Great Exuma Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, food and drink scene, and culture of Great Exuma, Bahamas. Learn about transportation options, safety, health, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Great Exuma

Located in the Bahamas, the beautiful island of Great Exuma offers stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and natural wonders. This tropical paradise is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed and peaceful vacation with outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, hiking, and biking. Home to friendly locals, Great Exuma boasts cultural attractions, delicious cuisine, and unique souvenirs. In this comprehensive guide, we will help you discover the best places to visit in Great Exuma, recommend the must-try dishes and local beverages, provide insider tips, and give you insights about transportation, safety, and health.

List of Places to Visit in Great Exuma

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Hermitage - a 17th century stone building and former monastery which now serves as a church. The Hermitage is located on a hilltop overlooking Great Exuma and offers panoramic views.
  • The Pompey Museum - located in Georgetown, it showcases the history of slavery in The Bahamas. The museum is named after Pompey, an African slave who led a rebellion on the island against the British in 1830.
  • The Rolle Town Tombs - an ancient burial ground, estimated to be over 300 years old, located near a former slave plantation.

Natural Attractions of Great Exuma: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park - a protected marine reserve, perfect for snorkeling, fishing, and kayaking. Visitors can spot a wide variety of marine life and enjoy the turquoise waters.
  • The Tropic of Cancer Beach - one of the most beautiful beaches in The Bahamas, with soft sand, crystal-clear water, and breathtaking views. Named after the Tropic of Cancer, which passes through the island, this beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
  • The Moriah Harbour Cay - a nature reserve with diverse ecosystems, including mangroves, beaches, and lagoons. Visitors can take a boat tour and explore the natural wonders of this protected area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Great Exuma

  • The Stocking Island Trail - a scenic hiking trail that follows the shoreline of Stocking Island. This trail offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding islands.
  • The Hooper’s Bay Trail - another beautiful hiking trail that meanders through mangrove forests, leading to a secluded beach. Visitors can also rent bicycles and explore the island at their own pace.

Best Things to Do in Great Exuma: Activities and Tours

  • Swim with the Sharks - a unique experience where visitors can swim with the nurse sharks in their natural habitat. Local operators provide guided tours for visitors of all ages.
  • Visit the Thunderball Grotto - the site of the James Bond film “Thunderball”, this underwater cave system is perfect for snorkeling and swimming.
  • Take a boat tour to Pig Island - also known as Big Major Cay, this small island is home to a herd of friendly pigs. Visitors can feed and swim with them, creating unforgettable memories.

Week-Long Itinerary for Great Exuma

Day Activity
Monday Visit The Hermitage and explore Georgetown
Tuesday Explore the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, snorkeling and kayaking
Wednesday Take a boat tour to Thunderball Grotto and Pig Island
Thursday Relax on Tropic of Cancer Beach and watch the sunset
Friday Rent a bicycle and explore Hooper’s Bay Trail and Moriah Harbour Cay
Saturday Visit the Pompey Museum and Rolle Town Tombs
Sunday Swim with the sharks and enjoy local cuisine

Food and Drink Scene of Great Exuma

Must-Try Dishes

  • Conch Fritters - a Bahamian delicacy made with tender conch meat, batter fried, and served with spicy dipping sauce.
  • Cracked Conch - another popular seafood dish, made with seasoned and battered conch meat, served with a side of coleslaw and tartar sauce.
  • Bahamian Macaroni and Cheese - a cheesy and flavorful side dish, traditionally served with fried fish or conch.

Local Beverages

  • Goombay Smash - a fruity cocktail made with rum, pineapple juice, and coconut cream.
  • Kalik - the national beer of the Bahamas, with a light and refreshing taste.
  • Coconut Water - a refreshing and healthy drink, perfect for hot and sunny days.

Where to Stay in Great Exuma: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Sandals Emerald Bay Golf, Tennis, and Spa Resort - a luxurious all-inclusive resort, located on a pristine beach, with top-notch amenities, including a golf course, tennis courts, and spas.
  • Augusta Bay Bahamas - an elegant boutique hotel, located near Georgetown, with stunning ocean views, exceptional service, and charming architecture.
  • Hideaways at Palm Bay - a cozy and affordable resort, perfect for budget travelers, with comfortable rooms and a private beach.

What to Buy in Great Exuma: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Hand-crafted Straw Bags - made by local artisans, these colorful straw bags are perfect for beach lovers.
  • Bahamian Rum - bring home a bottle of the local rum, perfect for creating tropical cocktails.
  • Beaded Jewelry - intricately designed, these unique pieces of jewelry are great souvenirs to bring back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Great Exuma

  • Respect the Locals - Bahamians are known for their warmth and hospitality, so remember to be polite and respectful at all times.
  • Dress Conservatively - while beachwear is acceptable on the beach, it is important to dress appropriately when visiting cultural attractions and public places.
  • Religion is Important - Great Exuma has a deep religious culture, so it’s important to respect traditions and customs.

Best Time to Visit Great Exuma

The best time to visit Great Exuma is during the winter months, from December to February, when the weather is pleasant and dry, with average temperatures in the mid-70s to low-80s. However, the island is a year-round destination, with mild temperatures and a comfortable breeze throughout the year.

Do’s and Don’ts of Great Exuma

Do:

  • Do explore the natural wonders of the island, including snorkeling, hiking, and kayaking.
  • Do try the local cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional Bahamian dishes.
  • Do respect the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter on the beach or in public places. Keep the island clean and beautiful.
  • Don’t wear revealing clothing outside the beach areas. Dress conservatively when visiting cultural attractions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Great Exuma

Great Exuma is a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it’s important to take common-sense safety precautions, including keeping valuables secure and not leaving them unattended, locking doors and windows when leaving, and avoiding walking alone at night.

Health in Great Exuma

The tap water in Great Exuma is safe to drink, but it’s recommended to drink bottled water for sensitive stomachs. The island has a medical clinic and a hospital in case of emergencies. It’s also important to apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and drink plenty of water to avoid becoming dehydrated.

Getting to Great Exuma: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Great Exuma

The nearest airport to Great Exuma is Exuma International Airport, located in George Town. Major airlines, including American Airlines and Delta, operate regular flights to and from the island.

Bus Stations Near Great Exuma

There are no public bus services available on the island.

Other Options

Visitors can rent a car, bicycle, or scooter to explore the island at their own pace. Taxis and private shuttles are also available for hire.

How to Get Around in Great Exuma

The best way to get around Great Exuma is by car, bicycle, or scooter. Taxis and private shuttles are also available for hire. Walking is a good option for short distances.

Where to Go Next from Great Exuma: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Staniel Cay - a small island located in the Exuma Cays, famous for swimming with pigs and snorkeling with sharks.
  • Nassau - the capital of the Bahamas, located on the island of New Providence, offers a blend of history, culture, and nightlife.
  • The Abacos - a group of islands and cays, famous for sailing, fishing, and pristine beaches.

Conclusion

Great Exuma is a hidden gem in the Bahamas, perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed and peaceful vacation. With its stunning beaches, natural wonders, welcoming locals, and delicious cuisine, this island paradise offers an unforgettable experience for all. From snorkeling and swimming with the sharks to exploring cultural attractions and local markets, Great Exuma has something for everyone. So pack your bags, and get ready to discover the true meaning of paradise.