Pastel-colored New England-style architecture, pink sand beaches and turquoise waters are painted together into a masterpiece to illustrate this slice of Bahamian paradise. Situated 60 miles east of Nassau, clusters of sandbars, deep caves and colorful cays make up the gorgeous destinations of Eleuthera and Harbour Island.
Eleuthera’s thin isle spans 210 miles of coastline across the archipelago, making it the largest island of the group. An historical hub for fishing and pineapple farming, the first settlement was in 1649 when English Puritans known as “Eleutheran Adventurers” arrived in search of religious freedom. Known as the birthplace of The Bahamas, the island’s name derives from the Greek name Eleutheros, which means “freedom.”
Dock and dine at Cape Eleuthera Resort & Marina in Rock Sound and stay in a lovely cottage or villa with decks and balconies boasting panoramic views of Sunset Beach, Exuma Sound and the Cape. Relax on nearby tranquil beaches such as French Leave and Rainbow Bay, or deep-sea dive on the northern end along the jagged-edge reef of Devil’s Backbone.
Head northwest to the charming Harbour Island made up of 3.5 miles accessible only by boat or air — a true Caribbean gem. Travel the island via golf cart to explore local attractions or sightsee on a private charter. Check out Conch & Coconut for curated adventures, boat/golf cart rentals, guided fishing excursions, and stop by the vibrant Princess Street Gallery in the heart of historic Dunmore Town, just one block from the Harbour.
Only a five-minute ferry ride apart, this tale of two islands is rich in culture, history and ecological wonders. For COVID-safe travel tips and tourism info visit bahamas.com/islands/eleuthera-harbour-island.
WHERE TO DOCK
Davis Harbour Marina at Cotton Bay Club
855-377-5122
At this protected harbor marina in south Eleuthera, 24 slips, dry storage and boat detailing services are available. Amenities include a fuel dock, 30/50 AMP 3-Phase electric and provisions. Relax at Big Sand Beach located 10 minutes away.
Valentines Resort & Marina
242-333-2142
As the largest marina in Harbour Island, Valentine’s accommodates vessels up to 200 feet. Known as a top sportfishing center, guests enjoy amenities such as 30/50/100 amp electric and wireless Internet access. Check out Valentine’s Dive Center for snorkeling, private charters and the chance to swim with pigs.
Cape Eleuthera Resort & Marina
844-884-1014
This remote, oceanside retreat has an easily accessible marina and deep draft, 12 feet MLW entry at a straight 90-degree angle. Accommodating yachts up to 200 feet, boaters enjoy on-site amenities, such as provisions, boat rentals and excursions.
WHERE TO DINE
Acquapazza Wine Bar & Ristorante at Romora Bay
242-333-3240
Fresh seafood and traditional Italian cuisine is served at Romora Bay’s lovely waterfront restaurant. All dishes are prepared from scratch with natural and local ingredients. Try tuna carpaccio or eggplant parmigiana with conch.
Harbour Pointe Restaurant & Barracuda’s Bar at Cape Eleuthera
844-884-1014
Enjoy Caribbean cuisine in a casual setting with indoor and outdoor seating and panoramic views of the marina, pool and oceanfront. Barracuda’s Bar shakes up classic island cocktails such as Mai Tais and Bahama Mamas. Harbour Pointe offers a hook-and-cook menu for right off the boat.
Latitude 25 & The Beach Bar at Coral Sands Harbour Island
242-333-2350
Indulge in fine dining with dishes including oven-roasted octopus and poulet rouge at Latitude 25, or grab a casual bite outside such as a turkey club or pizza at The Beach Bar. Overlooking a lagoon pool, the relaxing atmosphere is a Harbour Island favorite.
