The Exumas are like no where else in the world. If you want to get lost in the beauty of The Bahamas, discover untouched beaches and unending natural beauty, then look no further. This chain of 365 islands runs northwest to southeast starting about 30 miles east of Nassau. They are easily accessible by boat or private aircraft and places such as George Town, Staniel Cay and Highbourne Cay offer charters and boat rentals.
The furthest point south in the island chain is Great Exuma and the “capital” of George Town with a international airport and plenty of dining and lodging options. Another more far removed option is to fly into Staniel Cay. Stay at the Staniel Cay Yacht Club or one of the many locally owned guest houses on the island. From there you can visit the famous swimming pigs, snorkel Thunderball Grotto and pet the friendly nurse sharks at neighboring Compass Cay. The best way to explore these islands is by boat, but don’t worry, boat rentals and excursions are readily available to show you around.
Further north is the Exuma Land and Sea Park with headquarters at Warderick Wells. There are private islands along the way but expect rugged natural beauty, plenty of snorkeling spots and limited people other than yachters and sailboaters.
The Northern Exumas boast dramatic natural beauty and few inhabited islands, but are easily accessed by a short 2 hour boat trip from Nassau. Visit the iguanas at Allan’s Cay and stop by Highbourne Cay for lunch at their picturesque restaurant ‘Xuma overlooking the ocean.