Swim with the pigs at Big Major Cay (“Pig Island”)
Jump into the turquoise shallows of the Exumas and swim alongside the famous free-roaming pigs of Big Major Cay. A playful, unforgettable encounter with nature’s unexpected island residents
There are few travel moments as delightfully unexpected — or as joyfully photographed — as wading into the warm turquoise waters of the Exumas to find yourself greeted by a family of friendly pigs paddling out to meet you. Welcome to Big Major Cay, affectionately known around the world as Pig Island, where curiosity and sunshine combine to create one of the most iconic experiences in the Bahamas.
The island itself is uninhabited by people, yet home to dozens of free-roaming pigs that have made its shallow beaches their playground. As your boat glides toward the white-sand shore, you’ll spot them trotting along the waterline or lazily floating under the Bahamian sun. The pigs are surprisingly good swimmers — they often swim out to greet arriving visitors, hoping for attention (and maybe a snack).
Legend has it that the pigs were left behind by sailors, shipwreck survivors, or simply introduced by locals who thought the island would make the perfect open-air farm. Whatever their origin, they’ve since become beloved celebrities — their pink snouts and mischievous charm now symbolizing the carefree spirit of the Exumas.
Visitors can spend time interacting with the pigs in their natural environment, taking photos, and gently feeding them under the guidance of local boat captains who ensure the animals’ welfare. It’s a scene straight out of a dream — crystal-clear waters, untouched sands, and playful animals surrounded by a horizon of endless blues.
The experience often includes stops at other nearby Exuma highlights, such as Thunderball Grotto (the James Bond cave), Staniel Cay Yacht Club, or the nurse shark encounter at Compass Cay. Together, they make for an unforgettable day trip — one part nature, one part wonder, and pure Bahamian magic.
Whether you’re a photographer chasing the perfect shot, a family looking for a unique adventure, or a couple searching for something whimsical and unforgettable, swimming with the pigs at Big Major Cay is an experience that captures the essence of what makes the Bahamas so extraordinary — playful, pristine, and purely one-of-a-kind.