Bahamas Island-Hopping from Exuma: Staniel Cay, Long Island & Cat Island
Exuma is one of the best island-hopping hubs in the Bahamas. With its central position, access to nearby airports, and boat and air routes touching some of the most beautiful islands in the country, Exuma is the perfect base for travelers who want to explore beyond Great Exuma and the Exuma Cays. Whether you're dreaming of swimming pigs in Staniel Cay, diving blue holes in Long Island, or climbing Mount Alvernia on Cat Island, island-hopping from Exuma opens the door to varied landscapes, cultures, and experiences.
This guide explains how to island-hop efficiently, which routes make the most sense, and what each destination offers. It also compares the islands so travelers can choose which fits their style, timing, and budget.
How to Island-Hop from Exuma
Travelers can reach nearby islands using:
The most common island-hopping bases are:
From these hubs, travelers can reach the three most sought-after neighboring islands: Staniel Cay, Long Island, and Cat Island.
1. Staniel Cay – The Iconic Day Trip from Exuma
Staniel Cay is the closest and most frequently visited island from Exuma, known for world-famous attractions like Pig Beach, Thunderball Grotto, and the nurse sharks at Compass Cay.
Distance from Exuma:
Approximately 35–50 miles depending on departure point
How to Get There from Exuma
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Full-day boat tours from Great Exuma
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Private boat or yacht charter
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Charter flights from GGT to Staniel Cay Airport
Boat tours are the most common choice and run daily.
Top Things to Do on Staniel Cay
1. Pig Beach (Big Major Cay)
The most photographed attraction in the Bahamas. Families and couples love it for the unique wildlife encounter.
2. Thunderball Grotto
A cinematic underwater cave system with glowing blue light beams, excellent for snorkeling.
3. Compass Cay Nurse Sharks
A calm, controlled environment where travelers can observe friendly nurse sharks up close.
4. Bitter Guana Cay Iguanas
A scenic stop to meet the endangered Exuma rock iguanas.
5. Pipe Creek Sandbars
One of the most beautiful shallow-water sandbar regions in the Bahamas.
Who Should Visit Staniel Cay?
This is the most iconic and highest-demand island-hopping trip from Exuma.
2. Long Island – Dramatic Cliffs, Blue Holes & Quiet Beaches
Long Island is one of the most striking islands in the Bahamas, offering a completely different vibe from the Exumas. With massive cliffs on the Atlantic side, calm beaches on the Caribbean side, and world-famous dive sites, Long Island attracts adventure travelers, cultural explorers, and nature lovers.
Distance from Exuma:
Approximately 30–40 miles east of Great Exuma
How to Get There
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Scheduled flights from GGT
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Private charters
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Occasional ferry routes (not daily)
The flight is only 20–25 minutes.
Top Things to Do on Long Island
1. Dean’s Blue Hole
The second-deepest blue hole in the world (663 feet). Incredible for snorkeling, diving, and photography.
2. Cape Santa Maria Beach
One of the top beaches in the Bahamas, famous for calm water and bright white sand.
3. Columbus Point
A dramatic viewpoint overlooking cliffs and turquoise channels.
4. Clarence Town Twin Churches
Twin Catholic churches built by Father Jerome—an iconic piece of Bahamian architecture.
5. Fishing Charters
Long Island has excellent deep-sea fishing and bonefishing conditions.
Who Should Visit Long Island?
Long Island is serene, authentic, and perfect for full-day or overnight trips.
3. Cat Island – Culture, Seclusion & Bahamian Heritage
Cat Island is one of the most underrated islands in the Bahamas, rich in culture, colonial history, and natural beauty. It offers dramatic elevation changes and the highest point in the country.
Distance from Exuma:
Approximately 50–70 miles north and east
How to Get There
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Direct flights between Exuma and Cat Island (limited schedule)
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Private charters from GGT
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Multi-island sailing itineraries
Most travelers choose a short flight or charter.
Top Things to Do on Cat Island
1. Mount Alvernia & The Hermitage
The highest point in the Bahamas at 206 feet. The stone hermitage built by Father Jerome offers spectacular views.
2. Greenwood Beach
Known for its wild beauty, waves, and surfing conditions.
3. Fernandez Bay
A calm, family-friendly beach with stunning water.
4. Historical Sites
Including plantation ruins and the birthplace of legendary musician Sidney Poitier.
5. Snorkeling & Quiet Cays
Cat Island’s offshore reefs are pristine and rarely crowded.
Who Should Visit Cat Island?
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Travelers seeking seclusion
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Cultural and historical explorers
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Couples wanting romance without crowds
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Wellness travelers
Cat Island is slow-paced, soulful, and deeply authentic.
How to Plan a Multi-Island Bahamas Itinerary from Exuma
1. Start with Exuma (3–5 days)
Explore:
2. Add Staniel Cay (1 day or overnight)
Perfect for wildlife, snorkeling, and classic Exuma scenery.
3. Add Long Island (1–3 days)
Ideal for adventure and exploring Dean’s Blue Hole.
4. Add Cat Island (1–3 days)
A calm, culturally rich finale to the trip.
Final Thoughts
Island-hopping from Exuma allows travelers to experience some of the most beautiful and diverse destinations in the Bahamas—from the iconic wildlife of Staniel Cay to the dramatic cliffs of Long Island and the peaceful cultural charm of Cat Island. Each island offers something unique, and together they create one of the most rewarding multi-island itineraries in the Caribbean. With clear travel routes, fast connections, and unforgettable attractions, Exuma is the perfect launch point for a Bahamas adventure that goes far beyond one island.