Turtle Beach in Exuma derives its name from the green sea turtles that congregate in the shallow bay, creating one of the Bahamas' premier destinations for observing and swimming with these protected marine reptiles in their natural habitat. Located at Hooper's Bay on Great Exuma, positioned north of Georgetown, the island chain's largest settlement, the beach sits in a protected harbor environment where calm, clear waters and abundant sea grass beds attract sea turtles year-round. Green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) feed extensively on sea grass and algae in shallow tropical waters, with Hooper's Bay providing ideal foraging habitat supporting a resident population that has made the beach famous among wildlife enthusiasts and eco-tourists visiting the Exumas. The Bahamas implemented sea turtle protection laws during the late 20th century following decades of overharvesting for meat and shells that severely depleted populations, with conservation efforts allowing gradual recovery of green, hawksbill, and loggerhead turtle populations throughout Bahamian waters. The beach's development as a turtle-watching destination occurred organically as word spread among visitors about reliable turtle sightings, creating a nature-based tourism attraction that generates economic value for turtles alive rather than harvested, incentivizing continued conservation. The beach area features residential condominiums and vacation rentals along the shore, with beach access points between developments allowing public use despite adjacent private properties. The pier structures extending into the bay create additional habitat where turtles congregate, possibly attracted by algae growth on pilings and the shelter provided by pier shadows and structures. The combination of beautiful soft sand beach, calm swimming conditions, and virtually guaranteed turtle encounters makes Hooper's Bay one of Great Exuma's most popular attractions despite its less-promoted status compared to famous swimming pig beaches and other marketed Exuma experiences.
Turtle Beach offers exceptional opportunities to observe and swim with green sea turtles in calm, clear shallow waters ideal for families with children and snorkelers of all experience levels. Visitors regularly report seeing 6-10 sea turtles during beach visits, with individuals ranging from juveniles approximately 1 foot in length to adults exceeding 2 feet, peacefully foraging on sea grass beds and surfacing periodically to breathe. The turtles habituated to human presence allow close observation and swimming alongside them, though responsible wildlife viewing practices require maintaining respectful distances, avoiding touching or chasing turtles, and allowing the animals to control interactions. Snorkeling proves ideal for turtle watching, with mask and snorkel allowing underwater observation of feeding behavior as turtles graze on sea grass using their beak-like mouths to crop vegetation. The beach features beautiful soft white sand characteristic of Bahamian beaches, with gradual depth increases creating safe wading and swimming conditions for young children under supervision. The calm sea protected by the bay configuration and nearby reefs creates gentle wave action suitable for families seeking relaxed beach experiences rather than surf. The pier areas provide additional turtle viewing opportunities, with snorkelers often finding multiple turtles resting or feeding around pilings where algae growth provides food sources. Beach facilities remain minimal with no lifeguards, restaurants, or commercial services at the beach itself, requiring visitors to bring water, snacks, sun protection, and snorkeling equipment. Parking access exists between condominium developments, though spaces prove limited during peak visitation periods when turtle-watching popularity brings numerous visitors. The beach's location north of Georgetown makes it easily accessible by rental car, taxi, or bicycle from accommodations throughout Great Exuma. Beyond turtle watching, the beach offers opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, beachcombing, and simply enjoying Exuma's characteristic turquoise waters and white sand beauty in a more developed setting than remote cay beaches.
Turtle Beach at Hooper's Bay offers no on-site dining facilities, with visitors accessing restaurants in nearby Georgetown and along Queen's Highway. Choppy's at Exuma Yacht Club Marina in Georgetown provides waterfront dining with views of Elizabeth Harbour, serving cracked conch, grilled mahi-mahi, conch burgers, and Kalik beer, creating casual atmosphere popular with boaters and locals. Eddie's Edgewater features authentic Bahamian cuisine with live Rake n Scrape music Monday nights, BBQ jerk Friday afternoons, and traditional dishes including chicken souse (traditional soup, 2), cracked lobster when in season, and peas and rice with stewed fish. Copia Restaurant at Peace & Plenty Hotel serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with expansive menu including fresh seafood options, conch fritters, Caesar salads, and sushi rolls (4-18), providing upscale Georgetown dining. Santana's Grill Pit on Little Exuma serves grilled Bahamian lobster with fried onions and rice and beans, jerk chicken, and conch salad, creating authentic island atmosphere. The Fish Fry on Queen's Highway north of Georgetown features multiple outdoor restaurants including Shirley's Seafood serving fresh grilled fish (8-25 depending on species and size), fried conch, and Bahamian mac and cheese, operating with communal picnic table seating. Tropic Breeze Beach Bar & Grill in Williams Town provides beachfront casual dining with fish tacos, burgers, and frozen cocktails, operated by Cordon Bleu graduate chef with island flair. Visitors to Turtle Beach typically pack beach provisions including sandwiches, fruit, chips, and cold drinks in coolers for day visits, or plan meals at Georgetown restaurants before or after turtle-watching sessions, combining wildlife observation with authentic Bahamian coastal dining experiences on Great Exuma.
