Harbour Island, Bahamas

At just 3½ miles long, don't let Harbour Island's petite size fool you. It's got big attractions that entice everyone from sports fishermen to movie stars and yacht owners to stay in this sweet getaway destination tucked away among Eleuthera Islands.

From the minute guests arrive on the island's shores, they are enchanted by its pink sand beaches, crystal clear waters and stunning natural beauty. Diving and fishing are second to none, and its centralized location makes Harbour Island an ideal springboard for exploring other Bahamian paradises. Golf carts are the preferred mode of transportation, because their slow roll allows you to admire the charming beach houses painted in the pastel colors of the sea.

Its laid-back attitude inspires Joe Dargavage at Romora Bay Resort to greet every boater who pulls into his marina with a complimentary glass of rum punch. All around the island, the bathing suit and flip-flop attitude during the day evolves into a casual chic vibe at night. Fortunately, the island is packed with plenty of unique boutiques to help you blend in with the hip crowd, especially at bars renowned for celebrity sightings such as Daddy D's Night Club. Local chefs are so accomplished in the food biz that this little island hosts six of the top 10 dining establishments in the Caribbean.

Gentle breezes and warm water temperatures make winter a good time to visit Harbour Island. But you might want to return later for Pineapple Fest, an annual event held since 1988 to celebrate the region's pineapple-growing traditions (June 6 -- 8), and Junkanoo, a carnival-style parade accentuated with handmade costumes and instruments.

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WHERE TO DOCK

Romora Bay Resort & Marina

242-333-2325

The full-service marina caters to sports fishing and mega yacht clientele, can accommodate vessels up 190 feet and offers amenities such as two restaurants, a new reverse osmosis system and 24-hour security.

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Valentine's Resort & Marina

242-333-2142

The island's largest marina welcomes vessels up to 200 feet and provides amenities such as a luxurious resort, fuel service, electricity, cable and wireless internet.

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WHERE TO DINE AQUAPAZZA

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(Romora Bay Resort)

Fine Italian fare with a touch of Bahamian flavors takes fresh seafood to a whole new level at this gorgeous waterfront restaurant.

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The Rock House

(Bay and Hill Street)

Located in a 1940s British Colonial house on top of a hill overlooking the bay, this elegant dining destination showcases island dishes and a solid wine list.

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The Landing Restaurant

(Dunmore Town)

Relax in a lovely historic inn near the harbor docks that specializes in just-caught seafood for dinner and hearty egg favorites for breakfast.

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Sip Sip

(Court Street)

Enjoy the regular menu or daily blackboard specials for burgers, salads and meals made with ingredients from local farms and the sea (lunch only).