Things to Do in Harbour Island, Eleuthera

Stretching three miles along Harbour Island's eastern shore, this world-famous beach gets its distinctive pink hue from microscopic coral insects called foraminifera mixed with white sand and shell fragments. The calm, shallow waters are ideal for swimming, and the beach rarely feels crowded despite its fame.

Tip: Visit at sunrise or sunset when the low-angle light brings out the pink color most vividly.

One of the oldest settlements in the Bahamas, Dunmore Town was founded in the 18th century and named after Lord Dunmore, the colonial governor. Stroll past pastel cottages, St. John's Anglican Church (built in 1768), and the 17th-century English battery on the island's southern tip with its well-preserved cannons.

Tip: Rent a golf cart to cover more ground, but park it and walk the narrow lanes for the best photos.

Built in 1768, this is the oldest surviving church in the Bahamas. The distinctive pink and white exterior houses beautiful stained glass windows, and the churchyard contains graves dating back to the early settlement period. The building was constructed by descendants of the Eleutheran Adventurers who arrived in 1648.

Tip: Sunday services welcome visitors and offer a glimpse of local community life.

Regarded as one of the world's premier drift dives, Current Cut channels tidal flow between Eleuthera and Current Island at speeds up to five knots. Divers float effortlessly past eagle rays, reef sharks, and dense schools of fish while the current does the work. The experience is exhilarating but requires intermediate dive skills.

Tip: Book with experienced local operators who time the dive perfectly with tidal conditions.

Several operators offer guided horseback rides along Pink Sands Beach, allowing visitors to experience the iconic shoreline from a unique perspective. Morning rides catch the beach at its quietest, while sunset rides offer romantic lighting. No prior riding experience is necessary.

Tip: Book sunset rides a day in advance during peak season.

This inland blue hole near the center of the island offers a freshwater swimming experience unlike the ocean. Local legend claims the hole is bottomless, though divers have mapped its depths. Surrounded by tropical vegetation, the blue hole provides a cool retreat from beach activities.

Tip: Bring water shoes for the rocky shoreline.

This beloved local eatery serves what many consider the best conch salad in the Bahamas, prepared fresh as you watch. The simple outdoor setting on Bay Street belies the quality of the food. Beyond conch, the menu includes cracked conch, conch fritters, and fresh fish.

Tip: Arrive hungry and try the combo plate to sample different preparations.

This respected gallery showcases paintings, sculptures, and crafts by Bahamian and Caribbean artists. The collection spans traditional island scenes to contemporary works, and the knowledgeable staff can share stories behind the pieces. The gallery occupies a charming restored colonial building.

Tip: Ask about the artists-in-residence program and studio visits.