Big Major Cay

Origins of the Swimming Pigs

The origins of the Big Major Cay pigs remain shrouded in delightful mystery. Local legends offer several explanations: some say sailors left the pigs as a future food source and never returned, while others believe they swam ashore from a shipwreck long ago. Another theory suggests they were brought over from a nearby island where they had become a nuisance.

Whatever their history, the pigs have thrived on Big Major Cay for generations. They learned to swim in search of food and fresh water, and over time became accustomed to the boats that anchor offshore. Today they are perhaps the most photographed animals in the Bahamas, drawing visitors from around the world to this otherwise unremarkable stretch of sand.

What to Expect at Pig Beach

Arriving at Big Major Cay, you will anchor or drift in the shallow turquoise water offshore. Within moments, the pigs will notice your boat and begin wading into the water to investigate. The more confident swimmers will paddle all the way out to your vessel, their snouts raised above the surface, hoping for a handout.

Visitors can wade into the knee-deep shallows to interact with the pigs on the beach. The animals range in temperament from gentle piglets to more assertive adults, so keeping a respectful distance from the larger pigs is wise. The beach itself is a beautiful crescent of white sand backed by scrubby vegetation, with excellent water clarity for photographs.

Tips for Your Visit

Bring fresh fruits and vegetables to feed the pigs, such as apples, carrots, and lettuce. Avoid citrus fruits, onions, and any processed foods. When feeding, keep your hands flat with fingers together to prevent accidental nips from eager mouths. The pigs are wild animals and can bite if they mistake fingers for food.

Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday sun. The pigs are fed regularly throughout the day, so they may be less interested in food during peak visiting hours. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a waterproof camera, and water shoes for the sandy bottom.

Conservation and Care

The swimming pigs are cared for by local residents and tour operators who ensure they have access to fresh water and supplemental food. Rain collection systems provide drinking water, and shaded areas have been created to protect the pigs from the tropical sun.

The colony survived Hurricane Dorian in 2019 thanks to the dedication of locals who continued to bring food and check on the animals during the recovery. Visitors are asked to treat the pigs with respect, avoid chasing or frightening them, and leave no trash behind on the beach.

Getting there

Big Major Cay is accessible only by boat. Most visitors depart from Staniel Cay, just a five-to-ten minute ride away, where boats can be rented or guided tours arranged. Day trips from Nassau by speedboat take approximately two hours each way, or you can fly into Staniel Cay Airport and arrange transport from there. The island has no dock, so boats anchor offshore and visitors wade to the beach.

Frequently asked questions

Are the swimming pigs safe to swim with?

The pigs are generally friendly and accustomed to visitors, but they are wild animals and can bite if they mistake fingers for food. Keep your hands flat when feeding, maintain a safe distance from larger pigs, and never chase or corner them.

What should I feed the swimming pigs?

Bring fresh fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, grapes, and lettuce. Avoid citrus fruits, onions, foods with bones, and any processed or packaged foods. The pigs should not be overfed, so bring small quantities.

How did the pigs get to Big Major Cay?

The exact origins are unknown. Popular theories include sailors leaving them as a future food source, pigs swimming ashore from a shipwreck, or locals relocating them from another island. They have lived on the cay for generations.