Pig Beach
An uninhabited island in the Exuma archipelago famous for its resident colony of semi-wild pigs, which wade in the shallow waters and interact with visitors.
At a glance
Pig Beach, officially known as Big Major Cay, is one of the Bahamas’ most unusual natural attractions. The island itself remains uninhabited by humans but hosts approximately 20 pigs, along with stray cats and goats. The shallow turquoise waters surrounding the cay have made it a destination for tourists seeking an encounter with the animals.
History
The origin of the pigs remains uncertain. Local tradition holds that sailors brought them to the island with plans to return and cook them later—but never came back. The animals survived by consuming excess food from passing ships. Alternative accounts suggest the pigs either survived a shipwreck and swam ashore, or escaped from a neighbouring island. Some observers propose the colony became part of an economic strategy to attract tourism to the region.
What you see
Pig Beach is characterized by fine sand, shallow turquoise waters, and three freshwater springs. The island’s most distinctive feature is the free-roaming pig population, which has adapted to life in a tropical marine environment and regularly wades into the water. Visitors encounter an unusual landscape where livestock grazes in paradisiacal conditions.
Cultural significance
The island exemplifies how natural curiosities become cultural phenomena. The pigs have transformed an otherwise unremarkable cay into a recognized destination, drawing international visitors to the Exuma archipelago. The site reflects broader Bahamian tourism development and the role of animals in cultural narrative.
Key facts
- Official name: Big Major Cay
- Alternative names: Pig Island, Major Cay
- Location: Exuma, Bahamas
- Coordinates: 24.1829788, -76.4564426
- Population: Approximately 20 pigs, plus cats and goats
- Nearest airport: Staniel Cay
- Nearest international airport: Exuma
- Distance from Nassau: 77 nautical miles (35–40 minutes by air; 2 hours by boat)
Practical information
The island is uninhabited and accessible only by boat or small aircraft. Visits are typically arranged through tour operators based in Exuma or nearby islands. Opening hours are not listed; check with local tourism services for current conditions and access.
Getting there
Fly into Exuma’s international airport or the smaller airstrip at Staniel Cay. From there, arrange boat transport through local tour operators. Nassau is approximately 2 hours’ sailing distance or 35–40 minutes by air from the island.
Sources & resources
Find it on the map
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