It’s the perfect honeymoon destination for a memorable romantic holiday.
The Exumas are also regarded as one of the world’s great cruising destinations (along with the islands of the Abacos and the Grenadines).
If you can’t arrive on your own vessel, simply hire a bare-boat or skippered yacht to explore these picture-perfect islands.
The Elizabeth Harbour’s annual regatta in April typically attracts yachting greats as well as celebrities and European royalty.
What to do and see in the Exumas
Favourite spots on the Exumas include Staniel Cay, home to the Staniel Cay Yacht Club and nearby Thunderball Grotto (photo) and Thunderball Cave – seen in the James Bond film of the same name – where you can snorkel with friendly fish accustomed to being hand fed.
Other favourite sights are the laid-back capital of Georgetown and the barrier cay of Stocking Island, which features panoramic views from atop its high bluff and a series of gorgeous white-sand beaches separated by limestone headlands.
Spend a day snorkelling or scuba diving the magnificent coral reefs, blue holes, drop-offs and caves of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, a vast 45,000ha land and sea preserve and wildlife refuge that lies just 35km northwest of Staniel Cay and is only accessible by boat.
While there, relax on unspoiled white-sand beaches and look out for the endangered Bahamian iguanas. Or head to nearby Stocking Island, which features crystal clear waters above coral gardens, perfect for snorkelling and exploring blue holes and underwater caves.
Fishing aficionados are spoilt for choice between bottom-fishing and deep-sea fishing. Hook up a charter to catch bonefish or chase white and blue marlin, kingfish, dolphin fish, sailfish, bonito and wahoo on both sides of Exuma Sound.
Best beaches in the Exumas
Surrounded by glistening blue and turquoise waters, the Exumas offer a stunning array of white-sand beaches that encircle tiny cays and fringe the larger islands.
Relax at a beachfront resort with all the creature comforts at hand or take a day trip by boat or kayak and play Robinson Crusoe on the pristine and secluded shores of a distant cay.
Exuma is the place to savour total seclusion or enjoy multiple beach activities. The best beaches in the Exumas, include …
Stocking Island Beach
Unwind on the shimmering sugar-white sands of this idyllic beach, which lies on Stocking Island, a 5km-long island just a short boat ride away from George Town in Elizabeth Harbour on Great Exuma.
Pick your own spot to sunbathe and swim on this uncrowded beach, snorkel or dive the clear turquoise waters and coral gardens teeming with rainbow-hued fish, then explore underwater blue holes and caves.
Later, go kayaking in the Turtle Lagoon then enjoy tasty fish dishes and cold drinks at the beachfront Chat & Chill restaurant.
