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Pig Beach (Big Major Cay)
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Animal habitat
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Pig Beach, located on the uninhabited island of Big Major Cay in the Exumas, is world-famous for its population of feral pigs that swim in the ocean. The origin of the animals is not precisely documented; theories range from pigs left behind by sailors to survivors of a local shipwreck. These pigs have adapted remarkably well to their island environment and are now regularly provided with fresh water and food by visiting tourists and locals. Since the island's natural ecosystem is sparse, this external support is vital for the animals to thrive in the saline surroundings. Since the early 2010s, tourism to the site has surged, leading to the implementation of strict protection regulations to ensure the welfare of the pigs. The unique interaction between humans and animals in the crystal-clear waters of the Exumas has become an iconic symbol of Bahamian tourism. Geographically, the cay is part of a chain of over 360 islands known for their extraordinary water clarity.
- Location: Bahamas
- Top sights: Pig Beach · Staniel Cay
- Nearby: Black Point (17 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 24 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 26 | 25 |
| Rain mm | 23 | 19 | 21 | 34 | 86 | 95 | 67 | 74 | 92 | 92 | 47 | 24 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
The pigs are present on Pig Beach year-round, but the best time to visit is from November to April when the weather is calmer. During summer months the heat can be intense and storms may occur.
Best time of day
Early morning is handy as the pigs are then active, walking along the beach and entering the water. By late morning the animals often become lazier, especially in the midday heat.
Etiquette
Do not feed the pigs human food; they have their own natural foraging lifestyle. Keep your distance, especially when piglets are present, and avoid making loud noises.
What to bring
Water shoes are handy for stable footing when swimming with the pigs. A waterproof camera or GoPro is recommended to capture the encounters in the clear water.
Getting there
Pig Beach is reachable only by boat, typically as part of a boat tour from Great Exuma or Staniel Cay. Private charters are also an option, but arrangements should be made in advance.
What to expect
The pigs often come to the shore as soon as a boat approaches, expecting food. Be patient if they hesitate at first - calm behavior and a little time will encourage them to come closer.
Geography
Facts
- Located on the uninhabited island of Big Major Cay.
- Home to a colony of approximately 20 feral swimming pigs.
- The pigs likely originated from sailors or a historical shipwreck.
- Strict feeding regulations were introduced in 2017 for visitors.
- The island lacks natural fresh water sources for the animals.
- Part of the Exuma Cays, a chain of more than 360 islands.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Pig Beach (Big Major Cay) (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Are you allowed to swim with the pigs?
Yes, that is the main attraction on Big Major Cay.
Are you allowed to feed the pigs?
Yes, but only with approved foods like fruits and vegetables.
How do you reach Pig Beach?
Only by boat, usually as part of a guided tour from Staniel Cay or Great Exuma.
Are there restrooms there?
No, there are no sanitary facilities on the uninhabited island.
When is the best time to visit?
Early morning, before the large tourist boats arrive.
Pig Beach (Big Major Cay): where is it located?
Pig Beach (Big Major Cay) is located in Bahamas.
Pig Beach (Big Major Cay): what is there to see?
Highlights include Pig Beach, Staniel Cay.
Pig Beach (Big Major Cay): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Pig Beach (Big Major Cay): why is it worth visiting?
Pig Beach, located on the uninhabited island of Big Major Cay in the Exumas, is world-famous for its population of feral pigs that swim in the ocean.
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Nearby cities
Hartswell
A coastal settlement on Great Exuma.
Stewart Manor
A residential settlement near George Town, Exuma.
George Town (Exuma)
The capital and largest town of the Exuma island chain.
Staniel Cay
An island in the Exumas famous for the nearby Thunderball Grotto.
Black Point
One of the largest settlements in the Exuma Cays.
Little Farmer's Cay
A small, family-run island in the Exumas.
Ramsey
A small, quiet settlement on Great Exuma Island.
Williams Town
A settlement on Little Exuma Island.
The Ferry
A settlement on Great Exuma that serves as a ferry link.
Barraterre
A fishing community on Great Exuma.
Rolleville
A historic settlement in Exuma founded by a former slave.
Forbes Hill
A small coastal community on Little Exuma.
Moss Town
A settlement on Great Exuma, near the international airport.
Alexandria
A small, rural settlement on Great Exuma.
Rolletown
A historic settlement on Great Exuma founded by Lord Rolle.
History & landmarks
More places
George Town Marina
A central harbor basin for yachts, provisioning, and charter boats.
🗺️
Exuma Cays Karst Topography
The landscape of the Exuma Cays is defined by karst, featuring countless caves, blue holes, and sharp limestone formations.
Compass Cay Nurse Sharks
A marina in the Exumas where visitors can swim with a population of relatively harmless nurse sharks in shallow water.
Black Point Dock
A local landing point for supplies and small cargo vessels.
Fauna of Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park
The park is a sanctuary for a variety of marine and terrestrial life, including seabirds, hutias (a species of rodent), and reef fish.
Fish Cays (Exuma) Relief
A group of small, low-lying cays in the Exumas surrounded by sandbars and coral reefs.
Saddleback Cay
A picturesque uninhabited island in the northern Exumas with a crescent-shaped beach.
Living Stromatolites
Found in the hypersaline lakes of Highborne Cay in the Exumas, living stromatolites are layered structures formed by microbes.