Plan the perfect day trip to Staniel Cay and a Complete Guide for Extended Vacations

I recently spent a day in Exuma with Staniel Cay Adventures and it was the inspiration for this post. I’ve visited both Great Exuma and Staniel Cay many times but never just for a full day tour from Staniel Cay. Many people visit The Bahamas and never leave Nassau. But there are quite a few islands that are close enough to explore for a day with a quick flight or boat ride. If you’ve ever dreamed of cruising through waters so blue they look unreal, spotting the famous swimming pigs, snorkelling hidden grottos, and relaxing on pristine sandbars, then a day trip to Staniel Cay in the Exuma Cays is for you.

Why Staniel Cay is the Perfect Day Trip Destination

Staniel Cay is a gem in the Exuma Cays chain, located about 75 miles south of Nassau. While small in size, it offers big adventures with its central location and proximity to surrounding cays and iconic attractions like Thunderball Grotto, Big Major Cay’s swimming pigs, and stunning secluded beaches. This small island is the perfect place to start your adventure, and I’ll share with you how to have the ultimate day trip (or longer stay). From getting there to what to do, where to stay, and insider tips, this guide has you covered.

Staniel Cay Adventures: The Best Way to Do a Day Trip From Nassau

If you’re short on time and want to hit all the must-see spots in one go, Staniel Cay Adventures is the way to go. This company specialises in curated small-group and private tours that combine flights from Nassau with a full day of boating through the Exuma Cays. Once you land, you’ll find Staniel Cay is easy to navigate. Our captian, Kieran, met us at the airport and led us to our boat for the day.

Why Choose Staniel Cay Adventures?

• Convenience: The Swimming Pigs Excursion starts with a morning flight from Nassau, making it possible to leave in the morning and return by dinner time.
• Small groups: You’ll never be crammed into a boat with dozens of people. Their largest boats host 12 guests max, and the smallest host just 5.
• Luxury touches: Clean towels, drinks, snacks, and top-notch equipment are provided to make your day comfortable and stress-free.

What’s Included in the Tour?

The tour covers all of the Exuma Cays most popular highlights:

1. Swim with the famous pigs at Big Major Cay
2. Swim with nurse sharks at Compass Cay
3. Feed iguanas at Bitter Guana Cay
4. Snorkel the James Bond–famous Thunderball Grotto
5. Stop for lunch at Staniel Cay Yacht Club
6. Visit Exuma’s pristine sandbars
7. Snorkel a sunken plane

At $597 per person (plus VAT), the trip is a full-day experience that’s absolutely worth it.

You can contact them at info@stanielcayadventures.com or call/WhatsApp +1 (242) 524-8062.

Getting There

If you plan on staying for a longer period of time, there are a few ways to get to Staniel Cay.

• Chartered flight: Quick, scenic, and a great way to experience those famous aerial views of the Exuma Cays. Odyssey Aviation, Jet Nassau and General Aviation are all FBO options you can reach out to book your charter.
• Scheduled flights: Regular scheduled flights are available from Nassau on Flamingo Air or Titan Air for a hassle-free day trip.
• Private Vessel: If you’re cruising The Bahamas on your own private vessel, Staniel Cay has facilities for yacht provisioning and docking.

Insider tip: If you fly, stay awake on the flight! The views of the turquoise waters and tiny cays scattered across the ocean are breathtaking.

Staying Longer? Here’s What to Do

Staniel Cay isn’t just a day trip destination; it’s also an amazing place to stay for a few nights. Here’s what you need to know:

Accommodations

• Staniel Cay Yacht Club (SCYC): A must-stay spot for fishermen, yachters, and travelers looking for an island escape.
• Staniel Cay Vacations: Villas, golf cart rentals, and provisioning all in one.
• Embrace Resort: Private Villas, on-site pool, and restaurant.
• Staniel Cay Villas: A collection of rental homes, things to do, and golf cart rentals.
• Chamberlain Cottages: 8 unique cottages each painted in bright colors.

Rent a Golf Cart

Exploring the island is easiest with a golf cart. The island is small so walking is an option but a golf cart is recommended for ease of carrying luggage and other supplies you may need to pick up during your stay.

• Staniel Cay Golf Carts
• Staniel Cay Vacations
• Staniel Rental

Insider tip: Book your golf cart as soon as your travel plans are finalized. During high season, when the island is full, it can be hard to find a rental.

Rent a Boat & Explore Independently

If you want even more freedom, Staniel Rentals offers boat rentals so you can create your own adventure.

Where to Eat

Since Staniel Cay is so small, there aren’t a large number of dining options. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can head over to Fowl Cay or Highbourne Cay for lunch or dinner. I would not recommend attempting to navigate the waters during nighttime hours if you are not an experienced mariner who is familiar with the Exuma Cays.

• Staniel Cay Yacht Club (SCYC): A variety of dining options are available for breakfast lunch, and dinner.
• Flyin’ Pig Cafe: Open for lunch and dinner, offering a variety of appetizers, soups, salads, paninis, and pasta dishes.
• Big Dogs Bar & Grill: The spot for food fresh off the grill, bahamain soups, and ice cold beers.
• Highbourne Cay: Xuma restaurant serves lunch 12:00-3:00 PM and dinner from 6:00-9:00 PM. Reservations are recommended for dinner.
• Fowl Cay: Hill House restaurant serves hors d’oeuvres and cocktails from 6:30 PM, dinner seating 7:30-9:00 PM. (reservation only)

Beaches You Must Visit

• Pirate Trap Beach: Calm waters, sandy beach, and beautiful reefs just offshore.
• Staniel Cay Yacht Club Beach: Easy access to food, drinks, and resort amenities.
• Ocean Beach: Dramatic rocky backdrop and a peaceful place to relax.
• Ho Tai Cay Beach: Off the beaten path, not much sand, but awesome views.

What to Pack for a trip to Staniel Cay

Here are a few must-have items to make your Staniel Cay trip stress-free:

• Waterproof dry bag
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Waterproof phone case
• Snorkel gear (if you want your own)
• GoPro or action camera

Shop my full list of Staniel Cay essentials here

Affiliate Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no cost to you if you purchase through my links. I appreciate your support!

Why Staniel Cay Appeals to Everyone

This little island has something for everyone. Couples will love its romantic beaches, families will enjoy unique wildlife encounters, and solo travelers or groups can enjoy the mix of adventure and relaxation.

This Destination Should Be on Your Bucket List

Whether you’re island-hopping for the day or staying for the weekend, Staniel Cay is one many magical places in The Bahamas. Staniel Cay is one of those rare places where every view looks like a screensaver. You’ll leave with unforgettable memories and plenty of photos you’ll want to frame.

So, what are you waiting for? Plan your Staniel Cay adventure today, trust me, it’s an experience you’ll be talking about for years to come.

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