Escape to Exuma: The Hidden Gem of the Bahamas
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 uninhabited, white sand beaches surrounded by breathtaking reefs.
Renowned for its isolated beaches, unique diving sights, and beautiful resorts, Exuma is a hidden gem of the Bahamas.
Great Exuma
The first stop on most visitor’s list is Great Exuma as this is the main island in the archipelago and where Exuma International Airport is located. South Florida airports in Miami and Ft. Lauderdale as well as in Atlanta, GA, and Charlotte, NC offer direct flights to Great Exuma. Visitors from other locations can fly to Bahamas’ main island of Nassau and then take a connecting flight to Great Exuma. Here you will find the George Town, filled with charming colonial-style buildings and friendly locals. Shacks around town offer made-to-order fish and barbecue dishes where Fish Fry and Conch Fritters are local favorites.
Farther north you will find the breathtaking sights of Grand Isle Resort’s Emerald Bay. A clear blue, mile-long beach great for sunbathing and snorkeling. Here you will also find the longest golf course in the Caribbean, Emerald Reef Golf Club, designed by PGA-pro Greg Norman.
Unparalleled Sights of the Exuma Cays
The Exuma Cays are the jewel of the Bahamas. While exploring the cays, visitors will find secluded beaches and many isolated spots as only a few are populated. Staniel Cay is a favorite destination for travelers because it is home to many attractions like the unique Thunderball Grotto. A marine cave that experienced scuba divers will love to explore, and during low tide, snorkelers can peak in.
Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park is another stop that should be on every traveler’s list. Founded as the world’s first land and sea reserve in 1958, this huge expanse of islands, water and reef are guaranteed to take your breath away. To reach the park, visitors must charter a boat or seaplane.
Adventure Opportunities
Adventures and excursions are a big part of the Exuma experience. Visitors can choose to explore the unique underwater world of the Exuma Cays by going on a snorkeling expedition or diving the unique sites around like the 110 feet long freighter Comberback Wreck or Amberjack Reef where you can find Caribbean Reef sharks, nurse sharks, and large black groupers.
Furthermore, on Compass Cay, travelers can reserve a spot to swim with friendly nurse sharks and colorful Caribbean reef fish. Exotic encounters with swimming pigs at Big Major Cay and iguanas at Guana Cay are also a big part of the Exuma experience.
The Exuma archipelago is the Bahamas’ hidden gem. Its hundreds of islands and cays offer travelers an unparalleled variety of breathtaking sights to explore and adventures to experience. You will always have something new to discover at Exuma.
