1. Staniel Cay Yacht Club A starfish rests on the sandy shores of Exuma Cays, surrounded by clear blue water and a sky dotted with fluffy clouds in the background. Vacation Rentals and Resort on Staniel Cay Exuma
  1. Staniel Cay Yacht Club A starfish rests on the sandy shores of Exuma Cays, surrounded by clear blue water and a sky dotted with fluffy clouds in the background. Vacation Rentals and Resort on Staniel Cay Exuma

The Exuma Cays aren’t just a tropical destination — they’re a dreamscape made real. This string of over 365 islands and cays stretches like scattered emeralds through electric blue water, each one offering its own magic, mystery, and breathtaking beauty. Whether you’re chasing barefoot luxury or off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Exumas deliver an unforgettable escape.

Here’s your guide to the very best places to see and experience in the Exuma Cays:

A white pig swimming in the clear blue waters of Staniel Cay in The Bahamas. 1. Swim with the Famous Pigs at Big Major Cay
No trip to the Exumas is complete without a stop at “Pig Beach.” These world-famous swimming pigs paddle out to greet visitors in the shallow, turquoise waters off Big Major Cay. Bring some veggie treats and your camera — this is one memory you won’t want to miss.

Staniel Cay Yacht Club Four people sit on a dock under a sign reading "Welcome Home" at the beautiful Staniel Cay Resort. Below, several nurse sharks glide through the clear turquoise water, creating an unforgettable vacation rental experience in Staniel Cay. Vacation Rentals and Resort on Staniel Cay Exuma2. Snorkel with Nurse Sharks at Compass Cay
If you’re feeling adventurous, head to Compass Cay where you can swim with friendly (and harmless) nurse sharks. They glide peacefully around the dock, and the marina staff are always on hand to help guests safely interact with them.

 3. Dive into Thunderball GrottoA group of men standing around a bar at Staniel Cay Yacht Club.
Named for the James Bond movie filmed here, Thunderball Grotto is a natural underwater cave filled with light shafts, colorful coral, and tropical fish. It’s a must-see for snorkelers and divers — an otherworldly experience right beneath the surface.

Staniel Cay Yacht Club Bartender in a red shirt holds up a pink cocktail with a straw and fruit garnish, standing behind a bar with various bottles and nautical-themed decor inspired by the Exuma Cays. Vacation Rentals and Resort on Staniel Cay Exuma4. Sunset Drinks at Staniel Cay Yacht Club
Staniel Cay is the heartbeat of the central Exumas — a laid-back village with one of the most charming yacht clubs in the Bahamas. Grab a Goombay Smash, watch the sun dip below the horizon, and soak in the island vibe.

 5. Sandbars & Secret BeachesStaniel Cay Yacht Club Aerial view of a catamaran in turquoise waters near small islands with sandy beaches and green vegetation, under a clear blue sky. Perfect for yacht charters that offer unforgettable vacation rentals in this idyllic paradise. Vacation Rentals and Resort on Staniel Cay Exuma
During low tide, the sandbars near Pipe Creek and Sandy Cay rise from the sea like hidden treasures. It’s like walking on water in the middle of a turquoise lagoon. Bring a picnic, a drone, and someone you love.

 6. Island-Hop by BoatStaniel Cay Yacht Club A small motorboat floats on clear turquoise water, anchored near a shoreline with trees and several vacation rentals under a partly cloudy sky. Vacation Rentals and Resort on Staniel Cay Exuma
To truly experience the Exumas, you’ll want to explore by boat. Many visitors stay on Staniel Cay or Great Exuma and take daily boat excursions to explore the nearby cays — from the iguanas on Bitter Guana Cay to sunken plane wrecks near Norman’s Cay.

 7. Meet the Rock Iguanas at Bitter Guana Cay
These pre-historic looking reptiles are only found in the Exumas and love to greet visitors. They’re harmless and surprisingly photogenic — just don’t try to feed them anything artificial.

 8. Chill on Tropic of Cancer Beach
Located on Little Exuma, this is one of the most stunning and serene beaches in the entire Bahamas. The sand is powder-soft, the water crystal clear, and the beach stretches for what feels like miles with barely a soul in sight.

 Bonus Tip: Take a Scenic Flight
For a bucket-list view, book a flight into Staniel Cay from Nassau or Ft. Lauderdale and see the string of cays and sandbanks from the air. It’s like flying over a surreal watercolor painting.

 Plan Your Exuma Cays Adventure

Whether you’re staying in a luxury villa, a boutique resort, or exploring by chartered catamaran, the Exuma Cays are packed with soul-stirring scenery and unforgettable moments.

So pack light, bring your sense of wonder, and get ready to explore one of the most spectacular corners of the Caribbean.

—