Thunderball Grotto

Thunderball Grotto made famous by Sean Connery in the James Bond film, Thunderball, is an exciting snorkel adventure where visitors will swim into the cave, snorkel with tropical fish and enjoy the light beaming in from the naturally formed roof.

Thunderball Grotto is a stunning underwater cave system and snorkeling site located in the Exuma Cays of the Bahamas. It gained fame for being featured in the James Bond film “Thunderball,” which was released in 1965. The grotto’s unique natural features and crystal-clear waters make it a popular destination for snorkelers and tourists seeking a remarkable underwater experience.

Thunderball Grotto is a cave system with several interconnected chambers that are partially open to the sky. The grotto features a series of entrances, both underwater and above water, which allow sunlight to filter through and create an enchanting underwater lighting effect. The grotto’s chambers are adorned with colorful corals, sea fans, and a diverse array of marine life. Snorkelers can encounter various species of tropical fish, including sergeant majors, angelfish, and more.

Good to Know

Location: Thunderball Grotto, in Exuma Islands (30 Minute flight from Nassau)

How Long to Spend: 20-30 mins

TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5 stars.

Nearby Attractions: Staniel Cay, Pig Beach, Swimming with Sharks, Exuma Sand Bar

Entry Fees: Free (But you will need a tour or charter to get to the island)

How to visit the James Bond Thunderball Grotto Cave

Thunderball Cave is a popular snorkel location in Exuma Bahamas. The Bahamas Thunderball Grotto cave was a filming location in 1964 for 007 James Bond film THUNDERBALL

Welcome to Thunderball Grotto; Entrance to the Underwater Cave

To get to the Thunderball Grotto cave, requires a short boat ride from Staniel Cay Island. Visiting Thunderball is best done on an organised Day Trip From Nassau to Exuma, as a packaged tour which includes transfers, flights from Nassau to Exuma and a boat tour from Staniel Cay island.

The benefits of flying from Nassau to Exuma include:

Quick flight time, only 30 minutes
Stunning views of the Exuma Cays
Cant get Sea Sick on the rough ocean crossing
Spend longer in the Exumas
Avoid weather cancellation when high winds prevent boats leaving Nassau

Nassau to Exuma Flights tours to Thunderball Grotto Exuma Bahamas

Nassau to Exuma Flights are the best way to visit the Exuma Cays

Where is the Thunderball Grotto James Bond Cave?

The Thunderball Grotto cave is nestled within the Exuma Cays islands, it is one of 360 islands in the Exumas archipelago, in the Bahamas. Located near Staniel Cay, this enchanting underwater cave is a natural wonder formed by limestone rock formations. Accessible only by boat during low tide, the cave features a unique opening in its ceiling that allows sunlight to stream through, creating a mesmerizing interplay of light and water.

Thunderball Grotto Cave, James Bond filming location in Exuma Bahamas, is a small island in the Exumas close to Staniel Cay. Take an Exuma Tours from Nassau to visit the Thunderball Cave.

Thunderball Grotto is a small rocky island in the Exuma Cays

James Bond in the Bahamas

James Bond is chased underwater by SPECTRE agents in the 1965 film Thunderball. During a thrilling underwater action sequence, Sean Connery (James Bond) has an underwater fight with Largo and finds escape in an underwater cave, the Thunderball Grotto. After a metal doors slams shut on James Bond, he makes his way to the top of the cave and sends for assistance through a Q-branch issued communication gadget. Appearing above ground, James Bond now appears ontop of the Cave, a filming location which is at the Caves in Nassau.

Thunderball is the fourth film in the James Bond film series, based on the fictional character created by author Ian Fleming. It was released in 1965 and is the fourth installment in the official James Bond series produced by Eon Productions. The film is known for its action-packed sequences, exotic locations, and innovative underwater scenes.

James Bond Bahamas Thunderball Filmed on location in the Exuma Bahamas island. Take nassau to Exuma flights to visit the Thunderball Cave in Exuma.

Staniel Cay Yacht Club has Thunderball Film memorabilia hanging in it’s bar

Swimming and Snorkeling into Thunderball Grotto Bahamas

Visitors can swim or snorkel through the underwater entrances to explore the chambers of Thunderball Grotto. The clear waters and unique lighting make it an ideal spot for underwater photography. Once inside the grotto, enjoy snorkeling and exploring the underwater chambers with their colorful marine life and unique lighting effects.

Snorkel into Thunderball Bahamas tour, take excursions in exuma from Nassau. The Nassau to Exuma Flights fly to Staniel Cay Bahamas.

Visitors have to swim through the entrance to the Thunderball Cave

Capture the beauty of Thunderball Grotto with underwater photography. Take your time to appreciate the natural wonder of the cave system.

Practice responsible snorkeling by avoiding touching or damaging the marine environment. Follow your guides’ instructions and respect the grotto’s ecosystem. Adhere to any rules, regulations, or instructions provided by your tour guides to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Thunderball Grotto, its underwater world, and the unique lighting effects that make it a special destination.

Thunderball Grotto Cave is a popular Exuma Attraction close to Staniel Cay in Exuma Bahamas. Fly from Nassau to Exuma for an exciting tour of James Bond Bahamas filming location.

The roof of Thunderball Cave is open, which floods the Grotto with light

Visiting Staniel Cay Island

On nearby Staniel Cay island you can visit the Staniel Cay Yacht Club, a popular boutique resort with over water bungalows, a marina and restaurant & bar. Staniel Cay is a charming island in the Exuma Cays known for its stunning beaches, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life. The yacht club is situated in this idyllic setting, offering picturesque views and a tranquil atmosphere.

Staniel Cay Yacht Club is where the Thunderball Film crew visited in 1964. Take a unique Bahamas Day Trip to the Thunderball grotto cave in Exuma.

Staniel Cay Yacht Club is the closest resort to Thunderball Grotto

The Staniel Cay Yacht Club captures the essence of a classic yacht club, with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that caters to both boaters and travelers seeking a laid-back escape. If you’re arriving by boat or yacht, the Staniel Cay Yacht Club provides amenities such as dockage, fuel, and supplies, making it a convenient stop for boaters exploring the Exuma Cays. The club offers opportunities for various water activities, including snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The surrounding waters are teeming with marine life and underwater attractions.

James Bond Thunderball film crew at the Staniel Cay Yacht Club

Swim with Pigs in Exuma

Thunderball Grotto and Staniel Cay is close to Pig Beach (Big Major Cay), home to the famous swimming pigs of the Bahamas. If you’re planning on booking a Nassau to Exuma Day Trip to visit Thunderball Grotto, you will find that your day tour also visits the famous Bahamas Swimming Pigs at Big Major Cay

Nassau To Exuma pigs are another Exuma Attraction, close to the Thunderball Grotto Cave in Exuma Bahamas. One of many Exuma Tours from Nassau visit the famous Bahamas Swimming Exuma Pigs at Pig Beach Big Major Cay

Pig Beach, Big Major Cay, neighbours Thunderball Grotto island

Top Tips for visiting Thunderball Grotto

Check Tide and Weather Conditions: Plan your visit during low tide for easier access to the grotto’s entrances. Also, check weather forecasts to ensure safe and pleasant snorkeling conditions. If visiting on a guided tour, your expert local guides will do this for you.
Fly from Nassau to Exuma: Consider joining a guided tour by plane to Thunderball Grotto. Experienced guides can provide insights, safety instructions, and equipment, enhancing your overall experience.
Confident Swimmers: Be a confident swimmer, as you’ll need to swim to the grotto’s entrances. Basic swimming skills will ensure a more enjoyable experience.
Waterproof Bag: Bring a waterproof bag to protect your belongings, including cameras, phones, and other valuables, during the swim.
Snorkeling Gear: If you have your own snorkeling gear, bring it along for added comfort. If not, inquire with tour operators about gear rental availability.
Underwater Camera: Capture the beauty of Thunderball Grotto with an underwater camera or a waterproof case for your smartphone.
Safety Gear: If offered by your tour operator, wear a life vest for added safety, especially if you’re not a strong swimmer.
Water Shoes or Fins: Water shoes or snorkeling fins can help protect your feet and make swimming easier.
Don’t touch the Cave Walls: The walls of Thunderball Grotto Cave are razor sharp and covered in a lichen which can cause skin irritation, so don’t touch the walls.

Why you must visit the Thunderball Grotto Cave

Visiting Thunderball Grotto allows you to step into a world of natural beauty, cinematic history, and underwater exploration. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or a movie buff, the grotto offers a one-of-a-kind experience that you’ll cherish for years to come.

Thunderball Grotto gained fame after being featured in the James Bond film “Thunderball.” Visiting the same location where a famous movie scene was filmed adds an extra layer of excitement to your experience.

Looking for more interesting James Bond filming locations in the Bahamas? Explore more James Bond in Bahamas with our interactive Nassau Travel Guide.

Thunderball Grotto Cave Location Map

View our Full Interactive Map of Nassau

Nassau to Exuma Day Trip by Plane
Discover the top Exuma attractions on this unique one day tour to Exuma from Nassau, by Plane. With a short 30 minute flight, you skip the 3-hour oneway boat ride, and can spend longer enjoying the top things to do in Exuma.

Visit these Exuma attractions on the Exuma Tour from Nassau: