The Exumas

Bahamas, The Caribbean

The Exumas are a string of islands and cays in the central Bahamas known for their clear waters, remote beaches, and slow, easygoing rhythm. Divided into three main areas—Great Exuma, Little Exuma, and the Exuma Cays—this part of the Bahamas draws visitors looking for nature, simplicity, and open space.

It’s not about resorts or crowds here. While there are a few boutique hotels and villas, most travelers come for the landscapes: shallow sandbars, hidden coves, and wildlife encounters just offshore.

Why Visit The Exumas?

The Exumas stand out for their natural beauty and sense of space. Unlike busier parts of the Bahamas, this region feels more remote, with long stretches of empty beach, quiet coves, and untouched marine life. It’s one of the few places where the water actually looks like the travel photos—shades of blue so vibrant they don’t seem real.

People come here to disconnect, whether it’s by chartering a boat through the cays, swimming with wildlife, or just spending a day on a beach with no one else in sight. There are no mega-resorts or cruise ports in the main islands, which helps preserve the peaceful atmosphere. If you’re looking for something simple, open, and connected to nature, the Exumas deliver.

Getting Around

In the cays, private boats, charter tours, or water taxis are the only way to explore. Many visitors stay in Great Exuma and book day trips north to the cays. On land, rental cars or scooters are the best option for getting around Great and Little Exuma, especially if you want to explore past George Town.

Taxis are available but can be expensive for longer trips, and public transport is extremely limited.

Where to Stay

From boutique villas to quiet beach cottages, accommodations stay low-key.

There are no large resorts in the Exumas, which helps keep the islands quiet and laid-back. Most visitors stay on Great Exuma, especially near George Town, where you’ll find the widest range of lodging and amenities. Options include:

Locally owned guesthouses and villas near the beach
Small-scale hotels with easy access to tours and marinas
Luxury rentals on private cays or more secluded parts of Little Exuma

For travelers planning to explore the northern cays in depth, Staniel Cay is another popular base, especially for boat-based trips.

Day Trips from Nassau

You can visit the Exumas without staying overnight—if you plan ahead. If you’re based in Nassau, day trips to the Exuma Cays are possible by speedboat or small aircraft. These tours often include popular spots like:

Big Major Cay to see the swimming pigs
Thunderball Grotto, a cave system popular for snorkeling
Compass Cay, known for its docile nurse sharks
Exuma Sandbars, where you can walk on thin ribbons of white sand at low tide

These tours usually depart early and return late in the afternoon. They’re fast-paced, but a good option if you’re short on time and still want a glimpse of the Exumas’ clear waters and marine life.