What types of property are available on Harbour Island?

Harbour Island offers historic cottages in Dunmore Town, luxury villas on or near the pink sand beach, and a small number of boutique resort residences. The housing stock leans toward character properties rather than new construction, though modern builds do exist. Inventory is consistently tight, and properties at every price point attract serious competition from international buyers.

How do you get to Harbour Island?

Most visitors fly into North Eleuthera Airport (ELH), which has direct connections from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Nassau, and other regional hubs. From the airport, a short taxi ride reaches the water taxi dock, and the crossing to Harbour Island takes just a few minutes. The total journey from South Florida is typically under two hours door to dock.

Can foreigners buy real estate on Harbour Island?

Yes. Non-Bahamian buyers can purchase residential property on Harbour Island under the standard Bahamas foreign ownership framework. Purchases under $500,000 USD require registration with the Bahamas Investments Board after closing. Transactions at $500,000 USD and above require prior government approval. A local Bahamian attorney manages conveyancing, which is standard practice for all Bahamas purchases.

What are property taxes like on Harbour Island?

The Bahamas has no income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax. Property owners pay an annual Real Property Tax. Owner-occupied homes valued up to $300,000 USD are fully exempt. Values between $300,000 and $500,000 USD are taxed at 0.625%, and amounts above $500,000 USD are taxed at 1% on the excess. Given Harbour Island's price points, most buyers fall into the upper tier. Non-owner-occupied investment properties follow a separate rate schedule.

Is Harbour Island a strong vacation rental market?

Harbour Island is one of the strongest short-term rental markets in the Bahamas. Demand from international travelers is consistent year-round, with peak season running from November through April and secondary demand in summer. Properties close to the pink sand beach and within walking distance of Dunmore Town perform particularly well. Competition for well-located rentals is high, and occupancy rates for quality properties reflect that.

Are there cars on Harbour Island?

No. Motor vehicles are not permitted on Harbour Island. Golf carts are the standard transport, and rentals are widely available for visitors. Most property owners keep their own cart. The island is compact enough that a golf cart covers all practical destinations within a few minutes, and the absence of cars is one of the features that contributes to the overall atmosphere buyers are paying for.