Thunderball Grotto is a hollow limestone islet in the channel between Staniel Cay and Big Major Cay in the Bahamas' Exuma Cays, famous as a filming location for the James Bond movie 'Thunderball' and others. Openings in the cave roof let shafts of sunlight pour in, and beneath them clouds of yellowtail snapper, angelfish and sergeant majors swirl, making it one of the signature snorkel spots in the Exumas. The water is mostly shallow (about 2-6 m) with clear 15-30 m visibility, so even novices can enjoy it, but you should only enter at low or slack tide when the current is weak. As of 2026 the grotto is reachable by boat only.
Highlights
Beams of sunlight through holes in the roof, with tropical fish swirling directly beneath them
The cave interior made famous by 'Thunderball' (1965) and 'Never Say Never Again'
At low tide some entrances sit above the waterline with a guide rope, so you can swim in without diving under
Yellowtail snapper, angelfish and sergeant majors among coral on the cavern walls
Easily combined with nearby Big Major Cay 'Pig Beach' and the Compass Cay nurse sharks on half- or full-day tours
Good to know
SafetyCurrents flowing in and out of the cave can be strong; on the open far side they can be too strong for even experienced swimmers to fight. Enter only at low or slack tide, wear fins, and never snorkel alone.
SafetyTour boats and private boats move constantly through the channel. Always watch for boat traffic while on the surface and tow a brightly colored buoy or float to mark your position.
SafetyAt high tide some entrances must be reached by diving under the rock. Weak swimmers should wear a flotation vest, but don't push through the dive-under sections; plan your visit for low or slack tide instead.
SeasonOpen year-round, but you must check a tide table and time your visit for low or slack water. June-November is Atlantic hurricane season, so confirm weather and sea conditions before you go.
RulesTouching or standing on coral and marine life is prohibited in the Bahamas. Keep off the coral and rocks, and use reef-safe sunscreen.
MannersThe dense fish schools inside are largely driven by tour operators feeding them. Don't feed or handle wildlife, and keep a respectful distance.
SeasonIn early summer 'sea lice' (tiny jellyfish larvae) can cause a stinging skin rash, so a rash guard to reduce exposed skin helps.
Practical info
The grotto is a few minutes by boat from Staniel Cay and is accessible only by boat. If visiting independently, check the tide table and go at low or slack tide; first-timers should take a local guided tour that includes gear rental. Half- and full-day tours often bundle it with Pig Beach and the Compass Cay nurse sharks. Fees, sailing times and tour operations change by season, so confirm the latest details before booking.
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