For my birthday this year, Scott and I spent the weekend in the Exumas. We flew out on Wednesday afternoon and we got upgraded to first class on American. The funny thing was that we were the only people in first class!
The flight was about 45 minutes, one of the shortest flights we have been on!
Soon I started to see the beautiful turquoise waters of the Exumas! In just 90 minutes we had landed, gone thru customs and immigration and were in our hotel room!
Sandals Resort Emerald Bay Exumas
For this visit, we stayed at the Sandals Emerald Bay Resort in Georgetown.
The resort was beautiful and upon our arrival, they drove us to our room on a golf cart and gave us a quick tour.
We had a beautiful ocean view room and we had no complaints!
The grounds were well maintained and beautiful. Over the next few days our plan was to relax by the pool, use the Hobie Cats, and go snorkeling.
About the Exumas
The Exumas, a stunning archipelago consisting of over 365 cays and islands, possess a captivating history that mirrors the Caribbean’s rich tapestry. Originally inhabited by the Lucayan people, the islands encountered European explorers during the 15th century. The Exumas became a haven for pirates and privateers during the 17th and 18th centuries, with figures like Captain Kidd leaving their mark.
The islands played a pivotal role during the American Revolutionary War, acting as a base for loyalist troops. The Exumas’ historical significance also includes their role in the salt industry and plantation economy. Today, these islands have transitioned into a paradisiacal destination celebrated for their turquoise waters, vibrant marine life, and luxurious retreats, inviting travelers to relish in their natural beauty and diverse past.
The Beach at Sandals Emerald Bay Exuma
Scott and I were disappointed that we were under a red flag every day, so we were not able to use the water toys. It is hurricane season, so perhaps if we return during normal weather it won’t be so windy. We were really looking forward to taking the Hobie Cat out and trying the paddle boards.
Swimming Pigs
The following day we headed up north to Rolleville to catch our excursion boat. For most of the trip we were on a pot hole filled dirt road! Talk about bumpy!
Check in was easy and within 15 minutes of arriving, we were on the boat and headed out. We were on a double decker power cat and it was extremely comfortable.
We booked a 4 hour (half day) excursion with Exuma Water Sports. Had we booked the full day, we would have headed towards Staniel Cay and the bigger sites. This tour would take us first to the smaller pig beach, then to a blue hole, then to mile sandbar and finally to the iguanas.
The Swimming Pigs
Last year I didn’t get the chance to see the swimming pigs, except for a quick 5 min stop at night. When we arrived the pigs were anxiously awaiting for us.
The excursion company brings fresh water and food to the pigs every day, so they are well cared for.
The origin of the famous swimming pigs of the Exumas, has a somewhat murky and debated history. One popular theory suggests that sailors or settlers may have introduced pigs to the island as a potential food source, leaving them there to breed and multiply. Another story points to shipwrecks, where pigs might have swum ashore after vessels were wrecked. Some locals claim that the pigs were left by sailors who intended to return and use them as a food source but never did.
Regardless of their initial arrival, the pigs have become a beloved attraction in the Exumas. Over time, they’ve become accustomed to visitors and even learned to swim out to boats approaching the beach, expecting food. The swimming pigs have gained worldwide attention through social media and tourism promotions, making them an iconic and endearing symbol of the Exumas’ unique charm.
There was also a very friendly sting ray and it kept swimming between people’s legs.
Blue Hole
Next we headed over to a blue hole. This was only about 30′ deep and we jumped in for a snorkel.
Since it was a bit choppy, the water was a bit murky. But there were plenty of fish, especially the Jack fish. One kept trying to bite me! Watch the video to see the footage.
Mile Sand Bar
After the Blue Hole, we headed to Mile Sand Bar to relax on the beach and enjoy some cocktails. The water was absolutely gorgeous!
Trust me, the photos don’t tell the entire story. You have to see this yourself!
The water was also the perfect temperature!
The beauty about the Exumas is the water and the way it makes you feel as you cruise through the islands. In many areas, we were only in 3 or 4 feet of water!
Time to Feed the Iguanas
We then headed up past Norman’s Pond Cay to Leaf Cay, to feed the iguanas. We were also trying to outrun a major squall that luckily never got us.
They gave us kale leaves to feed the iguanas and as soon as we were on the beach, they came running! Some were fighting with each other over the kale. Again, watch our YouTube video for the footage!
It was a great excursion! I think next time it would be fun to do the entire day or rent a day boat for ourselves. The catch is, we don’t know the waters and these guys were going past and through some sketchy spots. Best to have a local take you.
Wrapping Up Our Weekend in the Exumas
This was a great 4-day trip to the Exumas. It was easy to get to, there was plenty to do at the resort and the people were all incredibly friendly. Being that we are so close, we will definitely be back.
We got to the airport about 2 hours before our flight departed. Don’t expect much. This airport is smaller than the one in Belize! There’s no restaurant or bar, but you can buy wi-fi, snacks and beer from each of the two shops. The photo below is the terminal.
As always, thank you for following our journey! Please be sure to subscribe to our blog and vlog (link below) and on social @BoatingJourney #BoatingJourney
Cheers, Scott and Ally
