Spread across 500 miles of the Atlantic Ocean, the Bahamas is a sun-splashed archipelago that’s renowned for its white-sand beaches, sapphire waters, and vibrant local culture. A tropical escape that’s easy to access thanks to direct flights from many U.S. hubs, it’s popular with all sorts of travelers
The Exumas earns its shine as a relaxing vacation destination with nature-forward highlights. Most people go for the world-famous Tropic of Cancer Beach or Pig Beach. Spread across the 365 islands and cays are also many off-the-beaten-path treasures such as secret coves, underwater caves, and near-empty snorkeling spots.
– Best Hotels and Resorts: Paradise Bay, Fowl Cay Resort, Grand Isle Resort & Residences, Kahari Resort or Hideaways at Palm Bay
– Best Restaurants: Cocoplum Bistro, Sandpiper Cafe, Shirley’s at the Fish Fry, Tropic Breeze Beach Bar & Grill, Blu on the Water
Best Things to Do
Pig Beach
This activity goes down at the Instagram-famous Pig Beach on Big Major Cay, an uninhabited island that’s accessible via boat.
Coco Plum Beach
Situated on Great Exuma, the famous Coco Plum Beach is ideal for those seeking a calm day of sun, sand, and sea.
Tropic of Cancer Beach
Located on the coast of Little Exuma, Tropic of Cancer Beach is the longest on the island. Featuring powdery sand and translucent water, it’s easy to see why it ranks at the top of must-see lists for travelers visiting the Exumas.
Thunderball Grotto
The entrance is hidden under the water, but curious travelers can swim through during low tide to see an array of colorful fish and tropical marine life.
Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park Visitor Center
The ecological area, which extends from Shroud Cay in the north to Bells Cay in the south, protects mangroves and amazing marine species.
Stocking Island Beaches
You can enjoy the pristine shoreline, a splash in the clear water, and snorkeling.
How to Get There
Several airlines operate nonstop service between major U.S. cities and Nassau. From there, travelers can hop aboard a Bahamasair flight to George Town on Grand Exuma.
How to Get Around
Taxis and car rentals are readily available for visitors. The same goes for charter and self-captained boats to explore the many smaller islands and cays.
