The Exuma Cays offer the Out Island visitor some of the most beautiful scenery in Bahamas, with deserted pure white beaches, clear turquoise water, and endless blue skies. But the best-kept secret in these islands is the abundance of marine life, and wildlife that are inhabitants of these waters and islands.

The Exuma Land and Sea Park stretches for 176 square miles, and has been instituted to protect the marine life lying within it waters. Groupers, conch, lobsters, turtles and hundreds of species of fish and mollusks thrive in the park due to the no take fishing restrictions within the park. You will marvel at the numbers of tropical fish that freely swim around you if you dive or snorkel, and if you are lucky, you might catch glimpse of a turtle!

In addition to the topical fish, nurse sharks and stingrays are a common site. These islands have strong currents that bring in ocean water across the shallows and the sharks continuously patrol in search of food. If you visit the island of Compass Cay, you can actually swim with 'friendly' nurse sharks, which have taken up residence below the marina docks. The owner of the island feeds the sharks frequently throughout the day, and visitors who come in by boat enjoy swimming and snorkeling amongst these magnificent, but docile creatures. Here you can also see schools of bonefish, snapper, and angelfish waiting to be fed.

Further south in the chain, you will find a sight that will amaze and delight you. The island of Big Major houses a group of pigs that will actually swim to your boat as you approach the beach. They are automatically accustomed to being fed by cruisers and yachtsmen as they pass through these waters, and will greet you when they hear your engine. Be sure to bring your leftovers for a quick feed.

Each day, you will see the local natives bring bags of conch to be cleaned at the marinas and local docks. Conch is a local staple food, and is in abundance in these waters, and seafood is always on the menu. The deeper waters also have an abundance of Dorado, Wahoo, and Tuna, and as you cruise, you will see the flying fish jump along your wake.

Anyone visiting the Exuma Cays will be amazed at the beauty of the area. Leave only footprints, and take only pictures. To see unique and artistic photographs and images of these islands, visit www.bahamaprints.com