This place is on three hectares facing a gorgeous pink beach just south of Coral Sands, five minutes from town. This intimate, high-end property, once for privileged members only (like the Duke and Duchess of Windsor), now attracts discerning Americans and Europeans, largely by word of mouth. Private, yet unpretentious, this charming resort is reached via a long, flower-fringed drive that winds past a tennis court to a clubhouse in West Indian colonial style.
Fragrant tropical blossoms shroud the entrance and brighten the lobby, and a non-functioning fireplace housing a TV, book-crammed shelves, and clusters of wicker armchairs lend a homey feel. Meals are served on the terrace overlooking the beach or in the island-formal restaurant, where jackets are required in winter for the single dinner sitting (8 pm), which is still announced by the ringing of a bell. Tucked into a corner off the lobby is an oceanview bar with a beach mural. In season, bands play once a week in the dining area.
Guests swim, snorkel and fish from the beach, play tennis and relax in the shade. Internet access is available at a station in the lobby.
The eight duplex cottages nestle in lush gardens on a beachview hillside. Plain exteriors belie bright, relaxing interiors with vaulted ceilings, silent air conditioners and ceiling fans, white wicker or mahogany furniture, and king beds with chintz accents. Amenities include refrigerators and furnished patios. Enormous baths are fitted with oversized whirlpool tubs, separate shower stalls and mosaic vanities with lighted magnifying mirrors. Guests can expect hair dryers, monogrammed robes and thick towels. All cottages lack phones and only one has a TV, but most have French doors opening to the best view in town, the pink sands of Harbour Island. Named for their facades, Pink and White offer small sitting areas while Aqua affords the most privacy. The two-bedroom oceanhouse can be divided and comes with whirlpools and a full kitchen.
Bend-over-backward staff ensures that overworked professionals and newlyweds in search of a hideaway will find a quiet, congenial ambience here. This hotel is closed September and October.
