Staniel Cay is an island in the heart of the Exumas that is embraced by both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Although the island is small, Staniel Cay boasts natural wonders that attract yacht charterers from near and far. This island is the perfect jump-off point for adventures like swimming with the famous pigs, exploring grottos, getting up close to nurse sharks, spotting sea turtles, and even discovering iguanas on the sand or an underwater piano. With its central location, Staniel Cay is easily accessible by yachts, making it a popular stop.

While much of the island is privately owned and available as vacation rentals, Staniel Cay also boasts a well-equipped marina. And although many roads were gravel and rocky, you have the option to rent a golf cart to explore the area more comfortably. If you want good exercise, the four main beaches in Staniel Cay can all be reached on foot.

Town Beach is the most accessible beach in Staniel Cay, as Staniel Cay Yacht Club is next to it. Another beach is the Pirate’s Trap Beach, which is only accessible by foot. Hoi Tai Cay Beach is a gorgeous beach that doesn’t have much dry sand but is worth visiting. Follow the trail from Hoi Tai Beach a little further, and you will end up in South Beach, which has fine sand. Ocean Beach might not be a beach for swimming because of its rocks and the size of the waves, but this place is perfect for watching the sunrise.

Staniel Cay is also home to Thunderball Grotto, one of the most famous underwater caves in the Bahamas. Featured in blockbuster films like Into the Blue, Splash, and two iconic James Bond movies (Never Say Never Again and Thunderball). If you’re a fan of spelunking, this cave system has an intricate network of limestone chambers. As you dive into the grotto’s entrance, you will see the vibrant marine life around you. Bring along a few breadcrumbs to attract schools of fish up close, and you might even spot sea turtles, lobsters, angelfish, or an elusive octopus.

Just a short cruise from Staniel Cay, Harvey Cay is a premier spot for deep-sea fishing. Here, you’ll find an abundance of snapper, grouper, tuna, and lobster—ideal for catching or spearing a fresh dinner. The warm, clear waters also offer incredible snorkeling opportunities, including swimming alongside wild dolphins for an unforgettable memory.

Just north of Staniel Cay, you can also swim with the pigs. Locals advice visiting early in the morning so pigs are at their most energetic. But it’s common to find pigs lounging on the sands later in the day. For more remote escape, visit Pipe Creek Sandbar. This location has shallow channels, and you can walk far out in the sea while enjoying the beauty of swimming at your feet.

Start planning your visit to Staniel Cay by browsing the fleet of luxury crewed yachts and superyachts available for Bahamas yacht charters.