Travelers with mobility needs often wonder how accessible Harbour Island truly is. While it offers incredible beauty and charm, the island presents several challenges for those using wheelchairs. Careful planning is essential if accessibility is a concern.
Getting to Harbour Island involves a flight to North Eleuthera Airport followed by a short ferry ride. Unfortunately, neither of these stages is particularly accommodating. The airport typically requires passengers to deplane using stairs, and the ferry often involves gangways or steps with no ramps or lifts. These conditions make it difficult for those seeking a Wheelchair Friendly Harbour Island experience right from arrival.
Once on the island, transportation options are limited in terms of accessibility. Most taxis and rental golf carts are not adapted for wheelchair users. Many of the island’s vacation rentals and boutique hotels are located in older buildings, which often feature stairs, narrow doorways, and bathrooms not designed with accessibility in mind. These structural limitations make it difficult to find truly Wheelchair Friendly Harbour Island accommodations unless you specifically seek out one of the few properties that make efforts to comply with ADA or similar standards.
That said, not all hope is lost. Romora Bay Resort & Marina is one of the few places on the island known to offer accessible rooms and amenities. The Dunmore Hotel has also been described as accommodating for guests with mobility challenges, though it may require staff assistance for certain areas of the property. Exploring your options thoroughly before booking is one of the most important Harbour Island Tips for travelers with accessibility needs.
If you require a higher level of accessibility, staying on the mainland in Eleuthera might be a better choice. Some vacation rentals there are better suited for wheelchairs, and you can arrange a day trip to Harbour Island with private transport. This alternative gives you the chance to enjoy the island’s highlights while minimizing logistical stress. Another one of the useful Harbour Island Tips is to speak directly with resort staff or rental managers about your needs—they may be able to offer custom solutions or coordinate assistance in advance.
While Harbour Island isn’t the most accessible destination, thoughtful planning and selecting the right accommodations can still make it an enjoyable and memorable trip.
