GREAT EXUMA & LITTLE EXUMA
The Exumas represent the ultimate Caribbean escape, where neon-blue waters meet pristine white sands. This island chain offers a perfect blend of laid-back Bahamian life and untouched natural splendor.
From the bustling hub of George Town to the secluded shores of the Tropic of Cancer, these islands provide a sanctuary for adventurers, sun-seekers, and those craving authentic island tranquility.
Most Popular Attractions
Beaches & Coastal Wonders:
Tropic of Cancer Beach (Pelican Beach): The longest beach on Little Exuma, famous for its crescent shape and turquoise waters, named for the meridian line passing through it.
Coco Plum Beach: A vast, shallow beach on Great Exuma perfect for shelling and finding sand dollars during low tide.
Hoopers Bay: A serene beach known for its resident green sea turtles that often swim close to the shore.
Jolly Hall Beach: A shaded, crescent-shaped beach near George Town with calm waters ideal for families and picnicking.
Pretty Molly Bay: A picturesque and quiet beach on Little Exuma shrouded in local folklore and legend.
Forbes Hill Beach: A secluded spot on Little Exuma featuring unique rock formations and incredibly clear, shallow water.
Hamburger Beach: A popular stop for boaters on Stocking Island offering pristine white sand and a relaxed atmosphere.
Starfish Beach: A quiet stretch of sand where visitors can often spot large, colorful starfish in the shallow margins.
Sand Dollar Beach: A seasonal sandbar that emerges during low tide, offering a world-class environment for finding intact sand dollars.
Marine Parks & Offshore Cays:
Stocking Island: A long, narrow island protecting George Town’s harbor, featuring hiking trails, high dunes, and pristine beaches.
Chat ‘n’ Chill: A world-famous beach bar on Stocking Island known for its Sunday Pig Roast and stingray feeding.
Moriah Harbour Cay National Park: A protected area of mangroves, seagrass, and sand dunes that serves as a vital nursery for marine life.
Elizabeth Harbour: A massive natural harbor popular with sailors, offering stunning views and access to numerous hidden coves.
Mystery Cave: An underwater blue hole located off Stocking Island, popular with experienced snorkelers and divers.
The Blue Hole (Angelfish Blue Hole): A famous undersea sinkhole in Elizabeth Harbour teeming with diverse fish species and coral.
Man-O-War Cay Sandbar: A stunning, expansive sandbar that appears at low tide, creating a “walking on water” experience.
Shark Wall: A premier diving site located off the coast where divers can observe reef sharks in their natural habitat.
Historic Sites & Settlements:
George Town: The vibrant capital of the Exumas, featuring pink government buildings, local shops, and the historic straw market.
The Ferry Bridge: The small, iconic bridge that connects Great Exuma to Little Exuma, offering beautiful views of the turquoise channels.
The Salt Beacon: A 30-foot tall limestone pillar in Williams Town once used to guide salt-trading ships in the 19th century.
St. Andrew’s Anglican Church: A charming, historic white-and-blue church overlooking the water in the heart of George Town.
Hermitage Tombs: Historical grave sites in Williams Town belonging to the Ferguson family, dating back to the Loyalist era.
Pompey Memorial: A monument dedicated to Pompey, a courageous slave who led a revolt against unfair treatment in 1830.
Williams Town: A quiet, historic settlement on Little Exuma known for its salt pond history and old Bahamian architecture.
Rolleville: A historic settlement on the northern end of Great Exuma with deep roots in the island’s plantation past.
Activities & Experiences
Swim with the Famous Pigs: Take a powerboat tour from George Town to Big Major Cay. While technically in the Cays, this is the #1 experience for visitors based in Exuma.
Lounge on Tropic of Cancer Beach: Visit this iconic crescent of white sand in Little Exuma, named for the meridian line that passes directly through it.
Spend a Day at Stocking Island: Take the water taxi from George Town to Stocking Island to enjoy the vibe at Chat ‘N’ Chill, where you can feed wild stingrays and eat fresh conch salad.
Snorkel at Thunderball Grotto: Join a guided excursion to this hollowed-out underwater cave system made famous by the James Bond film Thunderball.
Explore Moriah Harbour Cay National Park: Rent a kayak or paddleboard to navigate the turquoise channels and mangroves between Great and Little Exuma, home to nesting birds and baby sharks.
Visit the Bahamian Rock Iguanas: Stop at Bitter Guana Cay to see these prehistoric-looking (but friendly) endangered iguanas that come to the shore to greet visitors.
Eat at the Fish Fry: Head to the complex of colorful shacks just north of George Town for an authentic evening of local food, music, and “Sky Juice.”
Go Bonefishing in the Flats: Hire a local guide to take you into the shallow mangroves; the Exumas are world-renowned for some of the best fly-fishing on the planet.
Walk the Sandbars at Low Tide: Visit the area around Musha Cay or Copperfield Sandbar during low tide to walk for miles on white sand surrounded by knee-deep neon blue water.
See the Salt Beacon: Climb the hill in Little Exuma to see the 18th-century monument once used to guide salt-trading ships into the harbor.
Attend the Sunday Pig Roast: Join the legendary weekly beach party at Stocking Island for roasted pig, volleyball, and island music.
Local Tips & Transport
Rent a Car: To see both Great and Little Exuma, a rental car is essential. There is no public bus system, and taxis can be expensive for multiple trips. Remember: Drive on the left side of the road.
The “One-Lane Bridge”: To get to Little Exuma, you will cross a very narrow bridge. It is customary to slow down and wait for oncoming traffic; a friendly wave to the other driver is standard island etiquette.
Water Taxis: The primary way to get from George Town (Great Exuma) to Stocking Island is via the water taxi, which departs regularly from the government dock.
Boat Rentals: If you are a confident boater, renting a small Whaler for the day is the best way to explore Elizabeth Harbour at your own pace.
From the Airport: Exuma International Airport (GGT) is small and easy to navigate. Taxis wait outside for every flight, but it is best to pre-arrange your rental car for pickup at the terminal.
Embrace “Island Time”: Everything in Exuma moves at a slower pace. Service at restaurants can take a while, and shops may not open exactly on the dot. Relax, grab a Kalik beer, and enjoy the view.
Sunday Closures: Many businesses, including grocery stores, close early or entirely on Sundays. Plan your food and liquor shopping for Friday or Saturday.
The Conch Culture: Conch is the staple of the Bahamian diet. For the best experience, watch the “Conch Salad Shows” at the Fish Fry or Stocking Island, where the meat is prepared fresh right out of the shell.
Cash is King: While larger resorts and some restaurants take credit cards, many small bars, boat captains, and roadside stalls are cash only. Both Bahamian Dollars and US Dollars are accepted interchangeably at a 1:1 ratio.
Bugs and Sun: The “no-see-ums” (tiny biting gnats) can be active at dusk, especially near the beach. Bring insect repellent and reef-safe sunscreen—the Exuma sun is incredibly strong.
Hidden Gems:
- Santanna’s Bar and Grill: Located at the far end of Little Exuma, this was a favorite spot for the cast of Pirates of the Caribbean. Their cracked lobster is legendary.
- Mom’s Bakery: Right next to Santanna’s, grab a loaf of fresh coconut bread or a rum cake to take back to your villa.
- The Blue Hole at Turtle Lagoon: A lesser-known spot on Great Exuma where you can see a deep indigo circle in the middle of the shallow turquoise water, teeming with marine life.
- Forbes Hill Beach: Often overlooked in favor of Tropic of Cancer, this beach in Little Exuma is smaller, more intimate, and frequently completely empty.
Top Restaurants
Shirley’s Seafood [$20-$35] – A legendary staple at the Fish Fry in George Town, known for its incredible cracked conch and lobster prepared with authentic Bahamian spices.
Charlie’s Real Bahamian Cooking [$15-$30] – Located within the Fish Fry complex in George Town, this humble spot serves generous portions of steamed snapper and peas n’ rice to a loyal local crowd.
Dr. Robinson’s [$15-$25] – A no-frills, authentic stall at the George Town Fish Fry where the grilled grouper and sky juice are consistently some of the best on the island.
Honey Dee’s [$10-$20] – A cozy cafe in the heart of George Town perfect for a quick breakfast of island-style chicken souse or a freshly brewed coffee.
Eddie’s Edgewater [$20-$40] – Overlooking Victoria Pond in George Town, this lively spot is famous for its “Monday Night Turtle Soup” and traditional Bahamian rake-and-scrape music.
Island Boy [$15-$30] – A central George Town favorite that offers a massive menu of local breakfast items like boiled fish and grits, served in a casual, friendly atmosphere.
Snappy Turtle [$15-$30] – Located in the George Town area, this spot is highly regarded for its quick service and consistently fresh conch fritters and burgers.
Big D’s Conch Spot [$20-$35] – Situated on a beautiful stretch of beach in Steventon, this colorful shack serves what many consider the freshest conch salad on Great Exuma.
Chef Maurice [$20-$40] – A hidden gem in George Town where the chef prepares upscale versions of local seafood dishes with a personal, homestyle touch.
Prime Island Meats [$15-$25] – While primarily a deli and butcher in George Town, their prepared lunch specials and sandwiches are a favorite for locals looking for a hearty, affordable meal.
Mom’s Kitchen [$15-$25] – A small, authentic eatery tucked away in George Town offering daily Bahamian specials that taste exactly like a home-cooked Sunday dinner.
Silver’s Place [$15-$30] – A relaxed local hang in Moss Town, near the airport, serving up cold beers and classic Bahamian fried fish to those just arriving or departing.
Bahamian Cookin’ [$20-$35] – Located in the center of George Town, this restaurant delivers exactly what the name suggests—traditional, unpretentious, and flavorful island cuisine.
The Dock [$20-$35] – A casual waterfront spot in George Town where you can grab a quick lunch of fish tacos or wings while watching the boats in Elizabeth Harbour.
Exuma Markets Deli [$10-$20] – Found inside the main grocery store in George Town, this is the go-to spot for affordable rotisserie chicken and Bahamian sides for a beach picnic.
Chat ‘N’ Chill [$20-$40] – An iconic beach bar on Stocking Island (accessible by water taxi from George Town), world-famous for its Sunday Pig Roast and toes-in-the-sand atmosphere.
Shoreline Beach Club [$25-$45] – Located on a stunning, quiet beach in Rolleville, this spot offers a more peaceful alternative to the busier bars, with excellent grilled lobster.
Cocoplum Bistro [$25-$45] – A charming, breeze-filled restaurant in Steventon near Cocoplum Beach, specializing in fresh seafood with a slight French-Bahamian fusion.
Splash Beach Bar [$20-$40] – Part of the Palm Bay Resort near George Town, this lively poolside and beachside bar is known for its “all-you-can-eat” buffet nights and tropical cocktails.
Peace & Plenty Beach Club [$25-$45] – Located on Stocking Island, this stylish beach club offers a more refined lounge experience with excellent grilled snapper and a private beach feel.
St. Francis Resort [$25-$45] – A short boat ride across from George Town to Stocking Island, offering a peaceful deck to enjoy conch burgers and panoramic views of the harbor.
Kahari Resort Restaurant [$30-$60] – An eco-friendly resort on Stocking Island that serves sophisticated, locally-sourced seafood dishes in a secluded, upscale beach setting.
Exuma Palms [$20-$40] – Located on the beautiful Three Sisters Beach in Mount Thompson, this restaurant offers classic island fare with a view of the iconic rock formations.
Catch A Fire [$30-$60] – A sunset-viewing hotspot in Tar Bay that combines great grilled food with live music and one of the best evening atmospheres on Great Exuma.
Ty’s Sunset Bar & Grill [$25-$50] – Though technically on Little Farmer’s Cay, it is a primary destination for Exuma boat tours, serving incredible lobster right on the runway beach.
The Anchor [$25-$45] – The signature restaurant of Exuma Beach Resort in George Town, offering a great harbor view and a mix of Bahamian and American comfort food.
Hideaways Restaurant [$20-$40] – A casual, family-friendly spot at Palm Bay just outside George Town, perfect for a relaxed dinner of ribs or local seafood.
Latitudes [$30-$50] – Located at the Exuma Yacht Club in George Town, this restaurant offers a great view of the marina and a menu of fresh fish and international favorites.
23 North [$60-$120] – An elegant, high-end beach club and restaurant at Grand Isle Resort in Emerald Bay, offering sophisticated fusion cuisine and a refined atmosphere.
The Palapa Grill [$50-$100] – A stunning open-air restaurant at Grand Isle Resort specializing in Caribbean-inspired fine dining and premium cuts of meat.
Blu on the Water [$50-$90] – Perched on a cliffside in George Town, this stylish restaurant offers breathtaking views of the blue water and a menu of elevated seafood dishes.
Rusty Anchor [$30-$60] – Located at February Point in George Town, this upscale but approachable restaurant serves excellent steaks and fresh seafood with a view of the infinity pool.
La Parisienne [$60-$110] – A high-end French restaurant located within the Sandals Emerald Bay resort, offering a sophisticated tasting menu and an extensive wine list.
Il Cielo [$60-$110] – An elegant Italian restaurant at Sandals Emerald Bay that focuses on classic pasta dishes and fine seafood in a white-tablecloth setting.
Bombay Club [$50-$90] – A vibrant and upscale Indian restaurant in the Emerald Bay area, offering a unique and flavorful break from traditional Caribbean cuisine.
Soy Sushi Bar [$40-$80] – A modern and sleek sushi spot in the Emerald Bay resort district, serving fresh rolls and sashimi with an island twist.
Kimonos [$60-$100] – A lively Teppanyaki-style dining experience in Emerald Bay where chefs prepare your meal with theatrical flair on a hot griddle.
11° North [$50-$90] – A refined seafood restaurant at Sandals Emerald Bay that emphasizes fresh, locally-caught fish prepared with international techniques.
Peace & Plenty Restaurant [$30-$60] – The historic dining room in the heart of George Town, offering a blend of colonial charm and modern Bahamian gourmet cooking.
Santana’s Grill [$25-$45] – A world-famous, colorful shack in William’s Town, Little Exuma, known for its cracked lobster and being a favorite haunt of the Pirates of the Caribbean cast.
Tropic Breeze Beach Bar [$25-$45] – Located on a stunning beach in William’s Town, Little Exuma, this spot is famous for its “surf and turf” burgers and incredible ocean views.
Mom’s Bakery [$5-$15] – A legendary stop in William’s Town, Little Exuma, where you must pick up a loaf of fresh coconut bread or a rum cake from the island’s most famous baker.
Haulover Bay Bar & Grill [$20-$40] – Situated right on the water in Rolletown, this spot offers a peaceful view of the flats and excellent Bahamian-style fried chicken.
Blu’s Seafood [$20-$40] – A casual and welcoming local spot in Forbes Hill, Little Exuma, that specializes in seasonal seafood and ice-cold beers.
B&D’s [$15-$30] – A tiny, authentic local eatery in William’s Town, Little Exuma, perfect for those looking for a quiet, non-touristic meal of steamed fish.
Chatty’s Snack Shack [$10-$20] – A colorful little hut on the side of the road in Little Exuma that serves quick Bahamian snacks and refreshing tropical drinks.
Little Exuma Shack [$15-$25] – A humble, family-run roadside stop in William’s Town offering classic conch fritters and local fruit smoothies.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Shoreline Beach Club: Located on the pristine sands of Jimmy Hill, Great Exuma, this bar is famous for its “Exuma Blue” cocktails and a relaxed, toes-in-the-sand atmosphere.
Chat ‘N’ Chill: A world-renowned landmark on Stocking Island (a short boat hop from George Town), famous for its Sunday Pig Roasts and potent Goombay Smashes served right on the beach.
Rusty Anchor: Situated within the February Point Resort near George Town, this upscale bar offers a refined setting for sipping martinis while overlooking Elizabeth Harbour.
Santanna’s Bar and Grill: Found at the far end of Little Exuma in William’s Town, this iconic spot is perfect for a Kalik beer or a rum punch while watching the waves hit the shoreline.
The Palapa Grill & Bar: Located at Grand Isle Resort in Emerald Bay, this poolside bar serves tropical infusions and classic Caribbean cocktails in a luxurious, open-air setting.
Splash Beach Bar: A vibrant and colorful spot in the Palm Bay Beach Club, Great Exuma, known for its happy hours and panoramic views of the turquoise waters.
Blu on the Water: Perched on a cliffside just outside George Town, this stylish bar offers modern mixology and some of the best sunset views on the island.
Tropic Breeze Beach Bar: Located on the famous Tropic of Cancer Beach in Little Exuma, this intimate wooden shack serves refreshing daiquiris to beachgoers in a secluded paradise.
23° North: A high-end beach club and bar at Turquoise Cay, Great Exuma, focusing on sophisticated cocktails and an infinity pool lounge vibe.
Haulover Bay Bar: Located on the scenic “cutoff” between Great and Little Exuma, this bar offers a quiet, breeze-filled deck perfect for a gin and tonic and local appetizers.
Big D’s Conch Spot: Found in Steventon, Great Exuma, this lively beach bar is known for its fresh conch salad and “Sky Juice” (a local favorite made with coconut water and gin).
Shirley’s Fish Fry Bar: Part of the famous Fish Fry complex just north of George Town, Shirley’s is a staple for local rum drinks and a friendly, community-focused atmosphere.
Island Boy Café: Tucked away in the heart of George Town, this casual spot is perfect for a mid-day cocktail or a cold beer while watching the bustle of the capital.
Peace & Plenty Bar: A historic venue in George Town where celebrities and sailors have gathered for decades to enjoy the legendary “Lumsden” cocktail.
La Bougainvillea: Located at the Hideaways at Palm Bay, this breezy terrace bar offers a selection of fine wines and signature Caribbean mojitos.
Charlie’s Real-A-Taste: Located at the Fish Fry in George Town, this is the island’s primary late-night hub where locals and tourists dance to Bahamian Rake ‘n’ Scrape and modern hits.
Eddie’s Edgewater: A legendary spot in George Town that transforms into a high-energy dance venue on Monday nights, featuring live bands and a crowded dance floor.
The Drunken Duck: Found near the Marina in Emerald Bay, this British-style pub turns into a lively club atmosphere on weekend nights with guest DJs.
Catch A Fire: Perched on the sunset coast of Great Exuma, this venue hosts vibrant “Full Moon Parties” and live reggae sets that keep the crowd dancing late into the night.
Two Turtles Inn: A central George Town courtyard that hosts weekly karaoke and dance nights, serving as a social crossroads for the entire island.
Snappy’s Turtle Bar: Located within the Fish Fry complex, this high-energy outdoor club is known for its loud music, neon lights, and late-night weekend crowds.
The Peace & Plenty Beach Club: Located on Stocking Island, this venue hosts exclusive “Moonlight Beach Parties” accessible by boat, featuring bonfire dancing and DJ sets.
B’s Sunset Bar: A local favorite in the Rolleville area of Great Exuma, known for its weekend dance parties and authentic Bahamian rhythm.
Toni’s Place: Located in the heart of George Town, this no-frills club is where the music is loud and the energy is high, specializing in dancehall and soca beats.
Exuma Yacht Club Bar: Situated on the George Town waterfront, this marina-side venue often hosts lively themed parties and live music for the yachting community.