The Exumas are an island chain, comprised of Great and Little Exuma as well as an abundance of quiet cays. Stretching from New Providence – home to glitzy Nassau and Paradise Island – southeast toward the quieter Long Island, the land in the Exumas is beautiful, but the real appeal is its water, considered to be the most breathtaking in all of the Bahamas. A spectrum of vibrant jade, aquamarine and amethyst shades swirl together in brilliant, haphazard streaks where deep and shallow seas collide around the sandy cays. For the intrepid boater, the Exumas offer untold secluded beaches awaiting exploration.
A string of 365 islands and cays - most of them uninhabited - the Exumas are the great yachting mecca of the Bahamas. The spectacular crystalline waters are also ideal for fishing - bonefishing in particular.
VISITING THE EXUMA
The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, protected by The Bahamas National Trust, encompasses much of the northern coastline, spanning from Wax Cay Cut in the north down to Conch Cay Cut in the south. A protected no-take marine reserve since 1986, the park is accessible only by boat and is one of the major natural wonders and sightseeing destinations of the Bahamas, boasting an abundance of undersea life, reefs, blue holes, and shipwrecks.
South of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, attractions range from the charming Staniel Cay Yacht Club - temporary mooring for a number of yachties during their explorations of the Exumas - and Majors Cay, where a family of swimming pigs will greet passing boats in search of leftovers.
WHAT TO DO
Sailing
Charter a full- or half-day sail out of Great Exuma's northern town of Barraterre and explore the hundreds of islands and cays that comprise the Exumas. Many boat captains will arrange for a picnic lunch, and can drop you at a deserted isle for the afternoon, returning at sunset to pick you up. Don't forget the sunscreen.
Thunderball Grotto
James Bond aficionados will recognize that this hollowed-out islet near Staniel Cay was the scene-stealer in Thunderball and Never Say Never Again. Here, snorkelers and divers can swim in at slack tide and explore the vibrant coral and marine life in this sunlight-dappled sea cave. When you're ready to dry off, dock at nearby Staniel Cay Yacht Club for a bite at the restaurant.
Tropic of Cancer Beach
Cross the small, wooden "ferry" bridge from Great Exuma to Little Exuma and head straight to this secluded crescent of powdery white sand. Whatever the day, you'll likely be the only one here. Bring a picnic, as with any perfectly private beach, you won't find very much else around.
