Grand Isle Resort & Spa Blog & Staff Picks

New Year’s Eve is rapidly approaching, and few places will be ringing in 2023 in quite so festively as the Bahamas. This warm tropical paradise is a dream destination for all kinds of travelers, from honeymooners and families to couples celebrating anniversaries and New Year’s revelers. This is your opportunity to join them and explore […]

The vibrant culture of the Bahamas blends colorful art, lively music, and a relaxed sense of community, which results in a laid-back hospitality that feels welcoming to all who visit. The overarching mood is a celebratory one, making it a perfect holiday destination. While the Bahamas don’t officially celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday, many locals still […]

Your wedding just might be the biggest and most extravagant event you will host. You could simply follow the hottest wedding trends when planning your wedding, or you could make memories to last a lifetime by creating an event that is a true reflection of you, your partner, and the love you share. Tying the […]

The scenery in the Bahamas might be legendary, but it’s got nothing on the wildlife. From iguanas and flamingos to dolphins and spider crabs, there is always something exciting to see here. While spending time in this exotic archipelago, you might even get the chance to see pigs swimming through the crystal clear waters of […]

Exuma expands over one hundred miles southeast of Nassau and consists of over three hundred islands and cays in the Bahamas. The largest island in this archipelago is Great Exuma which is connected to Little Exuma by a bridge. But, the truly unique sights are found in the Exuma Cays which are mostly comprised of […]

If you’re looking for the perfect vacation spot for your December holidays, our team at Great Exuma’s Grand Isle Resort & Spa has you covered. You don’t have to believe us, believe Travel + Leisure’s new “The Best Places to Travel in December” article in which the Bahamas our resort is listed as one of […]

The best day of your life deserves the most breathtaking setting to enjoy with your loved ones. So, what better than soft white sand, clear blue waters and tons of your favorite flowers? Whether you’re looking for barefoot luxury or a more understated, yet fun, Caribbean wedding, you’re guaranteed to love saying I do in […]

The aftermath of Hurricane Dorian continues to cause heartache and loss in the northern Bahamas. The destruction of critical infrastructure, homes and businesses alike, has completely changed the lives of residents – many who are now homeless and with no way to recover on their own. For this reason, the travel industry has come together […]

If you’re ready to live a true Caribbean experience, but have been debating among the different islands to visit, we guarantee the Bahamas is a destination you will never regret. Especially when booking your stay at our Bahamas Resort.  You shouldn’t have to sacrifice some of the elements you would love to enjoy during your […]

Whether you’re married, in a relationship or getting to know that special someone, there is never a bad time for romance. And what better place for a grand gesture than Grand Isle Resort & Spa located in the beautiful island of Great Exuma?  Picture this: Clear blue water, white soft sand, and a luxurious villa […]

Torn between a relaxing getaway and an adventure-filled vacation? At Great Exuma’s Grand Isle Resort & Spa, you won’t have to choose. Start your days by enjoying breathtaking views of the ocean from the windows of your luxury villa. Then, immerse yourself into the Bahamian culture by joining the exciting local events that take place […]

There are a few things that come to mind when you think of a tropical getaway. Immediately you envision the soft white sand beneath your bare feet, gently rolling waves crashing to shore, and perhaps even a cocktail in hand. Although it may not come to the top of your mind, it’s no secret that sea […]

The Bahamas are for exploring and no matter where you venture, whether on the island or at sea, adventures will always await. One of the most famous places to visit while staying in Exuma is Thunderball Grotto. This iconic rock formation first became famous from the 1965 James Bond movie Thunderball. The grotto sits over […]

We all know about the swimming pigs in the Exumas, but did you know you could get your swim on with a bunch of wild sea turtles too? One of the most common areas visitors go to, to see wild turtles is at Hooper’s Bay. Hoopers Bay is one of the more popular locations that […]

You’ve been playing in the sun all day, you went fishing, swimming, sunning, and everything else that involves the sweet kiss of the suns rays. You head back to your room a few hours before dusk for a quick rinse and an afternoon nap. There is nothing quite like that nap, the one that comes after […]

It is no secret that here in the Exuma’s, we are Bahamian proud. We love everything that makes up our island — the sand, surf, nature, and ecology. We are lucky to be surrounded by so many beautiful things and we recognize that it is our responsibility to try and protect our environment as much […]

There are so many reasons to spend time outdoors in the Bahamas — the sun, the sand and the surf… just to name a few. Since playing in the sun is a way of life in the Exumas, it’s really important to protect your skin and to stay hydrated. With summer closing in on us, […]

What is it about secrets that make us tick? Is it the longing? Maybe it is the exclusivity. Whatever the case may be, secrets have kept humans interested since the dawn of time. If you ask any Bahamian, what one of the best kept secrets of the islands are, they will probably say ‘Miss Emily’s […]

With spring closing in on us at full force, there is flavor we cannot shake — and that’s the craving for fresh conch salad! One thing that is for sure in the Bahamas is that seafood is king — and with that comes hand-plucked conch meat. Conch Salad is a delicate dish that has been […]

They say birds of a feather flock together — but that can also be said for birders that flock to the secluded islands of the Exuma’s for an exclusive peak at a unique beak. Many diehard birders make the journey to the Caribbean to get in their tropical bird fix! Because of the different elements […]

Plan your entire day around Stocking Island on your next visit to the Exumas. If you know us well, then you know that we have a soft spot in our heart for great Bahamian views and stunning scenery. And we think that you should take a trek on over to Stocking Island to visit our good pals […]

It is time to get your groove on and celebrate the comings of December. Christmas, Boxing Day and New Years are all right around the corner, and you know what that means… it’s Junkanoo jam out time! This annual tradition dates way back to the 1700’s and there is no sign of stopping anytime soon. […]

The island of the Exuma’s is a great place for people of all ages to experience. If a day date without the kids is what you are craving, send them on over to the Hummingbird Hut for an action-packed afternoon while you and your love relish in a little R&R. Keeping the little ones entertained […]

You don’t need your long game to score a few fish out on the ocean — stick to the reefs and backwaters to have a successful day of catch n’ release fun. In the colder months, such as January and February, you can expect to see larger fish such as blue marlins, sailfish, and dolphin; but in the […]

As the summer months come to a close and the ocean water begins to cool down, it is time we take a day out of our month to appreciate the big beautiful blue. On Saturday, September 16th you can expect to see a larger amount of people on the coastline than normal — International Coastal […]

Imagine this — Stepping out on to a candle lit porch with the one you love or with your five closest friends, for a private dining experience arranged exclusively for you. Choose from a delectable menu of Caribbean influenced meals and pair it perfectly with your favorite cocktails. Make this unforgettable night possible by contacting our concierge […]

Bring the fairway to your next trip to the Exumas — feel the refreshing Caribbean breeze on your skin while you keep your swing nice and steady — aiming straight into the green. Visit the on property golf course at Emerald Reef Golf Club on your next visit to Grand Isle Resort. This 18-hole course […]

If there is one thing we know about in the islands, it’s dive bars. Home to the classics and the originals, the Exumas is proud to be an island made up of locally owned restaurants and businesses. While visiting our favorite island, make sure to stop by Santanna’s Bar and Grill for a cold drink […]

The islands of the Bahamas is a place of pure beauty and joy — the spirit of the Exumas can be felt like a pulse from anywhere on the island. Each year in the Month of May, this Bahamian Island celebrates their love for their home during the Barraterre Homecoming Festival. This years festival falls […]

A toe in the sand and a snorkel in the ocean — isn’t that what visiting the Great Exumas is all about? Beautiful underwater ecosystems are what make the Caribbean such an incredible place to visit. While staying at Grand Isle, be sure to pop over to Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park to learn […]

Island rhythm is a cross between the sounds of the steel drums and the aroma of fried seafood that encompass the Exumas. If you enjoy local music and heritage, The Bahamian Music and Heritage Festival is not to be missed. You can find this festival in Regatta Park in the city of George Town from […]

Some days are meant for adventure, while you are in the Exuma’s we challenge you to seek out as many as you can! One of our favorite spots is just a skip away on Stocking Island, a quick ferry ride will bring you right to the beach. The energy on Stocking Island is completely electric, […]

Great Exuma is well known for island fishing and seafood cuisine. A trip to the Bahamas isn’t really a trip without indulging in locally caught and prepared seafood. If Bahamian cuisine and fresh daiquiris are on the agenda make sure you stop by the Fish Fry in Georgetown. The Fish Fry has a collection of […]

Breath out with the old and in with the new. The New Year is quickly approaching, and it is only right to make time to pamper yourself. Our Seastar Spa has a selection of services, that are a perfect way to rejuvenate for the New Year. Massages, Facials and Body Scrubs are just a few […]

The Bahamas has always been known for its crystal clear water, calm boating conditions and plentiful amounts of fish. A well known tradition of the Bahamian people in the Exumas is wooden sloop sailing. It is now something that is done as a sport, and is featured each year during the island’s Regatta festivities. As […]

There is a thrill seeker in all of us, dying to burst out. For those of you that are ready to take the plunge, we suggest you head over to Compass Cay to take a dip with some real island locals that are bound to show you a good time. **Cue Jaws music** No, we […]

Chances are, you’re on Grand Exuma at least in part because you want to explore the world-famous beaches. However, not every beach is the same. For a shore that’s a little more secluded and yet full of life, take a trip to Coco Plum Beach. Before planning your visit, check for low tide—it will be […]

The Bahamas are certainly a prime travel destination, and if you want to find the perfect souvenir to bring back from your stay on Great Exuma, you’ll be able to find it at Sandpiper Arts & Crafts. This shop features local wares, and everything from handmade pottery and hand-printed t-shirts, to cover ups you could […]

If you’re looking for a little excitement in Great Exuma, then you’ll want to check out Exuma Water Sports. They’ll take you on a heart-pumping Jet Ski or Wave Runner ride, and introduce you to some of the unique, native wildlife. And because they’re based right in Great Exuma, it’ll be easy to get there […]

This October, visitors to our Exuma resort will have the opportunity to participate in making history with the first annual Run for Pompey, a race commemorating the slave who kicked off an uprising that was central to the beginning of resistance and the road to Bahamian independence. The event will take place over several days, […]

While Exuma is a sparkling collection of islands connected by clear blue seas of colorful reefs and enticing underwater caves, there remain a few things in the Bahamas you can only explore by foot. Leave your snorkel at the resort because the only things this adventure requires are closed-toe shoes and a sense of curiosity. […]

If you’re up for a little day trip while you’re in Exuma, there’s no better place to head to than Tropic of Cancer Beach, with pristinely clear water and a soft, white sand beach. While the beach does not have any amenities, this keeps it from becoming crowded and makes it a nice, quiet spot […]

This March, join Exuma in its celebration of the annual Bahamian Music and Heritage Festival! From March 10th through the 12th, visitors to Regatta Park in George Town, located about twenty minutes from our Exuma resort, will find a showcase of Bahamian culture on display, including arts and crafts, like wood and conch shell carvings, […]

The Bahamas is home to some of the best sailing in the world, and beginning on February 26th, visitors can experience ten days of nautical fun and excitement at the 35th Annual George Town Cruising Regatta! Located just a scenic drive from our Exuma resort, this massive celebration runs until March 6th and features three […]

If Exuma is getting away from it all, then Stocking Island is getting even further away. Located about twenty-five minutes from our Exuma resort, making it perfect for a quick day trip, this pristine island features tons of walking paths, gorgeous white beaches popular for surfing, and Mystery Cave, a blue hole seventy feet beneath […]

If you’re looking for good food and a good time, head to the Chat N Chill Bar. Just a short trip from our Exuma resort, the Chat N Chill is a perfect Caribbean beach party venue, right on the sand with a relaxed vibe and special activities like a Sunday pig roast, beach volleyball, feed and swim […]

Obviously fall doesn’t mean the same thing in the Bahamas as it does everywhere else. Even though summer’s over, the fun has just begun. And ushering in the fall events in the Bahamas is the Fishy Fest Handline and Lion Fish Tournament, a fishing competition with an intense twist: no rods, no reels, handlines only! […]

Why swim when you could surf? And why surf when you could kitesurf? Not knowing how is no excuse at Exuma Kitesurfing. Located just ten minutes from our Exuma resort, Exuma Kitesurfing provides equipment and schooling on the art of kitesurfing as well as stand up paddle-boarding. With patient, experienced instructors, they’ll have you out […]

If you’re big into boats, then you probably know that the Bahamas is home to some of the world’s top sailing destinations. What you might not know is that Exuma is host to one of the oldest boat races in the Bahamas, the Rolleville Homecoming Festival and Regatta. From July 31st to August 1st, visitors can […]

On July 10th, the Bahamas celebrates the anniversary of its independence and Exuma resort guests can join in on the festivities at the Rolle Town Homecoming Festival. A weekend of food, drinks and fun, the not-to-be-missed event will feature an old-school dance hall and games that are fun for the whole family,including dominoes, sack races […]

When you’ve had your fill of lounging on the beach, head below the sparkling waves to explore the mysteries of the deep with Dive Exuma. Recommended for beginners but fun for all, Dive Exuma takes visitors on the ultimate dive experience, where you can explore incredible sunken ships, gorgeous coral reefs, and even come face […]

A trip to Exuma wouldn’t be complete with an exploration adventure with Island Boy Adventures! Less than twenty-five minutes from our Great Exuma resort, Island Boy offer many exciting excursions that will show you a more exciting side of the island. Choose from excursions like swimming with sharks in Compass Cay, one of the most […]

George Town’s Elizabeth Harbor comes alive the last full weekend in April when a fleet of beautiful Bahamian native sloops gathers for the National Family Island Regatta. An island tradition dating back to 1954, this is one of the oldest regattas in the Bahamas and, as such, a beloved event of islanders and anyone lucky […]

If you’re lucky enough to be on Great Exuma during the Bahamian Music & Heritage Festival, scheduled March 12 – 14, 2015 at Regatta Park in George Town, here’s a reason to keep your feet firmly locked on land, at least for a little while. Now in its 10th year, this three-day festival celebrates the […]