Seeing is believing once you arrive in Exuma for an island getaway like no different. This district of The Bahamas is made up of 365 islands, not all of them inhabited, and every with its personal attraction. Vacationers from everywhere in the world are drawn right here yr after yr, calling it some of the stunning corners of the islands. Among the many largest is Nice Exuma, which is linked to its smaller neighbor, Little Exuma, by a bridge.
Travellers to The Bahamas will discover that there’s far more to Exuma than the admittedly adorable swimming pigs (extra on that later). In these islands, there’s seashores and sandbanks ready to be explored, caves to enterprise into for the courageous, loads of island hopping alongside the way in which. There are additionally some unimaginable dive websites together with Thunderball Grotto, and pure bubble baths just like the one in Compass Cay which we’ll cowl later on this submit as one other must-see attraction.
All in all, Exuma attracts guests from everywhere in the world and for good purpose — it’s a breathtaking place to be. Whether or not you’re looking for a peaceable and unique island expertise, or one which’s dripping with luxurious, you’re sure to seek out simply what you want in Exuma.
The place are the Exuma Cays positioned?
The Exuma Islands are an island chain positioned within the middle of the Bahamas, southeast of Nassau. Nice Exuma, the biggest of the islands, is the place you will see most accommodations, resorts, and trip leases in addition to the capital metropolis of Georgetown. Nevertheless, a few of the smaller cays have nice excursions which you could simply entry all through your journey.
The Exuma Cays land is a laid-back, stunning place on your Bahamas trip. It’s simply accessible from different elements of the island and provides beachfront views of the Bahamas’ well-known clear blue waters.
Getting near wildlife: 4 actions at Exuma Land and Sea Park
The Exuma Land and Sea Park is a stretch of protected space you’ll be able to go to to stand up near wildlife, expertise the biodiversity of the Exumas, and total, simply take pleasure in nature at its finest. The seashores within the park are unimaginable, and the boat rides one can organize to the park are described by most who go as “merely exhilarating”, “to not be missed”, and “in contrast to any boat tour ever skilled”. Whether or not you need to hike, snorkel, or simply lounge on the seashore, the Exuma Land and Sea Park is value a go to.
Photograph credit score: Tony Pullar/Shutterstock.com
1. Sea Aquarium
Sea Aquarium is true subsequent to O’Briens Cay within the Exuma Land and Sea Park and is an glorious place for snorkeling. This is likely one of the areas you’re more likely to see the widest number of fishes and the very best quantity as nicely, multi function place. There’s a blinding spectrum of coral and a sunken aircraft on this space which shall be fascinating to see. For all these causes, diving on the Sea Aquarium is a should whereas in Exuma.
2. Rocky Dundas
Rocky Dundas is positioned within the Exuma Land and Sea Park. It’s an historic hidden cave that may solely be accessed by swimming beneath a ledge that’s partially submerged. As soon as inside, there’s a big open cavern with distinguished stalagmites and stalactites. It’s finest to attempt to discover the cave at low tide. Close to Rocky Dundas you’ll discover Rooster Cay which you may as nicely go to whereas within the space.
3. Warderick Wells
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On the Exuma Land and Sea Park, Warderick Wells is the middle of exercise. Right here you’ll discover rocky bluffs, sand dunes, mangrove creeks, sand flats, and extra. You’ll be capable to tie up your dinghy on the Customer Middle’s dock earlier than you head out exploring different areas. Whereas within the Land and Sea Park don’t miss out on visiting cays like Shroud within the north which has a lot of creeks and mangroves, an abundance of turtles, juvenile sharks, and rays. There are beautiful rock formations within the southern finish of the Land and Sea Park, a cave system, and plenty extra to discover.
4. Halls Pond Cay
Halls Pond Cay is about 60 miles off of Nassau. It is a non-public island, and simply off the coast you’ll be able to have some nice dive adventures within the crystal clear waters. The coral reef to the east of Halls Pond is the right place to dive if you happen to’re hoping to see Noticed Eagle Rays and different unimaginable underwater sightings.
Prime 7 issues to do in Staniel Cay
Staniel Cay has a inhabitants of about 100 people who find themselves native to The Bahamas, and round 70 trip owners. This cay showcases the true which means of straightforward dwelling and you may simply take a ship constitution or a tour to discover this a part of the Exumas. Guests who go to Staniel Cay principally go there to snorkel, go kayaking or paddle boarding, swim with nurse sharks, strive the swimming with the pigs expertise, or simply expertise life on a distant island. If you would like, you’ll be able to even lease out a golf cart which may make it simpler to get to some elements of the island.
1. Pig Seaside
One of many largest points of interest within the Exumas is the swimming pigs and no record of issues to do there can be full with out it. The pigs have made a house on Large Main Island and you may go to them as a part of a tour on this space. On the island, there’s fairly plenty of pigs, together with Rosie and her lovable piglets. The pigs usually swim out to greet incoming boats, however greater than more likely to see what meals it’s a must to provide. You’ll have a better likelihood of seeing them swim out if you happen to do that tour within the morning.
Need to have a while with the well-known swimming pigs earlier than the excursions arrive? Keep at Fowl Cay Resort, which is positioned on the island instantly subsequent to Pig Seaside.
Knowledgeable tip: Large Main Cay has a couple of seashore, they usually’re not only for pig sightings. The northern seashores are nice for a swim and a wander, particularly if you happen to’re exploring the Exumas by boat. Close by Little Main Cay is non-public, however the northwest rocks are a favourite dive spot.
2. Thunderball Grotto
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Chances are you’ll hear rather a lot about this space even earlier than attending to The Bahamas. The recognition of this grotto and extraordinary snorkeling spot has rather a lot to do with the truth that a scene from the James Bond film ‘Thunderball” and a part of the film “Splash” had been each filmed right here. Generally the currents could be sturdy across the island, so this spot is finest for extra skilled divers, particularly if you happen to plan on diving additional out of your boat. It’s not advisable to snorkel right here when the wind is powerful from the south or southwest.
3. Compass Cay Marina
The Compass Cay Marina is an fascinating cease as a result of right here you’ll be able to go to a soon-to-be-friend from The Exumas who simply so occurs to have a household of pet nurse sharks. There’s a touchdown price per particular person for the Compass Cay Marina, however you in all probability received’t have to fret about this if you happen to go to as a part of a tour. In the event you get there with one thing to feed the sharks, they may simply assist you to pet them!
Knowledgeable tip: Go to Rachel’s Bubble Tub whereas at Compass Cay. It is kind of a swimming gap with a jacuzzi really feel. Rachel’s Bubble Tub is on the seashore on the northwest finish of Compass Cay.
4. Bitter Guana Cay
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It’s not on daily basis you’ll be capable to go to an island with lots of of iguanas strolling round, so whereas in Exuma, it’s a good suggestion to make a while to see this for your self. It should undoubtedly be an expertise in contrast to some other to see the big iguanas that reside on Bitter Guana Cay. In the event you’re quiet and keep nonetheless for a bit, you’ll begin to see them coming out of the bushes. Lumber Cay Reduce, a 30-acre non-public island, is close to Bitter Guana Cay.
5. Staniel Cay Yacht Membership
In the event you’re into boating, you’re more likely to have time on the Staniel Cay Yacht Membership which has existed because the 60s. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this spot is nice for socializing and likewise having meal. The bar on the yacht membership is among the many most chill you’ll discover in The Bahamas.
Photograph credit score: Alexander Chaikin/Shutterstock.com
6. Lighthouse at Little Pipe Cay
Little Pipe Cay is likely one of the lesser-known cays of the Exumas. It’s a non-public island and one of many issues individuals love going to see whereas within the neighborhood of this island is the outdated, nonetheless working stone lighthouse that you simply’ll be capable to take an image of out of your boat. Little Pipe Cay spans 38 acres and it’s accessible by seaplane or boat.
7. Sunken Aircraft
In the event you’re curious about a diving alternative that includes seeing a sunken aircraft firsthand then you’ll be able to strive diving off Staniel Cay. There’s a couple of downed aircraft on this space and you may go along with a talented information or as a part of a tour to see these up shut. One in all these sunken planes could be seen on the southern finish of Staniel Cay.
Exploring additional south in Exuma: 2 actions in Blackpoint Settlement
The small city at Black Level Settlement on Nice Guana Cay is understood for its pleasant residents, straightforward going island environment, and wide-open areas to walk. Time feels slower right here, providing you with the possibility to maneuver at your individual tempo and even sit with native girls as they weave baskets, hats, and different treasures from palm leaves. Lunch is straightforward with loads of choices, from pizza to native dishes and pub-style bites. There’s a pure blowhole on this island as nicely that’s value seeing when you’re there. Finish your day with some seashore time, and hopefully, a tremendous sundown.
1. Little Farmer’s Cay
Little Farmer’s Cay is a lesser-known island in The Bahamas with a inhabitants of solely 50 to 70 individuals. Once you get to this island, you’ll be greeted by the “Dockmaster” who’ll be capable to level you in the precise course by way of what you’d prefer to see or do. The wildlife inhabitants right here far eclipses that of individuals, and you may expertise this for your self whereas in The Bahamas. On this space, a few of the issues you’ll be able to anticipate to see are tropical birds, sea turtles, dolphins and sharks. Lunch is out there right here from the Ocean Cabin with a lot of native choices.
2. North Gaulin Cay
In the event you’re into accumulating sand {dollars}, North Gaulin Cay could be value exploring whereas in Exuma. Like lots of the islands and cays on this space North Gaulin is nice for snorkeling, so when you’re diving the sandbar west of this cay you’ll be able to search for sand {dollars} at low tide that you simply may even be capable to take dwelling as a memento.
7 different locations to go to in Nice Exuma
1. Coco Plum Seaside
If ever there have been a photograph description of the phrase paradise, it could in all probability look rather a lot like Coco Plum Seaside in The Bahamas. That is arguably some of the stunning seashores on this a part of the world, and also you’ll be mesmerized from the minute you get there with simply how blue the ocean appears to be like, how stunning the palm bushes are, and total, how relaxed you’re feeling whereas there. This seashore is on the north-eastern facet of Nice Exuma and it’s nice for picnicking, shelling, and trying to find sand {dollars}. In the event you plan on visiting Coco Plum Seaside whereas in The Bahamas, undoubtedly reap the benefits of the water swing set that’s a infamous function of this strand.
2. Greg Norman Championship golf course
The Greg Norman Championship Golf Course in Nice Exuma has received many awards over time. Not solely that, however it’s thought-about some of the scenic golf programs within the Caribbean. Whereas in Exuma, you’ll be capable to tee off in type at this in depth 18-hole, par 72 championship course with services together with a full-service golf store, membership storage services, a follow vary with chipping and placing greens, and extra. There’s additionally a follow bunker and an oceanfront jogging path alongside the again 9.
3. Tropic of Most cancers Seaside
Photograph credit score: Alexander Chaikin/Shutterstock.com
Clear and calm seas with strikingly white sand are the hallmarks of Tropic of Most cancers seashore in The Bahamas. Many describe this as the most effective seashores stops in The Bahamas and this has rather a lot to do with how stunning the seashore is. Tropic of Most cancers Seaside is a good choice if you happen to’re in search of a extra secluded seashore expertise the place you’ll be capable to take advantage of the solar, sea and sand. There’s a cocktail bar and meals stand on the seashore as nicely in case you need to seize one thing whereas there.
4. Stocking Island
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Stocking Island in The Bahamas is a nature lover’s finest good friend. On this island there’s a lot to discover together with Jacques Cousteau’s Thriller Cave and the Moriah Harbor Cay Nationwide Park. Very first thing’s first: the cave. It was named after an explorer often called Jacques Cousteau. Nice snorkeling could be discovered on the mouth of this cave which is accessible with a brief boat trip. There’s stunning surroundings and historical past contained in the Moriah Harbor Cay Nationwide Park and also you’ll additionally be capable to view a few of the world’s oldest fossils – stromatolites – that are discovered solely on this island, and in Australia.
5. Sandpiper Boutique
In the event you’re in search of a memento cease with genuine presents, then cease by Sandpiper Boutique whereas in Exuma. It is a nice choice for anybody in search of genuine Bahamian gadgets together with Bahama Hand Prints, Androsia, Abaco Neem & extra. The choices listed here are a mirrored image of the heritage of The Bahamas blended in with a lot of ardour and love. You could find artwork and collectable pottery right here (Jessica Minns), in addition to a spread of different gadgets together with books, customized painted sand {dollars}, do-it-yourself jewellry, t-shirts, cowl ups, island decor, and extra.
6. Sandy Cay
Sandy Cay is on the southern finish of the Exumas, and it’s a cool island to spend the day significantly if you happen to’re in search of someplace to picnic. If you will get a tour that features a cease right here it’ll be value having the ability to lounge on this small, not-so-developed island which has a seashore that may be the backdrop of some superb trip pictures.
7. Georgetown
Georgetown is the capital metropolis of the Exumas. There’s loads to do and see on this massive metropolis together with purchasing, attempting genuine Bahamian delicacies, and seeing the sights. One in all our absolute favourite actions in Georgetown is the Canal Boat Cruise. See all the historic sights in Georgetown with an hour lengthy tour by the canal. Moreover, we love the paddleboarding and kayaking alternatives, in addition to the must-see historic sights just like the Outdated Stone Home.
The right way to journey to Exuma, Bahamas
Exuma, Bahamas is pretty accessible for many vacationers. The Exuma Worldwide Airport providers flights from throughout the globe. Moreover, you’ll be able to fly into the bigger Nassau airport as nicely and take a fast ferry or flight to Exuma. From main US cities, you’ll be able to fly to Exuma pretty effectively.
• Flight from New York Metropolis, New York: 5h 5m
• Flight from Miami, Florida: 1h 30m
• Flight from Los Angeles, California: 7h 54m
Moreover, most different islands within the Bahamas will provide easy accessibility to Exuma as a consequence of it’s reputation. Whether or not you might be touring by boat, passenger aircraft, or ferry, you’ll be capable to cease by the Exumas for a fast day journey or a full trip.
The place to remain in Exuma
Exuma is straightforward island dwelling. You’ll finest spend most of your days on the turquoise waters and smooth white sand seashores.
Easy island dwelling additionally signifies that the meals is straightforward, and the choices are restricted. Nevertheless, there are two locations in Exuma that carry beautiful eating to the Out Islands of The Bahamas and these resorts are the best choice to spend the night time:
Fowl Cay Resort
Positioned by itself island subsequent to Pig Seaside, this is not your common all-inclusive. Fowl Cay Resort provides island dwelling, with out the logistics that include constructing and sustaining your individual property on international soil.
Surrounded by probably the most stunning waters and seashores on this planet, Fowl Cay provides a house away from dwelling in contrast to some other. You received’t discover lodging nearer to the world-famous pigs than Fowl Cay Resort.
Each villa in Fowl Cay consists of entry to a golf cart and a powerboat making it potential to unfold your wings and discover.
Sandals Royal Bahamian & Island Hopping to the Exumas
Staying in Nassau however hoping to discover the Exumas too? It is completely doable. A day journey places these unimaginable islands inside straightforward attain, and Sandals Royal Bahamian units the stage for all of it.
Sandals Royal Bahamian places you within the coronary heart of Nassau with entry to the Exumas simply off the coast. This adults-only all-inclusive resort is designed only for {couples}, mixing laid-back luxurious with the easygoing rhythm of the Caribbean.
You’ll take pleasure in 10 eating spots that includes French and Caribbean flavors, 8 bars, two walk-in swimming pools, and a private offshore island. With leisure day and night time, limitless land and water sports activities, scuba diving for licensed divers, and optionally available butler service in choose suites, there’s no scarcity of how to chill out or roam.
And if the Exumas are calling, you’re only a boat trip away.
The last word Exuma, Bahamas bucket record!
There’s no two methods about it, Exuma is a type of locations you merely need to expertise whereas in The Bahamas. There’s greater than sufficient to see and do within the Exumas to fill a complete week, and it simply could be the perfect week of your life. Phrases can hardly seize the pure magnificence right here. You may attempt to snap it with a digital camera, however you’ll not actually perceive how mesmerizing the views are till you might be standing in the midst of all of it.
Talking of personal islands, Sandals Royal Bahamian’s Barefoot Cay is a dreamy little getaway, your individual island escape tucked inside a tropical trip.
