Swimming with Pigs in the Bahamas: The Complete Guide (2026)

Swimming with pigs in the Bahamas is one of the most unique and unforgettable wildlife experiences in the Caribbean. At Big Major Cay in the Exumas, a group of wild pigs have made a pristine, turquoise-water beach their home — and they'll swim right out to greet your boat. Here's everything you need to know to make it happen.

Where Are the Swimming Pigs?

The famous swimming pigs live on Big Major Cay (also called Pig Beach), a small uninhabited island in the Exuma Cays, about 80 miles southeast of Nassau. There are no hotels, no roads — just a beautiful beach, crystal-clear water, and a colony of friendly pigs who have lived here for decades.

Nobody knows exactly how the pigs got there. The most popular theory is that sailors dropped them off intending to return and cook them — but never came back. The pigs thrived, learned to swim, and became one of the Bahamas' most beloved attractions.

How to Get There from Nassau

There are two main ways to reach Pig Beach from Nassau:

🚤 Day Trip by Boat — The most popular option. Several tour operators run full-day excursions from Nassau by speedboat or catamaran. The journey takes about 1.5–2 hours each way. Tours typically include stops at Pig Beach, a shark-feeding spot, and snorkeling at a coral reef.

✈️ Flight to Exuma + Boat — Fly from Nassau to George Town, Exuma (30-minute flight), then take a short boat ride to Big Major Cay. This option gives you more time at the island and is better for overnight trips.

What to Expect on the Day

Most Nassau-based pig beach tours depart early (7–8am) and return by late afternoon (4–5pm). Here's what a typical day looks like:

• 7:30am — Depart Nassau marina by speedboat • 9:30am — Arrive at Pig Beach. The pigs often swim out to meet you before you even anchor! • 10:30am — Stop at Compass Cay to snorkel with nurse sharks (harmless but thrilling) • 12:00pm — Beach picnic lunch included • 1:00pm — Iguana feeding stop at Allan's Cay • 2:30pm — Snorkel on a shallow coral reef • 4:30pm — Return to Nassau

Tips for the Best Pig Beach Experience

🐷 Do bring fruit and vegetables to feed the pigs — they love cucumbers, carrots, and grapes. Most tours provide feed, but bringing extras makes the pigs extra friendly.

🐷 Don't feed the pigs alcohol, processed foods, or junk food. It's harmful to them and tour guides take this seriously.

🐷 Do go in the water — the pigs will swim right up to you and it's absolutely magical. Bring an underwater camera or GoPro.

🐷 Don't corner or chase the pigs — they're friendly but wild. Let them come to you.

🐷 Do wear reef-safe sunscreen — the Exuma waters are crystal clear and some of the most pristine in the world. Keep them that way.

How Much Does it Cost?

Pig beach day trips from Nassau typically cost $180–$250 per adult and $120–$160 for children under 12. The price usually includes the boat ride, snorkeling equipment, a guide, and a basic lunch. Premium tours on smaller private boats cost more but offer a more exclusive experience.

Best Time of Year to Go

The pigs are there year-round, but the best conditions for a day trip are November through April. The weather is cooler, seas are calmer, and visibility underwater is exceptional. Summer visits (June–October) are possible but afternoon thunderstorms can disrupt the return trip.

Is it Worth It?

Absolutely — and almost universally. Swimming with pigs at Big Major Cay is consistently rated as one of the top travel experiences in the entire Caribbean. The combination of pristine blue water, friendly wild pigs, nurse sharks, and colorful reefs makes for an extraordinary day that most visitors say is the highlight of their entire Bahamas trip.