Bahamas (Exuma)
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Bahamas (Exuma)

Swimming pigs and pristine cays in paradise

Look, most people think the Bahamas means Nassau cruise ships and crowded beaches. But here's what they're missing: Exuma. This chain of 365 cays stretches across turquoise waters so clear you'll think your eyes are playing tricks on you. And yes, there really are pigs that swim out to greet your boat at Big Major Cay. The whole thing sounds made up until you're floating in Thunderball Grotto or feeding iguanas at Bitter Guana Cay. This isn't your typical Caribbean vacation — it's what happens when nature gets creative and forgets to invite the crowds.

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Staniel Cay Yacht Club sits on one of those beaches that makes you question every other beach you've ever visited. The sand is so white it hurts to look at without sunglasses, and the water transitions from crystal clear to deep blue in about ten feet. But here's the thing — you can't just walk here. You need a boat. Triden Cay offers the closest thing to a 'secret' beach you'll find in Exuma. The currents carved out natural pools in the rocks where you can float while waves crash just feet away. Local boat captains know the exact tide times when it's safe to swim here. Compass Cay Beach is where you'll meet the friendliest locals — nurse sharks and stingrays that glide right up to the shore. The beach itself is small, maybe 200 feet of sand, but the underwater show more than makes up for it. Just don't wear jewelry; the nurse sharks are curious about shiny things.

Money-Saving Tips

  • 1.Book boat charters directly with local captains instead of through resorts — you'll save 30-40% and get more personalized service
  • 2.Bring your own snorkel gear to avoid $15-20 daily rental fees that add up quickly
  • 3.Stock up on groceries and drinks on Great Exuma before boat trips — marina prices are double what you'll pay in Georgetown
  • 4.Visit during shoulder season (May or November) for 40% lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds at popular spots
  • 5.Split boat charter costs with other travelers — many captains can accommodate 8 people for the same price as 4
  • 6.Pack reef-safe sunscreen from home — SPF 50 costs $25+ at local shops and selection is limited

Travel Tips

  • •Bring waterproof phone cases and extra batteries — you'll be on boats all day with limited charging options
  • •Pack light-colored, long-sleeve shirts for sun protection during long boat rides
  • •Download offline maps before leaving Nassau — cell service is spotty around the outer cays
  • •Bring cash in small bills — many local operators prefer cash and can't always make change for large bills
  • •Book accommodations well in advance for peak season (December-March) — options are extremely limited
  • •Consider staying multiple nights to reduce travel stress and see more remote cays that require longer boat rides

Frequently Asked Questions

Full-day boat charters that include the swimming pigs cost $1,500-2,500 for up to 8 people. Half-day trips run $800-1,200. These prices include stops at multiple cays like Thunderball Grotto and Iguana Beach. Some resorts offer group excursions for $150-200 per person.

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