Things To Know About Exuma, The Bahamas

Ever wondered why people claim that change is as good as rest? It is because travelling is to the mind what exercise is to the body. It gives you a chance to unwind and relax — a time to rejuvenate and break away from your usual daily routine.

But what is travelling if you don’t make the most out of your destination? Your holiday destination determines how fun the trip will be — it is the sundae and not the cherry on top. So, if you’re still unsure about where to go on your next holiday leave, we’ve got the perfect place for you: say hello to Exuma the Bahamas!

Photo by yrolle From Pixabay

Where is Exuma, the Bahamas?

Exuma is a district in the Bahamas. It is comprised of more than 365 islands — also known as cays. It is majorly subdivided into the Great Exuma and Little Exuma. The biggest town, located in Great Exuma, is George Town. If you’ve been meaning to get away from the hustle of bustle of city life, the natural beauty of Exuma might just be the breath of fresh air that you’ve been craving.

Since the locals are Bahamians, they communicate in English and trade using the Bahamian dollars. Are your US dollars an acceptable currency here?  The answer is yes! Moreover, a Bahamian dollar has the same exchange rate as the US dollar. 

The Main Tourist Attractions In Exuma

Exuma stands out for its breathtaking beaches. The picturesque view of Exuma’s pristine waters and white sandy shorelines will be enough to induce feelings of utter relaxation and joy within you. Moreover, there are lots of fun activities to do around Exuma, the Bahamas. These include snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, kite surfing, and boat tours, among others.

Another unique tourist attraction here is the swimming pigs. Don’t be alarmed or feel threatened by their presence! These local friendly pigs love swimming in the water and are harmless. In fact, you can even hand-feed them, too!

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The Best Time To Travel To Exuma, the Bahamas

The best time to travel to Exuma, the Bahamas is during the peak season which is around summertime. This runs from December to April, and numerous activities and festivals are held in Exuma during this time of the year. The weather is usually favourable with lots of sunshine. Although, you should ack appropriately for some evenings might be too chilly.

As a result of the huge volume of tourists, flight and hotel prices flare up during the peak season. Bookings should be done in advance as the influx of tourists during this time poses accommodation challenges. 

If you want to spend your holiday in Exuma, the Bahamas minus the big crowds and long lines, you can opt to visit Exuma from May to July. During this time, flight and hotel prices are between moderate and low. Indeed, it is a perfect period for family travel as it’s between peak and off-peak season. There are various child-friendly activities to enjoy amidst the minimal crowds.

Are you on a budget trip? Visit Exuma during its low season which runs from August to November.  During these months, nearly every activity available is cheaper than usual. The island welcomes minimal crowds, and the hotels give away great offers to attract more tourists — so keep your eyes open for promos and discounts! Poor weather may also be experienced once in a while, but sunny days will be prevalent.

Additional note

Watch out for hurricane season in Exuma, the Bahamas which rotates from June through November. Thus, consider taking travel insurance in case you’re planning to visit Exuma during these months!

How To Get To Exuma, the Bahamas

Exuma International Airport, coded as GGT/MYEF, is Exuma’s main point of entry and exit. It is situated approximately 15 miles to the northwest of George Town.  One can freely choose from the weekly, bi-weekly, and daily flights offered by renowned international and national airlines here.

Photo by Lee Robinson From Unsplash

Other Airports and Airstrips

Other Forms of Travel

For those who wish to travel by boat, you can take a vessel from Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, to the northern port of Exuma, the Bahamas. The journey takes about one hour.

Local travel within and about Exuma, the Bahamas is facilitated by taxis and car rentals. If you’re planning to drive, remember to keep left. But if you’re not comfortable with this, you can avail a taxi instead. For short distances, feel free to walk around, be it at night or daytime. Be warned though: Exuma prohibits drinking and driving — it’s for your and everyone else’s safety!

Travel Documents and Requirements When Visiting Exuma, the Bahamas

The entry requirements for Exuma are basically those of The Bahamas. A valid passport from an individual’s country of birth is mandatory.

The rules revolving around visa issuance are largely dependent on one’s country of origin. It is therefore important to find out what works for which country.

There is not so much fuss over vaccinations. Any visitor who is more than a year old and coming from zones prone to or which have had Yellow Fever outbreaks are required to produce Yellow Fever Vaccine certificates. The same is required if your travel involves more than 12 hours of transit at an airport on the said zones.

Accommodations at Exuma, the Bahamas

There are a variety of accommodations available in Exuma — from high-end resorts and private islands to beachfront properties and cheap hotels. Most of them offer packages inclusive of tourist activities to do while visiting.

Photo by Roberto Nickson on Unsplash

Hotel Suggestions Around Exuma, the Bahamas

The Grand Isle Resort and Spa is popularly and particularly known for their spectacular hospitality. You can dine at the resort’s restaurant named Palapa which serves Caribbean food and delicious tropical cocktails.

The Sandals Emerald Bay is amongst the best world-class resorts here. It strategically has a lounge situated right next to the Immigrations and Customs area at Exuma International Airport. So, once you land in Exuma, the Bahamas, you can immediately take a rest in your private room. The resort also offers a free air-conditioned shuttle traveling from the airport to the resort, and vice versa. This eliminates the hustle of looking for taxis and searching for directions online.

Moreover, there are other several and amazing accommodation options. These include Exuma Palms Hotel, Island Time Villas, Peace & Plenty Hotel and Beach Club, Fowl Cay Resort, and Lumina Point Resort & Spa, among others. So, do your research and take your pick!

Safety And Security

Exuma the Bahamas is generally a safe place, day in and day out. The locals are known to be very friendly and always ready to offer assistance when you ask for it.

As a precaution, however, your valuables should always be locked in the safe-deposit boxes available in your hotel. Just like other destinations, Exuma the Bahams also faces petty crime challenges like pickpocketing and snatching. Only carry what you will need on a given day.

Additionally, instances of credit card fraud have also been reported. As much as possible, withdraw your money at ATMs located inside banks or around the hotel.

Another common tip — a rule of thumb whenever travelling — is to always avoid huge crowds. This ensures your personal safety at all times, especially during the peak season at Exuma, the Bahamas.

Final Words

Exuma the Bahamas is a great place to visit whether you’re alone or with your family and friends. It is the perfect escapade from city life because Exuma offers the very best of Mother Nature. The scenic views, the gentle waves, and lush greenery will surely entice you enough to take a trip to this amazing destination.

Now all you need is a beach tent when you visit Exuma!