Made up of around 365 islands — or cays — The Exumas stretch across almost 200kms of dazzling Caribbean waters, perfect for sailing, snorkelling, diving, fishing or simply soaking up the sunshine from your perch on a white powder beach. Accommodation options tend to be small and friendly, with private cottages or stylish suites fit for a whole host of budgets. The majority of the best places to stay in the Exumas are clustered on Great Exuma, but one of our favourite hideaways sits on a tiny island to the north, and is especially well-suited to sailors.
These Bahamian islands are prized for their spectacular scenery, as well as their promise of tranquility. Most are either uninhabited or privately owned, meaning that you can expect even the surrounding sea to be very quiet. This can be particularly appealing for honeymooners eager to unwind, or for adventurous travellers who hope to visit intriguing dive sites and fishing spots without the crowds. Families will find this is a wonderful region for snorkelling, sailing lessons, kite surfing, or boat trips.
If you’re keen to experience a wider array of beach bars, independent shops and fresh seafood eateries, base yourself on Great Exuma or Little Exuma. Great Exuma's George Town is well worth a wander. Most of the local population lives on one of these two islands, but the vibe remains brilliantly laid-back and you can island-hop between smaller cays with ease.
The best places to stay in the Exumas fill up fast during the Christmas and New Year season, so book your trip well in advance!