Are the swimming pigs in Abaco the same as the Exuma pigs?

They are different colonies of pigs on separate islands. The Exuma pigs on Big Major Cay became famous first and draw most of the attention. The Abaco pigs on No Name Cay are a separate group that offers a similar experience with fewer visitors.

What should I bring to feed the swimming pigs?

Bring apples, carrots, or other vegetables. The pigs enjoy fresh produce and will swim out to your boat or the beach for treats. Avoid processed foods. Be careful as they can get excited and grab food bags from your hands.

What is the best time of day to visit the swimming pigs?

Early morning offers the best experience at both locations. Tour boats typically arrive mid-morning, so arriving before 9am means fewer crowds and hungrier, more active pigs. The pigs are also more comfortable in cooler morning temperatures.

Comparison

Swimming Pigs: Exuma vs Abaco - Where Should You Meet the Famous Bahamas Pigs?

The swimming pigs of the Bahamas have become one of the Caribbean's most iconic animal encounters. Pigs now inhabit several Bahamian islands, but the two primary destinations are Big Major Cay in the Exumas and No Name Cay in the Abacos.

Each location offers a different experience in terms of crowd levels, accessibility, and overall atmosphere. Understanding these differences helps you choose the pig encounter that matches your travel style and itinerary.

	Exuma (Big Major Cay)	Abaco (No Name Cay)
Fame and crowd levels	The original and world-famous Pig Beach. Appears in countless social media posts and travel guides. Receives heavy boat traffic daily, especially from Nassau day trips.	Lesser-known alternative that sees far fewer visitors. Locals call it Piggyville. Offers a more relaxed, intimate encounter without the crowds of Exuma.
Getting there	Located in the Exuma Cays, accessible via boat from Staniel Cay or day trip from Nassau. Nassau trips require a full day with flights or lengthy boat rides.	Short boat ride from Green Turtle Cay, Treasure Cay, or Marsh Harbour. Easy to reach on a charter sailboat cruising the Sea of Abaco.
The pigs themselves	Larger colony of pigs accustomed to heavy visitor traffic. Some reports of aggressive behavior when food is expected. Experience feels more commercialized.	Smaller group of friendly pigs who swim out to greet arriving boats. More relaxed demeanor due to fewer visitors. Feels like a local secret.
Combined attractions	Exuma day trips typically include nurse shark encounters at Compass Cay, iguanas at Bitter Guana Cay, and sandbar lunch stops. Full-day adventure package.	Easy to combine with Green Turtle Cay exploration, beach time, and lunch at nearby Big O's beach bar. Fits naturally into an Abaco sailing itinerary.
Cost comparison	Day trips from Nassau run $300-500 per person including flights and boat tour. Staying at Staniel Cay reduces costs but requires separate lodging.	If already visiting Abaco, reaching No Name Cay costs only boat fuel or a modest charter fee. Much more affordable for Abaco-based travelers.
Best for	Bucket-list visitors who want to see the original famous pigs. Those planning a dedicated Exumas trip. Instagram-focused travelers seeking the iconic location.	Sailors and charter guests already cruising the Abacos. Families seeking a calmer experience. Anyone who values authenticity over fame.

Our recommendation

Choose Exuma if seeing the original, world-famous swimming pigs is a bucket-list priority and you are planning a dedicated trip to the Exuma Cays. The full-day experience combines multiple attractions and delivers the classic Pig Beach photos you have seen online. Choose Abaco if you prefer a quieter, more authentic encounter without tour boat crowds. For sailors cruising the Sea of Abaco, No Name Cay sits right along common itineraries and offers a relaxed visit with friendly pigs. Families with children often prefer the calmer Abaco experience. Many visitors find the Abaco pigs more charming precisely because they feel undiscovered.

Frequently asked questions

Are the swimming pigs in Abaco the same as the Exuma pigs?: They are different colonies of pigs on separate islands. The Exuma pigs on Big Major Cay became famous first and draw most of the attention. The Abaco pigs on No Name Cay are a separate group that offers a similar experience with fewer visitors.
What should I bring to feed the swimming pigs?: Bring apples, carrots, or other vegetables. The pigs enjoy fresh produce and will swim out to your boat or the beach for treats. Avoid processed foods. Be careful as they can get excited and grab food bags from your hands.
What is the best time of day to visit the swimming pigs?: Early morning offers the best experience at both locations. Tour boats typically arrive mid-morning, so arriving before 9am means fewer crowds and hungrier, more active pigs. The pigs are also more comfortable in cooler morning temperatures.

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