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Where To Find The Swimming Pigs Of The Bahamas

The swimming pigs of the Bahamas have become one of the most iconic and unusual tourist attractions in the Caribbean. Found on the uninhabited island of Big Major Cay, commonly known as Pig Beach, these friendly pigs are a must-see for anyone visiting the Bahamas. Located in the stunning Exuma Cays, this unique attraction offers an unforgettable experience in crystal-clear waters.

How Did the Pigs Get to Pig Beach?

pig share

The origin of the swimming pigs is a bit of a mystery, with several theories surrounding how they arrived. Some suggest that sailors left the pigs on the island with plans to return for them later, while others believe the pigs may have survived a shipwreck and swam ashore. Regardless of their origin, the pigs have thrived on the island and have become a beloved part of the Exumas’ wildlife.

Where Is Pig Beach?

Pig Beach is located on Big Major Cay, part of the Exuma archipelago, roughly 80 miles southeast of Nassau. The Exumas, a chain of 365 islands, are known for their stunning turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and diverse wildlife. Pig Beach is uninhabited by humans, with the pigs being the island’s star residents.

How to Get to Pig Beach

There are several ways to visit Pig Beach and swim with the pigs:

  • By Plane: Fly into Exuma International Airport (GGT) on Great Exuma, then take a short boat ride to Pig Beach.
  • By Boat Tour: Many tour operators offer day trips from Nassau or other Bahamian islands, with a boat ride lasting about 1.5 to 2 hours.
  • Charter Flights: For a more exclusive experience, you can charter a flight from Nassau directly to the Exumas for quicker access to Pig Beach.

What to Expect at Pig Beach

Upon arrival at Pig Beach, you’ll be greeted by the famous pigs swimming out to meet the boats. The pigs have learned to associate the boats with food, making them eager to interact with visitors. You can bring fruits and vegetables to feed them, but be mindful to avoid giving them anything harmful.

Swimming with these pigs is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. As you wade into the shallow, turquoise waters, the pigs will swim alongside you, providing plenty of great photo opportunities. While the pigs are friendly, it’s important to treat them with respect and caution, as they are still wild animals.

Best Time to Visit Pig Beach

The swimming pigs can be visited year-round, but the best time to go is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this period, the weather is ideal, with pleasant temperatures and calm waters, perfect for swimming and exploring the Exumas.

Other Attractions in the Exumas

In addition to the swimming pigs, the Exuma Cays offer a variety of attractions:

  • Thunderball Grotto: An iconic underwater cave, made famous by the James Bond film Thunderball.
  • Compass Cay: Home to friendly nurse sharks, where visitors can swim with these gentle creatures.
  • Stingray City: A shallow sandbar where you can interact with wild stingrays.
pig beach on big major cay

Final Thoughts

Visiting the swimming pigs of the Bahamas is a unique and unforgettable adventure that combines the breathtaking beauty of the Exuma Cays with the charm of these friendly animals. Whether you’re an animal lover, nature enthusiast, or just looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, Pig Beach is an essential stop on your Bahamian vacation.

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