Dive Into the Exumas
This lovely stretch of islands boasts 365 islands and cays, all virtually untouched by man. Here you can find a real escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life – sail out and explore the numerous secluded islands on your own or explore the 176-square-mile nature preserve known as the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. You'll find hidden coves, quaint bays and several harbors for yachting and fishing. You can also find a handful of luxurious secluded resorts and hotels, so when you’re done being an adventurer, you can relax in comfort. The Exumas are the perfect combination of adventure and secluded relaxation.
Vacation Like a True Beach Lover
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Exumas Overview
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Sneak Away to Stocking Island
Stocking Island in Exumas is a captivating destination that offers a true castaway experience amidst its natural beauty. Stretching for 4 miles, this island is a paradise for those seeking tranquility and adventure.
As you set foot on Stocking Island, you'll be greeted by powdery white-sand beaches that beckon you to stroll along their shores and indulge in sea-shell hunting. The island's pristine beaches are perfect for leisurely walks and sunbathing, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Snorkelers will delight in the shallow reefs surrounding Stocking Island. Dive into the crystal-clear waters to explore the vibrant coral gardens and encounter diverse marine life. The underwater world is a mesmerizing spectacle, with colorful fish and intricate coral formations creating a captivating scene.
For those seeking to connect with nature on land, Stocking Island offers lush trails for hiking. Venture along these trails, surrounded by the island's natural vegetation and diverse ecosystem. As you hike, you'll discover hidden gems and breathtaking viewpoints that showcase the island's beauty from different perspectives.
One of the highlights of Stocking Island is its glowing blue holes. These natural wonders are enchanting to behold, as the azure hues of the water create a surreal and magical atmosphere. Explore these mystical blue holes and let their beauty captivate your senses.
Sneak Away to Stocking Island
Stocking Island in Exumas is a captivating destination that offers a true castaway experience amidst its natural beauty. Stretching for 4 miles, this island is a paradise for those seeking tranquility and adventure.
As you set foot on Stocking Island, you'll be greeted by powdery white-sand beaches that beckon you to stroll along their shores and indulge in sea-shell hunting. The island's pristine beaches are perfect for leisurely walks and sunbathing, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Snorkelers will delight in the shallow reefs surrounding Stocking Island. Dive into the crystal-clear waters to explore the vibrant coral gardens and encounter diverse marine life. The underwater world is a mesmerizing spectacle, with colorful fish and intricate coral formations creating a captivating scene.
For those seeking to connect with nature on land, Stocking Island offers lush trails for hiking. Venture along these trails, surrounded by the island's natural vegetation and diverse ecosystem. As you hike, you'll discover hidden gems and breathtaking viewpoints that showcase the island's beauty from different perspectives.
One of the highlights of Stocking Island is its glowing blue holes. These natural wonders are enchanting to behold, as the azure hues of the water create a surreal and magical atmosphere. Explore these mystical blue holes and let their beauty captivate your senses.
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Thunderball Grotto
Channel your inner James Bond or become a swashbuckling pirate as you venture into the legendary Thunderball Grotto in Exumas. This captivating destination has been immortalized in Hollywood films, but experiencing it firsthand is an unforgettable adventure.
Located just a short distance across the water from the Staniel Cay Yacht Club, Thunderball Grotto beckons with its cinematic allure. The grotto served as a filming location for iconic scenes in movies such as "Thunderball," "Never Say Never Again," and the "Pirates of the Caribbean" series. However, nothing compares to the awe-inspiring beauty and thrill of exploring it in person.
Thunderball Grotto is an amazing marine cave that reveals its secrets during low tide. Snorkelers and experienced scuba divers have the opportunity to immerse themselves in this underwater wonderland. As you enter the grotto, you'll be greeted by crystal-clear turquoise waters, illuminated by beams of sunlight streaming through openings in the cave ceiling. The water teems with a vibrant array of marine life, including colorful fish and corals thriving in the grotto's protected environment.
Swim through narrow passages and discover hidden chambers adorned with stunning rock formations. The grotto's intricate network of underwater caves and tunnels invites exploration and offers a sense of discovery that is truly exhilarating.
While witnessing Thunderball Grotto on the silver screen can be thrilling, it pales compared to the firsthand experience. Dive into the captivating world of Thunderball Grotto and create unforgettable moments as you snorkel or dive into this cinematic masterpiece.
Thunderball Grotto
Channel your inner James Bond or become a swashbuckling pirate as you venture into the legendary Thunderball Grotto in Exumas. This captivating destination has been immortalized in Hollywood films, but experiencing it firsthand is an unforgettable adventure.
Located just a short distance across the water from the Staniel Cay Yacht Club, Thunderball Grotto beckons with its cinematic allure. The grotto served as a filming location for iconic scenes in movies such as "Thunderball," "Never Say Never Again," and the "Pirates of the Caribbean" series. However, nothing compares to the awe-inspiring beauty and thrill of exploring it in person.
Thunderball Grotto is an amazing marine cave that reveals its secrets during low tide. Snorkelers and experienced scuba divers have the opportunity to immerse themselves in this underwater wonderland. As you enter the grotto, you'll be greeted by crystal-clear turquoise waters, illuminated by beams of sunlight streaming through openings in the cave ceiling. The water teems with a vibrant array of marine life, including colorful fish and corals thriving in the grotto's protected environment.
Swim through narrow passages and discover hidden chambers adorned with stunning rock formations. The grotto's intricate network of underwater caves and tunnels invites exploration and offers a sense of discovery that is truly exhilarating.
While witnessing Thunderball Grotto on the silver screen can be thrilling, it pales compared to the firsthand experience. Dive into the captivating world of Thunderball Grotto and create unforgettable moments as you snorkel or dive into this cinematic masterpiece.
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See the Swimming Pigs at Major’s Cay
Prepare for an extraordinary encounter with nature as you visit Major's Cay in the Exumas, home to the famous swimming pigs. In this captivating corner of the world, you'll witness a unique sight - chubby, four-legged pink creatures happily swimming in the crystal-clear blue waters. Get ready to immerse yourself in their playful world and create unforgettable memories.
At Big Major Cay, affectionately known as Pig Beach, you'll find these charming and charismatic pigs enjoying the sun, sand, and sea. They have become local celebrities, attracting attention from visitors worldwide through captivating online videos showcasing their aquatic skills. Now, it's your turn to join in the fun and frolic alongside these delightful creatures.
Swimming with the pigs is an experience like no other. As you approach Pig Beach, you'll witness their joyful anticipation, and their curiosity will ignite your excitement. Feel the thrill as you dive into the pristine waters and join them in their natural playground. Splash, swim, and interact with these friendly pigs, who have become accustomed to the presence of humans.
These endearing creatures are more than just adorable swimmers; they have become an icon of the Exumas. As you share the water with them, take a moment to appreciate their unique existence and the magic of this incredible encounter. Capture photos, create lasting memories, and let the charm of the swimming pigs leave an indelible mark on your heart.
See the Swimming Pigs at Major’s Cay
Prepare for an extraordinary encounter with nature as you visit Major's Cay in the Exumas, home to the famous swimming pigs. In this captivating corner of the world, you'll witness a unique sight - chubby, four-legged pink creatures happily swimming in the crystal-clear blue waters. Get ready to immerse yourself in their playful world and create unforgettable memories.
At Big Major Cay, affectionately known as Pig Beach, you'll find these charming and charismatic pigs enjoying the sun, sand, and sea. They have become local celebrities, attracting attention from visitors worldwide through captivating online videos showcasing their aquatic skills. Now, it's your turn to join in the fun and frolic alongside these delightful creatures.
Swimming with the pigs is an experience like no other. As you approach Pig Beach, you'll witness their joyful anticipation, and their curiosity will ignite your excitement. Feel the thrill as you dive into the pristine waters and join them in their natural playground. Splash, swim, and interact with these friendly pigs, who have become accustomed to the presence of humans.
These endearing creatures are more than just adorable swimmers; they have become an icon of the Exumas. As you share the water with them, take a moment to appreciate their unique existence and the magic of this incredible encounter. Capture photos, create lasting memories, and let the charm of the swimming pigs leave an indelible mark on your heart.
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Explore Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park
Attention all eco and water-sport enthusiasts! Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking beauty of Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. This remarkable 176-square-mile preserve is the world's first land-and-sea park, and it's a haven for those seeking pristine beaches and unspoiled natural wonders.
Upon arriving at the park, you'll be immediately struck by the clarity of the water and the sheer beauty surrounding you. The turquoise hues of the ocean beckon, inviting you to dive into a world of wonder. With over 20 miles of cays to explore within this nature preserve, there is no shortage of excitement and adventure.
As you venture further into the park, you'll encounter a tapestry of tiny islands formed from limestone, each a testament to the geological forces that have shaped this region over time. The rugged beauty of these islands creates a mesmerizing backdrop for your exploration.
The underwater world of Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park is a paradise for snorkelers and divers alike. Rows of vibrant coral formations stretch beneath the surface, teeming with life and color. Prepare to be dazzled by an incredible variety of fish, each sporting various hues and patterns. Swimming among these vibrant creatures is a true feast for the senses, offering an up-close encounter with the rich biodiversity that thrives within the park's boundaries.
Whether you're snorkeling, diving, or simply soaking in the beauty of the surroundings, Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park promise an experience that will leave you in awe. The park's commitment to preservation ensures that you can immerse yourself in nature at its most pristine, free from the distractions of modern development.
Explore Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park
Attention all eco and water-sport enthusiasts! Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking beauty of Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. This remarkable 176-square-mile preserve is the world's first land-and-sea park, and it's a haven for those seeking pristine beaches and unspoiled natural wonders.
Upon arriving at the park, you'll be immediately struck by the clarity of the water and the sheer beauty surrounding you. The turquoise hues of the ocean beckon, inviting you to dive into a world of wonder. With over 20 miles of cays to explore within this nature preserve, there is no shortage of excitement and adventure.
As you venture further into the park, you'll encounter a tapestry of tiny islands formed from limestone, each a testament to the geological forces that have shaped this region over time. The rugged beauty of these islands creates a mesmerizing backdrop for your exploration.
The underwater world of Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park is a paradise for snorkelers and divers alike. Rows of vibrant coral formations stretch beneath the surface, teeming with life and color. Prepare to be dazzled by an incredible variety of fish, each sporting various hues and patterns. Swimming among these vibrant creatures is a true feast for the senses, offering an up-close encounter with the rich biodiversity that thrives within the park's boundaries.
Whether you're snorkeling, diving, or simply soaking in the beauty of the surroundings, Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park promise an experience that will leave you in awe. The park's commitment to preservation ensures that you can immerse yourself in nature at its most pristine, free from the distractions of modern development.
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Make Your Way Through Miles of Mystery Cave
Unleash your inner adventurer and embark on an extraordinary journey to Mystery Cave, a diver's paradise nestled beneath the waters of Stocking Island in the Exumas. This hidden gem awaits, offering an awe-inspiring experience that will mesmerize you.
Located just off the coast, Mystery Cave is a mesmerizing 400-foot-deep blue hole that serves as the entrance to a captivating network of glowing blue caverns. This intricate system extends for miles beneath the island and the surrounding ocean, inviting intrepid divers to explore its mysteries.
Strap on your diving gear and prepare for an unforgettable descent. The adventure begins in relatively shallow waters, with an initial depth of just 15 feet. As you navigate the vibrant underwater world, the depths quickly plunge to a heart-thumping 100 feet, adding an exhilarating element to your exploration.
Diving into the depths of Mystery Cave is an experience that requires caution and expertise. Diving alongside an experienced guide familiar with the cave's intricate passages and potential challenges is essential. With the guidance of a professional, you can safely navigate the labyrinth of tunnels and marvel at the stunning geological formations that adorn the cave walls.
As you venture deeper into the cave, the cavern's ethereal blue glow creates an otherworldly ambiance. The interplay of light and shadows and the crystal-clear waters add to the sense of wonder and adventure that permeates this unique underwater landscape.
Make Your Way Through Miles of Mystery Cave
Unleash your inner adventurer and embark on an extraordinary journey to Mystery Cave, a diver's paradise nestled beneath the waters of Stocking Island in the Exumas. This hidden gem awaits, offering an awe-inspiring experience that will mesmerize you.
Located just off the coast, Mystery Cave is a mesmerizing 400-foot-deep blue hole that serves as the entrance to a captivating network of glowing blue caverns. This intricate system extends for miles beneath the island and the surrounding ocean, inviting intrepid divers to explore its mysteries.
Strap on your diving gear and prepare for an unforgettable descent. The adventure begins in relatively shallow waters, with an initial depth of just 15 feet. As you navigate the vibrant underwater world, the depths quickly plunge to a heart-thumping 100 feet, adding an exhilarating element to your exploration.
Diving into the depths of Mystery Cave is an experience that requires caution and expertise. Diving alongside an experienced guide familiar with the cave's intricate passages and potential challenges is essential. With the guidance of a professional, you can safely navigate the labyrinth of tunnels and marvel at the stunning geological formations that adorn the cave walls.
As you venture deeper into the cave, the cavern's ethereal blue glow creates an otherworldly ambiance. The interplay of light and shadows and the crystal-clear waters add to the sense of wonder and adventure that permeates this unique underwater landscape.
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Exuma Quick Facts
Language: English
Currency: US dollar
Electricity: 120 volts AC; American appliances are fully compatible.
Passport/Immigration: All U.S. citizens must have a valid passport when traveling to and from the Bahamas.
Drinking Water: Water is safe for drinking
Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (UTC/GMT -4 hours)
Peak Season: November to May
Exuma Quick Facts
Language: English
Currency: US dollar
Electricity: 120 volts AC; American appliances are fully compatible.
Passport/Immigration: All U.S. citizens must have a valid passport when traveling to and from the Bahamas.
Drinking Water: Water is safe for drinking
Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (UTC/GMT -4 hours)
Peak Season: November to May
Tips & Transportation
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Play Pirate at Pigeon Cay
Explore like Robinson Crusoe for a day on this pristine, uninhabited island! If you've ever thought it might be kind of cool to be alone on an island like Tom Hanks in "Castaway" but don't necessarily want to be gone for 4 years, then check out Pigeon Cay. What you'll have to do is arrange to be dropped off and get picked up by boat. There are several tour operators and charter boats you can get to take you. After that, you can explore the island by yourself in peace. Most visitors come here to snorkel and see if they can spot the remains of a 200-year old shipwreck right off the shore. Bring your gear along if you'd like to try that. You'll feel just like a real explorer!
Play Pirate at Pigeon Cay
Explore like Robinson Crusoe for a day on this pristine, uninhabited island! If you've ever thought it might be kind of cool to be alone on an island like Tom Hanks in "Castaway" but don't necessarily want to be gone for 4 years, then check out Pigeon Cay. What you'll have to do is arrange to be dropped off and get picked up by boat. There are several tour operators and charter boats you can get to take you. After that, you can explore the island by yourself in peace. Most visitors come here to snorkel and see if they can spot the remains of a 200-year old shipwreck right off the shore. Bring your gear along if you'd like to try that. You'll feel just like a real explorer!
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Craving Conch Salad Cabana? Try Big D's Conch Spot No. 1
With the sun on your back and warm wind in your hair, you'll be craving something cool and refreshing for lunch. Why not try a local favorite like conch salad? The best place to get it is at Big D's Conch Spot No. 1. Just cruise down Queen’s Highway from George Town for about 25 minutes, and keep your eye out for this tiny, beach-front cabana in the hamlet of Steventon. Once you get there, you'll realize that the salad was well worth the drive!
Craving Conch Salad Cabana? Try Big D's Conch Spot No. 1
With the sun on your back and warm wind in your hair, you'll be craving something cool and refreshing for lunch. Why not try a local favorite like conch salad? The best place to get it is at Big D's Conch Spot No. 1. Just cruise down Queen’s Highway from George Town for about 25 minutes, and keep your eye out for this tiny, beach-front cabana in the hamlet of Steventon. Once you get there, you'll realize that the salad was well worth the drive!
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Buy Big Darby
See the remains of a mysterious stone castle on Big Darby island. There are many tales and legends about the Englishman who lived here and why he built the castle. Explore it yourself and see if you can figure it out! Once you arrive at Big Darby island, you'll see that it's relatively small, only about 550 acres, but the main house on the island is an 8000 square ft. castle! An interesting note is that the island of Big Darby in the Caribbean is actually for sale right now, so if you have a spare $40 million lying around doing nothing, by all means, buy an island! If not, just visiting it will be great too.
Buy Big Darby
See the remains of a mysterious stone castle on Big Darby island. There are many tales and legends about the Englishman who lived here and why he built the castle. Explore it yourself and see if you can figure it out! Once you arrive at Big Darby island, you'll see that it's relatively small, only about 550 acres, but the main house on the island is an 8000 square ft. castle! An interesting note is that the island of Big Darby in the Caribbean is actually for sale right now, so if you have a spare $40 million lying around doing nothing, by all means, buy an island! If not, just visiting it will be great too.
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Hike Through Hawksbill Cay or Warderick Wells
Pull on your hiking boots and lace them up! Both of these sites - Hawksbill Cay and Warderick Wells - not only have amazing hiking trails, but also amazing historical sites! As you trek through the lush hiking trails, you'll get to see the ruins of many Loyalist settlements that date all the way back to the 18th century. It's like a workout and history lesson in one. Bring your camera along because this is a piece of authentic, untouched history that you won’t want to forget!
Hike Through Hawksbill Cay or Warderick Wells
Pull on your hiking boots and lace them up! Both of these sites - Hawksbill Cay and Warderick Wells - not only have amazing hiking trails, but also amazing historical sites! As you trek through the lush hiking trails, you'll get to see the ruins of many Loyalist settlements that date all the way back to the 18th century. It's like a workout and history lesson in one. Bring your camera along because this is a piece of authentic, untouched history that you won’t want to forget!
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Nurse a Nurse Shark
Are you a fan of friendly, underwater beasts? If so, then you've got to try feeding a nurse shark at least once in your life. What better place than the Exumas to try it? Just head about 4 miles beyond Staniel Cay. There you can find Major Spot, a tiny uninhabited island that's northwest of Staniel Cay. Once you arrive there, you can find shallow waters that are so shallow that you can actually see, as well as feed, tame nurse sharks.
Nurse a Nurse Shark
Are you a fan of friendly, underwater beasts? If so, then you've got to try feeding a nurse shark at least once in your life. What better place than the Exumas to try it? Just head about 4 miles beyond Staniel Cay. There you can find Major Spot, a tiny uninhabited island that's northwest of Staniel Cay. Once you arrive there, you can find shallow waters that are so shallow that you can actually see, as well as feed, tame nurse sharks.
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Airport
Flights land in Exuma International Airport (GGT), a public airport serving the island of Great Exuma in the Bahamas.
Airport
Flights land in Exuma International Airport (GGT), a public airport serving the island of Great Exuma in the Bahamas.
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Immigration & Customs
All immigration forms are usually supplied by the airlines. When entering The Bahamas, visitors must complete and sign an immigration form. A portion of this card (returned to you by the immigration official clearing you for entrance) is required to exit The Bahamas. Don't lose this tiny, "check stub size," immigration document! Customs clearance is located inside the airport. An oral baggage declaration may be necessary, but sometimes paperwork will suffice.
Immigration & Customs
All immigration forms are usually supplied by the airlines. When entering The Bahamas, visitors must complete and sign an immigration form. A portion of this card (returned to you by the immigration official clearing you for entrance) is required to exit The Bahamas. Don't lose this tiny, "check stub size," immigration document! Customs clearance is located inside the airport. An oral baggage declaration may be necessary, but sometimes paperwork will suffice.
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Getting to Your Hotel
CheapCaribbean.com has partnered with Majestic Tours as our premier transportation company in the Exumas. They’ll provide you with safe, comfortable and professional transportation, from the airport to your hotel and back. They’ll also provide transportation to any excursions booked through our site that you’d like to take while you’re in your destination.
It’s easy to find your Majestic Tours team when you arrive at the airport. They’ll be standing in the ground transportation waiting area, holding a CheapCaribbean welcome sign. All drivers are fluent in English, friendly and knowledgeable about the culture, history and things to do while you’re there. By the end of your ride, you’ll have made a new friend. Vehicles are all clean, modern and reliable.
Majestic Tours is the official transportation rep for CheapCaribbean.com excursions when you book vacations to the Exumas on our site. The majority of our partner hotels have a Majestic Tours desk in or near the lobby, so they’re easy to find, should you need them. For this reason, we suggest that our guests do not rent cars while in the Caribbean or Mexico as traffic laws and road quality and street signs are not the same as they are in the US.
Getting to Your Hotel
CheapCaribbean.com has partnered with Majestic Tours as our premier transportation company in the Exumas. They’ll provide you with safe, comfortable and professional transportation, from the airport to your hotel and back. They’ll also provide transportation to any excursions booked through our site that you’d like to take while you’re in your destination.
It’s easy to find your Majestic Tours team when you arrive at the airport. They’ll be standing in the ground transportation waiting area, holding a CheapCaribbean welcome sign. All drivers are fluent in English, friendly and knowledgeable about the culture, history and things to do while you’re there. By the end of your ride, you’ll have made a new friend. Vehicles are all clean, modern and reliable.
Majestic Tours is the official transportation rep for CheapCaribbean.com excursions when you book vacations to the Exumas on our site. The majority of our partner hotels have a Majestic Tours desk in or near the lobby, so they’re easy to find, should you need them. For this reason, we suggest that our guests do not rent cars while in the Caribbean or Mexico as traffic laws and road quality and street signs are not the same as they are in the US.
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Getting Around the Exumas
Making transport arrangements with our tour operator is the safest bet. If you need to grab a taxi, ask your hotel to request one for you. Ferries are also available among the islands.
Getting Around the Exumas
Making transport arrangements with our tour operator is the safest bet. If you need to grab a taxi, ask your hotel to request one for you. Ferries are also available among the islands.