6 Best Hotels in The Exumas, Bahamas

Five spacious houses on the island, which is 1½ miles long and one mile wide, are separated by lush palm and hardwood hammocks and so far apart that you feel you have the island to yourself. Houses all have spectacular 360-degree water views from atop the limestone hilltops, and some come with 13-foot Boston Whalers. There is a small Dockside Grill for lunch, and a store selling drinks and snacks—as well as hot dogs and hamburgers for lunch during high season. Rates for houses are per week.

This gated residential community and resort is a world all on its own—with oceanfront residences, penthouses, custom homes, and vacation villas that are available as guest accommodations. The two-story villas painted in pastel colors have magnificent views of Elizabeth Harbour. Luxuriously decorated, the villas are serviced by housekeepers every other day. Guests may use the community's fitness center, tennis courts, and spa. 

This luxurious 78-villa complex boasts one of the island's few spas, an infinity pool overlooking the ocean, and a poolside patio restaurant. A secluded patch of Emerald Bay Beach is right off the pool, and guests can use the kayaks and snorkel equipment. Rooms are elaborate and vary from one-bedroom garden-view villas to four-bedroom penthouses. 

Surrounded by tranquil seas, lush landscapes, and remote island living, this stunning retreat, with six oceanfront cottages and a restaurant, offers the beauty of a tropical paradise and the remoteness of a private escape. The six oceanfront and ocean-view cottages are decorated with simple, contemporary decor, providing just what you need for a true Family Islands vacation. The on-site restaurant serves delicious Bahamian meals and specialty cocktails.

Sandals Emerald Bay is Great Exuma's most luxurious all-inclusive resort, with cream and aqua buildings facing a mile-long stretch of powdery white sand and a half-acre zero-entry pool in the center of the property. The room rate includes all food at the resort's 11 restaurants and all nonmotorized water sports. The resort also features a deep-water marina with 150 slips, two other pools, six bars, and a game room.

The Staniel Cay Yacht Club is nothing short of legendary, once drawing such luminaries as Malcolm Forbes and Robert Mitchum to its property. It's now a low-key getaway for yachties and escapists. The cotton candy–color cottages, perched on stilts along a rocky bank, have broad ocean vistas and dramatic sunsets, which you can treasure from a chaise lounge on your spacious private balcony. Take a tour of the cay in one of the club's golf carts. Meal plans are available.