By Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon
CJ Travel Editor

Need a reason to visit the Bahamian archipelago comprising 365 white-sand cays and idyllic islands? We’ve got six of ‘em! Pack your bags.

They’re So Easy To Get To

Great Exuma airport (GGT) is less than an hour’s flying time from Fort Lauderdale or Miami; and only 30 minutes from Nassau, which has direct service from numerous US gateways. Leave now and you’ll be there by lunchtime.

The Weather

Today it’s 54 degrees in Los Angeles; 11 in New York; and -4 in Chicago.Current temperature in the Bahamas: 76. ‘Nuff said.

The Water

They don’t call it “Bahama Blue” for nothing. The sea surrounding the Bahamas is crystal clear and almost impossibly blue – and the Exumas’ waters are arguably the best example of that.

The Swimming Pigs

Pigs may not fly but in the Bahamas they swim. Take Exuma Water Sports’ half-day Ocean Safari tour to discover the mystery of the swimming swine and paddle with the porkers yourself, like these.

Chat ‘n Chill

The Sunday pig roast is what brings most visitors to this Stocking Island restaurant and bar. But we think their amazing conch salad ­– made right in front of you with ruby-red locally grown tomatoes and orange juice – is reason enough to make the five-minute boat ride from Great Exuma.

Grand Isle Resort & Spa

One of our favorite resorts in the Exumas, Grand Isle offers 78 plush townhouses, most with a stunning view of the jaw-dropping expanse of blue. And right now, if you book and pay 14 days in advance of your stay, you’ll save 15 percent off the rate.