If you’re looking for a destination that’s equal parts luxurious, adventurous, and downright surreal, the Bahamas is where you need to be. Imagine turquoise waters so clear they look Photoshopped, pigs that swim (yes, really), and the opportunity to snorkel with sharks (also yes, really). It’s a destination that delivers postcard-perfect views and more stories than you’ll know what to do with. Here’s how my adventure through the Exuma Cays unfolded, complete with seaplanes, sea creatures, and a whole lot of sunscreen.
Day 1
Welcome to Paradise
Touching down in the Bahamas is like stepping straight into a dream. White sand beaches? Check. Crystal-clear water? Check. A welcome drink that makes you feel like royalty? Absolutely. My first day in Nassau was spent settling into my resort, dipping my toes into the impossibly warm water, and mentally preparing myself for the adventures to come.
Day 2
Seaplane Magic to Staniel Cay
I’m not exaggerating when I say that hopping onto a seaplane felt like starring in my own private travel documentary. Soaring over the Exuma Cays was breathtaking, tiny islands scattered like emeralds on a sapphire sea. When we landed at Staniel Cay, I was practically floating on excitement (and maybe still adrenaline from the plane).
Staniel Cay is charming, intimate, and the perfect base for exploring the surrounding cays. I was ready for what would turn out to be the wildest boat trip of my life.
Here’s where things got interesting. The boat trip around the Exuma Cays is nothing short of extraordinary. Our first stop was a visit to Thunderball Grotto , an underwater cave made famous by James Bond. Snorkeling into this magical grotto felt like entering another world, with sunlight streaming through rock openings and fish darting all around. It was easily one of the highlights of the trip, and yes, I tried my best Bond Girl pose (snorkel mask included).
I jumped back on the boat and then came the moment I’d been both dreading and excitedly anticipating: swimming with sharks . At Compass Cay, I found myself face-to-face with nurse sharks. And by face-to-face, I mean I was nervously dangling my legs in the water while they glided around like they owned the ocean. But here’s the thing: they’re actually very gentle. Once I worked up the courage to jump in, it was incredible, peaceful, surreal, and just the right amount of terrifying.
Next stop was Pig Beach , where the swimming pigs rule the roost. They paddle out to greet you like water-loving celebrities, hoping for snacks and plenty of attention. One rather large pig tried to commandeer our boat, possibly to start a mutiny, but it was all in good fun.
Next, we cruised to Iguana Beach , where prehistoric-looking reptiles lazed in the sun like they owned the place. They’re not the cuddliest creatures, but they are fascinating. Don't get too close otherwise they hiss at you as i quickly discovered.
Day 3
Beach Bliss and Bahamian Bites
After the adrenaline of the previous day, I slowed things down with a lazy beach day back at my hotel in Nassau. The waters are so inviting that even doing nothing feels like an activity. I lounged, read, swam, and naturallyate my body weight in conch fritters. (If loving fried conch is wrong, I don’t want to be right.)
Day 4
A Scooter Ride Around Nassau
For my final day I couldn't resist to explore a bit of the Bahamas by scooter. A rental place opposite the hotel offered a 'deal for the day' and I was off. The centre of Nassau was bustling, busy and vibrant as the cruise ships docked and the passengers disembarked. I didn't stay in the centre for long before deciding to go and check out some of the local real estate (I couldn't help myself!)
The Bahamas is the kind of place you never want to leave, and saying goodbye was bittersweet. Before heading back, I took one last swim in the impossibly blue water, soaking up the sunshine and vowing to return someday.
My Top Tips for the Bahamas
1. Swim with Sharks : It’s not as scary as it sounds, and it’s one of those bucket list moments you’ll never forget.
2. Don’t Miss Pig Beach : The pigs are charmingly cheeky, so bring snacks, but don’t let them steal your sandwich!
3. Pack Reef-Safe Sunscreen : You’ll be in and out of the water all day, so keep yourself (and the marine life) protected.
4. Take a Seaplane : The views over the Exuma Cays are unreal.
5. Visit Thunderball Grotto : Channel your inner Bond and snorkel through this stunning underwater cave.
The Bahamas isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience. From pigs that swim to sharks that let you swim with them, every day is an adventure waiting to be had. Whether you’re lounging on pristine beaches, exploring underwater caves, or pretending to be 007, the Exuma Cays will leave you spellbound. It’s beautiful, it’s bonkers, and it’s absolutely unforgettable.
