Exploring Around Exuma in the Bahamas

Truly, all the islands in the Exumas are beautiful, so you really can't go wrong. But start with these for a taste of the animals, the food and the beaches that make the Exumas into the perfect destination.

It's best known for the spot where Thunderball - the 1965 James Bond movie - was filmed. But even if you didn't catch the flick, this is still a must-see if you like to snorkel. We took a chartered yacht by The Moorings to the site - but you can arrange an excursion to Thunderball Grotto from just about any cruise ship visiting the Bahamas. The grotto, which is just off Staniel Cay, is accessible only if you swim into it. Once inside, it's small yet beautiful, with turquoise water and tons of fish. The truly brave (or those willing to risk their lives) may attempt to jump from the top of the grotto through a small, jagged hole, into the water below. Try if you dare.

Grab your snorkeling gear, and head to Norman's Cay, where you can check out a sunken World War II military transport plane that once allegedly held Pablo Escobar's cocaine when he was shipping it to the United States. There are no drugs left in there today, but feel free to explore for yourself: the entire plane is underwater, thanks to a missed landing in 1980. The water is calm and clear, and many fish have made the plane their new abode. It's also a fascinating snorkeling spot, as the plane is nearly entirely intact.

Ready to meet the largest, friendliest, iguanas ever? On this beach, they roam like they rule the place (they sorta do, actually). These protected species live here, and they're happy to pose for photos (we think) in exchange for vegetables. The iguanas are endangered, and they are endemic to this area.

No matter where you eat, you'll be surrounded by stunning views. In William's Town within Little Exuma, there's a tiny bakery specializing in rum cake. It's the specialty of the Bahamas, and no one does it like they do it here - moist, rich and drenched in the special rum sauce. If you have time, stop next door to Santana's for their infamous cracked lobster. Everything tastes better with a gorgeous view.

One of the most popular - yet still not crowded - destinations in the Exumas is this beach in the Exuma Cays, where pigs roam freely. They're super sweet, and you can feed them by hand (byo vegetable and fruit peels to feed the pigs). There are also piglets, who seem to enjoy being held (doesn't everyone?).

Sting rays are the animal to pet here. Or at least to feed. Go on a Sunday for their big pig roast and beach bash, which draws all the locals and tourists alike. They're known for their conch burgers.

Little known fact: nurse sharks don't tend to bite. So you can swim with them, pet them and basically hang out with them. The best place to do it is in Compass Cay, where the water is shallow enough to stand while you pose with the super calm nurse sharks. Too nervous to swim with them? The island owners will be happy to throw fish at the sharks, and you can watch these cuties eat.

All the beaches in the Exumas are stunning. They have white sand, clear water which is the perfect temperature, and they're so salty that you can float without any effort. But Cancer beach is what dreams are made of - it's usually empty, has calm water, soft sand and a view of ocean plus trees and that's it.

It's all about the history and culture here. Shop at the straw market (you can't leave without purchasing a straw basket or 10), explore St. Andrew's Church and wander around the city.