If you’ve ever dreamed of a tropical escape where crystal-clear waters meet an experience so unique it becomes a lifetime memory, then swimming with pigs in Exuma is one adventure you can’t miss. This charming and slightly surreal encounter has become one of the most talked-about activities in the Bahamas, and for good reason.

Imagine arriving by boat at a secluded island, greeted not by people, but by friendly pigs paddling out to meet you. For families, couples, or solo adventurers, this is a once-in-a-lifetime bucket-list moment that blends wildlife interaction, natural beauty, and pure Caribbean magic. I’ve done it multiple times, and every visit feels like the first—thrilling, surprising, and utterly unforgettable.

Why Swimming with Pigs is the Most Famous Experience in Exuma

The story of the Exuma swimming pigs begins at Big Major Cay, more famously known as Pig Beach. The origins are wrapped in local lore: some say the pigs were left behind by sailors who intended to return and cook them but never did. Others believe they swam ashore from a shipwreck and found the island’s fresh water and lush surroundings perfect for survival.

Regardless of the real story, the pigs have thrived here for decades, becoming Exuma’s most famous residents. They’ve been featured in travel magazines, YouTube videos, and even celebrity Instagram feeds. Watching them swim toward your boat is a mix of comedy and awe. You’ll see snouts poking above the turquoise water, ears flapping, and tails wagging.

Fun Fact: The pigs aren’t natural-born swimmers. They’ve learned over time, and now they paddle as if it’s second nature, especially when they know tourists might have snacks.

Where to Find the Swimming Pigs – Big Major Cay & Nearby Attractions

Pig Beach sits among the 365 cays that make up the Exuma archipelago. Big Major Cay itself is uninhabited by humans but is just a short boat ride from Staniel Cay, the nearest populated island with facilities, accommodations, and a small airport.

Getting here is part of the adventure. You’ll cruise past cays with private mansions, untouched beaches, and hidden lagoons before spotting the pigs. The water surrounding the island is shallow and stunningly clear, ideal for photos and safe for swimming.

Nearby, you’ll find Thunderball Grotto, a famous cave featured in the James Bond films, and Staniel Cay Yacht Club, a hub for boating travelers. A day trip to Pig Beach often includes multiple stops, making it a full-day exploration of Exuma’s highlights.

How to Get to Pig Beach from Nassau, Georgetown, or Florida

One of the best things about Pig Beach is its accessibility from multiple points in the Bahamas and even from the U.S.

  • From Nassau: Join a speedboat day tour (about 2 hours each way) or take a short flight to Staniel Cay and hop on a local boat tour.
  • From Georgetown, Great Exuma: Tours depart regularly, taking you on a scenic ride through the cays.
  • From Florida: Private charters and small group flights from Miami or Fort Lauderdale are available, often packaged with guided boat tours in Exuma.

Travel Tip: If you have the time, opt for a multi-day trip instead of a quick in-and-out tour. This way, you can enjoy more islands, relaxed schedules, and avoid the midday crowds.

Best Time to Visit for the Perfect Pig Encounter

Like much of the Bahamas, Exuma enjoys warm weather year-round, but the best months for calm seas and pleasant temperatures are December to April, also known as the high season. This period offers crystal-clear waters, comfortable heat, and the most reliable tour schedules, making it the best season to visit the Bahamas for this adventure.

That said, shoulder seasons like May–June and November can offer lower prices and fewer crowds. Avoid peak hurricane season (September–October) when weather disruptions are more likely.

Mornings are ideal for visiting Pig Beach as the pigs are more active and eager for interaction before the midday heat.

Booking Your Swimming with Pigs Tour – What to Expect

A good Pig Beach tour is much more than just a boat ride. Most excursions include:

  • Round-trip boat transport
  • Knowledgeable local guides
  • Snorkel gear for nearby reefs
  • Drinks and sometimes a picnic lunch
  • Multiple stops at other Exuma attractions

Tours vary between group trips (affordable, social atmosphere) and private charters (custom itineraries, more privacy). Both have their perks, but in my experience, private trips allow more time with the pigs and better photo opportunities.

For ease and quality, I always recommend booking in advance with reputable operators. Many packages let you Book Swimming with Animals in Exuma alongside other wildlife encounters like nurse sharks or sea turtles, perfect if you want a full day of animal experiences.

Meeting the Pigs – Safety, Etiquette & Responsible Tourism

The pigs are friendly, but they’re still animals, big ones at that, so respect is key.
Do:

  • Feed only approved fruits and vegetables, and always in the water (to keep pigs from eating sand).
  • Follow your guide’s instructions for petting and taking photos.
  • Keep a safe distance from piglets; mothers can be protective.

Don’t:

  • Chase or grab pigs.
  • Feed them junk food.
  • Leave trash or plastics behind.

Responsible tourism ensures Pig Beach remains a sustainable and safe attraction for both the pigs and visitors.

Pairing Your Pig Swim with Other Exuma Adventures

Exuma is more than its famous pigs. I often combine this trip with other unforgettable experiences like:

  • Swimming with nurse sharks at Compass Cay – an adrenaline rush with gentle giants.
  • Snorkeling in Thunderball Grotto – a kaleidoscope of marine life inside a cinematic cave.
  • Visiting sandbars and private beaches – perfect for picnics and relaxation.

These activities fit beautifully into a Bahamas things-to-do list, giving you a rich mix of wildlife, adventure, and relaxation.

Perfect for Families – Why Kids Love Pig Beach

If you’re traveling with kids, Pig Beach is one of the most family-friendly activities in the Bahamas. The pigs are used to human interaction, the waters are shallow, and boat operators often tailor trips to younger travelers.

For accommodations, you can Book Family-Friendly Resorts in Exuma that cater to travelers with kids, offering children’s menus, kid-safe pools, and family excursion packages. Plus, the memory of swimming alongside a pig is something your children will talk about for years.

Where to Stay – Resorts & Rentals Near Pig Beach

Staying close to Pig Beach means basing yourself in or near Staniel Cay. Popular choices include:

  • Staniel Cay Yacht Club – cozy cottages with a lively marina vibe.
  • Overwater bungalows – rare in the Bahamas, offering direct lagoon access.
  • Beachfront villas – perfect for groups or longer stays.

If you love unique, intimate stays, you can Book Boutique Hotels in Exuma that offer personalized service and authentic Bahamian hospitality.

Insider Tips from My Exuma Trips

Over multiple visits, I’ve picked up some tips to make your Pig Beach adventure even better:

  • Packing: Bring a waterproof bag, reef-safe sunscreen, and quick-dry towels.
  • Photography: GoPro or waterproof phone cases are essential.
  • Timing: Combine your visit with a 5-day island-hopping route to maximize your Bahamas adventure. This spreads out costs and lets you see multiple islands without rushing.

Cost Breakdown & Budgeting Tips

While costs vary, here’s a rough guide:

  • Group tour: $150–$250 per person
  • Private charter: $800–$1,500 depending on boat size
  • Flights to Staniel Cay: $100–$300 one way from Nassau

Bring cash for tips, souvenirs, and food at local stops. For more travel budgeting advice, check out our Bahamas budgeting and currency advice, so you know exactly how much to carry and the best ways to pay in the Bahamas.

Final Thoughts

Swimming with pigs in Exuma is more than just a tourist attraction; it’s an immersion into a unique side of Bahamian culture and wildlife. It’s playful, family-friendly, and surrounded by some of the most beautiful waters in the world. Whether you’re staying in a boutique hotel, enjoying luxury yacht life, or hopping between islands, this is one adventure worth making a centerpiece of your Bahamas trip.

And if you time it right, book with a trusted operator, and combine it with other cays and attractions, you’ll leave with more than just photos, you’ll leave with a story everyone will want to hear.