Pig Island

Jessica Cedeno, Staff Writer

Yes, it is the beginning of Fall, but it isn’t too soon to be planning your next vacation for 2019… and a pig island in Exuma, the Bahamas may be the perfect place for you. This tropical pig beach is still a mystery. Some believe that they were left by a group of sailors who planned to come back and cook them, or that the pigs swam there from a shipwreck from nearby.

These pigs are playful and like to swim with anyone who comes to visit. On these tours, one can feed, play and take pictures with them. Recent accounts say that there are about 20 pigs and piglets on the island right now.

The pigs lived previously in the center part forest of the island, but because of the influx of tourists, they are moving more towards the beach and away from their original homes. Recent reports show that all the pigs and piglets have moved into the beach completely and have abandoned the forest. The average temperatures year round are between 88-95. Since these pigs are not accustomed to the heat and sun, they worry future pigs will suffer from sunburns and overheating.

In addition to swimming with pigs, there are also other activities to enjoy. Tourists can enjoy snack bars, stunning views, a swim with nurse sharks, a Bahamian buffet, and of course, electric-blue surrounding waters.

Believe it or not, an amazing tour around the island and the swim with the pigs on the beach costs a total of $210 per person, including transportation from and to airport or hotel, snorkel equipment, soft drinks and salads. These tours run year long and welcome anyone who would like to come.

If pigs don’t interest you, then maybe these other exotic animal islands will spark an interest. There is Flamingo Island in Aruba, Penguin Island in Australia, or Cat Island in Japan. If you had to choose, where would you go?