Sailing around the Exuma islands is an incredible way to experience the Bahamas. It has the most beautiful blue water that you could ever imagine. Hundreds of lush islands and deserted cays pop up seemingly out of no where. Many have limited amenities so it feels like you’ve discovered your own private island. It gives you the sense of being a true explorer. If something looks interesting, drop the anchor, hop on the dinghy, and embark on an adventure. Go diving for lobsters & conch or snorkel the colorful reefs.

How to Get There

Most travelers embark from Nassau or George Town. We started and ended our journey at Palm Cay Marina, about 40 minutes from Nassau International Airport. We spent a week sailing from island to island. My husband’s Uncle Dave has a catamaran and generously led our voyage. You can book a similar Exuma sailing catamaran charter through Dream Yacht Charter.

When to Go to Exuma, Bahamas

the best time to visit is December - April
May and November are shoulder season months, so rates usually decrease & the weather can still be really nice
rainy season is June - October, so avoid these months

Though I get seasick, it was worth pushing through the tough moments. I gained an even deeper connection to the ocean… literally, your boat is one with the sea. This kind of travel forces you to settle down and go with the flow.

Our Itinerary: The Top Islands to Explore in Exuma, Bahamas

Palm Cay Marina, Nassau

The modern colonial style Palm Cay Marina was our home base. It has some handy amenities like a restaurant, general store, beach loungers, and gorgeous pool and bar. The warm and hospitable staff, delicious local food like conch fritters, and inventive cocktails make it an enjoyable way to kick off your vacation.

Highbourne Cay

Snorkel the Octopus Garden reef
Happy hour at Highbourne Cay Marina
Small grocery store if you need supplies (aka more rum)

Norman’s Cay

Snorkel the sunken plane wreck
Lunch and cocktails at MacDuff's Restaurant

Shroud Cay

Miles of winding mangroves best explored by dinghy
Hidden beaches with bright blue water and white sand
Hike to the top of Camp Driftwood for elevated views

Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park

7 miles of hiking trails and beautiful beaches to relax on
Ecological preserve and wildlife refuge
Popular for snorkeling and scuba diving; home to the second-largest coral barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere

Compass Cay

Natural swimming hole/whirlpool called Rachel’s bubble bath (best at high tide)
Swim with nurse sharks at the marina
Great deep sea fishing location for snapper and grouper

Big Major Cay

Play with the swimming pigs at Pig Beach (personally not for me but my family enjoyed it) Beware … they bite!

Staniel Cay

Have fun with other travelers as well as locals at Staniel Cay Yacht Club. Make sure you have one of their painkiller cocktails with rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, cream of coconut and nutmeg.
Staniel Cay also has “gentle” nurse sharks
Snorkel at Thunderball Grotto, featured in the James Bond movie Thunderball just North of the yacht club