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5 Days in Southwest Sicily: A Luxury Itinerary with Wine, Wellness and Ancient Ruins

Best Things to Do, Eat and See in Southwest Sicily

Planning a trip to Southwest Sicily? This unforgettable region of Italy is packed with charming coastal towns, world-class wineries, ancient ruins, and indulgent food and wine experiences. Whether you’re dreaming of vineyard tours, historical landmarks, or relaxing spa days, this 5-day luxury Southwest Sicily itinerary highlights the best this island gem has to offer.

Here is exactly how to spend five days exploring Southwest Sicily, including Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, Marsala wineries, Sicilian cooking classes, and time to actually enjoy the resort instead of rushing from stop to stop.

Southwest Sicily Itinerary at a Glance

DayPlanBest for
1Arrive at Verdura Resort and dinner by the seaSettling in and sunset views
2Caltabellotta bike tour and spaActive morning plus wellness
3Valley of the Temples in AgrigentoHistory and archaeology
4Marsala wineries and salt pansWine tasting and sunset
5Sicilian cooking classFood and a slower final day

Day 1: Arrival & Dinner by the Sea

Your Southwest Sicily vacation starts with stress-free arrival thanks to private transportation from Catania Airport straight to our resort, Verdura, near Sciacca, Sicily.

We chose an overnight flight, so we could arrive, and get on the new time zone effectively.

Recommended:

  • Private Mercedes V-Class transfer from Catania Airport
  • Settle into your resort accommodation
  • Dinner at Amare known for fresh seafood and ocean views

Pro Tip: Book a seaside table at Amare for sunset. Sicilian coastal dining doesn’t get better than this.

Day 2: Caltabellotta Bike Tour & Luxury Spa Day

Start your day with breakfast at Buongiorno, the resort’s casual café offering fresh pastries, fruit, and strong Italian coffee no reservation needed.

Next, explore the charming hilltop village of Caltabellotta on a guided bike tour. Known for its panoramic views and rich history, this is a must-do for nature lovers and culture seekers.

Bike ride near Caltabellotta in southwest Sicily

What we included:

  • Transportation from your resort
  • Private guide & bike rental
  • Traditional Sicilian food tasting

Afternoon relaxation? Treat yourself at the Verdura resort’s luxury spa with facials, massages, and wellness treatments, ideal after an active morning.

Spa details at Verdura Resort in Sicily
Spa at Verdura Resort in Sicily

End your day with dinner at Zagara, a fine-dining experience with modern Sicilian cuisine.

Day 3: Valley of the Temples Tour in Agrigento

Visiting Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples is one of the top things to do in Southwest Sicily. This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases some of the best-preserved Greek temples outside of Greece.

Your half-day Valley of the Temples itinerary:

  • English-speaking guide at the site
  • Explore ancient ruins and Greek architecture
  • Lunch at Nuccio, a local restaurant with authentic Sicilian dishes in Agrigento.

Insider Tip: The site gets hot, so plan for a morning tour and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Ancient Greek temple ruins at the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento
Temple columns at the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, Sicily

Day 4: Marsala Wineries & Saltpans Sunset

No trip to Sicily is complete without a wine tasting experience in Marsala, one of Italy’s most famous wine regions.

Your full-day private tour should include:

  • Cantina Florio winery tour & tasting (Lions of Sicily, IYNYK)
  • Private experience at Donnafugata winery
  • Visit to Marsala’s historic Saltpans
  • Sunset aperitif at Mammacaura

Expect bold reds, crisp whites, and the famous Marsala fortified wine, plus unbeatable sunset views over the salt flats.

Wine tasting during our Marsala winery day in Sicily
Sunset over the Marsala salt pans in Sicily

Day 5: Sicilian Cooking Class at La Casetta dell’Orto

On your final morning, enjoy breakfast before heading to a hands-on Sicilian cooking class at La Casetta dell’Orto, nestled in the resort’s garden.

Learn to cook authentic Sicilian recipes using fresh local ingredients, a fun and delicious souvenir to bring home.

La Casetta dell'Orto cooking class at Verdura Resort
Hands-on Sicilian cooking class at Verdura Resort
Fresh tomatoes and ingredients for our Sicilian cooking class
Preparing Sicilian dishes during the cooking class

Southwest Sicily Travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Southwest Sicily?

Five days gives you enough time to combine a resort stay with Agrigento, Marsala, a small hill town and a food experience without making every day feel overbooked.

What are the best things to do in Southwest Sicily?

The experiences I would prioritize are the Valley of the Temples, a Marsala wine tasting, the salt pans at sunset, a visit to Caltabellotta and at least one hands-on food experience such as a Sicilian cooking class.

Is Southwest Sicily good for a luxury trip?

Yes. The area works especially well if you want history, food and wine with time built in for a resort, spa and slower coastal days.

Should you rent a car in Southwest Sicily?

A car gives you flexibility, but private transfers and guided day trips can make sense if you plan to stay at one resort and do a few longer excursions. Choose based on how much independent exploring you want to do.

Why Visit Southwest Sicily?

Southwest Sicily offers the perfect mix of:
✅ Luxury accommodations
✅ Historic sites like Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples
✅ Wine tasting in Marsala
✅ Stunning coastal views
✅ Relaxing spa experiences
✅ Authentic Sicilian food

Best Time to Visit Southwest Sicily

For warm weather, fewer crowds, and perfect sightseeing conditions, visit from May to June or September to October.

Plan Your Dream Southwest Sicily Itinerary

This luxury Sicily travel guide highlights the best experiences for couples, families, or small groups looking to explore history, culture, food, and wine in comfort and style.

Pin this post for your next Italian getaway, and experience why Sicily is one of Italy’s hottest destinations for luxury travel.

My Must-Have Travel Essentials for Every Chic Jetsetter

When it comes to travel, especially internationally, the gear you bring can make or break your trip. After countless adventures (and a few mishaps), I’ve curated a list of travel essentials I never leave home without. These pieces are more than just functional—they elevate your experience and help you travel smarter, not harder.

Whether you’re off to Italy this summer or planning your next stylish getaway, here are my tried-and-true essentials:

1. Beis 29″ Large Check-In Roller

Why I’m obsessed: This is the holy grail of checked luggage. The handle has a cushioned grip (your hands will thank you), and it includes shoe bags and a laundry bag—genius for keeping clean and dirty clothes separate. The build quality is exceptional, and let’s be real: when you’re hopping international flights and cobblestone streets, your bag needs to hold up.

Chic tip: I went with the beige color—it stands out on the carousel and feels elevated.

2. Beis Weekender Bag

This pairs perfectly with the roller. It’s the ideal carry-on: wide opening, structured interior, and easy to slide under the seat. When you’re in the aisle of the plane, juggling your passport, AirPods, and snacks while a line of people stares you down—this bag makes your life easier.

Bonus: It slips right onto your roller handle, so you’re never awkwardly balancing multiple bags at the airport.

3. Compression Packing Cubes

Let’s be honest—no matter how many outfits you plan in advance, there’s never enough room. These cubes are a lifesaver. They maximize space, help organize outfits by category, and make unpacking a breeze once you arrive.

Why I love them: You can fit more, stay organized, and avoid suitcase chaos.

4. Toiletry & Cosmetic Bag

A well-organized toiletry bag is non-negotiable. This one is affordable and spacious, fitting everything from skincare to makeup without bulking up your bag. I love having one place for all my essentials—it makes getting ready feel like a ritual, not a hassle.

5. Silicone Makeup Brush Cover

This is personal preference, but I always keep my brushes separate. The last thing I want is powder getting on my skincare or foundation staining the inside of my bag. This silicone cover keeps everything clean and hygienic.

6. Leak-Proof Toiletry Covers

Nothing ruins your suitcase like a shampoo explosion. These bottle covers are a must—they keep your liquids secure and your clothes safe.

Pro tip: Always double layer liquids with both a seal and a plastic bag just in case. Experience talking here!

7. Portable Charger

Between using GPS, snapping photos, and uploading stories, your phone won’t survive a full day of exploring. A reliable portable charger is a game changer. I carry one in my bag at all times.

Tip: Choose one that’s airline-approved and lightweight so it doesn’t weigh down your carry-on.

8. Passport Cover with AirTag & RFID Protection

Travel is fun—but security matters. I feel so much better having my passport in a cover that includes both an RFID shield and an AirTag slot. That way, if anything goes missing, I can track it immediately.

9. Portable Fan

Summer travel = heat. A small rechargeable fan is a clutch item you don’t know you need until you’re melting in the middle of Rome or waiting for a train in the midday sun. It fits in your bag and makes all the difference.

10. Universal Converter Plug

This is your MVP. One sleek gadget that covers all plug types + includes USB ports? Yes, please. Whether you’re charging a laptop or a curling iron, this has you covered.

Why it matters: Most hotels don’t provide converters, and shopping for one abroad is a hassle. Bring your own and travel stress-free.

✈️ Final Thoughts & Shop My Picks

Having the right travel essentials is about convenience, comfort, and confidence. These items let you stay organized, feel secure, and look chic every step of your journey. Whether you’re planning your next European adventure or a weekend escape, these are the staples I swear by.

Secrets Los Cabos: The Perfect All-Inclusive Mexican Getaway

Secrets Los Cabos Review: The Adults-Only All-Inclusive Getaway in Mexico

If you’re dreaming of an all-inclusive Mexican escape filled with ocean views, personalized service, and easy access to town—Secrets Resort in Los Cabos should be at the top of your list. Just 35 minutes from the Los Cabos International Airport, Secrets is a luxury adults-only resort ideal for couples, groups, or anyone looking for a relaxing and indulgent getaway.

Easy Arrival & VIP Transport

Your vacation starts the moment you land. We booked our private car transfer ahead of time—seamless pickup, cold champagne on arrival (you can add drinks to your reservation), and a smooth ride to the resort.

Why You Should Upgrade to Preferred Club

Upon arrival, we requested an oceanfront Preferred Club room—highly recommended. Not only did we wake up to panoramic ocean views, but the upgrade also gave us access to:

  • The exclusive Preferred Club Lounge
  • A quieter, more relaxing Preferred Pool with drink service
  • Upgraded amenities in the room

In short: If you’re going to Secrets Los Cabos, Preferred Club is worth it.

What to Pack: Dress Code at Secrets Los Cabos

The dress code is very casual. Around the resort, swimwear, cover-ups, and sundresses were the norm. For dinners and going out into town, I dressed up a little, but it wasn’t required. Here’s everything I packed to give you an idea:

  • Swimsuits + cover-ups
  • Flip flops + 1 pair of dressy sandals
  • Casual sundresses
  • One or two nicer outfits for dinner off the resort
  • Light sweater or wrap for cooler evenings

All-Inclusive Drinks & Dining

The drink options are solid, and the bartenders are happy to make them just the way you like. While there are several restaurants on property, including Italian, French, and seafood, the hibachi restaurant is the only one requiring reservations (available 24 hours in advance for Preferred guests).

Pro tip: If you’re a foodie, take advantage of the resort’s proximity to downtown San José del Cabo. Our favorite off-resort dining experiences were:

  • Flora Farms – a charming farm-to-table experience
  • Omakase – perfect for sushi lovers looking for a curated chef-driven menu

Golf & Adventures

Blake played a round at a nearby Los Cabos golf course and raved about the condition and views. If you’re a golfer, you’ll love this option—there are multiple championship courses within 20–30 minutes.

One of the highlights of our trip? A private sunset yacht cruise with drinks, tacos, and views of the iconic Cabo Arch. It was the perfect way to end the trip and easily the best meal of the week.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, girls’ trip, or a relaxing escape with friends, Secrets Los Cabos offers the right blend of all-inclusive luxury, flexibility, and easy access to authentic Mexican experiences.

Disney with Young Kids: Must-Know Tips for a Magical Visit

What I Wish I Knew Before Our Disney Trip with Young Kids: A Valentine’s Weekend to Remember

This Valentine’s Day weekend, I took my two older kids (ages 4 and 6) to Walt Disney World—just the three of us. It was magical, chaotic, and everything in between. If you’re planning a Disney trip with young kids, especially for a long weekend like Valentine’s Day, let me share a few things I learned (some the hard way) that will make your trip smoother, happier, and even more magical.

Stay on the Monorail—Trust Me

Let’s start with my biggest regret: we didn’t stay at a Disney resort on the Monorail line. Huge mistake. We stayed off the Monorail and had to rely on the Disney buses to get to and from the parks. While the buses weren’t terrible, they definitely weren’t ideal—especially with tired kids, a double stroller, and a backpack full of snacks, sunscreen, and emergency Minnie ears.

If you’re traveling with little ones, book a Disney resort on the Monorail. The convenience is unbeatable. Resorts like Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Polynesian Village, or Grand Floridian are worth the splurge for the easy park access alone. Trust me, at the end of the day when everyone’s exhausted, being able to hop on the Monorail is a sanity saver.

Lightning Lane: 100% Worth It

I went in skeptical, but Disney’s Lightning Lane pass was hands down the best investment of our trip. We didn’t wait in a single line the entire time. With two little kids, that’s basically a Disney miracle. From Peter Pan’s Flight to It’s a Small World, we zipped right through like VIPs.

If you’re going during a busy weekend like Valentine’s Day at Disney, get the Lightning Lane. You won’t regret it.

Use a Disney Travel Planner—Game Changer

I worked with a Disney Travel Organizer, and it changed the game for us. She booked all of our key experiences in advance—including breakfast with Disney characters, dinner at Cinderella’s Castle, and appointments at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique.

Both my son and daughter absolutely LOVED the boutique. They were transformed into a knight and a princess, then we went straight to the castle for dinner—still dressed up! The photos, the memories, the sparkles… it was a core memory moment for all of us.

Bonus Tips for Disney with Kids (Ages 4 & 6):

  • Pack snacks (more than you think you’ll need).
  • Bring a portable phone charger—you’ll be on the My Disney Experience app all day.
  • Use mobile food ordering through the app to avoid long lines at quick service spots.
  • Take a mid-day break at the resort—even an hour to decompress makes a difference.

Final Thoughts

If you’re planning a Disney trip with kids for a holiday weekend like Valentine’s Day, plan ahead, stay on the Monorail, and use Lightning Lane. And definitely work with a Disney travel expert to make those magical extras happen without the stress.

Disney is overwhelming—but when done right, it’s pure magic. We came home with tired feet, full hearts, and stories my kids will be telling for years.

Things to Do in Charlotte, NC: A Local’s Weekend Guide

Updated October 2026

When I first moved to Charlotte, it felt like a big town. The city has changed so much since then, but the best way to experience it is still to get beyond the skyline and spend time in its neighborhoods.

Whether you’re here for work, a weekend away, or a visit with the kids, you can build a really good day around a little exploring, something delicious, and time outside. You don’t need to squeeze in every attraction. Pick a few places that fit your pace and leave room for an unplanned stop.

Here’s a Charlotte guide for doing just that: neighborhood wandering, a dinner worth dressing up for, and activities that make a family trip feel like a vacation.

Charlotte at a glance

  • For a first visit: Uptown, South End’s Rail Trail, and a neighborhood dinner.
  • With kids: Discovery Place Science, Freedom Park, and a casual meal at Optimist Hall.
  • For a date night: Supperland in Plaza Midwood or dinner at Haberdish in NoDa.
  • For an outdoor day: The Whitewater Center.
  • For browsing and a slower afternoon: Camp North End.

10 things to do in Charlotte

1. Explore Plaza Midwood

Plaza Midwood is home for me, so it deserves a spot on this list. Start around Central Avenue and The Plaza, then make an afternoon of browsing, coffee, and a meal. The neighborhood has a mix of older homes, local businesses, and plenty of personality.

Make it a plan: Leave the afternoon loose, then book dinner ahead if you have a particular restaurant in mind. The neighborhood guide is a useful starting point for exploring.

2. Walk the Rail Trail in South End

South End is a good choice when you want a walk with places to stop along the way. Follow a section of the Rail Trail, look for public art, and build in time for coffee or lunch. Think of this as a neighborhood outing rather than a hike with a finish line.

Make it a plan: Choose a stretch near the places you want to visit. You don’t need to cover the whole route to enjoy it.

3. Let everyone choose lunch at Optimist Hall

If choosing one restaurant for a group feels harder than planning the trip, start with Optimist Hall. This former textile mill is now a food hall with a range of cuisines, restaurants, and retail. It works well as a casual lunch stop when everyone wants something different.

Make it a plan: Browse the current vendor list before you go, and check the posted parking instructions when you arrive. For dietary needs, speak directly with the individual food vendor.

4. Browse Camp North End

Camp North End brings shops, art, food, and events together in a former industrial campus. It’s a good place to wander without needing a tightly scheduled afternoon: grab a drink, explore the retail spaces, and see what’s happening that day.

Make it a plan: Check the directory and event calendar first. Individual businesses keep their own hours, so time your visit around the shops or food stops you’re most interested in.

5. Book a special dinner at Supperland

For a night that feels like an occasion, consider Supperland in Plaza Midwood. The Southern steakhouse is set in a restored church, giving the space as much character as the menu. It’s a natural fit for a birthday, a date night, or a dressed-up evening during a weekend visit.

Make it a plan: Reserve through the restaurant’s website. The main dining room, bar, and speakeasy are distinct experiences, so check which one you’re booking.

6. Spend an evening in NoDa

For a different neighborhood feel, make time for NoDa. Use Haberdish as a dinner anchor, then leave some room to explore nearby. The restaurant is rooted in the neighborhood’s mill history and offers both reservations and walk-up seating.

Make it a plan: Book a table if dinner is the centerpiece of your evening rather than counting on a walk-in spot at a specific time.

7. Take the kids to Discovery Place Science

Discovery Place Science in Uptown is a hands-on museum with interactive exhibits, live science, animal encounters, and an IMAX Dome Theatre. It gives a family day a clear destination, especially when the weather isn’t cooperating.

Make it a plan: Check current exhibits, admission options, and film times before buying tickets. Give yourselves enough time to explore rather than treating it as a quick stop between meals.

8. Leave room for Freedom Park

A trip doesn’t need to be all reservations and tickets. Freedom Park offers a place to take a walk and let the kids have playground time. Pair it with a relaxed lunch, or use it as a breather between bigger outings.

Make it a plan: Keep this part of the day simple. Check Mecklenburg County’s park information for current details before heading out.

9. Plan an outdoor day at the Whitewater Center

The Whitewater Center has activities including rafting, climbing, ziplining, paddling, and trails. Choose it when you want the outdoors to be the main event, rather than an hour squeezed between other stops.

Make it a plan: Check the daily activity schedule, pass options, and age, height, or weight requirements for your chosen activities. Availability varies, and parking is a separate consideration. Pack for the activities you actually plan to do.

10. Add the NASCAR Hall of Fame to an Uptown day

The NASCAR Hall of Fame brings racing history and interactive experiences into an Uptown visit. It’s a good option for the racing fan in your group, or for a day when you want an indoor attraction with a distinctly Charlotte connection.

Make it a plan: Review the current exhibits and ticket options, then build lunch nearby into the same outing.

A relaxed Charlotte weekend itinerary

Friday: Arrive, settle in, and head to Plaza Midwood for dinner. If Supperland is on your list, make that reservation before the trip.

Saturday: Start with coffee and a Rail Trail walk in South End. Head to Optimist Hall for lunch, then choose Camp North End for browsing or Freedom Park for a slower family afternoon. Finish with dinner in NoDa.

Sunday: Choose one bigger outing: Discovery Place Science for a family museum morning, the NASCAR Hall of Fame for a racing-focused visit, or the Whitewater Center if you have time for an outdoor day. Don’t try to fit all three in before driving home.

A few planning tips

  • Group stops by neighborhood. Charlotte is spread out. A little planning keeps the day from turning into a series of parking lots.
  • Reserve the meal that matters most. Keep the rest of the schedule flexible.
  • Check each venue directly. Menus, hours, ticket options, and event schedules change; the official links above are the best place to plan.
  • With kids, choose one main activity. Add a meal and some time outside, and call it a good day.

Charlotte visitor FAQ

What are some things to do in Charlotte with kids?

Start with Discovery Place Science for hands-on learning, Freedom Park for playground time, or the NASCAR Hall of Fame for racing history and interactive exhibits. Choose one main activity, then add a casual lunch rather than packing the day too tightly.

Is a weekend enough time to visit Charlotte?

A weekend gives you time for a few neighborhoods, good meals, and one or two main attractions. Use the itinerary above as a starting point, and save the Whitewater Center for a day when you can give an outdoor outing enough time.

What can you do in Charlotte when it rains?

Discovery Place Science and the NASCAR Hall of Fame are indoor options. Optimist Hall is another choice for a meal with several food vendors under one roof. Check opening hours and ticket availability before you go.

Which Charlotte neighborhood should you explore first?

For a first visit, choose South End for a Rail Trail walk, Plaza Midwood for neighborhood browsing and dinner, or NoDa for an evening built around a meal. Pick the neighborhood that suits your plans rather than trying to cover all three in one afternoon.

What to pack for a Charlotte weekend

Bring comfortable walking shoes, a layer for indoor stops, and the essentials that keep a day out easy. For packing ideas, see my weekend getaway packing guide. My travel essentials guide also includes organizers and a portable charger for longer days of exploring.

More Charlotte inspiration

I also contributed to Redfin’s Charlotte Bucket List: 10 Things to Check Off Your List as a local expert. It’s another place to find ideas for your visit, alongside this updated guide.

Charlotte is worth exploring a neighborhood at a time. Pick a few stops, make room for a good meal, and enjoy the day.

XOXO, Katie

Gear for Traveling Abroad with Kids: Amazon Haul

Traveling abroad with kids can sound overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! All you have to do is make sure you are prepared with all of the things for travel gear. The last time we traveled with my daughter she was 10 months, so not walking and taking a bottle. This time is going to be a bit different with two toddlers, but I am here for it.

I am incredibly passionate about showing my kids the world and opening them up to new cultures and ideas. The best way to do this is to pack them up, fit them into your world, and take them along for the ride. Anyone can get through an eight to ten hour flight, just remember it’s a moment in time.

When I started doing research on what gear for traveling abroad with kids I wanted to start with the flight. Here is some of the gear I chose to help us make it through. Everything from bed to entertainment. I did end up getting an activity box on Etsy that would be something completely new for them to play with.

Things to remember:

  • Bring Snacks, Snacks, Snacks
  • Change of Clothes
  • New Toys
  • Pajamas for Overnight Flight
  • Bring a couple of pieces of candidate for negotiations
  • Melatonin for Kids
  • Benadryl for allergies
  • Choose an overnight flight

I hope this helps on your travels!

FLIGHT Gear

Happy Travels!

Harbor Island, Bahamas

Going from avid travelers to pretty much non existent over the last 28 months was really hard for me personally. Having a demanding job I typically use my “one” big trip a year to completely unplug and decompress. I am very much so “Type A” with a splash of laid back, so these trips tend to pull the laid back out which everyone in my life probably appreciates. 🙂

We were finally at the point where Blake and I both realized we needed a trip. We both went through our top must haves. They included, laid back, take the kids, good food, and easy to travel to. I follow a few travel bloggers on instagram and kept seeing Harbor Island pop up.

I started doing some research on best places to stay and the rest is history. I am going to share some of the things we learned along the way and recommendations we have on this beautiful island.

Where we stayed:

I personally love to stay in a hotel, but with kids it’s a lot harder during an extended stay. Having a kitchen is a game changer. We started looking in March, and properties were getting taken so quickly with other people trying to get away. We had to make a really quick decision in order to get a place for our dates in August.

We ended up choosing an old historic home in Dunmore Town on Harbor Island called Yellowbird. We chose it for several reasons that included:

  • Pool: When going to the beach with young children, sometimes the ocean is too much so it’s great to have another option.
  • Great Outdoor space for hanging out after the kids go to bed with an outdoor bar.
  • Right in town, so you can walk to dinner/breakfast/lunch.
  • Recently Redone, and such cute furnishings!
  • Really close to the Government Dock, which is where the water taxi from the main island will drop you.

Runner Up Option: Pink Sand Resort Villas

  • Beautiful “Serena & Lily” type furnishings
  • Hotel Amenities, plus privacy of your own villa and pool
  • On the ocean

These were just our top two but there are so many more affordable options available that you can’t go wrong if you stay in town or on the beach. Everything on the entire island is so close since the island itself is only 4 miles long.

How we got there:

If you live in the Southeast your 3 best options are Charlotte, Atlanta, and Miami for direct flights to North Eleuthera Airport. It is the easiest way to get to the island and fastest. We flew from Charlotte and it was around two hours. I was a little overwhelmed initially with making sure we had all the right visas with covid, but overall it was incredibly easy.

  • The week before you go make sure you review travel requirements to the Bahamas Here
  • Download the Verifly App: SERIOUSLY do this, most people don’t and you can skip the long lines in the airport with attendants reviewing Visa’s because everything you need is stored in this app.
  • Once we landed at North Eleuthera we took a taxi from the airport to the dock (all of 5 minutes): TIP don’t let them charge you more than $10. Ask them before they take you how much.
  • Water Taxi: you will take this from the dock over to Harbor Island (5 Minutes, just across the bay): TIP this should be $5/PP: It’s a group taxi so you will need to wear your mask
  • Taking a Covid Test before you fly home is super easy:
    • If you stay in a hotel, they will do it for you there.
    • You can book a concierge nurse service to come to your house
    • They have several testing sites on the island, but we just went down by the government dock and got it done. Took 10 minutes, and we were good to go!

Booking a Golf Cart

You can’t go to Harbor Island and not book a golf cart. Everyone has one and it’s the only means of transportation. We booked with Major’s Golf Cart Rental because it was the most affordable option I found.

Tips:

  • Ask them to leave the cart at the dock with your name on it: It will be up off the Dock on the main road
  • They will come around and fill up your cart, so don’t worry about gas
  • Remember you can get anywhere on the island on the cart

Places to Eat:

Welcome to the foodie island. Seriously had some great meals here, and my best meals were at more of the local places.

Fave Breakfast Spots:

  • Arthur’s Bakery
  • COCOA Coffee House
  • Bahamas Coffee Roasters

Lunch Spots:

  • Back Road Gal Grill: The cook here used to be at Sip Sip before it closed its’ doors. The Lobster quesadilla isn’t listed, but is available here. We picked up lunch and took it to the beach to eat for a picnic.
    • Chicken Wings (Phenomenal)
    • Cheeseburger
  • Blue Bar Restaurant @ Pink Sands
  • Dunmore Deli: Another great option to grab a picnic lunch for the beach
  • Queen Conch: Right on the Water in town

*One thing to note Dunmore Hotel is obviously one that everyone wants to eat at, but they aren’t letting non hotel guests in right now due to Covid.

*Sip Sip is listed as a favorite spot for lunch, but unfortunately the owner decided to shut down and retire earlier this year.

Dinner Spots

  • Angela Starfish Restaurant: Super low key, can order and sit outside (Lunch or dinner option)
    • Ask for the dessert (they had keylime pie while we were there and it was so good)
    • We had their Fish, Conch, and Fries: The fish and conch were so fresh and the batter was delicious
  • The Boathouse:
    • We had the Seafood Boat, and I have to say for the price you get a fabulous selection and the Lobster was so good.
    • On the Water at the Harbor
  • Acquapazza:
    • Good food, but a little overpriced
    • Amazing View
  • Da Vine Wine Merchants & Sushi
    • SO Good, make reservations as is a smaller space
    • Loved the drinks and all the food was good!

I can’t say enough good things about the island and can’t wait to go back!

Weekend Getaway: What to Pack

I feel like we are constantly on the move, packing up and traveling every weekend. I am always trying to free up space and get more efficient. Our family has expanded and the stuff just keeps piling up. I am sharing what to pack and why below.

What to Pack: Travel Gear

Dagne Dover Travel Bag

  • Compartments to keep your items organized.
  • Comes with Pouches for additional organization including shoe holder, so your clothes don’t get dirty
  • Amazing quality to hold up when travel can take a toll on our bag

White Elephant Monogram Make-up Kit

  • Multiple Sizes and you can monogram
  • Great colors
  • Large Size fits EVERYTHING

Alleyoop 4 in 1 Make-up Brush

  • 4 Different Brushes in One
  • Cuts down on items to travel with

Alleyoop Razor

  • Comes with 2 Razor Heads
  • Comes with Shave Bar, so you can shave outside of the shower
  • Cuts down on bringing shaving gel

Green Clean Cleansing Balm

  • Cleanser & Make-up Remover in One
  • Clean Beauty Item
  • Travel Size

SuperGoop Unseen Sunscreen

  • Acts as a Make-up Primer & Sunscreen in one

Kosas Wet Lipgloss

  • Clean Beauty
  • Travel Size Lipgloss Options

Brazilian BumBum Cream

  • Super Hydrating Lotion, especially for the summer time
  • Travel Size

Naked 3 Palette

  • Neutral Options
  • Travel Size Palette

Olaplex

  • Love this line so much, and travel size
  • Good for color treated hair

Shop all of my go-to’s below!

Best Oyster Bars in Charleston, South Carolina

Anyone that knows me knows oysters are my jam. I love all types of oysters, so I love being able to go into an oyster bar and select a variety as a sampler. It’s so fun to test them out and see which ones you like better than others. Oyster Bars are a whole experience for me.

Some of my favorite oyster bars are in Charleston, along with some of my favorite restaurants. The food scene in Charleston is just so good. If you are looking for oysters on the half shell, the below are definitely top of mind with some great selections from both the east and west coast.

Oyster Bars:

1. Leons Oyster Shop

  • Great Oysters on the half shell
  • Cocktail menu is so good
  • Atmosphere is really shabby chic casual
  • Indoor & Outdoor Dining
  • Lunch or Dinner
  • Affordable for Charleston
  • North king Street option:up and coming area

2. The Ordinary

  • Great date night or night out with friends
  • Raw bar with fresh oysters
  • Great Cocktails
  • Pricier option atmosphere is dressy casual
  • King Street option, walk around after or before dinner.

3. Amen Street

  • Great option for lunch/dinner spot
  • If you are looking for a good bar to go sit and have a dozen oysters this is a cool spot really close to the market
  • Casual, Blake & I love to just stroll in during our walks and grab a dozen

4. Nico

  • Everything here is good, literally everything
  • Shem Creek option
  • Awesome cocktails
  • Dressy Casual

5. The Darling Oyster Bar

  • Amazing Bloody Mary & Cocktail Menu
  • Fun Atmosphere
  • Great lunch & Brunch Spot

Also, if you are just looking for an oyster shot, Pearlz will always be my go to and that’s really close to the market. Nothing fancy, but they actually put the shot together for you which is nice. 🙂

Hope you enjoy these spots as much as I do!

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