites. Each meal seemed to highlight the island’s effortless blend of fresh ingredients and relaxed sophistication.
A Trip to Remember
Though I told myself I’d catch up on work during this trip, Harbour Island had other plans. Days slipped into a rhythm of sun, sand, laughter, and family connection. For once, I let the emails wait, and I can’t imagine a better choice.
As our plane lifted off at the end of the week, I looked back at the island, already missing its easy beauty. There are vacations you take and forget, and then there are places like Harbour Island—ones that etch themselves into your memory and make you quietly vow to return.
Thank you, Salt Box, for being more than just a place to stay. You were part of the magic, and I’ll never forget it.