The island's economic and social history has historically been linked to the naval, ship-building, and shipping activities in the town's environs.

Tourism and related services have become a significant part of the local economy, including cruise ships attracted by the Port of Cork berthing facilities on the island.

[8] According to the 11th-century work Lebor Gabála Érenn, Neimheadh was the leader of a group who invaded the area in prehistoric times.

[15] The largest settlement on Great Island, Cobh, had significant development during the 19th and early 20th centuries, stimulated by additional expansion in shipping and naval activity in the area.

[16] Great Island is located in Cork Harbour on Ireland's south coast, and is made-up of the civil parishes of Clonmel and Templerobin.

[21][22] During regional windstorms in 2017 (including Storm Ophelia), downed trees and high winds resulted in the closure of the only road bridge to Great Island.

[8] Lewis describes the island's location, environment and climate as factors "induc[ing] many genteel families to settle here".

[6][24] Residential developments are concentrated mainly around Cobh, with other populated townlands and settlements on the island including Ballymore, Ballynoe, and Belvelly.

These include Cuskinny Marsh Nature Reserve (which is managed by BirdWatch Ireland),[29] Marlogue Wood (operated by Coillte),[30] and the Great Island Channel Special Area of Conservation (overseen by the National Parks and Wildlife Service).