George Town

Elizabeth Harbour

Elizabeth Harbour is the jewel of George Town cruising and one of the most celebrated anchorages in the Bahamas. Protected from Atlantic swells by Stocking Island, the harbour provides calm, secure holding for hundreds of boats at a time. During the winter season, a floating community of cruisers gathers here, creating a social scene centered on beach volleyball, potluck dinners, and shared adventures.

The Elizabeth Harbour Conservation Partnership maintains 16 snorkeling buoys marking top underwater sites, including Turtle Lagoon, Mystery Cave, and the Fowl Cay Reef Restoration area. The harbour's clear waters and healthy marine life make it a snorkeling paradise, with sea turtles, rays, and colorful reef fish throughout.

Stocking Island and Chat N Chill

Just a short dinghy ride across Elizabeth Harbour, Stocking Island offers pristine beaches, hiking trails, and the legendary Chat N Chill beach bar and grill. Established in 1998, Chat N Chill has become a destination in its own right, serving grilled island fare, tropical drinks, and cold Kaliks to cruisers and day-trippers alike.

Stocking Island stretches 3.7 miles and features several distinct beaches, including the famous Volleyball Beach at Chat N Chill. Hiking trails wind through the island's interior, offering access to blue holes, coral gardens, and the Moriah Harbour Cay National Park. A monument hike rewards walkers with panoramic views of the harbour.

Regattas and Events

George Town hosts two of the Bahamas' most celebrated sailing events. The George Town Cruising Regatta brings sailors from around the world each February for two weeks of races, beach games, and island festivities. Both big and small boat races take place, along with conch horn contests, poker runs, and activities for all ages.

In April, the National Family Island Regatta draws traditional Bahamian wooden sloops from across the country to race in Elizabeth Harbour. This cultural celebration showcases the boatbuilding heritage and sailing skills passed down through generations of Out Island families.

Town Services and Attractions

George Town provides the essential services cruisers and visitors need. The Exuma Markets and other grocery stores offer provisioning, while fuel docks, hardware stores, and marine services support visiting boats. The Straw Market, operating since the 1960s, sells handmade bags, hats, and jewelry crafted from straw, shells, and beads.

Nearby attractions include Three Sisters Beach, one of the finest beaches on Great Exuma, and the route south to Little Exuma with its historic Hermitage Estate and the famous Tropic of Cancer Beach. Day trips to the Exuma Cays, including the swimming pigs at Big Major Cay, depart regularly from George Town.

Getting there

George Town is served by Exuma International Airport (GGT), which receives direct flights from Nassau, Miami, and other Florida gateways. The airport is located approximately 10 miles north of town. By boat, George Town lies at the southern end of the Exuma Cays cruising route, roughly 135 miles southeast of Nassau. Elizabeth Harbour offers excellent anchoring, and marinas provide slips for larger vessels.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to Chat N Chill from George Town?

Chat N Chill is located on Stocking Island, across Elizabeth Harbour from George Town. You can reach it by dinghy if you are anchored in the harbour, or by water taxi from the government dock. The ride takes just a few minutes.

When is the best time to visit George Town?

The cruising season runs from November through April, when the weather is most settled and the harbour fills with visiting boats. The George Town Cruising Regatta in February and Family Island Regatta in April are highlight events.

Can I take a day trip to the swimming pigs from George Town?

Yes, tour operators in George Town offer day trips to Staniel Cay and the swimming pigs at Big Major Cay. The journey by speedboat takes approximately one to two hours each way, with stops at Thunderball Grotto and Compass Cay typically included.