Michael Hockett, a resident of Chesapeake, Virginia, has decades of experience in auto sales. A former auto auction owner turned real estate investor, Michael Hockett enjoys leaving the comfort of his hometown in Virginia to visit the Bahamian Islands. Even in the midst of recovering from Hurricane Dorian, those choosing to visit the Bahamas will find that there are still many places to explore, such as Exuma.

Exuma offers beachgoers some of the most pristine beaches in the country. Tourists can both swim and snorkel in some of the clearest waters in the world. In fact, the water is clear enough for snorkelers to see colorful aquatic life from any part of the beach. Referred to as Bahama blue, the crystal-clear waters are the backdrop to any water sporting activities, which include exploring Thunderball Grotto, a sun-lit cavern that is a snorkeler’s paradise. Finally, at the Mile-Long Sandbar (also called Mush Cay Sandbar, Copperfield Sandbar, or Big Farmer’s Cay Sandbar), beachgoers can walk miles into the shallow water to get a glimpse of numerous marine species.

Tourists can also take in opportunities to visit the island’s landmarks. Favorites include the island of swimming pigs, where the animals are often seen enjoying the warm Atlantic waters. Alternatively, consider swimming with the sharks at Compass Bay. Described as a safer species of shark, these nurse sharks typically only feed on shrimp, fish, and squid, so the visit can make for an interesting afternoon.