4 Musts for Exploring Exuma
A few years ago, I read @bobgoff’s book Love Does. In it, he talks about how he took his kids wherever they wanted to go as they were transitioning out of childhood and into adolescence. The trips they chose spoke to who God designed them to be.
So, without much thought (which is not usually how we operate) we told our kids we’d do the same for them. A trip wherever they wanted to go with just mom and dad for their birthday present before transitioning to middle school.
In 2022, our oldest was making this transition and picked the Bahamas as his trip destination. We chose to split the trip up between the Exuma’s and Nassau, which were two different types of experiences. The Exuma experience is one we couldn’t wait to get back to. So, this year we took our parents, siblings, and kids back.
Our Recommendations in Exuma
After two trips there with a variety of size groups and ages, we have a few thoughts and recommendations:
1. Pick a Great Place to Stay
The Exumas only has one major resort (Sandals-Emerald Bay) on the island. Whereas the resort life may be for you, we prefer a more home like approach. Here are two places we highly recommend.
This upper level Beautiful Beachside Condo offers amazing views at an affordable price. This 2 bedroom, 2 bath unit will accommodate up to 4 guests. If you have additional guests, check on the availability of the other units as well. Located just minutes from the airport, this condo offers easy access into Georgetown and is located on a long stretch of beautiful beach. We also recommend a rental car for your stay. Check out Exuma Car Rentals and ask for Granville!
When it comes to luxury accommodations, you will be hard pressed to beat Exuma Sands Private Villas. Check out this great virtual tour. Yumey Sands Villa is a 4 bedroom house that accommodates up to 10 and right next door is Suma Sands Villa offering 5 bedrooms and accommodating up to 12 guests. These villas offer amazing views on the Tropic of Cancer Beach on Little Exuma Island. They offer every amenity that you could ask for with an infinity pool, kayaks, stand up paddle boards, and snorkel gear. The wonderful host, Judy, can set you up with rental cars, grocery services, or chef services.
2. Get on a Boat
The water is beautiful and there is so much to explore in and around the Exumas.
- Tours R Us with Theo or Sugar Adventures offer amazing tours by water. Go visit the famous Swimming Pigs, snorkle in Thunderball Grotto, visit Iguana Island, swim with the sharks, pet stingrays, and swim with sea turtles. Or, just ask them to create an adventure to fit your needs!
- If you want to adventure out on your own, rent a boat from Minns Water Sports and explore Elizabeth Harbor. Visit the famous Chat’N’Chill and try conch salad or conch burgers, find sand dollars and starfish, or explore Stocking Island.
- Get out and fish! Exuma is a great place to get out and try to catch the elusive and powerful bonefish. Or, do some light trolling for barracuda. Give Bonefish Drex a call for a great day of fishing!
3. Bring your own Food & Have Someone Cook for You
In a place where almost all food options have to be imported, eating in the Exuma’s is expensive. We were able to pack a lot of snacks and even a cooler of frozen steaks and fish to take with us to cook. When checking a bag costs you at most $50, you will save a lot taking food with you. We took a soft cooler and a large rolling bag with food.
We also had a team of two ladies come and cook for us one night. We really thought this was going to be a splurge in spending, but after going out to eat one night and the bill being outrageous and the food just okay, we realized the personal service was a great option. Contact Judy Gray 1 (242) 524-8833 and she can arrange for an amazing dinner cooked in the comfort of your rental.
4. Get to Know the Locals
Getting to know some of the people was by far the best part of both of our trips. Our boat captain on our second trip is highly recommended. Theo and his son TJ with Tours R Us provide an unforgettable and personalized experience! Theo was a go to source when we had questions while in Exuma and also came and hung out with us one night. He promises he is coming to the states soon to visit us!
One of the main reasons we prioritize travel for our family is because of the learning and growth that takes place in a novel place. The opportunity to explore the world and all the variety in it is such a joy and a privilege. Meeting and learning from new people is the most important aspect of travel as we see it.
