Curator’s statement
Exuma holds a special place in our hearts—it’s where we honeymooned years ago and where we returned for a spontaneous getaway that turned into something unforgettable. From the raw beauty of the water to the laid-back island vibe, Exuma invites you to slow down, unplug, and truly savor your surroundings. This trip felt even more immersive as we explored local favorites, boated to hidden beach bars, and soaked up the simple joys of island life. It’s a place that blends adventure with authenticity, and it’s one I’ll always recommend for travelers craving something real, beautiful, and refreshingly unpolished.
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Where to stay in Exuma
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Things to do in Exuma
Island-hopping on your private boat!
Peace & Plenty Beach Club on Stocking Island
Hop on the hotel’s private boat with Charlie and head to this dreamy beach club featuring kayaks, paddleboards, loungers, swings, and floating mats—plus a lively beach bar with cocktails and island eats.
The Coconut Club
A playful, design-forward beach spot with bright colors, beach games, and some of the best food on the island (don’t miss the fish tacos and birthday cake ice cream sandwich!). Extremely kid-friendly but also great for adults.
Private boat day & Moriah Harbour Cay lazy river float
We booked a custom boat charter and floated through one of the most beautiful natural channels we’ve ever seen. We also made stops at sandbars, beach bars, and deserted islands. This was an unforgettable day of pure freedom and exploration. Contact me for more information.
Dining at local gems
From beachfront drinks and sushi at Exuma Yacht Club to sunset seafood pasta at Blue on the Water, the island’s casual restaurants offer surprisingly delicious meals and a chance to mingle with locals.
Golfing at Emerald Bay Golf Course
A highlight from our honeymoon. This Greg Norman–designed course is world-class, offering breathtaking oceanfront holes and a relaxing way to take in the island’s beauty.
Swimming with the pigs & visiting the iguanas
Also from our honeymoon, this classic Exuma day trip is totally worth doing once. Feed the iguanas, swim with the famous pigs, and soak in the views from the boat ride between islands.
Embracing the local island vibe
What makes Exuma magical is its authenticity: no makeup, sandy hair, sunset walks, and dancing barefoot with a cocktail. It’s an unfiltered kind of beauty that makes it easy to truly relax.
Places to eat & drink in Exuma
Calories on vacation don't count—especially when they're as fluffy as these pancakes!
Coconut Club – Stocking Island
A must-visit for both the vibe and the food. Bright pops of yellow and green branding meet turquoise waters and top-tier eats. Don’t miss the fish tacos, steak quesadilla, or the birthday cake ice cream sandwich. Bonus: great drinks, kid-friendly, and you can arrive by boat taxi.
Blue on the Water – Rolleville
A romantic, scenic dinner spot worth the 15-minute taxi ride. Go for the sunset and stay for the seafood pasta (a standout). We also had the rack of lamb and loved it. Upscale (for this island) but still relaxed. Think wine and waterfront views.
Copia – Peace & Plenty, Georgetown
An on-site restaurant at the Peace and Plenty Hotel, this chic and modern spot serves breakfast and dinner. The chicken lo-mein was a surprise hit at dinner, and the pancakes at breakfast are seriously dreamy. Just go early—menu favorites like the filet mignon tend to sell out.
Exuma Yacht Club – Georgetown
Come for a drink, stay for dinner. Walkable from Peace & Plenty, this casual spot has a lively vibe, great bartenders, fresh sushi, and sunset views over the water. It’s unpretentious and full of charm.
Doc’s Pool Bar – Peace & Plenty
Perfect for afternoon bites between beach and dinner. You loved the conch fritters and pizza—simple, tasty snacks with poolside island vibes.
Sandpiper Café – across from Peace & Plenty
A convenient breakfast (or lunch) stop steps from Peace & Plenty Hotel. Great coffee and a cozy, local café feel. Perfect for an easy, low-key start to your day.
Chat ‘N’ Chill – Stocking Island
Just a short walk from Peace & Plenty Beach Club, this classic beach bar offers laid-back island vibes, cold drinks, and conch salads made fresh at the shack. Go at low-tide and make friends with the stingrays.
1783 Bar – Peace & Plenty Hotel
An ideal spot for a pre-dinner cocktail or nightcap. Lively atmosphere with character, located right off the lobby. Bonus: You might catch live music or an impromptu dance party.
Grand Isle Resort – Emerald Bay (previous trip)
We dined at both Palapa (poolside) and 23° North (elevated dining) during your honeymoon. While the vibe is more luxe and the prices are higher, it’s a great spot if you’re staying up north or want a fancier night out.
Need to know
Stocking Island access: know before you go
If you want to visit Stocking Island—home to hot spots like Chat ‘N’ Chill, Coconut Club, and the Peace & Plenty Beach Club—you’ll need a boat ride to get there.
Your best bet? Stay at Peace & Plenty Hotel, which offers a complimentary private boat shuttle for guests multiple times a day. If you’re not staying there, you’ll need to coordinate a local water taxi (usually from Georgetown) for an extra cost and with less flexibility. Either way, Stocking Island is a must.
Cash, cards & checking charges
Most restaurants, shops, and boat tours in Exuma accept credit cards, but not all. It’s a good idea to bring some cash, especially for tipping, water taxis, small vendors, and casual beach bars. Also, while most people were incredibly kind and trustworthy, we recommend monitoring your card charges during your stay—it’s just a good travel habit no matter where you go.
Bug protection is essential
Do not forget bug spray. The no-see-ums and mosquitoes on Exuma can be vicious, especially around dusk or dawn—or after a rainy day. On our first visit, we came unprepared and got absolutely eaten alive. This time, we brought Avon’s Skin So Soft, and it was a game-changer—only one bite the entire trip. Whether it’s that or traditional bug spray, make sure to pack it and use it religiously.
Keep your expectations real: rustic charm over luxury is what you get in Exuma
Exuma is not a glitzy, overdeveloped Caribbean island—and that’s part of its magic. It’s raw, quiet, scenic, and local. Some areas (especially around George Town) feel a little rugged or “deserted,” but I want to emphasize that we never felt unsafe. My fair warning is to not expect over-the-top luxury anywhere. Come for the authentic charm, laid-back beach bars, and unmatched natural beauty, not the fancy cocktails and marble lobbies.
Bring a carry-on cooler (yes, really)
One of our best travel hacks: packing a small soft cooler as a carry-on. Once you arrive, head to the local grocery store and stock up on ice, snacks, and drinks for your hotel room or beach days. Just to give you an idea, a six-pack of White Claw was around $25, and cocktails at most restaurants were $16–$18 each, so stocking your own drinks can be a major money-saver.
How to get to Exuma & transportation tips
You’ll fly into Exuma International Airport (GGT).
From there, it’s about a 15- to 20-minute taxi ride into George Town if you stay at Peace & Plenty like we did. Pro tip: When you grab a taxi at the airport, get your driver’s number! We used the same sweet woman throughout the trip and she was basically at our beck and call. Taxis are easy, but they’re not always waiting on every corner—so having a direct contact makes life much easier. If you need a contact for a driver, reach out to me.
Travel Advisor
Madeline McFadyen
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