Top Spots for Swimming With Pigs in The Bahamas

Every season in the Bahamas brings its own charm, but summer holds a special place in our hearts. School is out, the weekends feel gloriously free, and boating season is in full swing. 

Families head out for quick jaunts to Rose Island or, on those perfect “Exuma Days” when the wind is calm and the ocean is flat, venture farther into the sparkling waters, enjoying swimming, fishing, snorkelling, and whatnot!

One activity that’s a year-round favourite, though, is swimming with pigs. This quirky slice of paradise blends mystery with fun, offering an unforgettable experience no matter when you visit. 

Whether the pigs of Big Major Cay (fondly called Pig Island) arrived as shipwreck survivors, sailor provisions, or part of a tourism plan, they’ve become iconic residents of the Bahamas and global stars.

Locals love the ease of a weekend trip to meet the pigs, while tourists make it a bucket-list adventure. With several locations offering this experience, swimming with pigs has become a must-do for anyone exploring the Bahamas.

Let’s dive into the story behind the swimming pigs and discover where you can join them in their tropical waters.

What is Swimming with Pigs and Pig Island Bahamas?

Swimming with pigs is a one-of-a-kind experience where visitors interact with friendly pigs that paddle in the turquoise waters of the Bahamas. This activity is most famously associated with Big Major Cay, fondly called Pig Island, the first island where swimming pigs appeared.  

The origins of these swimming pigs are shrouded in mystery. Some say they are shipwreck survivors, while others say sailors left them behind as a food source. Some speculate that locals relocated them, eventually becoming an intentional tourist attraction. 

Regardless of their beginnings, these pigs adapted to their environment and learned to associate humans with food, making them a charming and unique draw.  

Today, swimming with pigs has transformed into a major tourism highlight. Whether you arrive by boat or join a guided tour, seeing pigs wading through crystal-clear waters creates a delightful and unforgettable experience for visitors, local or global.

“What a magnificent trip!!! The crew was helpful, gracious, professional and just all around great! We got to play with pigs and sea turtles! We saw gorgeous beaches, and the ride out and back was fantastic!” — Tripadvisor.

Top 5 Locations to Swim with Pigs in the Bahamas

Swimming with pigs isn’t just a global tourist favourite—it’s also a fun weekend activity for locals. While Pig Island is the most famous spot, several locations across the Bahamas offer this unique experience, each with its own charm and appeal. 

Here are some of the best places to experience this unforgettable adventure:

1. Big Major Cay (Pig Island): The Iconic and Most Famous Location

Big Major Cay, better known as Pig Island, is the ultimate destination for swimming with pigs in the Bahamas. Located in the Exuma Cays, this uninhabited island is home to the original swimming pigs that have captured the hearts of travellers worldwide.

As you approach Pig Island by boat, you’re greeted by pigs wading out to meet you, eager for snacks and attention. The experience allows visitors to feed, swim alongside, and capture photos with these friendly animals in the stunningly clear waters. 

Beyond the pigs, the surrounding Exuma Cays boast other attractions, including Thunderball Grotto, made famous by James Bond, and breathtaking sandbars ideal for a picnic or relaxing swim.

Real Estate Opportunities Near Pig Island

Pig Island is near Staniel Cay and Great Exuma, which offer some of the best real estate investment options. 

Staniel Cay, located just a short boat ride away, features charming residential properties ideal for vacation homes. Great Exuma is slightly farther away but provides a broader range of real estate opportunities, from luxurious beachfront villas to rental-friendly condos.

Explore real estate options in the Exumas

2. Rose Island: Conveniently Located Near Nassau

Just a short boat ride from New Providence Island, Rose Island offers an easily accessible option for swimming with pigs, particularly for the residents of Nassau and Paradise Island. This private island is a favourite for day trips, particularly for those looking for a quick escape from Nassau’s liveliness.

Visitors to Rose Island can enjoy a more curated experience, with friendly pigs roaming the beach and paddling in the shallow waters. The island also offers beautiful sandy shores, vibrant snorkelling spots, and a laid-back atmosphere, making it a great place to unwind.

Real Estate Opportunities Near Rose Island

Nassau, being Rose Island’s neighbour, is a prime location for real estate investment near the island. You can find all types of properties and neighbourhoods here. From luxury waterfront homes to smaller, family-friendly options in residential neighbourhoods, properties here are always in demand.

The rental income potential is also high since many tourists use Nassau as a base with all modern amenities as they take trips to other islands of The Bahamas. Families and professionals relocating to The Bahamas also prefer Nassau for its schools, hospitals, and other conveniences.

Explore real estate options on New Providence Island

3. Spanish Wells: A Quieter Alternative With Its Own Charm

Spanish Wells, located near Eleuthera, offers a serene and less crowded take on the swimming pigs experience. The pigs here are found on Meeks Patch, a small cay just a short boat ride from Spanish Wells, providing visitors with a tranquil and intimate setting.

Meeks Patch offers the opportunity to swim with pigs without the bustling crowds of more popular spots. Beyond swimming with pigs, Spanish Wells features picturesque beaches, a charming fishing village, and a welcoming community vibe.

Real Estate Opportunities Near Spanish Wells

The area around Spanish Wells and Eleuthera offers unique real estate opportunities, from cosy beachfront cottages to larger family homes. Investor interest in Eleuthera is increasing with projects like Jack’s Bay on the horizon. 

Spanish Wells is perfect for buyers seeking a quieter, more authentic Bahamian experience. The peaceful setting and attractions like Meeks Patch make it ideal for retirees and families who value privacy and natural beauty while benefiting from a sought-after rental market.

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4. Abaco: No Name Cay's Friendly Swine

In the Abaco Islands, No Name Cay—affectionately dubbed "Piggyville"—is home to a delightful group of swimming pigs. Situated just south of Green Turtle Cay, this spot provides a serene environment where you can interact with these friendly animals and many marine animals.

Visitors can feed and swim with the pigs, surrounded by beautiful beaches and clear waters, perfect for a relaxing day trip. Local establishments like Big O's Bar and Restaurant enhance the experience with authentic Bahamian cuisine and hospitality.

Real Estate Opportunities Near No Name Cay

Abaco, in particular Treasure Cay, presents attractive real estate options near No Name Cay. You can buy beachfront properties and charming cottages with an excellent potential for rental income. 

This location suits buyers looking for a tranquil environment with a local charm. Properties here will appeal to vacationers and long-term renters seeking an authentic Bahamian experience, making it a promising investment for rental income.

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5. Long Island: Dove Cay's Swimming Pigs

Long Island is a lesser-known island famous for the Dean’s Blue Hole, the third-deepest blue hole on Earth, and a popular tourist attraction for diving, fishing, and snorkelling. It offers an equally enchanting opportunity to swim with pigs on Dove Cay, located northwest near Stella Maris.

Accessible via private tours, visitors can interact with the pigs in a serene and picturesque setting. The experience often includes additional activities like snorkelling and exploring nearby cays, providing a comprehensive adventure.

Real Estate Opportunities Near Dove Cay

Long Island has miles and miles of beachfront lots up for grabs. The island is gradually drawing attention, but property prices are still affordable. The area's natural beauty and emerging attractions are increasing its investment appeal. 

Properties here attract eco-tourists and adventure seekers, offering the potential for rental income from visitors drawn to unique attractions like Dove Cay's swimming pigs and the world-renowned Vertical Blue Freediving Competition at the Dean’s Blue Hole.

Explore real estate options on Long Island

Best Time To Go Swimming with the Pigs

The best time to swim with the pigs in the Bahamas is during the dry season, from December to April, when the weather is sunny, and the waters are calm. These months offer ideal conditions for boating and enjoying the stunning turquoise seas.

For a more peaceful experience, plan your visit early in the morning or during weekdays to avoid crowds, especially at popular spots like Pig Island and Rose Island. 

If you're travelling during the off-season, from May to November, keep in mind that this is the rainy season, with a higher chance of storms, but you’ll likely find fewer tourists.

Safety Tips for Interacting and Feeding the Pigs

Swimming with pigs in the Bahamas is a unique experience but requires some safety precautions to keep yourself and the pigs safe. Although these friendly animals are used to human interaction, following some basic guidelines will ensure a fun and safe visit for everyone.

Here are some key safety tips to keep in mind:

• Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that might startle the pigs. Let them come to you at their own pace.

• While the pigs are friendly, remember they are animals and may not always want to interact.

• Hold food out with an open palm to prevent accidental bites. 

• Avoid feeding them anything harmful, like processed snacks or items not part of their regular diet.

• The pigs are fed regularly by caretakers, so stick to the recommended feeding portions provided by your guide.

• Always keep an eye on young children to keep their interactions safe.

• Follow the instructions of tour operators and stay within the permitted zones for interacting with the pigs.

• Pigs are strong swimmers but can unintentionally bump into you while moving in the water, so stay aware of your surroundings.

How to Plan a Weekend Swimming with Pigs

Planning a weekend to swim with the pigs is simple and oh-so-worth it. On calm, sunny days, Bahamians love hopping on a boat and heading to places like Rose Island or Pig Island in the Exumas. 

A quick trip to Rose Island is perfect for a laid-back day, while Big Major Spot can be an excellent weekend getaway.

It’s not just about the pigs, though. A weekend like this means stopping at hidden sandbars, snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, and enjoying a picnic with friends or family. Sometimes, we add a little fishing or just relax on the beach to soak up the beauty of the Bahamas.

The best part? This isn’t just a vacation dream—it’s a way of life here. With the right property, you can easily access these unforgettable adventures. If that sounds like the lifestyle you’re after, contact our expert local agents, and we’d love to help you find a home that makes every weekend feel like paradise.