Things to Do in Staniel Cay, Exuma
Reviewed by Captain Ronald RolleStaniel Cay is the adventure capital of the Exuma Cays, a tiny island that punches far above its weight with world-famous attractions within minutes by boat. From here you can snorkel through the underwater chambers of Thunderball Grotto, wade among the friendly swimming pigs of Big Major Cay, and swim with docile nurse sharks at Compass Cay, all in a single unforgettable day.
The island itself is a charming settlement of a few hundred residents, anchored by the iconic Staniel Cay Yacht Club, which has welcomed sailors and adventurers since 1956. Jimmy Buffett once called its bar one of the ten best in the Caribbean, and the laid-back atmosphere lives up to that endorsement. Whether you arrive by private yacht, charter flight, or day trip from Nassau, Staniel Cay delivers the quintessential Exuma experience in crystalline turquoise waters that seem almost unreal.
Thunderball Grotto
SnorkelingThis legendary underwater cave starred in two James Bond films and offers some of the most spectacular snorkeling in the Bahamas. Enter through a submerged opening to discover a cathedral-like chamber where shafts of light illuminate swirling schools of fish.
Tip: Visit at slack tide when currents are calmest; the interior is most dramatic when midday sun shines through the openings above.
Swimming Pigs at Big Major Cay
WildlifeThe world-famous swimming pigs live just minutes from Staniel Cay on Big Major Cay, also known as Pig Beach. These friendly swine wade and swim out to greet arriving boats, eagerly accepting fresh vegetables and fruit from visitors.
Tip: Arrive early in the morning before the crowds; the pigs are hungriest and most active in the cooler hours.
Nurse Sharks at Compass Cay
WildlifeAt Compass Cay Marina, docile nurse sharks gather in the shallow water near the dock, allowing visitors to wade in and swim alongside these gentle creatures. The experience has been featured on Shark Week and is safe for all ages.
Tip: The marina charges a small fee for access; bring water shoes for the rocky bottom.
Rock Iguanas at Leaf Cay
WildlifeEndangered Bahamian rock iguanas inhabit Leaf Cay, also known as Iguana Island. These prehistoric-looking reptiles have become accustomed to visitors and will approach for food, offering excellent photo opportunities.
Tip: Feed them grapes; the iguanas are surprisingly quick when food is involved.
Staniel Cay Yacht Club
DiningThis legendary establishment has served sailors and adventurers since 1956, offering Bahamian and Continental cuisine, waterfront dining, and a bar that Jimmy Buffett ranked among the ten best in the Caribbean. Reservations are required for dinner.
Tip: Two seatings for dinner; book early in high season.
Captain's Lounge
DiningThe original dining room of the Staniel Cay Yacht Club, open since 1956, serves casual breakfast, lunch, and dinner with no reservations required. The laid-back atmosphere and harbour views make it perfect for a relaxed meal.
Tip: Open from 8 AM for breakfast; great for coffee while planning the day's adventures.
Underwater Plane Wreck
DivingThe remains of a crashed drug-running plane lie in shallow water near Staniel Cay, creating an eerie and photogenic snorkeling site. Fish have colonized the wreckage, making it an interesting dive even for beginners.
Tip: The wreck is in shallow water, accessible to snorkelers without scuba gear.
Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park
NatureThe world's first land-and-sea park lies just north of Staniel Cay, protecting some of the most pristine marine environments in the Caribbean. No fishing or removal of any natural materials is permitted, resulting in exceptional underwater visibility and abundant marine life.
Tip: Anchor outside the mooring fields and dinghy in; the snorkeling inside the park is noticeably better than surrounding areas.
Best time to visit
December through May offers the most settled weather with calm seas ideal for exploring the cays by boat. Water temperatures are comfortable year-round, though winter months can occasionally bring cooler fronts. Summer brings warmer conditions and excellent underwater visibility but also the possibility of tropical weather systems from June through November.
Getting there
Staniel Cay has a small airstrip (TYM) receiving flights from Nassau and Fort Lauderdale on regional carriers like Flamingo Air. Daily scheduled flights from Nassau take about 30 minutes. Day trips from Nassau include round-trip flights and boat tours. For those arriving by boat, the Staniel Cay Yacht Club and other marinas offer slips and moorings.
Read the full Staniel Cay, Exuma guide
Frequently asked questions
- How do I visit Thunderball Grotto?
- Thunderball Grotto is a two-minute boat ride from Staniel Cay. Enter through the submerged opening during slack tide for the calmest conditions. Bring snorkeling gear and an underwater camera.
- Are the nurse sharks at Compass Cay safe?
- Yes, nurse sharks are docile bottom-feeders that pose no threat to swimmers. The sharks at Compass Cay have been interacting with visitors for years and are accustomed to people.
- Can I do a day trip to Staniel Cay from Nassau?
- Yes, several operators offer full-day tours from Nassau that include flights to Staniel Cay, boat tours to the swimming pigs, Thunderball Grotto, nurse sharks, and iguanas. Tours typically cost around $500 per person.
- What is the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park?
- It is the world's first land-and-sea park, established in 1958 to protect the marine environment. No fishing or removal of natural materials is allowed, resulting in exceptional underwater ecosystems just north of Staniel Cay.
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