Don’t expect fast food chains, cars, or even a traffic light on the three-mile stretch of paradise known as Harbour Island in The Bahamas. Located off the eastern coast of Eleuthera, “Briland” as the locals call it, is a captivating little cay that thrums to its own enchanting melody. One of crashing waves and swaying palm fronds, plus the occasional scampering of paws seeking a shady spot for an afternoon nap.
Although there are a handful of boutique gems to choose from on the island, The Ocean View Club is the last of its kind. A homey hotel and the only remaining Bahamian-owned property on Pink Sands Beach. It’s clear from the moment you enter that they do things differently here. Operating by an under-the-radar code of cool if you will. An IYKYK mentality shared by their fiercely loyal regulars and recently enamored newcomers.
The vibe is a bohemian beach house, filled to the brim with antiques, books, and lamps fastened from discarded musical instruments, but not a television or telephone in sight. The art is wildly whimsical. A mix of eclectic pieces sourced from France and Cuba, as well as originals by renowned Bahamian folk artist Amos Ferguson.
As far as accommodations go, the 13 options are varied, yet meticulously designed. A cluster of charming guest rooms and suites occupy the main house, along with The Restaurant, kitchen, and an honor bar reserved for guests to craft cocktails whenever the urge strikes.
Then there are tented cottages and spacious shacks with private paths leading down to the coral-hued beach. These cozy bungalows are accented by four-poster beds and vintage textiles, with beautifully tiled bathrooms and terraces designed for relaxation.
Our favorite of the bunch is Pip’s Cottage where tropical creature comforts include an outdoor rain shower and green clawfoot tub perched at the edge of the deck. Shrouded by teeming foliage and omnipresent ocean views, it’s impossible not to disconnect here.
After a morning lolling on the beach, or in the bath, make your way over to The Restaurant at OVC where a complimentary breakfast—and the world’s best banana bread—await. Lunch and dinner are served daily, although the menu changes to reflect what’s readily available and piquing their chef’s interest at the moment.
Think coconut lemongrass curry with local crawfish, grilled spiny lobsters with herby citrus dressing, or blackened mahi mahi on fresh Bahamian brioche with tarragon aioli and micro greens from their on-site garden. Add an ice-cold Kalik, and you’re in for the perfect meal—and stay.
Top Takeaways
Location: Harbour Island, Bahamas
Rating: Four-star
The Vibe: A boho-chic Caribbean retreat comprised of new, old, and borrowed finds.
Food+Drink: The Restaurant at OVC is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There’s also a well-stocked honor bar with every spirit and aged rum needed to DIY a proper cocktail.
Amenities: Direct beach access; free parking and wi-fi; complimentary breakfast; on-site restaurant and honor bar; Malin + Goetz bath products; concierge team for all other needs and bookings
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel? For a change of scenery, you can hop on the owner’s boat and zip over to The Other Side and The Farm in North Eleuthera. Their sister properties boast a solar-powered farm and restaurant, plus a chlorine-free pool and private beach to enjoy at your leisure.
5 Nearby Attractions: Pink Sands Beach; the Lone Tree; shopping in Dunmore Town; Princess Street Gallery; Valentine’s Dive Center for snorkel trips and boat charters
Any Personal Neighborhood Recs? Queen Conch is a must when in Briland. The island’s beloved seafood shack is famous for the sea snail delicacy served every which way. Also worth checking out: Cocoa Coffee House, Sweet Spot Café, The Dunmore, Rock House, and Valentines Resort & Marina for Bahamian classics on the water (order the stone crab claws with calypso sauce and coconut-crusted grouper). If you prefer your drinks handcrafted by hands other than your own, there are mixologists at the ready at Coral Sands and Pink Sands Resort, steps away from Ocean View Club.
Rooms: 13 guestrooms, suites, and cottages
Pricing: $435+ a night
Closest Airport: North Eleuthera Airport (ELH). From there, it’s a 5-minute car ride to Three Island Dock and a 5-minute ferry ride to Harbour Island.
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