Things to Do in George Town, Great Exuma
Reviewed by Captain Ronald RolleGeorge Town, the capital of Great Exuma, anchors the southern end of one of the Bahamas' most spectacular island chains. The 365 Exuma Cays stretch northward in a shimmering parade of uninhabited islands, sandbars, and protected marine parks, all accessible by boat from this charming harbor town.
Elizabeth Harbour, the broad natural anchorage sheltering George Town, has long been a gathering place for cruising sailors who arrive each winter and stay for months. But the town's appeal extends far beyond the yachting community. World-famous experiences like swimming with pigs, snorkeling through Thunderball Grotto, and wading with nurse sharks draw visitors from around the globe. Despite this, George Town maintains its authentic Out Island character, with conch salad stands, friendly locals, and a pace of life governed by tides rather than schedules.
Stocking Island
BeachA short ferry ride from George Town, this barrier island protects Elizabeth Harbour and offers some of Exuma's finest beaches. The western shore faces the calm harbor while the eastern side meets the open Atlantic with a beautiful pink-tinged beach. Walking trails cross the island's interior, and the waters teem with sea life.
Tip: Take the ferry from Government Dock or catch a ride from Club Peace and Plenty.
Chat 'N' Chill Beach Bar
DiningThis legendary beach bar on Stocking Island has been drawing visitors since the 1990s with its laid-back vibe, fresh conch salad, and Sunday pig roast. Volleyball courts, hammocks, and clear swimming waters complete the scene. The bar sits on a pristine white-sand beach with stingrays often swimming near shore.
Tip: The Sunday Pig Roast has been running since 2001 and is the social event of the week.
Swimming with Pigs at Big Major Cay
WildlifeThe famous swimming pigs of Exuma live on Big Major Cay, about 50 nautical miles north of George Town. These friendly feral pigs swim out to greet approaching boats hoping for snacks. Multiple tour operators run full-day excursions that combine the pigs with other Exuma Cays highlights.
Tip: Book an early morning tour to reach the pigs before crowds arrive.
Thunderball Grotto
SnorkelingThis underwater cave west of Staniel Cay gained fame as a filming location for James Bond's Thunderball and Never Say Never Again. Sunlight streaming through openings in the ceiling illuminates a kaleidoscope of tropical fish inside the grotto. Snorkelers access the cave through a small underwater entrance.
Tip: Visit at low tide when the entrance is easier to access and you can stand inside the grotto.
Three Sisters Beach
BeachNamed for three prominent rock formations jutting from the water, this beach on Great Exuma's northern coast offers excellent snorkeling and stunning scenery. The shallow reef close to shore teems with colorful fish and sea fans. The beach sees fewer visitors than Stocking Island.
Tip: Bring reef-safe sunscreen and your own snorkeling gear.
Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park
NatureEstablished in 1958, this was the first land-and-sea park in the world and remains one of the most pristine marine environments in the Caribbean. The 176-square-mile park prohibits fishing and extraction, resulting in abundant marine life and crystal-clear waters. Snorkeling and diving here reveals what healthy reefs looked like before overfishing.
Tip: The park is accessible by boat charter from George Town and requires a full day to explore properly.
Tropic of Cancer Beach
BeachLocated on Little Exuma, this gorgeous crescent of white sand marks the exact line of the Tropic of Cancer. A marker at the beach notes the geographic significance. The shallow, calm waters and remote location make it one of the most peaceful beaches in the Exumas.
Tip: Drive south from George Town and cross the bridge to Little Exuma for this secluded beach.
Monument Hill
LandmarkThis elevated point in George Town offers panoramic views of Elizabeth Harbour, Stocking Island, and the surrounding cays. A walking trail from the East Coast Beach leads to the summit. It is a popular spot for watching sunrise over the Exuma Sound.
Tip: Combine the hike with a walk along East Coast Beach for a full morning outing.
Best time to visit
December through May offers the best weather with temperatures in the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit. The George Town Cruising Regatta in early March draws hundreds of boats and creates a festive atmosphere. Hurricane season runs June through November, with September and October carrying the highest storm risk.
Getting there
Exuma International Airport receives direct flights from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Nassau. Bahamas Ferries operates service from Nassau to George Town several days per week. For those arriving by yacht or charter catamaran, Elizabeth Harbour offers one of the best anchorages in the Bahamas with excellent holding and protection from most wind directions.
Read the full George Town, Great Exuma guide
Frequently asked questions
- How do I get to the swimming pigs from George Town?
- Big Major Cay is about 50 nautical miles north of George Town. Full-day boat tours departing from George Town visit the pigs along with Thunderball Grotto and other cays, typically costing $200-300 per person.
- Is there a ferry to Stocking Island?
- Yes, ferries run from the Government Dock in George Town and from Club Peace and Plenty resort. The crossing takes about 10 minutes, with round-trip fares around $15.
- Can I rent a boat in George Town?
- Several operators rent small boats by the day for self-guided exploration of Elizabeth Harbour and nearby cays. A captain's license is not required for certain vessel sizes.
- What is the best way to see Thunderball Grotto?
- Book a full-day Exuma Cays tour from George Town that includes Thunderball Grotto, the swimming pigs, and other highlights. This is more efficient than trying to reach Staniel Cay independently.
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