Exuma, The Bahamas

outdoors

Allen Cay

Our next stop was Allen’s Cay, where we visited the wild rock iguanas. As we approached by boat and stepped into the sand, the iguanas were approaching us for some yummy vegetable treats. Upon seeing them, it’s almost hard to believe how many iguanas were on the Cay. Allen’s Cay is one of the few places in the world where you can still find these fearsome-looking, yet gentle, creatures. And, if you’re lucky enough, you might be able to find an iguana who’s willing to strike a few poses for you like they did for me.

Black Point, The Bahamas

outdoors

Compass Cay

When we arrived into Compass Cay, we were fortunate to be the only guests there. For years, the marina staff has been throwing scraps of fish into the water, which makes these amazing nurse sharks very friendly. With an average nurse shark being 7.5-9.75 feet in length and weighing over 200-350 pounds, we were nervous to jump in to swim with them at first. After getting over our fears and having the experience, they are completely harmless to humans and 100% friendly.

Black Point, The Bahamas

outdoors

Pig Beach

Swimming with the pigs is an experience that not many get to have, but if you have the chance to go to Big Major Cay, it’s a must-have experience. Living up to its nickname, “Pig Beach,” Big Major Cay is an uninhabited island that is home to about 25 pigs and little piglets. When traveling to the island by boat, the pigs will immediately come out of the bushes and greet you by swimming–yes, SWIMMING– over to your boat.Though it sounds out of character, these pigs are completely different than ones you’d see on a farm. The pigs are big and friendly, but they act more like puppies swimming in the water

Exuma, The Bahamas

outdoors

Exuma

The Bahamas, more specifically the Exumas, have some of the most amazing sandbars which are pure paradise. These sandbars are made up of stretches of pure white sand emerging from the bluest of waters. We sat on the beach and admired the beautiful shades of blue water, searched for shells, saw many starfish, and, of course, took many photos.

Black Point, The Bahamas

outdoors

Staniel Cay

Our first most instagrammable stop was Thunderball Grotto, which is located west of Staniel Cay. This incredible underwater cave is great for snorkeling, diving, or just relaxing on the boat. The grotto got its name from the 1965 James Bond film “Thunderball,” which was filmed at this location. Another James Bond movie, “Never Say Never Again,” was also filmed here in 1983. The grotto is filled with exotic marine life and vibrant coral reefs that’ll make your experience even more memorable and even more beautiful. When snorkeling into the cave, you may even have the chance to see a nurse shark, who is usually at the entrance to the grotto.