Tucked away in the Bahamas, Harbour Island isn’t the easiest place to reach — unless, of course, you live in South Florida. For most travelers, the journey begins with a flight to North Eleuthera, followed by a taxi ride to the docks, and then a quick water taxi across to the island. It takes some effort, but like many of the world’s hidden gems, the reward makes the travel worthwhile.
Our own adventure started with a short hop from Fort Lauderdale. A last-minute scramble for required health visas nearly kept us from boarding, but with a bit of patience (and some lucky timing) we made it just in time. The trip unfolded like a series of seamless transitions: taxi, boat, golf cart — thanks to Michael Higgs of Michael’s Cycles and Golf Cart Rentals, who not only set us up with our island ride ($60/day) but kindly dropped us off at our home for the week, a remarkable VRBO known as The Salt Box.
A Home with History
Nestled in the heart of Harbour Island, The Salt Box is a romantic, historic cottage that carries nearly two centuries of Bahamian history within its walls. Built in 1820 from coral stone and native hardwoods, the home feels timeless yet inviting. The property consists of two cottages and comfortably accommodates up to 10 guests.
Every corner of The Salt Box whispers stories of its past while embracing thoughtful modern touches. Designer Tom Sheerer, a former owner, restored much of the home with reverence for its origins. He revealed the coral stone hearth in the kitchen, laid Cuban tile over original cement floors, and created a semi-indoor-outdoor space that felt as breezy as it was beautiful. The kitchen, with its working fireplace, is unlike any other I’ve seen in the Bahamas.
I stayed in the master suite, a space that felt like a dream. The seafoam green walls — once believed to repel wasps — were soft and calming, and the glossy white floors reflected morning light in the most enchanting way. The highlight? A clawfoot tub that became my nightly retreat.
Outdoors, the cottage is just as captivating. An outdoor shower quickly became my favorite ritual. A charming “Clam Shell” grill rests atop coral blocks dug out when the home’s cistern was built, and though we didn’t cook much (too many tempting restaurants nearby!), it was a reminder of the home’s blend of practicality and romance.
In 2016, architect Kiko Sanchez and designer Amanda Lindroth expanded the property with a guest cottage and pool. My parents stayed there, enjoying two spacious bedrooms, their own clawfoot tub, and yet another outdoor shower — all wrapped in Lindroth’s signature Palm Beach flair.
The Rhythm of Island Life
One of the most magical aspects of Harbour Island is how quickly time shifts. In the first days, our conversations circled around work and deadlines. By the end, we found ourselves marveling at free-range baby chickens wandering the property and dreaming aloud about what life might be like if we stayed in the Bahamas indefinitely. Simplicity, I discovered, has a way of reshaping priorities.
We spent afternoons stretched out in shared outdoor spaces — reading, listening to music, watching the stars. I even spotted a shooting star one evening, a small but unforgettable gift.
Exploring Harbour Island
For anyone visiting, I can’t recommend a chartered boat tour enough. We spent a full day with Ruben of Tyman Charters, whose deep knowledge of the sea made the journey feel both adventurous and personal. Instead of heading to see the famous pigs (a popular excursion, though not really my style), we explored quiet sandbars, searched for shells on empty beaches, and swam alongside wild turtles, stingrays, and starfish. It was, without question, the highlight of the trip.
Back on land, Pink Sands Beach lived up to every bit of its reputation. The shoreline stretches endlessly, its powder-soft sand kissed with a subtle rose hue. We made it a daily ritual to rent umbrellas, order food from nearby restaurants, and let the hours slip away.
For shopping, A Hidden Treasure is perfect for a custom straw hat, while Dake’s, Sugar Mill, and Blue Rooster offer everything from clothing to keepsakes. Each spot adds a piece of Harbour Island to take home.
A Taste of the Island
Food is an essential part of any journey, and Harbour Island doesn’t disappoint. Thanks to a thoughtful list of recommendations from Zoë de Givenchy (the visionary behind luxury home brand Z.d.G.), we discovered some unforgettable spots. The Landing, The Dunmore, Queen’s Conch, and Ocean View Club became fast favorites for lunch and dinner.
We also loved the cozy charm of Sweet Spot Vegan Cafe and Cocoa Coffee House, while my parents swore by the Briland Club. Valentines Marina and The Rock House rounded out our culinary tour with lively atmospheres and fresh flavors that perfectly captured the island’s spirit.
The Gift of Presence
Though I promised myself I’d sneak in some work while away, Harbour Island had other plans for me. Surrounded by family, history, and natural beauty, I allowed myself the rare luxury of slowing down. I read, I laughed, I napped, I swam — and I cherished every moment with my parents.
As our plane lifted off on the final day, we all looked back toward the island with a pang of longing. Harbour Island had given us not just rest, but a reminder of what it means to live fully in the present.
To The Salt Box, to the pink sands, to the starlit nights — thank you. Until next time.