How to Dive the Exumas - Exuma Cays

The Exuma Cays are a sprawling network of islands, all strung out over a substantial stretch of the Caribbean. Thinking about diving here means thinking about logistics, first and foremost. This isn't a place you just pop into for a quick shore dive; a liveaboard is really your only practical option for getting to the good spots. We're talking about a lot of open water, so be prepared for some cruising between sites. You’ll find walls that drop into the blue and some surprisingly healthy shallow reefs, often with plenty of reef sharks cruising by. It’s a trip best suited for divers who enjoy being out at sea for a few days, happy with the rhythm of boat life and keen to explore a range of sites without the daily grind of port calls.

Location
Exuma Cays, Bahamas, Caribbean
Coordinates
24.169000, -76.440000

Marine Protected Area: Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park

Best Time to Dive in Exuma Cays

The warmest water temperatures in Exuma Cays occur in August, averaging 30.4°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 24.7°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 24.7°C
  • February: 24.7°C
  • March: 25.1°C
  • April: 26.4°C
  • May: 27.6°C
  • June: 29.2°C
  • July: 30.2°C
  • August: 30.4°C
  • September: 30.1°C
  • October: 29.1°C
  • November: 27.4°C
  • December: 25.9°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Exuma Cays

Marine Life in Exuma Cays

Home to 353 recorded species including 307 reef fish, 12 hard corals, 11 whales & dolphins, 6 sea snails & nudibranchs, 5 sharks & rays, 3 other.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for How to Dive the Exumas

Based on average water temperature of 27.6°C, currents 8 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 28°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical dive depths in the Exumas, and what kind of dive sites are available for different experience levels?
While specific typical dive depths for the Exumas are not provided in our current data, divers can expect to encounter reef dive sites. These sites are generally rated as intermediate difficulty, offering a rewarding experience for divers with some prior experience. To fully explore this vast area, a liveaboard cruise is the only option.
What marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see when exploring the dive sites in the Exumas?
Our current data does not detail specific marine life sightings in the Exumas. However, divers exploring the dive sites in the Exumas can expect to encounter vibrant reef environments. For more general information on marine species, you can visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is the diving in the Exumas, and are there specific sites recommended for beginner versus advanced divers?
Diving in the Exuma Cays is generally rated as intermediate difficulty, particularly for the known reef sites. Our current data does not specify particular sites recommended for beginner or advanced divers, but the intermediate rating suggests a good level of experience is beneficial. To explore this extensive area, a liveaboard cruise is the only practical option.
What is the best time of year to go scuba diving in the Exumas for optimal weather, water conditions, and marine life sightings?
Our current data does not specify the best time of year for optimal weather, water conditions, or marine life sightings in the Exumas. For general guidance on dive seasons, please consult our When to Dive resource.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended for diving in the Exumas, especially for more advanced sites like blue holes or drift dives?
While specific certification requirements are not detailed in our current data for the Exumas, the intermediate difficulty rating for reef dives suggests that a foundational scuba certification is recommended. Divers should always ensure they are appropriately certified for the conditions and dive types they plan to undertake.
What are the typical water conditions, including currents and visibility, that divers can expect when diving in the Exumas?
Our current data does not provide specific details on typical water conditions, including currents and visibility, for diving in the Exumas. Divers should always check local conditions with their liveaboard operator before diving.