The beach

The pink sand beach

Soft, blush-coloured sand on the Atlantic side of the island, a few minutes by golf cart from town.

Why it is pink

Tiny shells, big colour

The colour comes from the tiny shells of reef-dwelling organisms that wash ashore and mix with white coral sand. The pink is strongest in the first hours after sunrise and fades under high midday sun.

Reefs offshore keep the water calm and shallow along much of the beach. You will find no high-rises, jet skis or crowds of vendors, and the beach is about 50 to 100 feet wide. Please leave the sand where it is.

Photo: Pink sand at sunrise Aerial view of pink sand beach and turquoise water

Aerial view of pink sand beach and turquoise water

On the sand

A day at the beach

Photo: Walking the shoreline Driftwood on a pink sand flat

Driftwood on a pink sand flat

Photo: Beachfront lunch Yellow beach umbrellas seen from above

Yellow beach umbrellas seen from above

Photo: Calm reef water Waves washing over pink sand

Waves washing over pink sand

Photo: Golden hour Aerial view of Harbour Island at dusk

Aerial view of Harbour Island at dusk

Photo: Sandcastles Palm leaves against a blue sky

Palm leaves against a blue sky

Aerial view of Pink Sand Beach

Aerial view of Pink Sand Beach

Aerial view of Pink Sand Beach, Harbour Island

Aerial view of Pink Sand Beach, Harbour Island

Pink Sand Beach, Harbour Island

Pink Sand Beach, Harbour Island

Best times

Early morning for colour, golden hour for photos, and midday for swimming.

Season

December through April is busiest. May to June and September to October are quieter and often cheaper.

Beach day checklist

Sunscreen, hat, water, snorkel mask, a small cooler and cash for beach bars.

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