These 5 Little Caribbean Islands Can Only Be Reached by Boat, With Hidden Hotels, Famous Beach Bars, and an Impossibly Chill Vibe
Stocking Island, The Bahamas
Stocking Island lies directly across Elizabeth Harbour from Great Exuma, close enough to see from George Town yet separated from it by a brilliant channel of blue water.
There are no roads connecting the two. No bridge carries you across. You reach the island aboard a water taxi, dinghy, private boat or resort launch, often passing sailboats anchored throughout the harbor.
The western side is lined with protected coves and calm water. The Atlantic side is wilder, with long beaches, rocky outcroppings and elevated trails. From the island’s higher points, you can look across Elizabeth Harbour toward Great Exuma in one direction and the open Atlantic in the other.
Saint Francis Resort and Marina is the island’s essential overnight address. Set beside the harbor, the small resort offers rooms, a marina, a beach and a restaurant in a setting defined by boats and water. You can arrive from George Town, settle in and spend much of your stay barefoot, moving between the beach, restaurant and dock.
Stocking Island is also home to one of the most famous beach bars in The Bahamas.
Chat ’N’ Chill began as a gathering place for boaters and grew into an Exuma institution. Visitors arrive by water taxi from George Town or anchor offshore and come ashore by dinghy. The scene brings together sailors, day-trippers, local families and travelers staying throughout the Exumas.
The bar is known for its casual beach atmosphere, grilled food, conch salad and Sunday pig roasts. Stingrays often glide through the shallows beside the beach, particularly when conch is being prepared nearby.
Yet Stocking Island extends far beyond its best-known bar. Hiking trails cross the island. Quiet beaches appear beyond low ridges. Small coves provide sheltered swimming, while the Atlantic side offers a completely different view of Exuma.
Its proximity to Great Exuma makes the island easy to visit, but the water crossing preserves its independent character. George Town may be just across the harbor, though Stocking Island feels removed from schedules, rental cars and ordinary routines.
The island’s magic comes from being both nearby and separate. You can see the larger world across the water, then return to your room at Saint Francis as the final water taxis depart.
