Coman Sandiego Travel

If you’re the kind of traveler who needs everything planned months in advance, this was not that kind of trip. This came together last minute after an invite from friends, and somehow that spontaneity made it even better. Within days, we went from “maybe” to wheels up, landing in one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever seen. And yes, the airport is tiny. Blink and you’re through it. But that’s part of the charm. You’re not here for luxury terminals, you’re here for what’s waiting outside in Exuma.

The water in Exuma doesn’t look real. It’s that impossibly clear, glowing turquoise that shifts shades and sparkles depending on the light, like someone turned the saturation all the way up. Every beach feels untouched, every view like something you’re stepping into rather than just looking at.

For the first half, we stayed at Hideaways at Palm Bay, and it made everything feel easy without taking away from the island experience. We were in a VRBO within the property, so we didn’t have access to the pool, but with the ocean steps away, it didn’t matter at all. Having a beachfront base close to everything made it simple to move between beach time, exploring, and meals without overthinking it.

One of the highlights of the trip was Chat ‘N’ Chill on Stocking Island. Getting there is part of the experience, a quick boat taxi ride across that unreal water, leaving from Exuma Yacht Club. While waiting in line, I randomly heard my name and turned around to see a high school friend I hadn’t seen in years, one of those moments that makes the world feel even smaller. Once you arrive, it’s truly island vibes. Boats anchored just offshore, people barefoot in the sand, a volleyball game going on… Time disappears without you realizing it. You grab a drink, let the kids run, check out the gift shop, eat fresh conch salad, and even hop in the water with stingrays. It’s one of those places you don’t rush through.

If you want something a little more polished, Coconut Club offers a more elevated beach day. It’s great for families with inflatable water toys for the kids, good food, cabanas to rent, and plenty of space to settle in and stay awhile.

On another day, we explored Exuma Point Beach during low tide, and the shoreline felt endless. It had that salt flat feeling, where water and sand blur together and you can walk out forever. We also spent time at Jolly Hall Beach, which had a completely different energy. Quiet, calm, barely anyone around, and perfect for an easy beach day, especially with a Waboba in hand.

Food in Exuma is its own experience. Grocery stores are limited. You will find produce, dairy, and plenty of packaged foods, but not always what you’re used to. We went to multiple stores before tracking down basics like popcorn kernels, coconut oil, and butter, which are staples for us no matter where we are.

Restaurants were good but definitely on the pricier side. Splash Bar & Grill is an easygoing, on-the-water spot with that classic island feel. Tim’s on the Bay delivered great views, rum punch, and a fish sandwich that hit perfectly. Blu on the Water Restaurant & Bar felt a bit more elevated, especially if you grab one of the cabana tables, and Augusta Bay Restaurant brought that relaxed, welcoming look-out-at-the-ocean dining vibe. One thing to remember, you are on island time. Nothing is rushed, and the sooner you lean into that, the better.

The second half of our stay deserves its own moment. Our friends booked an incredible compound with a pool and a truly private beach. Mornings were slow with coffee and ocean views, days were filled with kids running, sand everywhere, kayaking adventures that didn’t always go as planned, and zero sense of urgency. Nights turned into group dinners, dancing, laughing, and those kinds of moments that only happen when everyone is fully unplugged. One night we even had a private chef, which made it feel even more special. It wasn’t just a place to stay, it became part of the experience.

One thing no one really talks about, but you will notice, is the no see ums. These tiny biting flies somehow always find you, and depending on the time of day, they can be relentless. The only thing that consistently worked for us was baby oil, and not just a light layer. You really have to really apply it. It sounds simple, but it made a huge difference.

Getting around Exuma is its own adventure. The roads are a mix of smooth stretches and rough patches, so you never quite know what you’re going to get. Driving on the left side keeps you and your passenger paying attention at all times. It’s manageable, but definitely adds a little excitement. Gas stations are limited, and filling up can take more effort than expected, so it’s something you want to plan ahead.

That’s Exuma. It’s not polished or overly convenient, and that’s exactly why it feels so special. It slows you down, makes you adjust, and pulls you into the moment. In return, you get water clearer than you imagined, beaches that feel like your own, and memories that come from the unplanned parts of the trip.

We didn’t overthink this one. We said yes, showed up, and let it happen, grateful for good friends and beautiful scenery.

Definitely do: visit Stocking Island by boat or water taxi
Definitely don’t: visit Exuma Point Beach at low tide