Best Beaches in Exuma: Hidden, Public & Most Photogenic
The Exumas are home to some of the clearest water on Earth—so strikingly blue that it has become a global symbol of tropical perfection. Across Great Exuma, Little Exuma, and the surrounding cays, you’ll find beaches ranging from remote, untouched stretches of sand to lively public spots ideal for families. With more than 365 islands, Exuma offers a beach for every traveler, whether you want to swim with sea turtles, hunt for sand dollars, paddle in shallow lagoons, or capture the perfect photo to remember your trip.
This comprehensive guide highlights the best beaches in Exuma, broken down into the most photogenic, the best public-access spots, and stunning hidden gems that many visitors never discover. If you’re planning a Pinterest-perfect vacation, this is your essential beach list.
1. Tropic of Cancer Beach (Pelican Beach)
Most famous & most photogenic
Located on Little Exuma, Tropic of Cancer Beach is the crown jewel of Exuma’s shoreline. Its beauty is unmatched: a sweeping arc of powdery white sand meeting calm, electric turquoise water. The beach is named after the geographic Tropic of Cancer line, which crosses right through it.
Why It’s One of the Best:
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Long, uninterrupted shoreline
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Ideal for photography and drone shots
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Quiet, even during peak season
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Shallow, gentle waves are perfect for swimming
Tropic of Cancer is a must-visit for anyone traveling through the Bahamas.
2. Coco Plum Beach
Best for sandbars & social media photos
Coco Plum Beach is one of the most Instagrammed locations in Exuma thanks to its wide, shallow sandbars that appear at low tide. Visitors love walking hundreds of feet into the crystal-clear shallows.
Highlights:
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Walkable sandbars
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Colorful swings in the water (sometimes installed seasonally)
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Excellent shelling after storms
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Perfect for drone photography
This is one of the top Pinterest-friendly spots in the Bahamas.
3. Hooper’s Bay
Best beach for swimming with sea turtles
Just minutes from Georgetown, Hooper’s Bay is a calm, crescent-shaped beach known for its resident green sea turtles. They often glide through the shallow water near the middle of the bay.
Why Travelers Love It:
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Reliable turtle sightings
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Calm water is ideal for families
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Good for paddleboards and snorkeling
Early mornings provide the best chance of seeing turtles.
4. Jolly Hall Beach
Best all-around public beach
Jolly Hall is one of the few fully public beaches with easy access near Georgetown. It’s clean, calm, and great for swimming—making it popular among both locals and visitors.
Highlights:
This is a family favorite and a reliable option no matter the weather.
5. Forbes Hill Beach
Hidden gem with dramatic scenery
Forbes Hill Beach on Little Exuma is one of the island’s best-kept secrets. The beach is framed by rugged rocks and pocket lagoons with mesmerizing colors.
Why It’s Special:
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Hidden and rarely visited
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Crystal pools between rock formations
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Soft white sand and shallow blue water
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Excellent for quiet, romantic outings
Many visitors say this is their favorite “secret beach” in Exuma.
6. Williamstown Beach
Quiet, remote & perfect for solitude
Far along Little Exuma, Williamstown Beach feels like a private island. Fewer visitors make it here, but those who do rave about the peacefulness.
Best For:
Bring snacks and water, as there are no facilities nearby.
7. Flamingo Bay Beach
Great for snorkeling & calm water
Located near the Emerald Bay area, Flamingo Bay offers a pretty stretch of sand with clear, shallow water perfect for swimming and beginner snorkelers.
Highlights:
Ideal for travelers staying in the northern end of Great Exuma.
8. Three Sisters Beach
Most photogenic rock formations
Named after the iconic Three Sisters Rock just offshore, this beach is visually striking and perfect for photography.
Must-Sees:
This beach is especially stunning during golden hour.
9. Stocking Island Beaches (via Water Taxi)
Best for snorkeling, stingrays & beach bars
Stocking Island sits just across the harbor from Georgetown and is home to some of the best beaches in the Exumas. Highlights include:
Chat ’N’ Chill Beach
Calm, shallow water with friendly stingrays and a lively beach bar atmosphere.
Hamburger Beach
Quiet, scenic, and perfect for secluded relaxation.
Sand Dollar Beach
Known for shell hunting and snorkeling.
Stocking Island beaches are fantastic for families and day-trippers.
10. Rolle Town Beach
Best for secluded swimming
Located away from the main tourist areas, Rolle Town Beach offers shallow water and a peaceful shoreline ideal for swimming and relaxation.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem:
Perfect for travelers staying in the southeastern part of Great Exuma.
11. Emerald Bay Beach
Best resort-area beach
Located near Sandals Emerald Bay and Grand Isle Resort, this beach offers postcard-worthy water with soft waves and a manicured shoreline.
Highlights:
Though partially resort-fronted, parts of the beach remain accessible.
Best Photogenic Beaches in Exuma (Top 5)
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Tropic of Cancer Beach
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Coco Plum Beach
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Pipe Creek Sandbars (by boat)
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Three Sisters Beach
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Stocking Island (Sand Dollar Beach)
These are the best locations for Pinterest, Instagram, and drone photography.
Best Hidden Beaches in Exuma
Perfect for travelers seeking quiet, untouched shorelines.
Best Public Beaches in Exuma
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Jolly Hall
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Hooper’s Bay
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Coco Plum
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Flamingo Bay
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Three Sisters Beach
All are easily accessible and great for families.
Final Thoughts
Exuma is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world—each offering something different, whether you want sea turtles, sandbars, quiet lagoons, or dramatic rock formations. With its unique mix of hidden gems and photogenic hotspots, Exuma remains one of the top beach destinations in the Caribbean.
This guide helps travelers choose the perfect stretch of sand for swimming, lounging, or capturing that unforgettable photo of turquoise water.