Historic Sea Captain's House, Walk to Town, Beach
House in Governors Harbour
8 guests · 4 bedrooms · 2 baths
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
High-end valuePrice for this property is higher than average in the area
Includes essentialsGarden, Kitchen or Kitchenette, Air conditioner and more
About this house rental
LOVINGLY RESTORED SEA CAPTAIN'S HOUSE IN FRIENDLY, HISTORIC GOVERNOR'S HARBOUR
A white picket fence and palm trees welcome you to this elegant 19th century home, nestled on a quiet street among other colonial houses in historic Governor's Harbour, the original capital of the Bahamas.
Built by Captain John Bethel of 'Sloop John B' fame, Tamarind is an airy, four-bedroom home that sleeps up to eight guests in comfort. It has a fully equipped kitchen with a breakfast table, as well as a separate dining room. Also downstairs is a front parlour and an office space with a desk and computer screen you may use with your laptop computer.
Tamarind has one bedroom downstairs with a king bed and adjoining bathroom. Upstairs there are three more bedrooms, one with a king bed, and two additional bedrooms with two twin beds each, as well as a full bathroom.
You will enjoy the wrap-around veranda at the front of the house and private back patio, complete with an outdoor dining table, gas BBQ, lounge chair for sunning, and private outdoor shower that we prefer to use when returning from the beach.
Tamarind is decorated with country antiques, seagrass mats, ceiling fans and tasteful art. Its spacious garden is filled with tropical flowering plants and fruit trees. Our family has made every effort to maintain the charming grace of this historic home.
From Tamarind you are just a few steps from the town center and the sleepy harbour, with its lovely cove beaches and boats at anchor. You are also a ten-minute walk or short drive to one of the Caribbean's most spectacular beaches – a one and-a-half mile crescent of pink powder sand, protected by a live barrier reef, with innumerable shades of turquoise, green and blue water stretching to the horizon.
Amenities include parking at the back of the house, Wi-Fi, smart TV, and a Pack ‘n Play for our young guests.
All four bedrooms have portable AC units in addition to ceiling fans. PLEASE NOTE that, during extremely warm periods, these AC units may not cool the bedrooms of this historic home to temperatures a typical modern traveler may expect. Heat-sensitive guests interested in this rental for late July or August, the hottest time of the year, should consider this.
THE TOWN AND THE ISLAND
Governor's Harbour is a small, peaceful town on the Family Island of Eleuthera, offering a collection of distinctive colonial homes, historic churches, and colorful Bahamian buildings. The natural beauty of Eleuthera is only exceeded by the grace and warmth of its people, a primary reason vacationing couples and families return again and again to this island community.
You will find all the services you need in town, including grocery stores, gift shops, post office, library, bank, gas stations, dive shop, liquor stores and bakeries. There are also several good local restaurants to choose from, and a few colorful local bars.
Regular weekly events in town include live music at the restaurants, a fish fry most Friday nights on one of the harbour's beaches, and a Saturday morning arts and crafts program for children at the historic Haynes Library. Most of these amenities are within easy walking distance from Tamarind.
The island of Eleuthera is 110 miles long and an average of only two miles wide. Governor's Harbour is located in the middle of Eleuthera, making day excursions easy. The entire island is ringed by world-class beaches that are never crowded, and some of which you will have all to yourself.
There are many interesting settlements up and down the island. In addition, you will be able to enjoy fabulous fishing (deep sea, reef and bone fishing), snorkeling and SCUBA diving.
Rates are on a sliding scale based on the number of guests. We set the rates this way to make the property more affordable for smaller groups who use less utilities and put less wear and tear on the house. If you enter the correct number of guests, the reservation system will calculate the rates correctly.
A white picket fence and palm trees welcome you to this elegant 19th century home, nestled on a quiet street among other colonial houses in historic Governor's Harbour, the original capital of the Bahamas.
Built by Captain John Bethel of 'Sloop John B' fame, Tamarind is an airy, four-bedroom home that sleeps up to eight guests in comfort. It has a fully equipped kitchen with a breakfast table, as well as a separate dining room. Also downstairs is a front parlour and an office space with a desk and computer screen you may use with your laptop computer.
Tamarind has one bedroom downstairs with a king bed and adjoining bathroom. Upstairs there are three more bedrooms, one with a king bed, and two additional bedrooms with two twin beds each, as well as a full bathroom.
You will enjoy the wrap-around veranda at the front of the house and private back patio, complete with an outdoor dining table, gas BBQ, lounge chair for sunning, and private outdoor shower that we prefer to use when returning from the beach.
Tamarind is decorated with country antiques, seagrass mats, ceiling fans and tasteful art. Its spacious garden is filled with tropical flowering plants and fruit trees. Our family has made every effort to maintain the charming grace of this historic home.
From Tamarind you are just a few steps from the town center and the sleepy harbour, with its lovely cove beaches and boats at anchor. You are also a ten-minute walk or short drive to one of the Caribbean's most spectacular beaches – a one and-a-half mile crescent of pink powder sand, protected by a live barrier reef, with innumerable shades of turquoise, green and blue water stretching to the horizon.
Amenities include parking at the back of the house, Wi-Fi, smart TV, and a Pack ‘n Play for our young guests.
All four bedrooms have portable AC units in addition to ceiling fans. PLEASE NOTE that, during extremely warm periods, these AC units may not cool the bedrooms of this historic home to temperatures a typical modern traveler may expect. Heat-sensitive guests interested in this rental for late July or August, the hottest time of the year, should consider this.
THE TOWN AND THE ISLAND
Governor's Harbour is a small, peaceful town on the Family Island of Eleuthera, offering a collection of distinctive colonial homes, historic churches, and colorful Bahamian buildings. The natural beauty of Eleuthera is only exceeded by the grace and warmth of its people, a primary reason vacationing couples and families return again and again to this island community.
You will find all the services you need in town, including grocery stores, gift shops, post office, library, bank, gas stations, dive shop, liquor stores and bakeries. There are also several good local restaurants to choose from, and a few colorful local bars.
Regular weekly events in town include live music at the restaurants, a fish fry most Friday nights on one of the harbour's beaches, and a Saturday morning arts and crafts program for children at the historic Haynes Library. Most of these amenities are within easy walking distance from Tamarind.
The island of Eleuthera is 110 miles long and an average of only two miles wide. Governor's Harbour is located in the middle of Eleuthera, making day excursions easy. The entire island is ringed by world-class beaches that are never crowded, and some of which you will have all to yourself.
There are many interesting settlements up and down the island. In addition, you will be able to enjoy fabulous fishing (deep sea, reef and bone fishing), snorkeling and SCUBA diving.
Rates are on a sliding scale based on the number of guests. We set the rates this way to make the property more affordable for smaller groups who use less utilities and put less wear and tear on the house. If you enter the correct number of guests, the reservation system will calculate the rates correctly.
Amenities
Air conditioner
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
TV
Garden
Family friendly
Map of Governors Harbour
$$$$
Reviews
Summary of reviews
Guests loved the spacious antique house with comfortable furniture, proximity to beautiful beaches, and helpful property manager. They enjoyed the morning and evening porch views, beautiful yard, and fantastic stay.
5.0
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
n/a
5.0
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I do not recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Great hospitablity the location was perfect our guest were very happy.
5.0
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Perfect location, the house is beautiful and the hospitality.
5.0
Loved this great big antique house with large rooms and comfortable furniture (especially the beds) and proximity to beautiful beaches, restaurants, stores and bayfront. House had everything you need and property manager was very easy to work with and helpful. Really liked sitting out on the porches in the mornings and evenings and enjoying the lovely yard and foliage. Overall it was a fantastic stay.
5.0
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was very clean.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
We had a lovely stay in Tamarind, great location, easy access to restaurants, beaches, shopping. The home was comfortable, had everything we needed, and the property manager was very helpful. Would stay there again!
5.0
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was very clean.
I was very happy with the location.
I was more than satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Thoroughly charming. Our vacation was exactly what we hoped for. Quiet, comfortable and low key. The French Leave beach is spectacular!The house is, as stated, charming, and very comfortable. The property is really pretty and perfectly located if you want to avoid renting a car.The house is little run down and could use some upgrading but definitely clean. I hesitate to criticize - the house is 150 years old and on an island in the middle of the ocean - but the bathrooms are in need of repair and hot water would be nice.If you are looking for a four or five star vacation you will have to look elsewhere on Eleuthera and pay accordingly. We loved it!
5.0
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Great historic home. Hate to share the secret. Hope to book again.
5.0
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
I am so grateful for the wonderful experience that Tamarind House provided recently. For those of us that treasure history, Tamarind House a wonderful and gracious old home, tastefully decorated with period furnishings, but one that has received much love and updates since it was built. Its convenient location allowed us to explore the length and breadth the island, with each beach more beautiful and unspoiled than the next, fresh fish straight from fisherman, amazing natural elements, and elegant or casual dining. Unmatched above all are the kindness of the local Bahamians; I hope I will have the privilege to return to Tamarind House again one day. Sincerely, Bonnie
5.0
Tamarind is Magic
We could not have enjoyed our stay more. A beautiful and historic home, full of curated decor and a wonderful collection of books. Kitchen has everything you might need and more. A restorative and healing place, you will not regret booking!
5.0
An Eleuthera Gem
History is preserved amidst updated amenities at the well-appointed Tamarind House, located on spacious grounds in central Governors’ Harbour. Walking distance from shops and restaurants (including the fun and lively Buccaneers’ Club) and a longer, but reasonable walk to French Leave beach, Tamarind offers a quiet and comfortable sanctuary, a bit rustic around the edges but in a way that preserves its historic qualities. The well-appointed kitchen (we made Christmas dinner there), airy bedrooms and thoughtful, personal decor; a lovely verandah, outdoor shower, and eclectic library all provide a setting for relaxed, leisurely appreciation of this beautiful island. We appreciated the respect for the home’s history evident in the owners’ choices and also the excellent support of the property manager and staff managing the rental. Overall the experience was like being welcomed by friends into a home they graciously share. A special place.
2.5
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was clean.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Lacasa ha un fascino incredibile, un posto carico di storia dove si vive in una dimensione unica...l'unica cosa é che se fosse mia farei deigli investimenti per migliorare i serramenti. Comunque la consiglierei , un esperienza unica... grazie
5.0
Una bellissima esperienza
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was clean.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Lacasa ha un fascino incredibile, un posto carico di storia dove si vive in una dimensione unica...l'unica cosa é che se fosse mia farei deigli investimenti per migliorare i serramenti.
Comunque la consiglierei , un esperienza unica...
grazie
Comunque la consiglierei , un esperienza unica...
grazie
5.0
GO HERE!! The most authentic island experience.
My book group ladies travelled to this island for a week away and WOW were we glad we did! Just a puddle jumper further than the touristy Nassau, we were met with chrystal clear turquoise water, friendly locals and a relaxed, authentic vibe. The rental property was breezy and spacious. Clean, and in great shape. We especially enjoyed the beautiful trees and colorful flora in the gardens. The bedrooms were comfy and clean. There was a courtyard (with outdoor shower!) perfect for a simple fresh breakfast, afternoon nap or evening cocktails. A beautiful Captains house just a short walk to the harbor.
Here you won't find fancy poolside service, crowded beaches or expensive shopping. A day trip to Harbour island is easily accessible for shopping or snorkeling. Come if you want to join the friendly locals at a neighborhood Friday night fish fry, deserted white sand beaches and a feeling that you are REALLY away.
A few of my favorite memories: a 4 mile run from the house on beautiful French leaf beach each morning, meeting a young man who was climbing trees cutting down coconuts- happily handing us one cut open so we can enjoy the yummy nectar, and swimming with our very own dolphin – true! At Surf beach a short drive from the house- she safely swam with us for 30 minutes. I will always remember the look on the girls faces! MAGICAL!
5.0
Gracious Old World Living!
I loved staying at this beautifully designed and spacious home on the island of Eleuthra. It has the most delightful veranda for sitting in any weather. The scents wafting in from the beautiful trees and shrubs that surround this property are exquisite.
Sleeping with the windows open to the warm night air was terrific for my dreams and late nights listening to music and playing games in the comfortably appointed living room didn't hurt either!
I was pleasantly surprised by the full selection of cooking utensils available in the kitchen and appreciated the laundry line for drying beach towels and suits.
Don't miss the wonderful outdoor shower!
This house is beautifully situated in town just up from the ocean and I enjoyed heading down to the waterfront to see if freshly caught fish was available on several afternoons.
Eleuthra has so much to explore (beaches, caves, and restaurants were our favs) and this house is centrally located. I highly recommend it.
5.0
Amazing Getaway for our family
This place was truly magical! We stayed here for a family vacation and the place could not have been more perfect for our family! It was romantic, beautiful, and in an amazing location. If we travel back to this area we will definitely be staying at the Tamarind House again. We would definitely recommend it to anyone traveling in this area!
4.0
A great home away from home
My cousin, my 1 year old and my 3 year old stayed at this property for 9 days. I would highly recommend it.
The house itself is extremely well appointed, and the pictures don't do it justice. There is an enormous yard, a shaded front/side porch and a back veranda for eating. Inside the house, the kitchen has everything that you could need, the ceilings are high and it is quite spacious. One warning: light sleepers beware! The roosters are LOUD and start as early as 3am. Also, the house is old so on windy nights there can be a bit of rattling. That said, after one VERY windy night where things were rattling all over the place, I mentioned this difficulty to Angelika, the property manager. She had somebody there within hours to batten down the hatches.
Speaking of Angelika--she could not have been more helpful or responsive. She saved the day for us on several occasions, always making it seem as though we weren't being a nuisance. Really great customer service.
The house was a short walk into town, but a longer walk (about 20 min) to the beach. Most people rent cars, which we did for 2 of the 9 days. We got a good workout every day, that's for sure. French leave beach is lovely, once you get past the seaweed. We were often on that amazing beach alone. Crazy.
One thing that we didn't come across until the end, which would have been good to know in advance: there is a really big grocery store with tons of different kinds of foods at Rock Sound. My cousin is a vegan, and there wasn't so much at the Governor's Harbour grocery stores.
Nick, the owner, was very easy to deal with throughout the booking process, and was helpful in providing us with information.
5.0
Just the Best
Hello,
The last line of our review should read 'Oh, and Nick could not have been more helpful.'
Robert & Sandra
5.0
President
This was our 1st trip to Eleuthera and the Tamarind House ended up being the perfect choice for us. Centrally located, walking distance to store, restaurants, Club Med Beach (Club Med is long gone), The Beach House (some of the best food on the island) and the Harbour Friday Fish Fry.
We kept looking at VRBO's on the beach but this meant we needed a car 24/7, stock up on groceries, etc., and this property made the stay so easy. One day we could go south and another north, we only had a car for 2 days out of 10. Also, was somewhat of a working trip for my wife and I as we both have online businesses so WiFi was an absolute necessity.
The size of the home, large deck and huge kitchen made our stay very comforatable. And with the local daily fish catch, I cooked conch and grouper almost every day.
We highly recommend this property. Oh, and Nick could not be helpful.
Robert & Sandra
5.0
Delightful and Perfect
We stayed for 4 nights and 5 days for our daughter's wedding. Tamarind was recommended to us by the groom and he was so right in suggesting we stay. The rooms were warm and inviting and there was plenty of room for the five of us as well as visitors from the wedding party who stopped by as they were staying at Squires Estate right across the street. Cross breezes were always present and we were very comfortable. The owner emailed us details and suggestions. We had a great time! Eleuthera is beautiful and so is Tamarind.
5.0
Wonderful Historic Villa
Just spent a 4-day get-a-way at Tamarind House to introduce our family to the island - their first visit.. It's a great introduction to Eleuthera for first time visitors. Located within walking distance of all amenities in Governors Harbor. The house is steeped in colonial history. Our family included our 92-year old father-in-law who felt right at home and catered to, spending his days doing water colors of the house and nearby beaches. Some of the beach villas are fine, but being in a historic village setting has a certain charm - roosters in the morning and neighbor children's voices, a short walk to the historic Haines Library and, of course, the Friday night fish fry. Can't say enough good about the place. You may find less expensive, but none nicer.
5.0
Beautiful home in paradise
This is a comfotable, beautiful property in the best part of the island. I stayed here couple of years ago. I will certainly go and stay again.
5.0
Tropical Delight!
If you are looking for beautiful beaches, delightful people and an authentic Captain's house, the Tamarind is the the place to be. It was within walking distance of the town center and harbour, which by the way was so clear you could swim in and watch the local fishermen. Locally run shops and restaurants add to the charm of this place and the local folks were super friendly. Friday night fish fry with music can't be beat. there are several beaches within walking distance, but we rented a car to explore the rest of this little known island. The house itself was terrific, plenty of room, beds comfy with a nice courtyard and porch to hang out on. Recommend highly to all ages and this will be the spot we stay when we return to the island.
5.0
Wonderful Introduction to Eleuthera!
We have been to Governor's Harbour 5 times now, and have visited Tamarind House three times. In our most recent visit to Tamarind House, we were able to enjoy the brand new living room, dining room, and veranda furniture, as well as the updated kitchen. If you are new to Eleuthera, this is the perfect place to start (and to return). The house is well located in town, with easy access to the Atlantic and Caribbean sides of the island. It's easy to pick up groceries, get to the liquor store, pick up fresh fish from the dock (literally at the end of the street), walk down to the library, and/or attend the Friday fish-fry. The house itself is a romantic home, set among other pretty homes, on a hillside setting. Although large, it is cozy, as there is always a place to escape to, whether the wraparound veranda, the living room or the sunny courtyard. It everything you would expect of a historic home. We found it to be child-friendly and very relaxing. The owners are wonderful and very helpful. This rental is a great value. We highly recommend Tamarind House!
5.0
Lovely and comfortable home - full of character and great atmosphere
For anyone who prefers experiencing a community from a home base to resort living, Tamarind is perfect. A lovely and spacious historic house with terrific views and an easy walk to everything in town, it is a relaxing and beautiful spot to stay. The house is comfortable and nicely equipped and it's easy to pick up a good although not wide array of food and other essentials at the grocery store, the bakery, the organic market, and from the daily fishing catch, among other places. There are lots of things to do, including gorgeous beaches and tasty restaurants, but the tourist infrastructure is not extensive so you have to be happy charting your own way (which we enjoy!) and not expect late model cars and tourist buses. We will definitely return.
5.0
The Perfect Island Getaway
We've stayed at Tamarind House three times--what a unique and romantic experience! It's a beautifully furnished and meticulously cared for home with an island feel that immediately puts you in a vacation frame of mind. We took morning walks into town for fresh pastries, had our coffee on the back patio, enjoyed long walks on the beach, lunched at a restaurant right on the beach, relaxed on the front porch with cocktails, and dined on fish we caught (or bought) that morning. What more can I say? I wish I were back there right now! The beach deserves special mention because it's a nearly deserted stretch of the most delicate sand and picturesque surroundings. You can snorkel coral reefs right off the beach or find shade in the palm trees. We loved the laid-back island culture of Governor's Harbour. It's not your typical resort hotel surrounding with tacky shops. Governor's Harbour has quaint restaurants, bars, and stores, without the crowds and mark-ups, and where the vacationers and townspeople mix together. The owners were incredibly helpful with all of our questions as we planned the trip. Enjoy!
4.0
Unique way to experience Eleuthera
For anyone who prefers experiencing a community from a home base to resort living, Tamarind is perfect. A lovely and spacious historic house with terrific views and an easy walk to everything in town, it is a relaxing and beautiful spot to stay. The house is comfortable and nicely equipped and it's easy to pick up a good although not wide array of food and other essentials at the grocery store, the bakery, the organic market, and from the daily fishing catch, among other places. There are lots of things to do, including gorgeous beaches and tasty restaurants, but the tourist infrastructure is not extensive so you have to be happy charting your own way (which we enjoy!) and not expect late model cars and tourist buses. we will definitely return.
5.0
Tamarind House
We have stayed at Tamarind House many times through the past few years and have always enjoyed staying at the house. It is a beautiful historic house in a great location in Governor Harbour, Eleuthera. I would recommend it highly...
5.0
Getting away from it all
We've returned to Tamarind numerous times as guests of the owner and have rented the house for our own use. The lonely beaches and snorkeling are world class, and the house is welcoming and comfortable reflecting the great style of the owners with respect of its historic status. It's a home - not a museum. Sipping drinks on the porch at sunset can't be beat.
FAQs
How much does this house cost compared to others in Governors Harbour?
The average price for a rental in Governors Harbour is $726 per night. This rental is $133 less expensive than the average.
Is parking included with this house?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Historic Sea Captain's House, Walk to Town, Beach. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this house?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this house. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is Historic Sea Captain's House, Walk to Town, Beach pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this house is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Historic Sea Captain's House, Walk to Town, Beach?
We found 9 amenities for this rental. This includes air conditioner, kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, parking, and laundry.
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