Welcome to Exuma, Bahamas — a stunning chain of over 365 Exuma cays and islands in the Bahamas known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, powdery white sand beaches, and world-famous Exuma pigs.
Whether you’re exploring Great Exuma Island, relaxing on a secluded beach in Grand Exuma, or taking a boat to the island of swimming pigs, the Exumas Bahamas offer an unforgettable tropical paradise.
From snorkeling in hidden coves and swimming with turtles to meeting the adorable pigs in Exuma Bahamas, this slice of heaven is one of the most picturesque Bahamian islands to visit.
If you’ve ever wondered where is Exuma or why travelers can’t stop talking about it, get ready to discover everything that makes the Exuma Islands one of the most magical destinations in the islands of the Bahamas.
Whether you’re planning a day trip to Pig Island Bahamas, exploring Stocking Island Bahamas, or simply soaking up the laid-back island vibe at a luxury Exuma beach resort, there’s no shortage of incredible things to do in Exuma Bahamas.
From Exuma beaches lined with coconut palms to the pristine Exuma Cays Bahamas, you’ll find paradise at every turn.
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The Exumas Bahamas are a 120-mile-long island chain-within-the-chain of the Bahamas’ Out Islands. Great Exuma Bahamas island anchors this archipelago and it’s where you’ll find the laid-back capital George Town.
The beaches are jaw-dropping and will definitely have you yearning to visit Exuma Bahamas. You will definitely think you are in paradise.
Exuma the Bahamas consists of 365 islands and cays. I got to visit three islands on my visit to the Exumas: Great Exuma, Little Exuma, and The Exuma Cays. All of the islands have their own distinct personalities.
Take a look at our Exuma Bahamas travel guide, along with stellar picks for the top things to do in Exuma Bahamas.
Things to Know Before Your Exuma Bahamas Trip
Table of Contents
Before you pack your bags for a memorable Exuma getaway, be sure to check out our tips for how to get there, where to stay and what to pack. Happy travels!
Where Is Exuma?
Before you pack your bags, let’s get our bearings. Exuma (sometimes called The Exumas) is a district of the Bahamas, located about 35 miles southeast of Nassau. This stunning archipelago consists of:
- Great Exuma – the largest island and home to most resorts, restaurants, and the airport
- Little Exuma – connected to Great Exuma by a small bridge and home to the world-famous Tropic of Cancer Beach
- The Exuma Cays – a chain of hundreds of smaller islands and cays stretching for over 100 miles
The main settlement is George Town Exuma Bahamas, the island’s laid-back capital and the heart of local life. From here, it’s easy to explore both Great Exuma Island and Little Exuma, or take boat tours to the outer Exuma Cays.
How to Get to Exuma Bahamas
Getting to Exuma is simpler than you might expect. Most visitors arrive on Great Exuma at the Exuma International Airport (GGT), just a 15-minute drive from George Town.
Flying to Exuma
- From Nassau to Exuma: Multiple daily flights connect Nassau Bahamas to Exuma, taking only about 40 minutes.
- From Miami to Exuma: Direct flights are available and take roughly one hour.
- From the U.S. & Canada: Seasonal routes operate from major hubs like Atlanta, Charlotte, and Toronto.
Getting to Exuma by Boat
If you prefer a scenic route, ferries and private charters operate from Nassau to Exuma by boat, usually taking 3–4 hours depending on the route. You can also book a day trip from Nassau to Exuma to visit highlights like the swimming pigs or Thunderball Grotto.
Getting Around Great Exuma
Once you’re on the island, the best way to explore is by rental car. Great Exuma Island is long and narrow, so driving allows you to reach hidden beaches and local restaurants at your own pace. Water taxis are also available from George Town to nearby islands like Stocking Island.
Best Time to Visit Great Exuma Bahamas
The best time to visit Exuma Bahamas is from December to April, when the weather is dry, sunny, and comfortable—perfect for beach days and boating adventures.
May through November brings warmer temperatures and the occasional tropical storm, but it’s also less crowded and more affordable.
Quick Climate Tips:
- Average temperatures hover around 80°F (27°C) year-round.
- Hurricane season runs from June through November.
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, and lightweight clothing.
Exuma Packing List:
- Swimsuits, cover-ups, and light clothing
- Water shoes and flip-flops
- Snorkel gear and waterproof phone case
- Bug spray, sunscreen, and aloe
- Beach hat, reusable bottle, and portable charger
The Best Beaches in Exuma
Exuma is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the entire Caribbean. The water is impossibly turquoise, and most beaches are quiet—sometimes you’ll have them all to yourself.
Must-Visit Exuma Beaches:
- Tropic of Cancer Beach (Little Exuma): The most iconic and photographed beach in the Bahamas. Perfect for swimming and photos.
- Hooper’s Bay (Great Exuma): Known for its calm waters and frequent turtle sightings.
- Cocoplum Beach: Shallow waters and sandbars that appear at low tide—ideal for wading and shell hunting.
- Jolly Hall Beach: A local favorite near George Town, great for picnics and sunsets.
- Forbes Hill Beach: Hidden gem with dramatic rock formations and pristine sand.
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly spots or total seclusion, Exuma Bahamas beaches are second to none.
Where to Stay in Exuma Bahamas
Finding the perfect place to stay in Exuma depends on your travel style. Whether you want a luxury beachfront resort, a cozy villa, or an all-inclusive stay, Great Exuma Island and Little Exuma have plenty of choices.
Best Places to Stay in Exuma:
- Sandals Emerald Bay (Great Exuma) – The most famous Exuma Bahamas all-inclusive resort, featuring a golf course, spa, and private beach.
- Kahari Resort – A boutique adults-only retreat on Stocking Island, ideal for couples.
- Hideaways Exuma – Centrally located near George Town with villas and a relaxed vibe.
- Grand Isle Resort & Residences – A luxurious choice for families and honeymooners.
- Vacation Rentals & Villas – Many travelers opt for Exuma luxury villas or beachfront rentals for privacy and space.
If you’re wondering where to stay in Exuma Bahamas for convenience, George Town is your best base. You’ll be close to restaurants, shops, and tours. For seclusion, choose Little Exuma or northern Great Exuma resorts with private beaches.
Grand Isle Resort & Spa | Exuma, Bahamas
We stayed at the beautiful Grand Isle Resort & Spa during our time in Exuma. It is one of many wonderful Exuma resorts. Just a short 15-minute drive from Great Exuma Airport, the Grand Isle is perfectly central and an amazing place to stay.
Grand Isle Resort & Spa sits on a mile-long stretch of ivory beach and sparkling clear waters in Emerald Bay on the island of Great Exuma. As a recipient of the coveted AAA Four Diamond Award, this is a family-friendly resort with a laid-back feel and all the amenities of home.
The villas are beautifully furnished and so spacious that you will feel right at home. We stayed in a 3-bedroom, 3-bath luxury Lucayan villa that averages 2,730 square feet.
Two bedrooms with en-suite and private marble bathrooms are located on the first floor. The master bedroom offers a private terrace overlooking the garden, ocean, or beachfront.
The second floor features the third bedroom with en-suite bath, living room, dining room, and fully-appointed gourmet kitchen with granite countertops. The beautifully furnished living room and dining room also lead out to private balconies with spectacular garden and/or ocean views. These villas are perfect for families or groups traveling together.
I love the pool that overlooks Emerald Bay Beach – it has the best of both worlds. Spend your day lounging by the pool or walk the beautiful and untouched shore, their very own mile-long beach that is beyond stunning and wonderful for snorkeling as well. I would highly recommend getting up early to catch the beautiful sunrise.
Things to do in Exuma Bahamas
If you get tired of lounging by the pool or beach (hey, it could happen), there are some great sights to explore on the island. In Exuma, things to do are in no short supply.
So you’ll have no trouble finding beaches to recline on, gorgeous natural wonders, and delicious island cuisine to enjoy. With paradise on your doorstep, there are endless opportunities when you’re wondering what to do in Exuma, Bahamas.
If you love to golf then you are in for a treat at the Emerald Reef Golf Club that is adjacent to Grand Isle Resort & Spa and features an 18-hole championship golf course designed by legendary PGA pro Greg Norman.
This is the longest course in the Caribbean, which is a challenging par 72 course. It features dramatic fairways with stunning ocean views and a rocky peninsula overlooking the jewel-toned waters.
1. Shop at The Straw Market in Exuma, Bahamas
If you’re looking for things to do in Georgetown, Bahamas, the Straw Market is a one-stop-shop where you’ll find a treasure trove of items. You can purchase anything from locally handcrafted handbags, baskets, coconut, and sand jewelry to woven straw hats, T-shirts, and many other locally-made souvenirs.
2. Exploring Rolle Town Tombs
The quaint village of Rolle Town forms a part of the five Lord John Rolle Commonage Estates on Exuma. The Commonage Estates are lands that have been passed down to the slaves and are not allowed to be sold.
Visit the three Rolle Town Tombs there in the middle of a secluded clearing, which dates back to Loyalist times. This is absolutely one of the top things to do in Exuma for history buffs.
3. Visit Tropic of Cancer Beach
Looking for an amazing Exuma beach? Let me warn you, you will not want to leave this one. This has to be one of the best beaches and crystal clear blue water I have ever seen.
The water is so clear that you will think you are in a swimming pool. The Tropic of Cancer Beach is also known as Pelican Beach and is a must-do on your trip to Exuma. It is a crescent of white-powder sand bordering the translucent blue-green water along the coast of Little Exuma.
This is the longest beach on the island as well as the prettiest in the Exuma chain, plus, you will probably have it all to yourself. Located at 23 26N 75 35W, the beach is named after the meridian line that defines the northern extent of the tropics and crosses right through it.
4. Take a Ferry to Stocking Island
Stocking Island is a small, long, narrow island off the port of Georgetown on Great Exuma Island, Bahamas. It is only a short ferry ride from the port of Georgetown and definitely worth the trip. Exploring Stocking Island is one of the best things to do in Great Exuma for the day.
Conch Salad demonstration and sampling and Sting Ray feedings
We experienced a Bahamian tradition where a conch is taken straight from the sea, cracked, and broken out of its natural shell habitat. The conch man then skins the conch, washes it, scores it, chops it up, and prepares it.
He usually uses locally grown onions, tomatoes, sweet (green) peppers, goat peppers, and Bahamian sea salt for the conch salad. It was topped off with a squeeze of fresh lime and orange to tantalize the taste buds…YUM. It was so fresh and delicious – definitely a memorable meal for us.
5. Visit Pig Beach in Exuma, Bahamas
Swim with the Exuma pigs – this is what you were waiting for. Everyone wants to know if they should book an excursion to swim with the pigs on a trip to Exuma.
Yes, you should absolutely book this excursion, you will kick yourself if you don’t. This is one of the best things to do in Exuma. Book your swimming with the pig’s excursion.
The one question I have been asked is can pigs swim? They absolutely can! Visit the island in the Bahamas where feral pigs play in the sand, lay in the sun (that’s the life), and swim out to boats where they’re fed by tourists. About 20 pigs and piglets live on the uninhabited island of Big Major Cay in Exuma (AKA Pig Island) on what is called “Pig Beach.”
These cute little (and not so little) pigs have become quite the celebrities. The pigs will be very excited to see you but only because of your food. Don’t leave your bag lying around or you might find a snout pickpocketing your snacks.
We completely loved this stop as part of the amazing Exuma water tours, which is one of the most popular Exuma excursions. It is definitely an interesting experience that you must experience when you visit Exuma Bahamas!
The only way to reach Pig Beach is by boat. I would highly recommend booking a guided full-day tour that includes visiting the pigs, swimming with nurse sharks, meeting iguanas, a sandbar picnic. You’ll also have the chance to go snorkeling in the famous Thunderball Grotto (a scenic spot that has been in two James Bond films).
6. Snorkel at Thunderball Grotto, Exuma, Bahamas
Thunderball Grotto in the Bahamas was one of the most exciting snorkeling trips I ever took. Okay, it was the only snorkeling trip I’ve ever taken (yes, it was my first time snorkeling). So I have to admit that I was a little scared. Knowing that a number of films were made here made it even more exciting.
The grotto was used in the James Bond movie, Thunderball, as well as Never Say Never Again, Splash starring Tom Hanks and Into the Blue with Jessica Alba and Paul Walker.
Our tour guide put me at ease as he helped us all get geared up and ready to explore the waters. Besides, after I saw the young kids in the water, I knew I had to do it too. Thunderball Grotto doesn’t look like much from the outside so I didn’t know what to expect. We swam our way through an opening and entered a cave.
As we swam further into the cave we were greeted by a burst of light that was shining in from an opening above. The water was so clear that I could see the colorful fish swimming around me.
We were told that we only had approximately 15 minutes to explore the area as it is dangerous to snorkel the grotto at high tide. Thunderball Grotto is also another great stop on the Exuma water tours.
I would highly recommend this snorkeling excursion – it is spectacular and the fish are so beautiful. It was an unforgettable experience. There re also several scuba diving opportunities as well.
7. Visit the Compass Cay Sharks in Exuma
Here is your chance to swim with the Compass Cay sharks. As you pull up to Compass Cay, you will be mesmerized by the crystal clear waters and the boats that are probably bigger than my house. Swimming with the sharks is the ultimate bucket list experience in the Bahamas.
I never thought in a million years that I would jump in the water with sharks. The funny thing is that I didn’t even hesitate – I jumped right in. I find sharks terrifying and fascinating at the same time. These, along with the pigs, are probably the most photographed creatures in Exuma.
The sharks of Compass Cay seemed unfazed as they swam around us. They were only interested in the local that was feeding them by throwing fish bait into the water to attract them. I couldn’t resist, although initially terrified, I had to touch them. Be prepared – they feel like rubbery, wet sandpaper.
Swimming with nurse sharks in Exuma is definitely one of my most memorable experiences. I think I have a new love for sharks (at least the nurse sharks).
Nurse sharks are slow-moving bottom-dwellers and are, for the most part, harmless to humans. However, they can get huge – up to 14 feet. Although they are small, they do have strong jaws and will bite if needed. Don’t bother them or step on them and definitely don’t dangle your toes off the dock.
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8. Feed the Iguanas in Exuma
Our excursion ended with feeding the iguanas at White Leaf Cay. Just like the pigs, they are waiting for humans to come and feed them.
They will also go through your bag so don’t leave anything lying around. I would recommend packing some grapes for this trip. Simply find a stick and put the grape on the end of the stick to feed them. You can also feed them from the palm of your hand, but I think I trust the stick method more.
The story is that in 2006 Nicolas Cage bought this 40-acre island for $3 million. Once he saw that iguanas inhabited the island, he sold the island back to the Bahamian government for $1.5 million.
Ladies, if you have newly polished toes in red or pink you might want to bury them in the sand. We couldn’t figure out why the iguanas were so in love with or feet until one of the tour guides mentioned that they are likely mistaking our pink and red nails for berries.
9. Golf at Pelican Bay Exuma
If you love to golf then you are in for a treat at the Emerald Reef Golf Club. This stunning spot is adjacent to Grand Isle Resort & Spa and features an 18-hole championship golf course designed by legendary PGA pro, Greg Norman.
This is the longest course in the Caribbean and is a challenging par 72 course. It features dramatic fairways with stunning ocean views and a rocky peninsula overlooking the jewel-toned waters.
Suggested 7-Day Exuma Itinerary
If you have one week in Exumas Bahamas, here’s how to make the most of it:
Day 1: Arrive in Great Exuma, check into your resort, and relax on Jolly Hall Beach.
Day 2: Take a full-day boat tour to the Exuma Cays—see the swimming pigs, iguanas, and Thunderball Grotto.
Day 3: Beach hop around Great Exuma (Hooper’s Bay, Coco Plum Beach).
Day 4: Visit Little Exuma and spend the day at Tropic of Cancer Beach.
Day 5: Relax on Stocking Island, enjoy Chat ‘N’ Chill, and snorkel nearby reefs.
Day 6: Explore George Town, shop local crafts, and have dinner by the marina.
Day 7: Final beach day before flying home from Georgetown Exuma Airport.
This 7 days in Exuma itinerary blends adventure, relaxation, and local culture—perfect for first-time visitors.
Dining in Exuma Bahamas
You won’t find chain restaurants here—just fresh island flavors, grilled seafood, and beachside cocktails.
Top Restaurants in Exuma Bahamas:
- Santanna’s Bar & Grill (Little Exuma): Famous for lobster and views.
- Chat ‘N’ Chill (Stocking Island): A must-visit beach bar with conch salad made fresh on the sand.
- Blu on the Water: Great for cocktails and sunset dinners.
- Driftwood Café (George Town): Perfect for breakfast and coffee.
Don’t leave without trying local Bahamian specialties like cracked conch, fried grouper, and rum cake!
1. Palapa Grill Grand Isle Resort
Palapa Grill is located in Grand Isle Resort and Spa and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It has a gorgeous pool and incredible ocean views. They offer so many delicious menu items that I wanted to try them all.
Since the Bahamas is known for their seafood, I usually ordered their seafood specials and could not resist the french toast for breakfast. It was delicious and you will not go hungry with all the tasty dishes on offer.
2. Splash Restaurant at Hideaway Bay
We visited Splash Restaurant at Hideaway Bay one day for breakfast. This is such a fun restaurant that is located on the beach and offers pool and waterfront dining.
There are also bar swings located at the bar and some humorous signs throughout the restaurant. It was a relaxing and feel-good way to start our next day in Exuma.
3. La Fourchette – Paradise Bay
La Fourchette restaurant is a small French restaurant located in Paradise Bay. Not only was the food delicious but we saw one of the most amazing sunsets. You can’t go wrong with something good to eat and a memorable toast to the day.
4. Rusty Anchor Restaurant
We had one of the best Conch Chowders (there’s a theme emerging) delicious coconut-crusted Grouper at the Rusty Anchor Restaurant. The restaurant has incredible views of the pool and ocean, making it even more unforgettable. Everything was delicious and the atmosphere was fantastic.
5. Santanna’s Bar and Grill
Santanna’s Bar and Grill is a bit of a drive from George Town but so worth the trip if you’re wondering what to do in Great Exuma for a tasty meal.
This charming roadside gem is a must-visit. The staff were extremely warm and friendly, while the beach views are absolutely amazing. If you are lucky you might see a shark or two swim by. We spotted four lemon shark swimming past as we feasted on lunch.
The seafood was absolutely delicious. I had the cracked lobster – basically the best lobster I have ever had! Cracked lobster is lightly battered and fried, which comes with sides of local rice, beans, and delicious grilled onions.
Next door is Mom’s Bakery which is adorable and mouth-wateringly good. You must stop in and try the delicious rum cake (mom is very generous with the rum), the bread is so good that we devoured the entire loaf, and the coconut macarons couldn’t be any fresher as mom was grating the fresh coconut herself.
6. Chat n’ Chill Conch Bar
Take a trip over to this incredible spot where the food is fresh and the views are amazing. You will taste the best conch salad made for you right before your eyes. There are also friendly stingrays that swim up close to shore and are easy to hand-feed.
Travel Tips & Exuma Vacation Costs
- Currency: Bahamian Dollar (on par with USD).
- Cost to visit: Expect moderate to high prices compared to other Caribbean destinations. A week-long Exuma Bahamas vacation can range from budget villas to high-end luxury stays.
- Tipping: 15–20% is standard in restaurants and for tours.
- Driving: Keep left! The roads are simple but narrow—drive carefully.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi is reliable at most resorts but limited in remote areas.
Budget Tips
- Book early for flights from Nassau to Georgetown Exuma to secure the best prices.
- Choose a vacation rental to save on dining costs.
- Join group tours rather than private ones if you’re on a budget.
Why Choose Exuma Over Other Bahamas Islands
When travelers ask, “What’s the best island in the Bahamas?”, Great Exuma often tops the list. Here’s why:
- It’s less crowded than Nassau or Paradise Island.
- The beaches are among the most beautiful in the world.
- You can easily explore both Great Exuma and Little Exuma, or take day trips to the remote Exuma Cays.
- There’s a perfect balance of luxury and authenticity—something you won’t find on busier islands.
Simply put, Exuma Bahamas is where the Caribbean still feels untouched.
Final Tips for Visiting the Exumas Bahamas
- Slow down—life on Great Exuma Island moves beautifully slow.
- Book tours early – especially swimming pigs and snorkeling trips.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.
- Rent a car if you plan to explore more than one area.
- Pack light—you’ll live in swimsuits and sandals.
A Conclusion to the Ultimate Things to do in Exuma
The Exuma Bahamas are more than just a vacation spot — they’re a once-in-a-lifetime experience where adventure meets serenity.
Swim alongside the famous swimming pigs of Exuma, visit the breathtaking Exuma Cays, and experience the charm of Great Exuma Bahamas, the heart of the Exumas.
Whether you choose to stay at a private Exuma beach resort, take a tour of Pig Beach Exuma, or island-hop across the Bahamian islands, each moment in the Exuma Islands Bahamas will leave you in awe.
From Exuma Pigs Bahamas to the tranquil beauty of Bay of Pigs Bahamas, every island in this paradise tells its own story.
As you plan your trip using an Exuma Bahamas map, make sure to include top spots like Stocking Island, the Exuma Cays, and Pig Island Bahamas for the ultimate tropical getaway.
The islands of the Bahamas are calling — and the Exumas Bahamas are ready to welcome you with warm sunshine, turquoise seas, and unforgettable memories.
Your next read: take a look at the best things to do in Atlantis Bahamas Resort Nassau, Paradise Island.
Jennifer
Sunday 3rd of May 2020
Thanks for the info and pics, you have definitely sold me!
dianashealthyliving
Monday 4th of May 2020
I hope you go once we can travel again
Ashley
Sunday 24th of February 2019
Hi Diana, which company did you booked for the pigs and shark trip? :)
dianashealthyliving
Sunday 24th of February 2019
Hi Ashley, Exuma Water Tours
jodi - a brash attitude
Wednesday 4th of July 2018
Wow, your photos are amazing! It looks like heaven there!
dianashealthyliving
Monday 9th of July 2018
Thank you so much - it was so amazing.
Ryan K Biddulph
Wednesday 4th of July 2018
Even though swimming with sharks would scare me Diana, I gotta do it. Plus after that, feeding iguanas would be a walk in the park. As would hanging out with pigs on the beach. I love this place for so many reasons and I have yet to visit LOL. Fabulous post.
dianashealthyliving
Monday 9th of July 2018
I was more scared snorkeling than swimming with the sharks......I have no idea why! You must try it or at least go and see them.
Hum JK
Tuesday 3rd of July 2018
I've never been but after seeing these pictures I really wanna go!
dianashealthyliving
Tuesday 3rd of July 2018
I hope you get to go and experience all the beauty.