THE EXUMAS
Famous for “Exuma Blue” waters, this 365-island chain offers everything from bustling hubs to remote marine parks. Explore pristine reefs, swim with famous pigs, and discover secluded beaches across three distinct sections of this stunning Bahamian archipelago.
Why Visit The Exumas?
The “Exuma Blue”: Experience the world’s clearest turquoise waters, visible even from space, perfect for boating, snorkeling, and photography.
Unique Wildlife Encounters: Swim with the famous pigs at Big Major Cay or meet friendly nurse sharks and rare rock iguanas.
365 Islands & Cays: Discover a new island for every day of the year, ranging from luxury resorts to uninhabited national parks.
Smart Travel
Shoulder Season (May-June, November): This is the ideal time to visit for calm waters and lower prices before the peak winter rush or the height of hurricane season.
Deep Off-Season (August-October): You will find the lowest rates, but many boutique resorts and restaurants close. This is also the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season.
Peak Season (December-April): The weather is perfect with warm sun and cool breezes. Expect the highest prices and more boat traffic, especially during the Christmas holidays.
Main Areas & Places to Explore
Great Exuma & Little Exuma
Great Exuma is the commercial hub, home to the capital, George Town. Connected by a small bridge, Little Exuma offers a quieter vibe and the stunning Tropic of Cancer Beach. These “mainland” islands are the best base for local culture.
Your Smart Tip: Take a water taxi from George Town to Stocking Island for the Sunday pig roast at Chat ‘N’ Chill—it is the ultimate local experience for food and socializing.
Staniel Cay & The Central Cays
This is the adventure heart of the Exumas. From here, you can easily access Big Major Cay (home of the Swimming Pigs) and Thunderball Grotto, an incredible underwater cave system teeming with tropical fish and sun-drenched corals.
Your Smart Tip: To see the swimming pigs without the crowds, book a private boat charter that arrives at Big Major Cay before 9:00 AM, before the large tour boats arrive.
Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park
The northernmost section is a massive, protected marine preserve. It is rugged, largely uninhabited, and perfect for eco-travelers wanting to see the Bahamas in its most natural state, including pristine reefs and rare Bahamian rock iguanas.
Your Smart Tip: Since this area is a strictly protected “no-take” zone, ensure you do not fish or collect shells here; the beauty lies in leaving it exactly as you found it.
Handy Tips
Weather & Climate
The climate is tropical and warm year-round. Summer temperatures average 31°C (88°F) with higher humidity, while winter temperatures are a pleasant 25°C (77°F). Water temperatures remain warm enough for swimming in all seasons.
Local Customs And Etiquette
Language: English is the official language, spoken with a melodic Bahamian dialect.
Dining: “Island Time” is real; service in restaurants can be much slower than in Europe or the US. Relax and enjoy the view.
Dress Code: While casual, it is respectful to cover up swimwear with a shirt or wrap when walking through George Town or entering shops.
Budgeting For Your Trip
Accommodation: Small guesthouses ($150–$250), mid-range hotels/villas ($300–$600), luxury private islands ($1,500+).
Food: Local fish fry lunch ($15–$25), dinner at a mid-range restaurant ($40–$75 per person), fine dining ($100+).
Transport: Car rental ($75–$100/day), boat rental ($200–$400/day), water taxi ($15).
Activities: Full-day boat tour ($200–$300), snorkel gear rental ($20).
Daily Budget:
- Budget: $200–$250 (local rentals, eating at fish fries, public beaches).
- Mid-range: $400–$600 (hotels, some boat tours, restaurant meals).
- Luxury: $1,000+ (private villas, private yacht charters, fine dining).
Getting Around
By Boat: This is the primary way to see the Cays. Renting a small powerboat or hiring a captain is essential to explore the hidden beaches.
By Car: On Great Exuma and Little Exuma, a car is necessary to travel between George Town and distant beaches like Tropic of Cancer.
By Golf Cart: The preferred mode of transport on smaller inhabited islands like Staniel Cay.
Must-Try Food
Conch Salad: Freshly caught conch “cooked” in lime juice with peppers, onions, and citrus.
Cracked Conch: Tenderized conch meat, breaded and deep-fried, usually served with dipping sauce.
Bahamian Macaroni and Cheese: A thick, baked version made with evaporated milk and peppers, cut into squares.
Peas ‘n’ Rice: The quintessential Bahamian side dish made with pigeon peas, salt pork, and spices.
Steamed Fish: Fresh snapper or grouper cooked in a savory tomato and onion-based gravy.
Conch Fritters: Deep-fried batter mixed with bits of conch, onions, and herbs.
Rock Lobster: Locally caught spiny lobster, typically minced and sautéed or grilled with butter.
Guava Duff: A soft, steamed dough filled with guava fruit and topped with a warm butter-rum sauce.
Coconut Tart: A sweet, traditional pastry filled with shredded, sweetened coconut.
Bahamian Rum Cake: A moist, bundt-style cake soaked in local rum and sugar glaze.
Must-Try Drinks
Bahama Mama: A tropical cocktail made with dark rum, coconut rum, and various fruit juices.
Kalik Beer: Known as the “Beer of the Bahamas,” this crisp lager is perfect for the heat.
Sands Beer: Another popular local lager, often preferred for its smooth, light taste.
Gully Wash: A traditional drink made with gin, fresh coconut water, and condensed milk.
Sky Juice: Similar to Gully Wash; a potent and creamy gin-based coconut drink.
Goombay Smash: A sweet, fruity cocktail featuring pineapple juice and several types of rum.
Yellow Bird: A refreshing blend of rum, banana liqueur, and orange juice.
Switcha: A refreshing Bahamian version of lemonade made with local limes and sugar.
Fresh Coconut Water: Often served directly out of a freshly hacked green coconut.
Goombay Punch: A very sweet, carbonated local soda with a distinct pineapple flavor.