Harbour Island has long been been a favorite family vacation spot for Dannijo co-founders Danielle Snyder and Jodie Snyder-Morel—and its famous pink sand beaches were a stunning backdrop for Danielle's wedding earlier this month. Here, our indispensable travel guide will shed a little light on what makes the the idyllic Bahamian isle so special.

 

Horses on Harbour Island's famous pink beach.

 

SLEEP

All the hotels on Harbour Island have a boutique sensibility, every one with its own personality and charm. The Ocean View Club's collection of airy rooms, beach shacks and tent cottages overlooking the ocean are a favorite with the Snyder family. Coral Sands, a short walk along the beach, offers luxurious multi-bedroom villas and cottages as well as rooms and suites, plus a fantastic beach bar that's perfect for sunset cocktails. 

 

A suite at the Ocean View Club (left) and Jodie's children Margaux and Liev enjoying an outdoor shower (right). 

 

The Dunmore, another of Danielle and Jodie's favorite places to stay, is also along the same stretch of sand. The former invitation-only beach club is home to lush gardens and elegantly designed cottages.

 

Over in Dunmore Town, where boats come and go from Eleuthera (where the nearest airport is located), The Landing attracts a stylish crowd. The historic property has just 13 rooms, each featuring a romantic four-poster bed and vintage furniture. Similarly, the beautiful Bahama House is a lodge with just 11 rooms and cottages situated around a freshwater swimming pool and tiki bar.

 

A room at The Landing (left) and a door at Coral Sands (right).

 

EAT

It may look unassuming, but Sip Sip, a restaurant overlooking the main beach, next-door to the Ocean View Club, is Harbour Island's most happening lunch spot. The lobster quesadilla, grouper sandwich and Nutella ice cream are must-order dishes, as are the cocktails—Jodie loves the Bloody Mary and they also do great frozen Pina Coladas.

 

Also on the beach is The Dunmore's restaurant—look for the teal-and-white umbrellas between the Ocean View Club and Coral Sands and go up the stairs.

 

From left: One of the daily specials at Rock House, Cocoa Coffee House, the lobster quesadilla at Sip Sip.

 

The Landing's restaurant is one of the sisters' favorite places to eat—be sure to make a reservation though, it gets busy. The same is true of Da Vine, which serves sensational sushi—its chef was previously at Nobu Atlantis. 

 

Rock House is located on the dock side and has some of the best food on the island—it's perfect for a romantic date night and the best spot to see a wonderful sunset. 

 

Also on the dock side is Queen Conch, where the shellfish is pulled straight from the ocean. It's the perfect spot for a conch salad and a beer.

 

For breakfast, head to The Landing or the Ocean View Club. Alternatively, check out Arthur's Bakery for pastries and Cocoa Coffee House which serves amazing acai bowls, as well as Sweet Spot Cafe for fresh juices and smoothies.

 

DRINK

The Landing, Rock House, the Ocean View Club and Coral Sands are all wonderful spots for a cocktail. We also love sushi spot Da Vine, which doubles as a wine bar and merchant.

 

Locals say their night starts at Gusty's Night Club, which opens at 9pm (but don't show up until 10pm). It has a sandy floor and Gusty himself will be behind the bar.  Daddy D's is the most popular nightclub on the island—the second floor dancefloor is packed all night long. You also may find yourself at Beyond the Reef on a night out.

 

Danni at the Ocean View Club with her custom Dannijo 'Zombs' bag and a Dannijo arm party.

 

SHOP

Check out the street-side stalls in Dunmore Town for affordable shell jewelry and straw hats and A&A Hidden Treasures for pretty custom straw bags. Dilly Dally is good for souvenirs.

 

Dake's Shoppe, Miss Mae's, the Pink Sands Gift Shop and Sugar Mill offer more luxurious items including international designer brands.

 

Jodie (with a baby Liev), Danni and Margaux (right) stock up on woven hats and bags at A&A Hidden Treasures.

 

DO

Go to the beach! Harbour Island's beach is a world-famous three-mile stretch of pink-white sand. Most hotels have their own sun loungers and umbrellas. 

 

The island is protected by a unique reef, making it for fantastic snorkelling and scuba diving. You may even see dolphins or turtles at Bottom Harbour. 

 

Rent a golf cart - it's the only way to get around the island. Bicycles are also available.