Plizio Visual Lab

Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Forest

Weather…

Established in 1958, the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park was the first marine protected area of its kind in the world. Spanning approximately 176 square miles (456 square kilometers), the park is managed by the Bahamas National Trust and protects a diverse array of islands, coral reefs, and marine habitats. Since 1986, it has operated as a strictly enforced "no-take" reserve, prohibiting all forms of fishing, shelling, and coral harvesting within its boundaries. This conservation strategy has allowed the park to become a vital nursery and replenishment zone for endangered species, including the Queen Conch and the Nassau Grouper. The park’s waters are renowned for their high visibility and support critical ecosystems like seagrass beds and mangrove forests. One of its unique geological features is the presence of ancient stromatolites, living fossils formed by cyanobacteria, which are among the oldest known biological structures on Earth. Today, the park is an international benchmark for successful marine conservation and controlled ecotourism.

Location: Bahamas
Nearby: Staniel Cay (17 km)

📋 Practical info

🧭

Getting there

Access to this extensive land and sea park is typically by water, usually through organized boat tours or chartered yachts from neighboring islands. Typical starting points are the larger ports in the surrounding region, from which regular crossings are offered.

📅

Best season

The good months for a visit are usually between December and April, when the weather is pleasantly dry and temperatures remain moderate. During the Atlantic hurricane season, however, local weather reports should be monitored very closely and travel plans kept flexible.

⛰️

Terrain & paths

The terrain varies greatly and includes both open bodies of water and protected coastal sections, which are often sandy or interspersed with rugged coral structures. The few paths on land are mostly kept in their natural state, unpaved, and require a certain degree of surefootedness.

🎒

What to bring

Recommended gear absolutely includes reliable sun protection, light and breathable clothing, as well as waterproof bags to protect sensitive valuables. Snorkeling equipment and sturdy water shoes are highly advisable for safely exploring the aquatic environment.

🅿️

Parking

Since this is an extensive marine protected area, traditional parking lots for cars are naturally not available. Visitors usually leave their land vehicles at the departure ports of the main islands, while specific anchoring spots exist for boats arriving on site.

⚠️

Safety

Realistic safety precautions include paying close attention to local currents and tides, as well as maintaining a respectful distance from the marine wildlife. It is generally recommended to trust the instructions of experienced guides and to remain vigilant at all times.

⏱️

Time needed

A typical visit to this area often spans a half to a full day, depending on how many different zones of the park are to be explored. Those who wish to dive or snorkel more intensively should plan correspondingly more time for a truly comprehensive natural experience.