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Pig Beach

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

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Pig Beach, officially known as Big Major Cay, is an uninhabited island in the Exuma district of the Bahamas that has achieved global fame for its resident population of feral pigs. These pigs are renowned for their unusual swimming behavior, frequently paddling out into the crystal-clear turquoise waters to greet visiting boats in search of food. The origins of the pigs remain a subject of local folklore, with theories ranging from sailors leaving them as a future food source to the animals surviving a nearby shipwreck, though they are now sustained by local caretakers and tourists. Geographically, the cay is part of the Exuma Cays, a chain of over 360 islands, and is composed mainly of limestone and dense tropical scrub. Because the island has no permanent human residents, the pigs live in a relatively natural environment, protected from large land predators. In recent years, the Bahamian government has introduced stricter welfare regulations and guidelines for visitors to ensure the health of the pigs and the preservation of the unique ecosystem.

Location: Bahamas
Nearby: Black Point (18 km)

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Pig Beach in the Exuma Cays is an uninhabited sandbar accessible only by boat. The famous swimming pigs roam freely on the beach and in the shallow water.

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Typical hours

The island is accessible around the clock as there are no official visiting hours. The pigs are most active early morning and late afternoon; boat tours typically depart between 9 and 10 am.

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Photography

Photography is of course allowed anytime - the pigs are very photogenic. Make sure you pack your camera or phone in a waterproof case, as the animals often splash and spray water.

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Time needed

Most boat tours spend about 30-60 minutes at Pig Beach. Plan for a half-day excursion from your base, including boat travel and possibly other stops.

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Combine with

Combine Pig Beach with a visit to nearby Thunderball Grotto or the Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park. Many boat tours offer combined packages with multiple destinations.

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Getting there

Pig Beach is reachable only by boat. Most visitors book an organised boat tour from Great Exuma or Staniel Cay; private charters are also an option.

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Insider tip

Bring dry treats for the pigs, but avoid bread or starchy foods - melon chunks or carrots work best. Keep an eye on your valuables as the pigs are very curious.

Geography

Coordinates

24.27400, -76.45600

Facts

Big Major Cay is an entirely uninhabited island located in the Exuma Cays.
The island is home to an estimated population of 20 to 25 pigs and piglets.
The pigs are not indigenous to the Bahamas but are descendants of domestic swine.
Access to the beach is strictly by boat from nearby islands such as Staniel Cay.
New visitor regulations were implemented in 2017 to protect the pigs from improper feeding.
In addition to the pigs, the island also supports a small population of feral goats.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Pig Beach (Big Major Cay)2 km · WExplore →

Exuma Cays Karst Topography5 km · SExplore →

Stairway to Heaven7 km · NExplore →

Compass Cay Nurse Sharks7 km · SExplore →

Black Point Dock15 km · NExplore →

Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park16 km · SExplore →

Black Point18 km · NExplore →

Little Farmer's Cay23 km · NExplore →

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Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Pig Beach?

On Big Major Cay in the Exumas, an uninhabited island.

Are you allowed to feed the pigs?

Yes, but only with fruit or vegetables in the water, not on the sand, to avoid sand ingestion.

How did the pigs get there?

It is a mystery; legends say sailors left them there as a future food source.

Are the pigs dangerous?

They are friendly but large and greedy. Be careful with small children.

What is the best time to visit?

Early morning, before the large tour boats arrive.

Pig Beach: where is it located?

Pig Beach is located in Bahamas.

Pig Beach: why is it worth visiting?

Pig Beach, officially known as Big Major Cay, is an uninhabited island in the Exuma district of the Bahamas that has achieved global fame for its resident population of feral pigs.

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