Escape to Harbour Island

Amy takes us on a little journey to one of her favorite new places...

Last month, my family and I traveled to the dreamiest of little Bahamian islands for a much needed vacation. Harbour Island is a 3.5 mile long island that has long been on the top of my wish list as a destination to visit.

Dreamy and polished. Vibrant but laid back. Breezy and beautiful. Translucent blue waters—almost the color of our amazonite gemstones themselves—immediately set the pace for the week ahead. There isn't much to do on the island, which created so much time to indulge in rest and the true art of doing nothing. We spent our mornings sipping coffee and walking the gorgeous pink sands, taking our golf cart to our favorite little island bakeries (guava scones topped with passion fruit curd, fresh juices and the most incredible baked breads at Arthur's Bakery), swimming throughout the day in that glorious water, and lounging in sun. Pink sand, tranquil blue sea, breezy dune grass and palm trees, fresh cracked coconuts from trees in our yard, roasted fish and conch fritters were highlights for us all. Punchy rum drinks and cold Kaliks (the only beer of the Bahamas) were the cherry on top after a long day soaking up the sunshine.

The Dunmore Hotel, Refreshing just-off-the-tree coconut water, Fresh baked breads from Arthur’s Bakery, Harbour Island swimming

We did have one full boat day with Tyman Charters where we swam with so many sea turtles, snorkeled, ate lobster rolls on a private spit of land, dove to a shipwreck and visited the infamous Pig Island where you can swim with and visit dozens of the cutest pigs. We explored the lovely small town of Dunmore's flower lined streets, and brightly colored colonial buildings. I met local jeweler and boutique owner Stephanie of Shine Boutique, which was a feast for the eyes. Gorgeous handmade fine jewelry, unique silk dresses, vintage glass beads and artwork filled the little jewel box... it was a treasure trove of delights, all curated or created by the owner herself. We bonded over our love of shiny things and our not so favorable feelings towards tariffs (which had all just been announced that day). We had a gorgeous dinner overlooking the bay at The Landing, which is in the oldest building on the island. The food and scenery were incredible. Dinner at The Dunmore was our fanciest dinner out, and we were simply blown away by the beauty of this entire property. Flickering candles, and smooth pink conch shells lined the walls of this cozy and polished hotel restaurant. It would be an ideal spot for a very low key, but exceptional, honeymoon.

The Dunmore Restaurant, Amy on an important business call, Shine Boutique, Amy’s two sons (Sebby and Hudson) at Tyman Fishing Charters

There are many spots to eat the incredible cuisine—from tiny roadside shacks selling key lime pies, to some of the most beautiful boutique hotels we'd ever seen. We rented a spectacular house called the Touchstone House, and we loved it so much we will for sure be back when we can manage to find an opening again! The house itself was filled with beautiful artwork, vintage glass bottles turned into a gorgeous wall of art, and fluffy beds spread out and well appointed at every nook. Just steps from the beach, and surrounded by palm trees and a large grassy yard for our children to explore, and for us all to enjoy a game of Uno or a refreshing rinse in the outdoor shower. 

Glass bottle art display and outdoor shower at the Touchstone House

I had fun styling and playing with our latest pieces while on the island... I fell in love with the green dot gemstone, especially paired with pavé beading. My love for chrysoprase blossomed with each day, and I got stopped multiple times everywhere I went asking me what necklace I was wearing... which was a fun little foreshadowing of just how much you would all love this collection (seriously, thank you for your love of this fun and happy drop). Being removed from the studio and shutting down my laptop was truly soulful, and has already seemed to inspire a million more ideas for what's next with THATCH. Stay tuned... Hint: there will be lots and lots of goodness!

Fortuna Green Dot and Malene Chrysoprase featured on Amy Olson Goin

Inspired and rejuvenated, we flew home ready to book our next trip back. It is not a one and done kind of island. Please feel free to reach out to me directly if you ever wish to ask any questions at all about logistics or travel. Harbour Island is filled with love and beauty, and we can't wait to return.

Amy xx