Great Exuma is part of the Exuma Cays, a chain of islands beginning approximately 35 miles southeast of Nassau and stretching over 100 miles to form the western bounds of the Exuma Sound. With the islands of Eleuthera and Cat Island on the other side of the Sound, the Exumas have access to but are protected from direct exposure to the Atlantic Ocean.

Great Exuma is approximately 30 miles long, lying northwest to southeast.  The main road, Queens Highway, runs the length of the island and connects it to the island of Barre Terre at the west end and Little Exuma at the east end.  Numerous villages and settlements exist, with an international airport located about midway on the island.  Direct flights are available from Miami and Fort Lauderdale in Florida, and from Nassau.