The Exuma string of cays in the Bahamas was once a favorite hide-out of the pirate, Captain Kidd. It still draws visitors, hundreds of years later, with the white-sand beaches that were shot as backdrops for "Pirates of the Caribbean." There are several hotels to chose from in the Exuma, Bahamas, on its more than 360 islands. The largest cay is Great Exuma, at 37 miles long. It's joined to Little Exuma by a bridge.
The St. Francis Resort is on Stocking Island just off Great Exuma and a short ferry ride from the mainland. Visitors enjoy the resort's five miles of white, sandy beaches, reef snorkeling, Hobie Cat sailing between islands and kayaking around underwater caves.
The resort is a collection of villas overlooking the Atlantic, and has a smaller, more peaceful vibe than many other area resorts. There are nature trails to hike throughout the island. The resort also has a 14-foot Hobie Cat catamaran for guests to sail and kayaks. The beaches are perfect for swimming, jogging or hunting for shells. St. Francis Resort also has a restaurant and bar, with full lunch and dinner menus.
St. Francis Resort
De Gama Way, 6312 Cape St. Francis
Stocking Island
Great Exuma, Bahamas
242-557-9629
The Grand Isle Resort and Spa in Great Exuma describes itself as "a luxurious Caribbean resort with impeccable service." The resort is located in Emerald Bay, on the east coast of Great Exuma in the Bahamas.
The resort features 78 villas, with penthouses, beach views and one to four bedrooms, each. The resort also features the world-class Sea Star Spa, an infinity edge pool, the Pallappa Bar and Grill and the white sands of Emerald Bay Beach.
The resort is luxurious but suitable for family vacations, destination weddings, honeymoons, romantic getaways or just to get away from the stresses of daily life. The island provides a sunny, tropical climate, year-round.
Grand Isle Resort and Spa
Queens Hwy, Emerald Bay
Great Exuma, Bahamas
242-358-5000
The all-inclusive, 500-acre resort features beachfront villas overlooking the turquoise waters of the Bahamas. The vacation packages include options for butler services, private pools, two-story loft suites, king-sized bed, cable, mahogany furnishings, a laptop-sized safe and Egyptian cotton sheets.
The resort also offers an 18-hole golf course, unlimited scuba diving, gourmet dining and wedding packages. The packages include all meals. Sandals Emerald Bay also features the family of resorts' only marina, as of autumn 2010.
Sandals Emerald Bay
Queens Hwy
P.O. Box EX-29023
Great Exuma, the Bahamas
888-726-3257
