With over 700 islands and cays, The Bahamas offers something for everyone. For those clients seeking the perfect blend of seclusion and sophistication, the Exuma Cays definitely fit the bill. The Exumas are famous for their sapphire-blue waters – waters so spectacular that the vibrant colours are even visible from outer space. This chain of 365 islands is home to secluded beaches, isolated cays and luxurious resorts.
Here, nature outnumbers humans, coastlines remain flawless and private islands are home to some of the world’s most famous stars – including a group of four-legged local celebrities.
Sandals Emerald Bay located deep within these idyllic waters of the Exuma Cays, brings unprecedented luxury to the easy-going rhythms of the Out Islands of the Bahamas. With weekly direct flights (YYZ-GGT plus convenient connectors from across Canada), this exotic private escape is within easy reach thanks to Air Canada Vacations.
Do you have clients heading to Sandals Emerald Bay soon? Do they want to explore this incredible part of the world? Keep reading for some “Exuma Must Do’s” and be sure to recommend these unforgettable experiences, guaranteed to make their vacation that much more memorable!
Spend the day at Stocking Island
Do your clients want to spend the day on an island that is only accessible by boat? Stocking Island is a small, long, narrow island located just one mile from the port of George Town, Great Exuma. Easily reachable by boat from Elizabeth Harbour, Stocking Island is home to some of the finest, private white sand beaches in The Bahamas, perfect for snorkelers and divers to explore the island’s blue holes, coral gardens and undersea caves. The island is also home to Stromatolites, said to be the oldest known macro-fossils on the planet, found on the Atlantic-side beaches. With lots of space to explore and roam, Stocking Island is perfect for a day of adventure, especially with the breathtaking cliffside ocean views. There’s just one high hill, known locally as the Beacon, which is capped with an old, unused gas beacon with its missing glass top portion but the concrete pillar that is visible for miles. The central part of Stocking Island features an inlet, known as Hurricane Hole, where sailboats seek protection during storms and features a blue hole. Opposite to Hurricane Hole is a sandbar beach called the Spit, home to a popular local bar and restaurant called “Chat and Chill” – that’s accessible only by boat. Sounds like the perfect place to spend an afternoon!
Relax at Tropic of Cancer Beach
Also known as Pelican Beach, Tropic of Cancer Beach is a serene crescent of white-powder sand bordering the translucent water along the coast of Little Exuma. The longest beach on the island, it is also the prettiest in the Exuma chain and more than likely, your clients will probably have it all to themselves! Located at 23 26N 75 35W, the beach is named after the meridian line that defines the northern extent of the tropics and crosses right through it. With no infrastructure or amenities on this pristine piece of paradise, it’s a good idea for your clients to pack their own food and drinks during this heavenly experience. After all, visitors come from all over the world to bathe and sun here, one of Exuma’s well kept secrets…
Meet the iguanas at Bitter Guana Cay
A whole island full of Bahamian Rock Iguanas? Dozens of native iguanas can be found on Bitter Guana Cay in the Exumas. An endangered and protected species, these colourful creatures can live up to 40 years! The reptiles are probably as close to dinosaurs as can be found in the present day. In fact, parts of the movie “Jurassic Park III: The Lost World” was filmed right here on Bitter Guana Cay. The iguanas are harmless and on most days, can been seen simply soaking up the sunshine….or the attention of visitors to their little island.
Swim with nurse sharks at Compass Cay
Swimming with sharks isn’t for everyone…..but…..it’s one of those exhilarating experiences that won’t be soon forgotten for those brave enough to do it. Compass Cay in the Exumas is the go-to-spot for those willing to swim with nurse sharks, which are slow-moving bottom feeders and are mostly harmless to humans. Even so, it’s always important to exercise caution when swimming with them……and listen to the expert instructions from the local guides.
Meet Exuma’s World-Famous Swimming Pigs
If there’s one Exuma Must-Do for your clients…..this is it. The world-famous swimming pigs are often at the top of the list for any visit to the Exuma Cays. This is one experience that your clients simply can’t miss while they are here. Yes, there are other islands in the Bahamas where guests can see swimming pigs….but only Exuma is where you can find the “original swimming pigs” on Big Major Cay (Pig Island). Wondering about how the pig got to Pig Beach in the first place? It’s not really known. Big Major Cay is uninhabited and the pigs are not native to the island. Some say they were left by a bunch of sailors who planned to come back and cook them for dinner. Or that the pigs swam over from a nearby shipwreck. In either case, there are now about 20 pigs and piglets living the “easy life” with daily visits (and food) from local Bahamians and tourists alike. How famous are the pigs? They even have their own Instagram account and official hashtag!
First published at Travel Industry Today
First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News