When most people hear “Great Exuma, Bahamas,” they picture powdery white beaches, crystal-clear water, and maybe a swim with the famous pigs. But for art and design lovers, this slice of paradise offers so much more than sun and sand. Tucked away in the colorful streets, local galleries, and natural surroundings, Great Exuma has a thriving creative soul that’s just waiting to be explored.
If your cruise ship docks in Great Exuma—or if you’re considering a cruise booking that includes it—this guide will help you uncover the island’s artistic side. Here are ten ways to soak up art, culture, and design inspiration during your cruise vacation stop in this beautiful cruise port.
🎨 1. Visit the Exuma Foundation Art Gallery
Start your art-inspired adventure at the Exuma Foundation’s Art Gallery. This non-profit organization supports local Bahamian artists and showcases a rotating collection of paintings, sculptures, and handmade crafts. It’s a true reflection of Exuma’s vibrant community spirit and gives you a taste of authentic island artistry.
Why visit:
You’ll find pieces here that aren’t mass-produced tourist items—each one tells a story about Bahamian life, heritage, and creativity.
🖌️ 2. Explore the Colorful Murals of George Town
George Town, the bustling capital of Great Exuma, is like an open-air museum for street art fans. Walk the streets and you’ll spot murals on building walls, depicting everything from underwater scenes to vivid portraits of local culture. It’s a perfect, free activity if you’re looking to stretch your legs after a morning on the cruise ship.
Pro tip:
Bring your camera! These murals make fantastic backdrops for photos you’ll actually want to print.
🧵 3. Discover Bahamian Craftwork at the Straw Market
Located near George Town, the Straw Market is a lively maze of handmade goods. Here you can find woven straw hats, colorful bags, and intricate wood carvings made by local artisans. Each piece is unique, and you can often meet the creators themselves.
What makes it special:
Every item at the Straw Market carries centuries-old traditions passed down through generations, blending functionality with beautiful design.
🏝️ 4. Book an Art-Focused Shore Excursion
Some cruise lines and independent operators offer shore excursions that dive deeper into the island’s creative side. Look for experiences like traditional Bahamian cooking classes, painting workshops with local artists, or guided cultural tours.
Why it’s worth it:
An organized shore excursion can introduce you to hidden gems and lesser-known artists that you might miss exploring solo.
🎨 5. Tour the Island’s Boutique Art Studios
Great Exuma is home to several small art studios where resident artists open their doors to visitors. Many of them work with driftwood, shells, and other natural materials found around the island. It’s an amazing way to see how the local environment inspires their creations.
Tip:
Some studios offer short “make your own” sessions where you can craft a souvenir to take home.
✨ 6. Take a Scenic Drive to Discover Local Design
Rent a scooter, hop on a guided tour, or hire a taxi for a few hours and enjoy the island’s natural and man-made beauty. Colorful cottages, colonial architecture, and creatively painted fences pop up along the roadsides, offering a different kind of art tour at every turn.
Don’t miss:
The vibrant pastel homes and charming churches tucked away from the main roads.
📸 7. Capture Natural “Art” at Tropic of Cancer Beach
Sometimes, the best artwork isn’t manmade. Tropic of Cancer Beach, named for the latitude it straddles, offers nature’s version of perfection. The colors—deep blue water, stark white sand, and lush greenery—feel like a painting you can step into.
Photography Tip:
Visit early in the morning when the beach is almost empty, and the lighting is soft for stunning photos.
🛍️ 8. Shop for One-of-a-Kind Jewelry
Local artisans craft jewelry that incorporates shells, sea glass, and native stones into truly unique designs. These aren’t your average souvenir shop finds; they’re miniature works of wearable art that reflect the natural beauty of the Bahamas.
Look for:
Boutique shops near George Town or pop-up stalls at local markets during your cruise vacation.
🐚 9. Experience Cultural Storytelling Through Art
At some locations around Great Exuma, you’ll find performances or pop-up exhibitions that combine music, dance, and visual art. These storytelling events often happen at cultural centers or as part of local festivals.
Why it matters:
Art in Exuma isn’t just something to look at—it’s something you feel, hear, and experience with all your senses.
🍽️ 10. Eat at a Design-Lover’s Dream Cafe
Several cafes and restaurants in Great Exuma put just as much effort into their decor as their menus. Think hand-painted murals, locally crafted furniture, and settings so gorgeous you’ll forget you’re dining under a thatched roof.
Favorites to check out:
- Shoreline Beach Club: Colorful design meets seaside perfection.
- Chat ‘N’ Chill: Rustic, lively, and 100% Bahamian charm.
Eating in Great Exuma isn’t just a meal; it’s another layer of the island’s artistic expression.
Planning Your Artistic Shore Day: Quick Tips
If you want to make the most of your artistic adventure on Great Exuma during your cruise port stop, keep these tips in mind:
- Timing matters: Some shops and galleries have limited hours. Double-check opening times before you go ashore.
- Bring cash: Many local artists and crafters don’t accept cards.
- Stay flexible: Island life moves at its own pace. Give yourself room to linger when you find something inspiring.
- Ask locals: Islanders are proud of their art scene and will often point you toward cool spots that aren’t on Google Maps yet.
Why Great Exuma Is a Must for Creative Souls
While Great Exuma is famous for its beaches, it’s also an incredible destination for travelers who appreciate art, design, and culture. Whether you’re booking a shore excursion that dives deep into Bahamian creativity or simply wandering the colorful streets, this island invites you to slow down and see the world a little differently.
Next time you’re planning a cruise booking and Great Exuma is on the itinerary, you’ll know it’s more than just another pretty beach stop. It’s a vibrant canvas ready to spark your imagination.