The Exumas are an archipelago of 365 cays (pronounced keys) & islands, beginning just 35 miles southeast of Nassau. Once called Yumey & Suma, the islands have gone through many changes over the years. Today, they are divided into three major areas- Great Exuma, Little Exuma & The Exuma Cays. Each offer its own unique Bahamian experience. Great Exuma and Little Exuma are known for their laidback surroundings, while The Exuma Cays act as a playground for the rich and famous, boasting numerous private villa-style homes, luxury resorts, and beachside condos. The Exumas are also rich in history, as they were settled by the British Loyalists with their slaves following the American Revolution.
The largest of the cays is Great Exuma. Great Exuma is a 37 mile island, connected to Little Exuma by a small bridge. The capital & largest city in the district is Georgetown. Georgetown, Exumas was founded in 1793. Between 2000 & 2010, the population of Exumas more than doubled, reflecting the construction of both large and small resort style properties, bringing travelers into the towns.
The islands are a popular vacation spot for yatching, fishing, diving, honeymooning, coral reef & cave exploring. Many of the unnamed beaches and coves of the islands are included in the protected Exuma National Land and Sea Park. There are many islands that have permanent residents & resorts; Staniel Cay, Fowl Cay, Musha Cay, Iguana Cay.
Transportation:
The Exuma International Airport serves the city of Georgetown directly from Nassau, Atlanta, Miami, & Toronto. Staniel Cay also has a small airstrip; usually for private charters or small puddle jumper planes. Boat travel from Nassau to the Northern Exuma Cays is about an hour. From Nassau to Major Cay- Pig Beach is roughly 90 miles & is about a 2 hour boat ride.