A Day Tripper’s Guide to Harbour Island and Spanish Wells
The Cove sits on a pristine, private cove on the northern side of Eleuthera, a skinny, 110-mile-long island about 60 miles east of Nassau.
While there are plenty of ways to occupy yourself on property—whether you’re seeking adventure or pure relaxation—we do recommend planning a day trip to explore more of our beautiful home and neighboring Harbour Island. The Cove’s concierge team can help arrange transportation or tour guides.
Here are our top recommendations for what to see and do during a half- or full-day excursion:
Getting there: 35-minute by vehicle to Three Island Dock ($90 each way room charge) and then a 5 minute boat ride ($5 per person each way paid in cash to the Captain)
Known for its pristine pink sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and vibrant local culture, this small island—once the capital of the Bahamas—offers a serene escape with plenty of outdoor adventures. Among our favorite activities: Shopping their exclusive boutiques – India Hicks’ Sugarmill Boutique, scuba diving at Valentines Dive Center, dining at one of the many restaurants and strolling along the Pink Sand Beach. Did you know: The natural, pink-hued marvel is the result of tiny marine organisms known as foraminifera who have pink and red shells. For a more laid-back outing, view the work of local artists at Princess Street Gallery or shop the boutiques in Dunmore Town. For authentic Bahamian food (think: conch fritters and ultra-fresh fish), you can’t go wrong with Ma Ruby’s or Angela’s Starfish.
Getting there: 45-minute drive to Gene’s Bay Dock ($90 each way room charge) and 8-minute ferry ($6 each way cash paid to the Captain)
Eleuthera’s northern tip, Spanish Wells is the fishing capital of the Bahamas. Its white-sand beaches are soft and powdery, making them perfect for a long walk on the beach. Explore the sandbar or cool off in the shallow waters (kids will love playing here) during a swim or a snorkel. It’s all about settling into the low-key island life here. And tasting the delicious seafood caught by local fishermen; we recommend the waterfront Wreckers Restaurant & Bar or the Shipyard.
Tip: Join our customizable Explore Eleuthera Tour to experience some of the island’s most impressive natural features, from the Sapphire Blue Hole to the Glass Window Bridge, on your way to Spanish Wells (2–4 hours; $120 per hour).