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Visiting the Swimming Pigs in the Bahamas

One of the most iconic — and unexpected — experiences in the Bahamas is visiting the swimming pigs of Big Major Cay, an uninhabited island in the Exumas.

Known as “Pig Beach,” this spot has become famous for its friendly pigs that swim out to greet visitors arriving by boat. The island doesn’t have more than 1 mile in length, and in combination with a couple cats and goats, the pigs are the only inhabitants of the island.

I visited Pig Beach as part of a guided day tour through the Exumas, which included stops at several nearby islands.

Selene Pigs Bahamas

Where do they come from?

Although no one knows for sure how they got there, as they are no native to the area and the cay where they are is uninhabited, there are a couple theories about it: one story says its owner put them on the vacant cay as they were taking the area around his house, another theory is that they were left by a group of sailors who planned to cook them later on, while some say they were survivors of a shipwreck.

But regardless of their precedence, they are an unique attraction. Nowadays there are around 30 pigs and adorable piglets on the unofficially named Pig Beach, who are fed by the tourists and the people that care for them.

What It’s Like to Visit Pig Beach

The pigs are incredibly friendly and used to interacting with visitors. Some are very large, while others are younger piglets roaming closer to shore. There are a few caretakers on the island who help ensure their well-being, maintain cleanliness, and keep an eye on interactions with tourists.

When we arrived, the tour provided us with food to feed the pigs — mostly fruits and vegetables. There’s also an option to buy additional food on the island, depending on the tour and operator.

Despite the popularity of the attraction, the pigs seem well cared for and content in their environment.

Bahamas swimming Pigs
Feeding pigs in the bahamas

Tips for Your Visit

Book a tour: The pigs are located on an island that’s only accessible by boat. Most tours to the Exumas include this stop as part of a multi-island itinerary.

Bring a waterproof camera: The pigs swimming out to meet your boat makes for great photos.

Be respectful: Follow your guide’s instructions, avoid feeding them inappropriate food, and be mindful of the younger piglets.

Are you ready to start discovering Bahamas?

This is the tour I did during my time in the Bahamas and personally recommend—leaving the link below so you can check it out for yourself.

Are you ready to start discovering Bahamas?

This is the tour I did during my time in the Bahamas and personally recommend—leaving the link below so you can check it out for yourself.

Tour bahamas

More things to see in Bahamas

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