Swimming with Pigs in the Bahamas: Family-Friendly Adventures

1. Where It All Happens: The Exumas

The world-famous swimming pigs live on Big Major Cay, an uninhabited island in the Exuma Cays, about 82 miles southeast of Nassau.

The closest settlement is Staniel Cay, which serves as the main base for tours to Pig Beach.

The island has no human residents only the pigs, who are cared for by locals from nearby islands.

2. How the Pigs Got There

The origin of the pigs remains debated. Some say they were left by sailors who planned to return and cook them but never did.

Others claim they swam ashore after a shipwreck.

Another version says local farmers brought them to the cay to live freely and feed on surplus food from nearby boats.

Regardless of how it started, the pigs have thrived and now attract thousands of visitors each year.

3. Getting There: Travel Options

From Nassau:

You can take a day trip by boat or a 30-minute charter flight to Staniel Cay.

Several operators, including Exuma Water Sports and Bahamas Air Tours, run daily excursions.

From Great Exuma (George Town):

Many half-day tours depart from Barreterre or Exuma Point, offering a shorter ride to Pig Beach.

Private Yacht or Cruise Stop:

Many charter yachts and private tours include

Pig Beach as part of their Exuma island-hopping itinerary.

4. What to Expect During the Visit

As your boat approaches Pig Beach, the pigs usually swim out to greet you, expecting treats.

Visitors can feed them approved food items, take photos, and swim nearby.

There are usually between 15–20 pigs, including some adorable piglets born each year.

Guides supervise interactions to ensure the animals are treated safely and respectfully.

5. Family-Friendly Aspects

The experience suits all ages children especially enjoy watching the pigs paddle in shallow water.

Most tours provide life jackets and floatation gear for kids.

Family tours often include stops at nearby beaches or snorkeling spots for a full-day adventure.

Parents should remind kids not to run or shout near the pigs to avoid startling them.

6. Rules and Responsible Tourism

To protect both visitors and animals, operators enforce certain rules:

Only feed approved food (usually fruits and vegetables).

Do not feed pigs from the boat to prevent them from ingesting sand or choking.

Avoid riding or chasing the pigs.

Respect their space remember they are semi-wild animals.

Follow guide instructions at all times.

Environmental awareness is now part of many tours. Some companies donate part of their profits to Pig Beach maintenance and waste management, ensuring the site remains clean and sustainable.

7. Best Time to Visit

The pigs are visible year-round, but the most comfortable weather is between December and April, when sea conditions are calm.

Morning tours (before 11 a.m.) are ideal, as the pigs are most active and less crowded.

During the hotter summer months, afternoon visits may find some pigs resting in the shade.

8. Costs and Tour Inclusions (as of 2025)

Day tours from Nassau: USD $350–$450 per person, including flights or high-speed boat transfers.

From Great Exuma: USD $180–$250 per person for half-day or full-day trips.

Packages typically include:

Boat transfers

Snorkeling stops

Beach picnic or light lunch

Interaction time with the pigs

Private charters are available for families or small groups who prefer a flexible schedule.

9. Other Nearby Attractions

Visiting Pig Beach often includes stops at other famous Exuma highlights:

Thunderball Grotto – A snorkeling cave made famous by the James Bond film Thunderball.

Compass Cay – Known for swimming with friendly nurse sharks.

Staniel Cay Village – Offers small restaurants, souvenir shops, and local hospitality.

Sandbars and Hidden Cays – Ideal for picnics and quick swims in shallow turquoise water.

10. Tips for Visitors

Bring reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, and a waterproof camera.

Avoid carrying plastic bags or packaging it’s prohibited on many tours.

Do not bring food from outside; guides provide pig-safe snacks.

Stay hydrated and bring light snacks for yourself if not included in the tour.

Always listen to the crew’s safety briefing before entering the water.

11. Where to Stay Nearby

Staniel Cay Yacht Club: Popular with visitors taking early tours to Pig Beach.

Embrace Resort (on Staniel Cay): Family-run hotel with easy access to tours.

Grand Isle Resort & Residences (Great Exuma): Offers organized family excursions to the pigs.

Budget travelers can find smaller guesthouses in Georgetown or Airbnb rentals on nearby islands.

12. Safety and Animal Welfare

The pigs are generally friendly but can be large some weigh over 200 pounds.

Avoid holding food near your body to prevent accidental bites.

Pregnant or injured pigs are often kept away from tourists by caretakers.

Tour operators and the Bahamian government monitor the pigs’ health to prevent overcrowding or illness.

Swimming with pigs in the Bahamas remains one of the most unique and enjoyable family experiences in the Caribbean. It combines wildlife interaction, beach exploration, and a glimpse of Bahamian culture. When done responsibly, it offers a memorable day trip that supports local tourism and animal care initiatives.

Families visiting in 2025 can expect well-organized tours, improved animal welfare practices, and sustainable tourism management ensuring that Pig Beach continues to delight visitors for years to come.