The Exumas are an archipelago of 365 cays and islands, beginning just 35 miles southeast of Nassau and  stretching over 100 miles.  From the air, these cays look like jeweled stepping stones surrounded by a shimmering emerald sea giving this chain the distinction of being one of the prettiest in The Islands of The Bahamas.  The bright white sand of the deserted beaches is a striking contrast to the aquamarine and jade hues of water.  The topography doesn't vary much, as the islands are only 7½ miles across at the widest point, but the splendor of the pristine beaches, the crystal-blue waters and the lush tropical greenery attract people from around the globe.

A tranquil atmosphere abides in these seemingly limitless cays, multi-colored waters and quaint towns of amicable people who are eager to encounter visitors.  Most of The Exumas' 3,500 residents live on Great Exuma or Little Exuma, the two largest islands, which are connected by a short bridge.  They play host to much of the commerce and tourism in the island chain.

from The Bahama Guide