I’ve just returned from the most wonderful weekend on Harbour Island in the Bahamas, and I can’t stop replaying it in my head. Despite the weather apps predicting rain and clouds every day, the skies proved them wrong—it was perfection from the moment I stepped off the plane. Walking through what can only be described as the tiniest airport waiting room ever, I immediately felt the relaxed island rhythm seep in. Harbour Island may be small, but it has a big reputation in the luxury travel world—and after this trip, I completely understand why.
First Impressions: Laid-Back Luxury
The people were the first thing I noticed—warm, funny, and so proud of their island. It’s impossible not to feel welcome here. While the island’s size makes it quaint, its culinary and hospitality scene rival big-city favorites. Honestly, some of the meals I had here could compete with Miami’s top chefs. And the whole time, I kept thinking, My fiancé would fall in love with this place.
Our home for the weekend was Eleven Experience’s Bahama House, a blush-pink 1800s British-style villa that feels like stepping into a Slim Aarons photograph. With its charming guest suites, chic tiki bar, and dreamy pool, it struck the perfect balance between sophisticated and relaxed. Evenings were spent perched at the tiki bar with “The Doctor,” the resident mixologist whose cocktails were as creative as they were refreshing. Each night brought a new round of après snacks, which somehow paired flawlessly with long conversations and the hum of island music.
The design of Bahama House made me smile—it echoed so many details from my recently renovated apartment: rattan accents, grasscloth textures, vintage-style furniture. It was a little surreal, like being at home but in the middle of paradise.
Golf Carts and Island Charm
Getting around Harbour Island couldn’t have been easier. With car-free streets, golf carts are the way to go. I zipped through town in minutes, never worrying about traffic. And when I did get lost (several times, if I’m being honest), locals were quick to help. Sometimes they’d even hop in their own carts and guide me to the right spot. That sort of warmth made every encounter memorable—it felt less like being a visitor and more like reconnecting with old friends.
Dining Highlights: From Pizza to Sushi
If there’s one thing Harbour Island does exceptionally well, it’s food. Fresh seafood reigns supreme, but I was equally impressed by the vegan-friendly options. At Bahama House, the buffalo cauliflower “wings” quickly became a favorite. Dinner at Rock House was unforgettable—the grouper seafood linguine and hamachi dish could have easily been served in any world-class restaurant.
Another standout meal was at The Dunmore’s Club House, where I happily balanced an arugula salad with a plate of truffle fries. And then there was the day I gave in to prosciutto pizza at Coral Sands Resort’s Beach Bar—it was exactly what a beachside lunch should be: indulgent and so, so good.
The final night was reserved for Da Vine, a sushi spot I’d been hearing about since I arrived. Sitting on the porch, enjoying spicy tuna and coconut-infused sticky rice for dessert, I understood the hype immediately. My only regret? Knowing I had to slip into a swimsuit the next day.
The Island’s Spell
Though my days were full—exploring, eating, lounging—I felt deeply rested. I even managed to sleep in, which rarely happens on vacation. There’s something about Harbour Island that calms you from the inside out. It’s quiet but not boring, intimate without being isolating. Exactly what I needed during a season filled with deadlines and wedding planning.
The only thing missing was my fiancé. Luckily, Harbour Island is close enough to make returning easy. From Fort Lauderdale or Miami, it’s a quick flight to North Eleuthera on Silver Airways, followed by a 10-minute water taxi. It’s the kind of trip you can plan on a whim, which makes it even more tempting to return soon.
Romance by the Sea
Being newly engaged, I couldn’t help but imagine Harbour Island as a romantic destination for us. Its appeal lies in what it doesn’t have—no bustling crowds, no endless traffic, no distractions. Instead, it offers quiet streets to wander hand-in-hand, charming restaurants perfect for two, and just enough seclusion to make every moment feel personal.
It’s easy to picture this island as the backdrop for a destination wedding, an anniversary trip, or a honeymoon. There’s an effortless intimacy here that makes time stretch, making even a short visit feel rich with memories.
Already Dreaming of Returning
As I left Harbour Island, I promised myself it wouldn’t be long before I was back—and next time, it’ll be with my fiancé by my side. Because if a solo trip felt this magical, I can only imagine what it would be like to share the island’s sunsets, its laughter-filled golf cart rides, and its unforgettable meals with him.
Harbour Island is the kind of place that lingers with you. Not just for its beauty or its food or its warmth—but for the way it makes you slow down, savor the moment, and remember that the best experiences are often found in the simplest of places.