Swim with Pigs & Sharks? Your Ultimate Exuma Islands Adventure Guide

Ready for the ultimate Bahamas adventure? The Exuma Islands offer a unique blend of thrilling and relaxing experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Picture yourself swimming alongside friendly pigs in crystal-clear turquoise waters, then diving into the depths to encounter majestic sharks. This guide is your one-stop resource for planning the perfect Exuma getaway, complete with insider tips and practical advice.

Why Choose Exuma?

Exuma, a district of the Bahamas comprising over 365 islands and cays, is a paradise renowned for its untouched beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Forget crowded beaches and bustling resorts; Exuma offers secluded escapes, breathtaking scenery, and unbelievably clear water. The water’s visibility is so pristine, it’s often used in advertisements showcasing clear water. But it’s the unique animal encounters—swimming pigs and nurse sharks—that truly set Exuma apart.

Swimming with the Famous Pigs of Pig Beach

Pig Beach (Big Major Cay) is undoubtedly the most popular attraction in Exuma. These adorable, swimming pigs have become an international sensation, drawing visitors from around the globe. But how did they get there? There are multiple local legends, some tell of shipwrecked sailors leaving the pigs, others say they were brought over hoping they would become a future food source. The pigs you’ll see today are generations descended from the original colonizers of Pig Beach.

What to Expect

As you approach Pig Beach by boat, you’ll likely see the pigs swimming out to greet you! They’ve learned that boats mean food, so they’re always eager to say hello. Remember, these are still wild animals, so certain precautions should be taken in their environment. Once you’re on the beach, there’ll be plenty of opportunity to interact with them and take photos.

Essential Tips for a Respectful and Safe Experience

• DO NOT feed the pigs on the beach. Sand ingestion can be fatal to them. Feed them in the water, and ensure they only ingest food, not the surrounding debris.
• Only feed them authorized food. Tour operators typically provide food that’s safe for the pigs, usually fruits and vegetables.
• Approach slowly and calmly. Avoid startling them.
• Be mindful of piglets. Give them space to avoid upsetting the mother pigs.
• Wash your hands after interacting with the pigs.
• Listen to your tour guide’s instructions for any specific rules or recommendations they may have.

A local Bahamian organization, The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, provides helpful guidelines for visitors and ensures the wellbeing of the islands animals.

How to Get To Pig Beach

Pig Beach is located in Big Major Cay. The best way to get there is by boat. Many tour operators offer half-day or full-day excursions from Great Exuma or Staniel Cay. Some tours also include stops at other nearby attractions. If you are coming from Nassau/New Providence or even Florida, you can get to Exuma by plane. You can fly into Exuma International Airport and take connecting transportation (taxi) to tour sites.

Cost

Tour prices vary depending on the duration and inclusions. Half-day tours generally range from $150 to $250 per person, while full-day tours can cost between $250 and $400 per person. These usually include boat transportation, food for the pigs, and stops at other islands. Private charters are also available for a more personalized experience but are significantly more expensive.

Recommended Tour Operators

Here are some reputable tour operators that offer excursions to Pig Beach:

• Exuma Water Tours: Known for their knowledgeable guides and well-organized tours.
• Four C’s Adventures: Offers full-day tours with multiple stops, including Pig Beach, snorkeling, and iguana beach.
• Aquaquest Escapes: Provides both group and private tours with a focus on sustainable tourism.

Be sure to book in advance, especially during peak season (November to April), as tours tend to fill up quickly.

Swimming with Nurse Sharks at Compass Cay

Another incredible animal encounter awaits you at Compass Cay. Here, you can swim with gentle nurse sharks in a protected marina. Unlike the ferocious image of sharks, nurse sharks are docile and used to human interaction.

The Compass Cay Experience

The marina at Compass Cay is home to a thriving population of nurse sharks. They gather there because they know they’ll be fed by visitors. As you step into the water, you’ll be surrounded by these fascinating creatures, which can grow up to 10 feet long. Although they are generally harmless, it’s essential to remember that they are still wild animals.

Safety Guidelines for Swimming with Sharks

• Listen to the marina staff. They will provide safety instructions and guidelines.
• Avoid wearing shiny jewelry. It can attract the sharks’ attention.
• Do not grab or chase the sharks. Respect their space.
• Supervise children closely. Ensure they follow the safety guidelines.
• Wounds: Entry to this site is at your own discretion if you possess any open wounds, as the sharks may be able to detect blood in the water.

Reaching Compass Cay

Compass Cay is easily accessible by boat. Most tours that include Pig Beach also stop at Compass Cay. You can also rent a boat or hire a private charter from Great Exuma or Staniel Cay.

Fees

There is an entrance fee of $10 per person to enter the marina at Compass Cay. This fee helps support the upkeep of the marina and the sharks’ well-being.

Other Incredible Exuma Spots to Explore

While swimming with pigs and sharks are the main draws, Exuma has so much more to offer. Plan to spend some time exploring these other gems:

Thunderball Grotto

This underwater cave system, featured in James Bond films “Thunderball” and “Splash,” is a snorkeler’s paradise. Swim through schools of colorful fish and admire the stunning rock formations. It’s best to visit during low tide for optimal visibility and safety.

Iguana Beach (Allen’s Cay)

Also known as Allen’s Cay, this island is home to a colony of endangered Bahamian rock iguanas. These friendly reptiles will eagerly greet you on the beach in hopes of a snack. Bring grapes or leafy greens to feed them, but avoid bread or processed foods, which are harmful to their health.

Stocking Island

Just a short boat ride from Great Exuma, Stocking Island offers pristine beaches, hiking trails, and the famous Chat ‘N’ Chill beach bar. Spend the day lounging on the sand, playing beach volleyball, or enjoying a delicious conch salad while soaking up the laid-back atmosphere.

Tropic of Cancer Beach

Located exactly on the Tropic of Cancer line, this beach boasts soft, white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It’s the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and taking memorable photos. The beach is accessible by car, though the road can be a bit bumpy.

Underwater Plane Wreck

Off the coast of Norman’s Cay lies the wreckage of a drug-smuggling plane from the Carlos Lehder era. The plane is in shallow water and is easily accessible by snorkel.

Where to Stay in Exuma

Exuma offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Choose from luxurious resorts, charming boutique hotels, or private villas. Most accommodations are available on Great Exuma where the primary airport is located. Additional lodgings can be found on other smaller Keys that surround the main island.

Luxury Resorts

• Sandals Emerald Bay: An all-inclusive resort with a championship golf course, multiple restaurants, and stunning oceanfront views.
• Grand Isle Resort & Residences: Offers spacious villas with private balconies, a beachfront pool, and exceptional service.

Boutique Hotels

• Hideaways at Palm Bay: A charming collection of cottages and villas with a private beach and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Augusta Bay Bahamas: A beachfront hotel with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a swimming pool.

Vacation Rentals

Consider renting a private villa or apartment for a more intimate and personalized experience. Websites like Airbnb and VRBO offer a wide selection of properties in various locations throughout Exuma.

Sample Exuma Itineraries

3-Day Exuma Adventure

Day 1: Arrive in Exuma, check into your hotel, and spend the afternoon relaxing on Coco Plum Beach. In the evening, enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Take a full-day tour to Pig Beach and Compass Cay to swim with pigs and sharks. After the tour, unwind with a cocktail at the Chat ‘N’ Chill on Stocking Island.

Day 3: Explore Thunderball Grotto, visit the iguanas on Allen’s Cay, and spend the afternoon lounging on Tropic of Cancer Beach. Depart from Exuma in the evening.

5-Day Exuma Escape

Day 1: Arrive in Exuma, check into your hotel, and explore Georgetown, the capital of Great Exuma. Visit the Straw Market and enjoy a local lunch.

Day 2: Take a full-day tour to Pig Beach and Compass Cay. In the evening, enjoy a sunset cruise.

Day 3: Rent a boat and explore the Exuma Cays at your own pace. Snorkel in Thunderball Grotto, visit Iguana Beach, and discover hidden beaches.

Day 4: Relax on Stocking Island, hike to the top of the monument for panoramic views, and enjoy the lively atmosphere at the Chat ‘N’ Chill.

Day 5: Spend the morning swimming and sunbathing on Tropic of Cancer Beach. Depart from Exuma in the afternoon.

Getting Around Exuma

Renting a car is the best way to explore Great Exuma at your own pace. Several car rental agencies are located at the Exuma International Airport. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive. Golf carts are a fun way to get around smaller islands like Stocking Island. Be aware they have a limited operating distance.

What to Pack for Your Exuma Trip

• Swimsuit(s): You’ll be spending a lot of time in the water!
• Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the Caribbean sun.
• Hat and sunglasses: Shield your face and eyes from the glare.
• Insect repellent: Mosquitoes and sandflies can be a nuisance, especially in the evenings.
• Water shoes: Protect your feet from rocks and coral.
• Light clothing: Pack breathable fabrics like cotton and linen.
• Waterproof bag: Keep your valuables safe and dry on boat trips.
• Underwater camera: Capture amazing photos of the pigs, sharks, and marine life.

When to Visit Exuma

The best time to visit Exuma is during the dry season, which runs from mid-December to mid-April. The weather is sunny and warm, with low humidity. The rainy season, from June to November, can bring occasional showers and hurricanes. However, even during the rainy season, there are plenty of sunny days to enjoy. Also note that many tourists visit in the off “High Season” months because it is cheaper, less crowded, and still has great weather depending on your luck.

Budgeting for Your Exuma Trip

Exuma can be an expensive destination, but it’s possible to travel on a budget with careful planning. Accommodation, tours, and dining are the biggest expenses.

• Accommodation: Budget $150-$300 per night for a mid-range hotel or vacation rental.
• Tours: Budget $150-$400 per person per tour.
• Food: Budget $50-$100 per person per day for meals if eating out. Groceries are available to purchase at supermarkets if you plan to eat in.
• Transportation: Budget $50 per day for a car rental.

Look for deals on flights and accommodations, cook some of your own meals, and take advantage of free activities like swimming and sunbathing to save money.

Respecting the Environment

Exuma’s natural beauty is its greatest asset. Help preserve it by following these guidelines:

• Avoid using single-use plastics. Bring a reusable water bottle and shopping bag.
• Do not litter. Dispose of your trash properly.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen. Protect the coral reefs from harmful chemicals.
• Respect marine life. Do not touch or disturb the animals.
• Support sustainable tourism. Choose tour operators that prioritize environmental protection.

FAQ Section

What is the best time of year to swim with the pigs in Exuma?
The best time is in the dry season (mid-December to mid-April) offering sunny skies and low humidity, for optimal weather and swimming conditions. However, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-November) for fewer crowds and slightly lower prices.

Are the swimming pigs dangerous?
The swimming pigs are generally friendly, but it’s important to remember that they are still wild animals. Follow the safety guidelines provided by your tour operator and avoid behaviors that could startle or provoke them.

Are the nurse sharks at Compass Cay dangerous?
Nurse sharks are docile and used to human interaction, but they still require respect. Listen to the instructions provided by the marina staff, avoid wearing shiny jewelry, and do not grab or chase the sharks.

Can I book a tour to Pig Beach and Compass Cay on the same day?
Yes, many tour operators offer full-day excursions that include both Pig Beach and Compass Cay, as well as other attractions in the Exuma Cays.

Do I need to bring my own food to feed the pigs and iguanas?
Most tour operators provide food for the pigs and iguanas, but it’s always a good idea to confirm in advance. If you’re on your own, grapes or leafy greens are safe options for the iguanas, while fruits and vegetables are suitable for the pigs. Avoid bread or processed foods.

Is it possible to visit Exuma on a day trip from Nassau?
Yes, it is possible to take a day trip to Exuma from Nassau by plane. However, this can be expensive and time-consuming. A multi-day trip is highly recommended to fully enjoy the attractions that Exuma has in store.

What currency is used in the Bahamas?
The currency used in the Bahamas is the Bahamian dollar (BSD). The BSD is pegged to the US dollar at a 1:1 ratio. US dollars are widely accepted throughout the Bahamas.

Is Exuma a family-friendly destination?
Absolutely! Exuma offers a wide range of activities that are suitable for families with children of all ages, from swimming with the pigs and sharks to exploring beaches and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.

What is the electrical voltage in the Bahamas?
The electrical voltage in the Bahamas is 120V, which is the same as in the United States and Canada. If you are traveling from a country with a different voltage, you will need to bring an adapter.

References

• The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism
• Exuma Water Tours
• Four C’s Adventures
• Aquaquest Escapes

Ready to turn this dream into reality? Don’t just imagine swimming with pigs and sharks – start planning your ultimate Exuma Islands adventure today! Book your flights, accommodations, and tours now to secure your spot in this unforgettable paradise. This is your chance to create memories that will last a lifetime!