The Exumas:
The Exumas are a collection of cays and islands stretching over 120 miles. Two main islands, Great Exuma and Little Exuma, form the southern tip. Hidden coves, bays, and harbours throughout are magnets for yachts and sportfisherman., and now… yes, golfers.
The Exumas are an archipelago of 365 cays and islands, beginning just 35 miles southeast of Nassau and stretching for more than 100 miles southward. From the air, these cays look like jeweled stepping stones surrounded by a shimmering emerald sea giving this chain the distinction of being one of the prettiest in The Islands of The Bahamas. The bright white sand of the deserted beaches – and they really are deserted - is a striking contrast to the aquamarine and jade hues of the shallow waters of the Grand Bahama Bank. The topography doesn't vary much, as the islands are only 7½ miles across at the widest point, but the splendor of the pristine beaches, the crystal waters and the lush tropical greenery attract visitors from around the globe.
A tranquil atmosphere abides in these seemingly limitless cays, multi-colored waters and quaint towns of amicable people who are eager to encounter visitors. Most of The Exumas' 3,500 residents live on Great Exuma or Little Exuma, the two largest islands, which are connected by a short bridge. They play host to much of the commerce and tourism in the island chain.
To the north on Great Exuma and Staniel Cay lies the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. The park, administered by the Bahamas National Trust, is a 177 square mile tract of islands, cays and reefs where the underwater world can easily be seen through only 10 feet or so of water. Accessible only by boat, this is a conservation area where you can observe the wildlife and marine life in their natural surroundings, unspoiled and beautiful. The park - specifically Allens Cays - is home to the Bahamian Dragon, a rock iguana that can grow up to two feet long. Undersea are reefs, blue holes and shipwrecks. Ocean Rock features an underwater valley known locally as the Iron Curtain, with huge caves filled with black coral.
Where To Stay:
- Oceana Heights Villa Rentals
- Club Peace & Plenty
- Regatta Point
- Four Seasons at Emerald Bay
Things To Do in the Exumas
- Fishing
- Diving & Snorkeling
- Golf
- More opportunities for Golf in the Bahamas.
How to Get There:
The Islands of the Bahamas are served by two international airports: Nassau International Airport and Grand Bahama International Airport. These two airports are served by almost all of the US domestic airlines as well as airlines from Canada, the United Kingdom and Europe.
Travel to the Out Islands of the Bahamas is achieved via Bahamasair. Bahamasair offers regular scheduled service to the Abacos, Exumas, and most of the smaller inhabited islands.
Travel to the Abacos and The Exumas can also be achieved via the Fast Ferry from Potter’s Cay in Nassau – daily scheduled service is available. This is a great way to visit the Out Island. I highly recommend it.
Rental cars are readily available at both international airports.
Look for the best airline and car rental deals with these two aggregators, which provide travelers with an up-to-date search tool to compare prices on airfares and car rentals of all ratings:
- Compare Prices for airline tickets to the Bahamas.
- Compare Prices for rental cars in the Bahamas
Finally:
I have been traveling to, and writing about, the Islands of the Bahamas for more than 25 years. The Bahamas are my own, personal favorite vacation destinations. I love the emerald waters, the glittering white sands, the friendly people, and the overall feeling of well-being. I have NEVER had a bad experience anywhere in the Bahamas. I never miss a chance to hop on a plane and travel between these most beautiful of islands. I truly hope that you enjoy your visit to the Bahamas as much as I always have.
