The Ultimate Guide to Exuma – Best Beaches, Snorkeling, and Travel Tips

Recommendation: Base yourself in staniel for a couple of nights to access the unparalleled snorkeling near Thunderball Grotto and to visit Moriah Harbour Cay National Park, among other locations that are part of your Exuma itinerary. From staniel, boat trips to the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park take around 15–20 minutes, putting you close to turtle sightings, reef systems, and quiet coves.

For beaches, Hooper’s Bay on Great Exuma and Pelican Beach on Little Exuma offer powder-soft sand, shallow waters, and parking near the shoreline. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a sun hat, and a plate of snacks to enjoy a picnic after a snorkel session.

In Moriah Harbour Cay National Park you can observe sea turtles, stingrays, and nesting shorebirds. Bring a lightweight snorkel set and respect the protected dune systems, tidal flats, and the quiet coves that characterize this reserve. Local experts in Staniel and George Town share the best times to visit and where hatchling sightings occur during season.

From miami, a direct flight to Exuma International Airport lands you close to George Town; a short drive or water transfer starts your loop. If you arrive via Nassau, rent a compact SUV and follow Queen’s Highway along the coast to cap the loop with Staniel and the cays. Fresh conch is commonly available at dockside shacks after a morning boat ride, so check the plate of the day when you arrive.

Practical planning and quick-start itineraries for Exuma

Fly into Exuma International Airport (GGT), rent a car, and stocking up at a nearby market; start with a relaxed 3-day plan that covers well-known sights, those favourite beaches, and a pigs encounter. This approach keeps most destinations within minutes by boat or car and lets you enjoy the ocean, dining options, and walking along scenic shorelines today.

1. 3-day relaxed starter

   • Day 1: Arrive, pick up a car, and explore George Town’s waterfront. Walk the palm-lined beaches nearby, then dine at a local restaurant; choose a favourite spot for the first dinner. Stay near the coast to keep travel time short.
   • Day 2: Take a short boat hop to Stocking Island (nearby) for calm swimming and a relaxed beach day; stop for lunch at Chat ’n’ Chill or another nearby dining option. In the afternoon, snorkel a nearby reef, then return to base for a sunset walk along the oceanfront.
   • Day 3: Visit Big Major Cay to swim with pigs in the morning, then snorkel at a nearby site; lunch on a local flotilla or back in town. Finish with a stroll on a favourite beach and a casual dinner near the harbor.

2. 2-day fast-track hit list

   • Day 1: Quick flight into GGT, pick up gear, and head straight to pigs on Big Major Cay for a morning swim. Lunch at a nearby restaurant, then snorkel at Thunderball Grotto if seas are calm. Evening at a restaurant with ocean views.
   • Day 2: Morning walk along a relaxed beach, then a boat hop to Compass Cay for nurse sharks; return with time for a final stroll and a favourite bite before departure.

Jolly Hall Beach on Great Exuma’s south coast is the best first pick for families seeking calm water and easy access. A long, sandy arc runs along Queen’s Highway, and the water stays shallow for a broad expanse from shore, making wading safe for toddlers and debut snorkelers. Parking appears at public access points, and a handful of hotel and guesthouse accommodations sit within a short stroll or ride, so you can arrive, set up, and swap to a snack plate without a big haul. This option offers both space and safety, aligning with our practical guide for building a relaxed beach day.

Hoopers Bay Beach, also in the region’s southern belt, provides a sheltered cove with gentle waves and a broad, sandy area ideal for family foot traffic. The water depth stays shallow well beyond the first few meters, and shade is abundant under sea-grape trees. Several nearby accommodations include kid-friendly hotel options; you can arrive early, claim a good spot, and enjoy a quick meal from a sea-view restaurant afterward. In this region, you’ll find several types of beachfront setups offering different vibes, so you can decide which one fits your family’s pace and privacy preferences. Parents often enjoy watching the kids dancing in the shallows as you plan the next swim break.

Stocking Island Beach, reachable by boat from George Town, pairs calm lagoon water with beginner-friendly snorkeling adventures along the reef. Families can spend mornings here without crowds, then catch a short return ride for lunch on the mainland. Look for anglefish cruising around the reef edges and tiny schools near the docks–great for little explorers. For a full day, a short guided excursion (a true family-friendly guide) often includes life jackets and a simple snack plate for kids.

Practical tips to maximize safety and value: Beaches in Exuma are public, with government protections that keep access open and free at most points, though a few resort-front access lanes may carry a small cost. If you stay at a hotel, you’ll typically get beach gear and a shuttle; otherwise, several guesthouses offer affordable accommodations with easy beach access. When you arrive, plan for a light cargo of supplies–water, sunscreen, and snacks–so you avoid premium prices at concession stands. For meals, many spots offer a plate of fresh conch or grilled fish, and some hotel restaurants present kid-friendly options. Although weather can shift, the true advantage is flexibility: arrive early, check the water condition, and shift plans between two or three beaches to keep the adventures rolling.

Shore snorkeling hotspots and gear checklist

Begin at Stocking Island flats off George Town. Arriving by taxi, you reach clear, shallow water within minutes and a stretch of reef just offshore that can provide a close-up view of reef life. The mangrove fringe behind the flats hosts an abundance of wonders–reef fish, rays, and tiny sharks; a natural hole and ledges provide shelter for eels and crustaceans. This spot has been a favorite for locals and travelers, and it feels like paradise for a relaxed start to your vacation.

Move to Emerald Bay and the sheltered mangrove creeks along Little Exuma. These spots are located along a gentle stretch of shore and known for their calm mornings and abundant life, perfect for swimming. While you snorkel, you’ll meet schools of grunt, parrotfish, and snapper, plus occasional stingrays gliding over sand. On clear days, the light creates views reminiscent of miami across the water, turning the shore into a relaxing scene for photos. Local boats and taxis frequently head to these areas, making arrival easy with a flexible schedule.

Gear checklist: mask, snorkel, fins, reef-safe sunscreen, rash guard, torrväska, waterproof camera eller phone case, towel, gloves (optional for mangrove edges), spare memory card, rum for a quick snack and water.

Heading to the next stop, plan a 45-minute snorkel per site; known reefs stay shallow and friendly for swimming. For the best balance of visibility and wildlife, aim for slack tide in the morning or late afternoon. While paddling along, keep a respectful distance from fish and avoid touching coral to protect them; this keeps the abundance of life for others to enjoy. If you’re pairing snorkeling with a visit to Big Major Cay, you can combine a brief shore snorkel with a meet-and-greet with the famous pigs, then head back toward town for a sunset view and a fresh coconut. Such moments prove that these shorelines offer a true vacation highlight and room for change in your day.

Boat trips to Exuma Cays: parks, reefs, and timing

Book a 4–5 hour morning trip that includes Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park and Thunderball Grotto; arrive by 8:30 am to catch calm seas, clear light, and the best chance to see wildlife before the day heats up. A well-reviewed, small-boat operator typically takes 6–10 guests, keeping the pace comfortable and the guides attentive–took this format on a recent visit and it felt world-class.

Inside Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, several protected islets cradle long reef channels with pristine visibility. Found reefs host plum parrotfish, yellowtail snapper, and curious reef fish, while nurse sharks glide along ledges at the edge of the drop-offs. Thunderball Grotto offers a cave entrance that opens onto a sunlit chamber where you can swim with schools of tropical fish; remember conservation rules: no touching coral, no anchors, and respect restricted zones.

Timing is part of the plan: theres a sweet window from late morning to early afternoon when light is best and currents are favorable for snorkeling. There are several operator options, and most depart from Staniel Cay or nearby docks; if you drive, arrive 20 minutes early to park and check in. The itinerary usually includes 2–3 stops, plus a beachfront lunch on a private island, delivering island adventures that feel like paradise. Visiting exuma is a bucket-list experience that sets the tone for a fantastic trip.

Practical tips: bring reef-safe sunscreen, a dry bag, water, a hat, and a camera with a waterproof case. tips: carry a few bills for the crew. A quick stop at shirleys dock can be a handy way to pick up a snack or chat about local weather before heading out. There’s flexibility with schedule, so you never need to rush – you can plan a second trip later in your visit to see another world-class reef or to revisit a favorite beachfront cove you’ve seen online. For families, a shorter, calmer outing can be fantastic for younger snorkelers, and you’ll never forget how the water glows in Exuma.

Where to stay on Great Exuma for beach access

Sandals Emerald Bay provides direct beach access with a long white-sand shoreline and a short path from your door to the seas. theres a dedicated concierge to help plan activities, from snorkeling to spa bookings. You’ll wake to calm waters and an afternoon breeze that invites a stroll along the coast.

On-site restaurant options serving fresh mahi caught daily and other local catches, with staff ready to arrange snorkeling or a boat ride. There is a variety of services to fit your journey, from spa treatments to cooking classes, and you can read guest reviews to pick the best time to visit. In the evenings, some properties offer live music that enhances the beach vibe.

Grand Isle Resort & Spa sits on Emerald Bay as well, with direct beach frontage and a sheltered cove ideal for families. The on-site restaurant scene showcases Bahamian flavors, and the pool area is perfect for watching the afternoon light over the water. The location makes it easy to explore miles of clear sea and private coves without leaving the property.

For a more local vibe, stay in George Town and use day trips to reach public beaches such as Jolly Hall Beach och Hooper’s Bay. Stocking Island trips offer a break from the main harbor and include snorkeling with currents and a beach-side option to enjoy fresh drinks and snacks served by a small, local restaurant. There are boat services and water taxi options serving the local scene, so you can keep your schedule flexible.

Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park is a notable reserve nearby, with protected waters that attract snorkeling lovers. If you love a quieter pace, this park offers excellent visibility and a thriving marine life over miles of coastline across the chain.

Från Nassau, a quick flight lands you on Great Exuma in under an hour, keeping your schedule light and focused on beach time. Choose a property with airport transfers or reliable concierge services to maximize your time on the sands.

Stocking Island and other day trips are great if you want to mix beach time with snorkeling, while Thunderball Grotto is a memorable option for a guided snorkel excursion–check with your host for arrangements and costs. The local services along the shore, including boat tours and shore-side amenities, help you plan a smooth, enjoyable experience.

One-day beach itinerary: morning to sunset plan

Start your day with a 7:30am boat from staniel to Thunderball Grotto for snorkeling, then return there for a quick conch snack to fuel the next leg.

From 9:00am to 11:00am, head to a small tropical beach near the staniel-area reefs. Keep to protected areas and watch for turtles; you’ll spot four types of coral and enjoy a light breeze over calm turquoise water.

Packing light and ready: reef-safe sunscreen, a dry bag, water, and a compact lunch. Four hours of beach time lets you switch spots and still return for a late-morning siesta if needed. Most spots around Exuma, including the resorts, accept a mix of Bahamian currency and cards, but have cash on hand for tiny snacks and post-snorkel drinks. If you’re coming from miami, plan accordingly. The year-round warmth makes the plan feasible any day.

Afternoon outing: take a short boat ride to Big Major Cay to meet the famous pigs, then explore another cove for more swimming and the chance to encounter sea turtles. This loop gives you different vibes and areas to discover, making the plan feel well-rounded.

As the sun lowers, head to a west-facing stretch for a plum-colored sunset over tropical water. A final stroll along the beach, perhaps near a resort room or dock area, caps a wonderful day and leaves room for finding new spots to photograph before you head back.