🌴 What to Expect at The Calm Water Villas
From complimentary airport transfers to thoughtful in-villa amenities, everything at The Calm Water Villas is designed to provide a seamless, private, and luxurious stay in Exuma, Bahamas. Below is a full breakdown of what’s included, what’s available upon request, and how we've prepared our property for your comfort and peace of mind.

✈️ Included With Every Booking

• Free private round-trip airport transfer to/from Exuma International Airport (GGT)
• Exclusive access to the entire property (when booking either villa individually)
• Complimentary high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi
• Concierge support for car rental, excursions, or local recommendations, we will help point you in the right direction to trusted vendors

🏠 Property Features

• Private plunge pool
• Private beach with loungers and umbrellas
• Private dock (currently accessible by boat at high tide)
• Backup automatic generator
• 1,000-gallon backup water tank with pressurized pump
• Exterior security cameras (privacy-respecting, exterior only)

🛏 Bedroom Essentials

• Plush king-size bed with premium linens
• Ceiling fan & air conditioning
• Bedside tables & extra pillows/blankets
• Closet with hangers and storage space
• Queen-size Murphy bed in the One-Bedroom Beachfront Villa only (ideal for 2 children but we allow adults it is in the living room space and privacy limited)

🛁 Bathroom Amenities

• Fresh bath, hand, and face towels
• Starter toiletries (toilet paper, hand soap)
• Hairdryer
• Basic cleaning supplies
• Spacious vanities & modern finishes

🍽 Kitchen & Dining

• Fully equipped kitchen with modern appliances:
  • Refrigerator, microwave, blender, toaster
  • Stove/oven (Beachfront Villa)
  • Cooktop only (Master Suite – no oven)
• Dinnerware & glassware (plates, mugs, bowls, silverware)
• Full cookware set (pots, pans, baking trays)
• Kitchen utensils (spatula, whisk, ladle, etc.)
• Coffee maker (drip style — filters and coffee typically available on island)
• 5-gallon bottled water dispenser and 3 full 5 gallon waters included
• Kitchen island with stools for casual dining

🛋 Living Room & Entertainment

• Comfortable sofa & seating areas
• Smart TV with Starlink internet
• Indoor dining table
• Board games 
• Queen-size Murphy bed (Beachfront Villa only)

🌅 Outdoor Living

• Private furnished deck with seating
• Chaise lounges and water hammock
• Beach chairs, umbrellas, and cooler
• BBQ grill
• Kayaks and paddles with life vests
• Private beachfront (not shared — fully yours)

🧰 Laundry & Utility

• Washer and dryer in The One Bedroom Beachfront only 
• Iron & ironing board
• Beach towels and picnic cooler​

🛡 Safety & Security

• Smoke & carbon monoxide detectors
• Fire extinguishing mats
• First aid kit
• In-unit safe (laptop-sized, combination lock hotel style)
• Secure door and window locks
• Exterior lighting and surveillance (non-invasive, for security only)
• Backup power & water systems

🧾 Optional Add-On Services (Advanced notice required – additional fees apply)

• Housekeeping (daily or mid-stay cleanings)
• Pre-arrival grocery stocking
• Private chef services
• On-site massage therapy
• Transportation coordination
• Car rental through Pablo’s Car Rental (delivered directly to your villa)
• Local excursions and boat tours — we’ll help you book trusted, curated experiences

💡 Final Notes

• Drinking water is bottled (cistern water is safe for bathing & cooking)
• Murphy bed users should note reduced privacy (open-plan layout)
• We recommend downloading offline maps and WhatsApp for communication with local vendors
• Check out our Things to Know page for more tips on traveling to Exuma
• All car rentals, Tours, Grocery delivery ect will be done directly through companies on the island no proceeds will be directed to The Calm Water Villas.  

​🌴 Things to Know About Exuma
Everything you need to know before exploring one of the most beautiful islands in the world.

✈️ Getting to Exuma
Exuma is a chain of 365 cays and islands in the Bahamas, with Great Exuma being the largest and most accessible. Your journey will take you to Exuma International Airport (GGT), located just approx. 20 minutes from The Calm Water Villas.
Arrival Tips

• Direct Flights are available from major cities including Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Atlanta, Charlotte, and Nassau.
• A valid passport is required for all visitors, including U.S. citizens.
• Upon arrival, a member of our private transfer team will greet you and escort you directly to the villa — no taxis or shuttles needed.
• Customs clearance is typically smooth and efficient.

💵 Currency, Cards & Cash
​The local currency is the Bahamian Dollar (BSD), but it is tied 1:1 to the U.S. Dollar (USD), and both currencies are accepted interchangeably.
Financial Tips

• USD is accepted everywhere, and change is often given in BSD.
• Credit cards are accepted at most restaurants, shops, and grocery stores, but it's best to check in advance.
• Cash is king at beach bars, water taxis, roadside vendors, and Fish Fry shacks.
• ATMs are available in George Town, but they may have long lines or occasionally run out of cash. Bring some small denominations if possible.

🚘 Getting Around
While Exuma is a relaxed and easygoing island, many of its best attractions are spread out. A rental car offers the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Transportation Essentials

• Driving is on the left-hand side of the road.
• Most roads are paved but may have narrow shoulders or limited street lighting — especially at night.
• We recommend renting a car, which we can have delivered to your villa through our partnership with Pablo’s Car Rental.
• Taxis are available, but they can be costly and may not be readily available during off-peak times or in remote areas.
• Gas stations are few and typically close early, so fill up when you can.

🛒 Grocery Shopping & Supplies
George Town is the main hub for shopping, groceries, and supplies.
Grocery Tips

• Larger grocery stores include Exuma Markets and Prime Island Meats.
• Selection can vary week to week due to barge deliveries — flexibility is helpful.
• You’ll find basics like bread, milk, eggs, snacks, and cleaning products, but fresh produce and specialty items can be limited.
• Liquor stores are available nearby but may have restricted hours on Sundays or public holidays.
• We offer grocery pre-stocking by request. Simply send your list in advance and we’ll have it ready for your arrival based on availability (additional fees apply).

🍽 Dining & Restaurants
Exuma offers a variety of local and international dining experiences — from casual fish shacks to upscale waterfront restaurants.
Dining Suggestions

• Shirley’s at the Fish Fry – Authentic Bahamian seafood & conch salad
• Blu on the Water – Upscale dining with oceanfront views
• Chat ‘N’ Chill – Accessible only by boat on Stocking Island; famous for its laid-back vibe and conch salad
• Santanna’s Grill Shack – Caribbean flavors and lobster plates
• Latitudes at Augusta Bay – Beachside dining near George Town

Dining Notes

• Many restaurants add a 15% gratuity automatically. Check your bill before tipping extra. We are told this gratuity goes directly to the entire staff not directly to the server, some choose to tip the server directly as well. 
• Reservations are highly recommended during the high season (Nov–April).
• Some spots may have irregular hours or close early. Call ahead to confirm or just stop in.

🏖 Beaches, Excursions & Local Attractions
Exuma is famous for its untouched natural beauty and shallow turquoise waters.
Must-See Experiences

• Swim with pigs at Big Major Cay
• Snorkel Thunderball Grotto, a filming site for the James Bond movie
• Visit Stocking Island via water taxi and grab lunch at Chat ‘N’ Chill
• Explore Moriah Harbour Cay on a kayak or paddleboard
• Tropic of Cancer Beach – one of the most pristine and photogenic beaches in the Caribbean
• Book a private boat charter for sandbar picnics, iguana feeding, and stingray encounters

📶 Connectivity & Communication

• Wi-Fi at The Calm Water Villas is powered by Starlink — fast and reliable for streaming, Zoom calls, or remote work.
• Cell service varies across the island. WhatsApp is widely used for messaging and calls.
• We recommend downloading offline maps for navigation. We include an interactive map in our welcome email. 

🌅 Local Culture & Etiquette

• Exuma operates on island time — things move a little slower. Patience is appreciated.
• Greetings matter. A simple "Good morning" or "Good afternoon" goes a long way.
• Tipping is customary — 15–20% is expected at restaurants and for personal services.
• Sundays are observed as family and rest days. Expect limited business hours and a quiet atmosphere.

🧳 What to Pack

• Passport (required) and driver’s license (for car rental)
• Reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent
• Flip flops, water shoes, and light breathable clothing (we have some provided water shoes as well)
• Light sweater or jacket for breezy evenings
• Waterproof phone pouch for boat trips
• Sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat
• Reusable water bottle and dry bag for excursions

📝 Final Tips

• Bring cash — especially small bills
• Book excursions and dinner reservations in advance during peak season
• Prepare to unplug and slow down — that’s what Exuma does best
• Let us know if you’d like help planning boat tours, massages, or chef services

​We’re happy to help you make the most of your stay. Exuma is special — and we’re thrilled to share it with you.
Need help planning? Just reach out. We’re here to help.