Long and slender, this most historic of the Out Islands (the first English settlers arrived here in 1648) is actually a string of islands that includes Spanish Wells and Harbour Island, a chic destination. The length of the island (177km/110 miles) and the distances between Eleuthera's communities require access via three airports. The island lies about 97km (60 miles) west of Nassau; frequent flights connect the two. Eleuthera is similar to Abaco, and visitors are drawn to the miles of barrier reef and fabulous, secluded beaches.

Gregory Town is the pineapple capital of the island chain. A bit farther south is Surfers Beach, one of the best surfing spots in The Bahamas. Several accommodations are available in this sleepy, slightly budget-oriented section of Eleuthera. The only major resort along the entire stretch of Eleuthera is the Club Med at Governor's Harbour. Other inns are more basic. 

The Island of Eleuthera is very inviting. It has the quaint settlements of Harbour Island (with its unique pink sandy beaches) and Spanish Wells. The Exumas are a pleasure to sailors who love to sail around the Islands because many of the Exuma cays are reached only by boat. While not busy serving as a backdrop to 1997 Sport's Illustrated Swimsuit models, the illustrious island of Eleuthera is busy serving up pink-ish beaches that will make your heart flutter, white picket fences that will tickle your fancy, blooming hibiscus flowers for your beloved one, and luscious super-sweet pineapples that will make your taste buds water (when in season of course). Eleuthera has been a romantic hideaway for the British Royal Family for many years. This 110 mile long island is where HRH Prince Charles and the late Princess Diana spent a holiday in 1982 and where Prince Edward proposed to Sophie in 1999. According to historical lore, the original settlers called it Eleuthera, after the Greek word for freedom. After you visit there you will know why. Eleuthera and Harvard The first English settlers of Eleuthera shipped Braselitto wood to Boston as a thank you for the support given by the people of Massachusetts. The proceeds from the sale of this precious wood went to purchase the land for Harvard College, which eventually became Harvard University.

Miles of glistening pink and white sand beaches, serene colonial villages and rolling acres of pineapple plantations make Eleuthera Island an island of the most casual sophistication. The cool laziness of Eleutheran life and dusty-yet-drenched colours of the island give it the feel of a giant illusion. Much of the island's architecture and way of life were influenced by Loyalist settlers in the late 1700s. With its two companions, Harbour Island and the community of Spanish Wells, Eleuthera Island has long been a favoured destination among smart travellers seeking a bit of quiet charm. Tiny Harbour Island (occupied almost completely by the community of Dunmore Town) reminds many visitors of a miniature Bermuda with its Georgian architecture and fabulous beaches of coral pink sand. Picture yourself gliding by the pink and white beaches, the sheltered coves, the breathtaking bluffs and charming anchorages. You'll agree: Eleuthera/Harbour Island is simply a sailor's dream.