Bahama Travel Hacks: Insider Tips for Visiting Exuma, Bahamas
Sandbar in Exuma, Bahamas.
The Bahamas are always a good idea, but Exuma takes the island dream to another level. With turquoise waters, untouched beaches, and adventures you can’t find in Nassau or Freeport, Exuma is the ultimate escape. Still, a trip here is even better when you know the little secrets that make it seamless. Here are the top travel hacks and insider tips to help you plan the perfect Exuma getaway.
Best Time to Visit Exuma
One of the best parts about Exuma is that the weather is warm year-round — usually between 75–85°F. That means there’s no bad time to go, but each season has its own perks:
High Season (Dec–April): Perfect for escaping the winter chill, with lively energy and slightly higher demand.
Summer (May–Aug): Quiet, breezy, and ideal for families or groups looking for space to themselves.
Fall (Sept–Nov): The most peaceful season, great for travelers who want complete seclusion.
Travel Hack: Think about your vibe — do you want lively energy, or beaches all to yourself? Either way, Exuma delivers.
Getting Here: Easy, Seamless Travel
Fly into Exuma International Airport (GGT) — with direct flights from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Atlanta, Charlotte, and Nassau.
Private Transfers Made Simple — most visitors head straight from the airport to the dock for a quick boat ride across Elizabeth Harbor.
Arrive in Style by Seaplane — Tropic Ocean Airways can land you directly in Elizabeth Harbor for a jaw-dropping arrival you’ll never forget.
Travel Hack: Skip the stress of piecing it together — many villas and resorts arrange taxi pickups, boat transfers, and even fridge stocking before you arrive.
Where to Stay in Exuma
Resorts are popular in Nassau, but Exuma is where villas shine. For groups, families, and friends traveling together, having an entire home means:
More privacy (no crowded beaches).
More space (multiple bedrooms, kitchens, outdoor lounges).
More flexibility (cook in, hire a chef, or head out to eat).
Travel Hack: Look for properties with lagoon and ocean access — the best of both worlds, right at your doorstep.
Groceries & Provisions
Exuma isn’t overflowing with shops, but you’ll find plenty once you know where to go.
Exuma Markets (George Town) — largest grocery store, right on the harbor front.
Shop-Rite (George Town, Lake Victoria) — good for quick stops and pantry basics.
Smitty’s (Hooper’s Bay) — local convenience store with groceries, snacks, and even pharmacy services.
Prime Island Meats (near airport) — top spot for imported meats, fresh produce, and seafood. They even offer call-ahead ordering so you can stock up on the way out.
Travel Hack: Stores usually restock on Thursdays — shop then for the freshest finds. And remember: most shops are closed on Sundays.
Liquor & Spirits
Good news: Exuma has plenty of liquor stores. Even better news: prices are reasonable compared to resort bars.
C.N.K. Liquor (Hooper’s Bay) — next to Smitty’s, with wine, spirits, and mixers.
John Marshall Liquor Store (George Town) — downtown, right by Exuma Markets.
242 Prime Spirits (George Town) — extensive rum and champagne selection.
Travel Hack: Plan ahead — liquor stores are closed on Sundays. Buy in bulk to avoid multiple trips.
Getting Around Exuma & Stocking Island
One of the best parts about Exuma is its mix of adventure and ease.
Stocking Island = No Cars — everything is walkable or boatable, adding to the charm.
Chat ’n Chill — walk across the lagoon at low tide, or paddle at high tide, to reach Exuma’s most famous beach bar for conch salad and Sunday pig roasts.
Peace & Plenty Resort Access — enjoy poolside cocktails, a lively social scene, and the complimentary shuttle ferry that runs daily.
Travel Hack: Getting around is part of the adventure — sometimes the walk or paddle across the lagoon is the most memorable part of the day.
Must-Do Experiences in Exuma
Exuma is packed with adventures you won’t find anywhere else in the Bahamas. Don’t miss:
Swimming with the Pigs — the iconic, bucket-list adventure.
Thunderball Grotto — James Bond–famous snorkeling spot.
Shark Encounters — thrilling yet safe.
Iguana Island — a step into Exuma’s wild side.
Sandbars — private patches of turquoise paradise.
Scuba Diving — vibrant reefs, blue holes, and underwater caves.
Sunken Plane — unforgettable snorkeling photo op.
Sunset Cruise — the best way to end a day on the water.
Travel Hack: Plan excursions early — captains and tours book quickly during peak season.
Pack Smart
Essentials: Reef-safe sunscreen, swimsuits, rash guards, bug spray, hats.
Cash & Cards: ATMs in George Town; cards accepted at most restaurants, but small vendors prefer cash.
Clothing: Light, breezy outfits — Exuma is barefoot luxury, so you won’t need much.
Travel Hack: Pack less clothing, more swimsuits. You’ll live in the water.
Final Thoughts
Exuma offers the best of the Bahamas: seclusion, adventure, and effortless beauty. With a little insider knowledge — from when to shop for groceries to the best ways to get around — your trip can be seamless from start to finish.
Your only job? Slow down, soak it in, and let Exuma work its magic.
Planning your Exuma escape? Picture waking up to 360° views, kayaking from your front yard, and walking across the lagoon to Chat ’n Chill — all with a concierge team ready to make it effortless. Barrier Island House is more than a stay — it’s the Bahamas, the way it should be.