What You Need To Know About The Pig Island In The Bahamas
Published December 1, 2023
Picture yourself in an idyllic island paradise, where pristine waters gently caress soft sandy beaches, and vibrant landscapes unveil an extraordinary surprise: swimming pigs.
Each island in the Bahamas is known for different things. Harbour Island is known for the Pink Sand Beach, The Exumas is known for its pigs, and New Providence is known as the most populous island. The Exumas is a popular tropical vacation spot. It has pink sand, great snorkeling, and amazing hotels. What sets it apart is the island’s famous swimming pigs.
So, it wouldn’t be unreasonable to go to the Bahamas Pig Island immediately. But before you do, it might help if you first learn a thing or two about your destination.
Knowing the perfect time to visit Pig Island Bahamas would be helpful.
What’s The Best Time To Visit Pig Beach?
The best time to visit the pigs in the Bahamas is February to May. June through November is hurricane season in the area. The pigs would naturally be in their shelters when a storm comes, making the trip all for naught. Meanwhile, the beach will be packed with visitors during the peak season, which is December and January.
That leaves February to May as the perfect months to visit the beach. It’s not too crowded so you can easily monopolize the friendly pigs and there’s little possibility of bad weather.
Now, if by ‘time’ you mean the time of day, go to the beach as early as possible. The pigs will then have plenty of energy to paddle through the water with visitors. Otherwise, the beach pigs’ bellies would be full, and they’d probably just lie in the sand. But, of course, that’s assuming you know how to get to Pig Island.
How Do You Get To Pig Island?
The journey generally depends on where you’re coming from and what kind of transport you wish to take. You can reach the island from three central locations: Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Nassau. These locations are arranged based on their distance to the island, from farthest to nearest. As for travel options, you can go to the island by ferry, plane, or power boat.
For example, you must take several trips if you’re coming from a particularly distant location, like Fort Lauderdale. That said, here’s a look at your travel options for each area:
From Fort Lauderdale
- You can book a one-way trip with Makers Air from Fort Lauderdale to Staniel Cay. Staniel Cay is a small island where the closest airport to the Bahamas Pig Island is located.
Once you’re in Staniel Cay, the last part of the trip is to take a boat to the beach.
- From Fort Lauderdale, take a trip to Staniel Cay via a private plane.
- You can fly non-stop from Fort Lauderdale to Georgetown on Silver Airways. From there, you have the option to take a boat tour to the island.
From Miami
- From Miami, fly to George Town with American Airlines.
- From Miami, take a flight to Nassau, then to Staniel Cay.
From Nassau
- From Nassau, take a Flamingo Air flight to Staniel Cay. Once on the island, join a pig island tour.
- Book a flight tour from Nassau. It’ll take you straight to the beach.
- Book a powerboat tour from Nassau directly to the beach.
How Much Does It Cost To Swim With The Pigs In The Bahamas?
Swimming with pigs Bahamas costs around $400. Keep in mind that this only includes the boat trip from Staniel Cay to Pig Beach. You can spend a few minutes or even an hour interacting with the pigs. The expense will be higher if you count the cost to travel to the Bahamas from major locations like Fort Lauderdale, Miami, or Nassau.
- You may have to spend $700 to $900 from Fort Lauderdale to get to Staniel Cay.
- Your expenditure is about the same as Miami’s—$700 to $900.
- You’ll only have to spend $200 from Nassau since it’s closer to Pig Island.
How Many Pigs Are On The Island?
Typically, there are 20 to 25 pigs on the beach at the same time. Some are piglets, while others are adults. You may also find other animals on the island, like iguanas, though admittedly, they’re often not as friendly as the pigs.
Proper Etiquette When Swimming With Pigs
As much as you’d like to enjoy your day with swimming pigs Bahamas, there are unspoken rules you must abide by while on the beach. We’ve compiled a do’s and don’ts list to help in this regard:
Do’s
- Do get rid of the trash you may find along the way.
- Do treat the pigs with vegetables, fruits, and other non-processed foods.
Don’ts
- Don’t chase the pigs down and instead let them come to you.
- Don’t leave trash behind.
- Don’t do specific actions like carrying them, riding them, or excessively taking pictures. Treat the pigs with the same care and consideration as any human being. Show respect for these intelligent creatures and their well-being.
- Don’t disturb the pigs in case they are asleep upon your arrival.
- Don’t monopolize the pigs (pun intended). Many boats will likely arrive simultaneously, necessitating sharing this delightful experience with others.
The list primarily comprises things to avoid, as some visitors have displayed a lack of courtesy. Naturally, it’s advisable not to emulate their behavior, even if you’re eager to swim with the pigs. When visiting the pigs in Bahamas, it’s important to remember that other people are there too. Show respect and be considerate to everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pig Island
1. Is swimming with the pigs a safe activity?
Pigs, known for their docile nature, should be treated with care and respect during your visit. To have a good experience with the animals, follow the guidelines and be responsible on the island.
2. Where did the swimming pigs come from?
Over the years, many theories have come up about where the island’s beloved pigs came from. Though the truth is uncertain, one idea is that sailors left these creatures on the beach. They were meant to be eaten but were left behind instead. Sadly, the sailors didn’t come back. Instead, the clever pigs thrived on the island.
Another theory suggests that the pigs survived a shipwreck and swam to shore. They survived because there was lots of leftover food from passing ships.
Another captivating account tells of locals deliberately moving the pigs to Big Major Cay. Concerns of potential economic hardships during the Gulf War drove this action. Residents devised a contingency plan to face disruption of food supplies from the US to The Bahamas. They wanted to create a farm on Staniel Cay that could support itself and provide food for the island during emergencies. But fate stepped in. The pigs grew big and strong, and then they got away. They wandered around the island, bringing joy to everyone they met.
3. What’s the closest island to Pig Beach in The Bahamas?
Staniel Cay, a picturesque island in the Exumas, is a short and scenic boat ride from the famous Pig Beach. In under ten minutes from Staniel Cay, you can reach Big Major Cay. It’s home to adorable swimming pigs that tourists and locals love.
4. How are the pigs taken care of?
A special committee takes care of the pigs on the island. A nursery has been thoughtfully constructed to shield the piglets from inclement weather. Furthermore, the pigs receive regular check-ups from a diligent veterinarian.
Embracing Pig Island’s Charms
Pig Island, nestled in the Exumas of the Bahamas, offers a unique experience with its charming swimming pigs. The best time to visit is from February to May, which allows you to avoid crowds and stormy weather. This idyllic destination can be reached through various routes from Fort Lauderdale, Miami, or Nassau. The experience alone costs approximately $400, excluding travel expenses.
It’s important to respect others when you interact with them. Follow some basic guidelines to make sure everyone has a good experience. The mystery of where these pigs came from—sailors, shipwrecks, or local relocation—makes the island more fascinating. Pig Island is a magical place where you can experience nature’s wonders and meet delightful island residents.
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About The Author
With expertise in multiple fields, Rei Bayucca offers readers captivating and insightful articles. Through her writing, she aims to engage and enlighten readers with thought-provoking content. Experience and dedication ensure that her work is well-crafted and impactful.
