The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park (ECLSP) is one of the most extraordinary marine conservation areas in the world. Established in 1958, it holds the distinction of being the first marine park of its kind, setting a global standard for the protection of both marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Spanning approximately 176 sq miles (456 sq km) across the Exuma archipelago, this park is a breathtaking mosaic of turquoise waters, thriving coral reefs, white sandy beaches, and lush coastal landscapes. Managed by the Bahamas National Trust, the ECLSP is a no-take zone, meaning all fishing, shelling, and wildlife harvesting are strictly prohibited. This policy has allowed marine life to flourish undisturbed, making it one of the most biodiverse regions in the Caribbean.
The park stretches from Shroud Cay in the north to Bells Cay in the south, encompassing over 360 small islands and cays. Each of these cays offers something unique, from hidden coves to dramatic limestone cliffs. The park's waters are renowned for their superb visibility, often exceeding 100 ft (30m), making it a paradise for snorkelers and divers. Beneath the surface, coral reefs thrive with life, including elkhorn and staghorn corals, sea fans, and sponges, which provide shelter for countless marine species.
One of the most famous spots within the park is Warderick Wells Cay, the park's headquarters and a favourite among sailors. Here, visitors can hike to Boo Boo Hill, a scenic overlook where sailors have left driftwood signs with the names of their vessels - a tradition that has turned into an iconic landmark. The hill also offers panoramic views of the Exuma Sound and the park’s winding tidal creeks.
Another must-visit location is Shroud Cay, known for its labyrinthine mangrove creeks, which can be explored by kayak or paddleboard. These mangroves serve as nurseries for juvenile fish, sharks, and sea turtles, playing a crucial role in the marine ecosystem. At high tide, the currents create natural /water slides' through the creeks, offering a thrilling adventure for visitors.
The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park is a haven for marine biodiversity. Thanks to its strict no-take regulations, fish populations here are significantly larger and more abundant than in unprotected areas. Snorkelers and divers can expect to encounter Nassau groupers, queen angelfish, parrotfish, and even the occasional reef shark or spotted eagle ray. The park is also a critical habitat for endangered green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles, which can often be seen gliding gracefully through the seagrass beds.
One of the most popular snorkeling sites is the Sea Aquarium, a shallow reef near O'Briens Cay where the water is so clear that it feels like swimming in an actual aquarium. The site is home to hundreds of colourful tropical fish, including sergeant majors, blue tangs, and trumpetfish, which are so accustomed to humans that they often swim right up to visitors.
Another fascinating spot is Rachel's Bubble Bath, a natural tidal pool on Compass Cay where waves crash over rocks, creating a frothy 'bubble bath' effect. This unique phenomenon is best experienced at high tide, when the surge of water creates a natural 'jacuzzi'.
For those interested in marine conservation, the park serves as a living laboratory for scientists studying coral reef resilience, fish spawning aggregations, and the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems. Researchers frequently visit to monitor the health of the reefs and track the recovery of overfished species like the Nassau grouper, which has seen a resurgence in recent years.
Visitors to the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park can enjoy a wide range of activities, from kayaking and paddleboarding through mangrove forests, to hiking scenic trails and diving pristine reefs.
Boating and Mooring - Most visitors arrive by private boat, charter yacht, or guided tour, as there are no large resorts or commercial developments within the park. To protect the delicate seabed, the park provides mooring buoys at popular sites like Warderick Wells Cay and Cambridge Cay. Anchoring is prohibited in many areas to prevent damage to coral reefs.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving - The park offers some of the best snorkelling and diving in The Bahamas. In addition to the Sea Aquarium, sites like Norman’s Pond Cay and Yellow Cay are known for their healthy coral formations and abundant marine life. Advanced divers can explore underwater caves and dramatic wall drop-offs along the Exuma Sound. Read more about the dive sites of the Exumas.
Hiking and Wildlife Watching - On land, visitors can hike trails that lead to stunning viewpoints, hidden beaches, and historical ruins. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting rare species like the white-tailed tropicbird, Bahama woodstar hummingbird, and Audubon’s shearwater. The park is also home to the Bahamian rock iguana, an endangered species found only in the Bahamas.
Camping and Eco-Tourism - For those seeking a true wilderness experience, camping is permitted on designated cays, including Warderick Wells and Shroud Cay. The park provides basic facilities, but visitors must bring their own supplies and follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize environmental impact.
We have a range of Bahamas liveaboard cruises that offer scuba diving, snorkelling, and water sports, as well as land excursions to enjoy the best of the Exumas.
The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park is not just a tourist destination, it is a global model for marine conservation. It's success has inspired similar protected areas worldwide, proving that strict no-take policies can revive marine ecosystems. However, the park faces challenges, including climate change, coral bleaching, and illegal fishing.
To combat these threats, the Bahamas National Trust works with international organizations to monitor reef health, enforce regulations, and promote sustainable tourism. Visitors play a crucial role by following park rules, supporting eco-friendly tour operators, and spreading awareness about the importance of marine protection.
The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park is more than just a beautiful destination, it is a testament to the power of conservation. Whether you're scuba diving with reefs with tropical fish, snorkelling over bustling reefs, kayaking through mangrove streams, or simply relaxing on a deserted beach, the park offers an unforgettable experience while preserving one of the planet's most precious ecosystems.
For travelers seeking adventure, natural beauty, and a chance to witness marine conservation in action, the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park is a bucket-list destination that truly deserves its reputation as a crown jewel of the Bahamas.
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