Planning your escape to the pristine, turquoise waters of the Bahamas? As of December 2025, the Great Exuma vacation rental market is hotter than ever, with new luxury villas and secluded beachfront cottages offering unparalleled privacy and amenities. The Exuma Islands, a chain of 365 cays, are currently a breakout star in Bahamian tourism, making a well-researched booking essential to secure your slice of paradise for 2026.

This deep-dive guide uses the latest 2025/2026 market data to help you navigate the best short-term rental properties, from family-sized homes near George Town to ultra-exclusive retreats on Little Exuma. We’ll cover the current pricing trends, must-have amenities, and the top local entities you need to know to make your trip unforgettable.

The Current State of Great Exuma Vacation Rentals: 2025 Market Update

The short-term rental (STR) market in Exuma is experiencing significant growth, now accounting for approximately 15% of the entire Bahamian vacation rental landscape. This surge in popularity means a greater selection of high-quality properties, but also increased competition for prime bookings, especially during the peak season.

The typical Great Exuma vacation rental is a spacious, family-friendly home, with properties designed to accommodate four guests being the most common capacity. However, the luxury segment—villas accommodating eight or more guests—is also booming, catering to large family reunions and group trips.

2025/2026 Pricing and Booking Trends

Understanding the current rates is key to budgeting your trip. While you can find smaller homestays starting from around $198 per night, the average nightly rate for a full family vacation rental on Great Exuma is approximately US $698.

• Villas and Luxury Homes: Expect to pay upwards of $277 per night for an entry-level villa, with luxury, multi-bedroom homes easily exceeding $1,000 per night, especially those with private beach access or a boat dock.
• Peak Season: Prices reach their absolute peak during the month of April. Booking well in advance (6-12 months) is highly recommended for travel during the winter (December-March) and spring breaks.
• Low Season Savings: For the best value, consider booking during the quiet, low-season months, which typically fall between late August and early November.

7 Elite Great Exuma Vacation Rentals & Why They’re Highly Rated

The best rentals in Exuma offer more than just a place to sleep; they provide an exclusive, amenity-rich base for exploring the Exuma Cays. Here are some of the most sought-after and highly-reviewed properties and property types for your 2025/2026 trip.

1. Ultra-Luxury Villas with Private Amenities

For travelers seeking a five-star experience with total seclusion, properties like Casa Bella and Sueno De Mar are top contenders. Casa Bella is frequently highlighted for its oceanfront location, private beach, pool, and spa facilities. Sueno De Mar is another luxury beachfront rental, highly rated for its proximity to the National Park and sand bars, often featuring a private dock for easy boat excursions.

2. The Resort-Residence Hybrid

Properties within a resort community, such as Grand Isle Resort & Residences, offer the best of both worlds: the space and privacy of a villa combined with access to resort amenities like fine dining, concierge services, and a community pool. These are perfect for first-time visitors to the Exumas who want a seamless, high-end experience.

3. Secluded Beach Cottages

If your goal is to truly unplug, look for secluded two-bedroom cottages nestled right on the ocean's edge. These smaller, charming rentals, often found near Moss Town, provide panoramic ocean views and the ultimate privacy, often featuring their own small, private beach.

4. Rentals with a Private Marina or Boat Dock

A boat is essential for exploring the famous Exuma Cays. Rentals like the Marina House, which overlooks a private marina, are invaluable for guests who plan to charter a boat or bring their own. This amenity saves time and money on daily boat slip rentals and provides immediate access to the sea.

5. The Charming Boutique Stay

For a more local feel, consider established boutique options like Peace and Plenty Resort or Hideaways Exuma. While they operate more like hotels, they offer cottage-style accommodations that are often more affordable and provide a central location in or near George Town, the island’s capital.

6. Homes on Little Exuma

For maximum tranquility, look for properties on Little Exuma, which is connected to Great Exuma by a small bridge. These homes are generally more rustic and secluded, offering closer access to attractions like the Tropic of Cancer Beach, one of the most beautiful and longest stretches of sand in the Bahamas.

7. Cottage Cut Villas

These properties are often cited in reviews for their balance of comfort, style, and mind-blowing views. The term "Cottage Cut Villas" often refers to a collection of high-rated, comfortable homes that are large enough for multiple couples to spread out while still enjoying communal areas.

Building Topical Authority: Exuma Must-Do Activities & Entities (15+ Entities)

Your vacation rental is just the beginning. To truly experience the magic of the Exumas, you must plan your excursions. The islands are famous for their natural attractions, which are easily accessible by charter boat or by car along the Queen's Highway.

Unmissable Excursions and Attractions

• The Swimming Pigs: No trip is complete without a boat tour to see the famous swimming pigs at Pig Beach. This excursion often includes stops at other key Exuma Cays.
• Thunderball Grotto: Located near Staniel Cay, this underwater cave system is a spectacular spot for snorkeling and diving, famously featured in James Bond films. (Note: This is an essential stop on most Exuma Cays tours.)
• Snorkel with Turtles: Head to Hoopers Bay, just northwest of George Town, where you can often spot green sea turtles swimming in the calm, clear waters.
• Stocking Island: Take a short water taxi ride from George Town to Stocking Island. Here, you can enjoy the famous Chat 'N' Chill beach bar, hike to the monument, or explore the gorgeous white-sand beaches.

The Best Beaches on Great Exuma Island

While your rental might have a private stretch of sand, be sure to visit the island’s public gems.

• Tropic of Cancer Beach: Located on Little Exuma, this is arguably the most beautiful beach in the Exumas, known for its crescent shape and dazzling white sand.
• Jolly Hall Beach: A tranquil, protected cove perfect for swimming and sunbathing, located close to George Town.
• Cocoplum Beach: Famous for its incredible sandbars that stretch far out into the ocean at low tide, making it a great spot for shelling and walking.
• Three Sisters Rock: A distinctive rock formation visible from the shore near Moss Town, offering a great photo opportunity and a local landmark.

Expert Booking Tips for 2026 and Beyond

To ensure you get the best value and the perfect property, follow these expert booking tips tailored to the Great Exuma market:

Book Early for Peak Season: With the market booming, high-demand properties—especially those with a private pool or dock—are often fully booked 9-12 months in advance for the high season (December to April).

Consider a Mid-Week Arrival: Flights and rental rates can sometimes be slightly lower for arrivals on a Tuesday or Wednesday compared to the traditional Saturday or Sunday turnaround. This can also help you secure a boat charter before the weekend rush.

Check the Water Taxi Availability: If your rental is on Great Exuma but you plan to spend a lot of time on Stocking Island, ensure your rental is conveniently located near the George Town dock for easy water taxi access.

Factor in Transportation: Unlike larger islands, getting around Great Exuma often requires a rental car, as taxis can be expensive for daily use. Ensure your rental home has adequate parking and factor the cost of a rental car into your overall budget.

By securing one of the top-rated luxury vacation rentals and planning your excursions to the iconic Exuma Cays and beaches, your 2025 or 2026 trip to Great Exuma Island promises to be a stunning and memorable Bahamian adventure.