Harbour Island, Bahamas facts for kids
Harbour Island is a beautiful island and district in the Bahamas, a country made up of many islands in the Atlantic Ocean. It's located just off the northeast coast of a larger island called Eleuthera Island. The only town on Harbour Island is named Dunmore Town.
This island is super famous for its amazing pink sand beaches! Imagine soft, rosy sand stretching along the eastern side of the island. The pink color comes from tiny bits of coral, shells, and a special type of microscopic sea creature called foraminifera. When these tiny creatures die, their red shells mix with the white sand, giving it that unique pink hue. Harbour Island is part of the Out Islands of the Bahamas, which are the islands away from the main busy areas.
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Why is Harbour Island Special?
Harbour Island is known for its quiet charm and friendly atmosphere. It's a popular spot for families and travelers who want to relax and enjoy nature. The island is small enough to explore easily, often by golf cart, which is the main way people get around.
The Famous Pink Sand Beach
The most famous attraction is definitely the pink sand beach. It's not just pretty to look at; it's also a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and taking long walks. The water here is usually calm and clear, making it perfect for a dip.
Dunmore Town: A Charming Village
Dunmore Town is the heart of Harbour Island. It's a historic town with narrow streets and colorful houses built in the style of early Bahamian architecture. Many of these buildings are hundreds of years old! You can find small shops, restaurants, and places to stay here. It's a lovely place to explore on foot and soak in the local culture.
Things to Do on Harbour Island
Even though it's a small island, there's plenty to do!
- Relax on the Beach: Of course, spending time on the pink sand beach is a must.
- Snorkeling and Diving: The clear waters around Harbour Island are perfect for seeing colorful fish and coral reefs.
- Boating and Fishing: You can take boat trips to explore nearby cays or go fishing for local catches.
- Exploring by Golf Cart: Renting a golf cart is a fun way to see the whole island at your own pace.
- Local Culture: Experience local events like Junkanoo, a vibrant parade with music and dancing, especially around holidays.
Getting to Harbour Island
To get to Harbour Island, you usually fly to Eleuthera Island first. From Eleuthera, it's a short taxi ride and then a quick water taxi trip across the harbor to Dunmore Town. It's an adventure just getting there!
Images for kids
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Pink sand beach near Sip Sip's, Harbour Island, looking north
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Horses on Harbour Island, looking east
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Sunset on Harbour Island, looking north
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Dunmore School kids in Junkanoo 2008, Harbour Island, looking east
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Sunset over Government Dock and harbour, Harbour Island, looking west from Dunmore School
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Dunmore School of Harbour Island, looking east from harbour shoreline
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Sunrise, October 6, 2008, from the north part of the island
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Afro Band Rehearsing at Sea Grapes Night Club on Harbour Island
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Starfish in the harbour on Harbour Island
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The pink beach of Harbour Island
See also
In Spanish: Isla Harbour para niños
