Sandy Toes The Original Rose Island and Swimming Pigs Tour

Sandy Toes The Original Rose Island and Swimming Pigs Tour offers a lively taste of the Bahamas in just half a day. For $258 per person, you get around six hours of sun, sand, and sea, with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, relax on a pristine private beach, and interact with some famously friendly farm-rescued pigs. Rated at 4.5 out of 5 from over 1,200 reviews, this trip is highly recommended by 94% of travelers, making it a popular choice for those wanting a genuine Bahamas experience away from the hustle of Nassau.

The tour starts with a scenic boat ride from Nassau’s Paradise Island Ferry Terminal to the unspoiled Rose Island, where crystal-clear waters and soft white sands await. Two things we love about this experience are the well-organized itinerary that balances active and relaxing moments and the quality of the animal encounters, especially swimming with the pigs who are safe, clean, and surprisingly well-mannered. It’s a vacation highlight for animal lovers and those craving a beach day with a twist.

One potential consideration is the timing and weather—since the tour relies on good weather, cold water temperatures or unexpected rain could impact some activities like snorkeling or swimming with pigs. Also, some reviews mention the limited shade and basic beach chairs, so bringing your own sun protection might be wise. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a bit of adventure, love wildlife, and appreciate good food and drink in a laid-back setting.

Ideal for families, couples, or groups seeking a mix of wildlife, water fun, and local flavor, this trip delivers a memorable day out. If you’re open to a slightly structured but genuinely authentic experience, Sandy Toes hits the right notes by combining marine magic, animal interaction, and a tasty Bahamian buffet.

Key Points

• Authentic Bahamas experience that combines beach relaxation, wildlife, and local cuisine
• Swim with well-cared-for pigs in their natural habitat, a highlight for animal lovers
• Includes a hearty Bahamian buffet and open bar, perfect for unwinding after water activities
• Well-organized day with round-trip boat transportation and guided activities
• Ideal for those seeking a mix of adventure and leisure in a relaxed island setting
• Weather-dependent activities mean some days might be cooler or less suitable for water fun

Exploring Rose Island with Sandy Toes: A Genuine Bahamas Day

When you book the Sandy Toes Rose Island tour, you’re signing up for more than just another boat trip—you’re stepping into a slice of Bahamian paradise. Starting at the Paradise Island Ferry Terminal, the journey begins with a scenic boat ride across shimmering waters to a pristine, private island—Rose Island. For around six hours, you’ll have ample time to snorkel, lounge, and indulge in tropical pleasures, all while surrounded by cheerful guides and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

The Journey from Nassau: Starting Point and Transport

The tour departs at 9:30 am from Paradise Island’s ferry terminal, located between the two bridges on Paradise Island. The boat ride itself is part of the charm, giving you a chance to watch Nassau’s shoreline recede behind a splash of turquoise and azure. The ride takes approximately 20-25 minutes, offering a quick escape from the city’s buzz.

Traveling in a group capped at about 75 people, the experience doesn’t feel overly crowded, and the friendly guides work hard to make everyone feel welcome. As many reviewers have pointed out, the staff is consistently described as professional, fun, and attentive, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

Arrival at Rose Island: A Day of Relaxation and Adventure

Once on the island, you’re free to choose your activities. The highlight for many is the chance to swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. The provided snorkel gear—available with a refundable deposit of $10—lets you explore vibrant coral and tropical fish in a safe environment. The water temperature can be a factor; some reviews mention that December water might be a bit chilly, but the majority still enjoyed swimming.

Another crowd favorite is the interaction with the farm-rescued swimming pigs. These pigs are not only adorable but well-mannered and cared for, which counters any worries about their treatment. Many guests appreciated that the pigs are vet-checked and clean—some even swam alongside the guides, making for some memorable photos. Robin R described the pigs as “safe, clean, and very well-mannered,” reinforcing how well they’re looked after.

The Sanctuary and Wildlife

Beyond the pigs, the island hosts a small sanctuary with peacocks and curly tail lizards. We loved the chance to see some local fauna up close, and it’s clear the sanctuary is a focus of the trip. Visitors report that the staff is knowledgeable and caring, eager to share about the animals’ rescue stories and care routines.

Sunbathing, Exploring, and Resting

For those who prefer to relax, the island offers hammocks and deck chairs shaded by palms. While some reviews mention the chairs are basic and there’s limited shade, bringing your own sun protection can turn the relaxing portions into a true vacation moment. Many guests describe soaking up the sun, reading, or simply enjoying the view with a cold drink in hand.

Lunch and Drinks: A Bahamian Feast

At midday, everyone gathers at a pavilion overlooking the harbor for a buffet-style Bahamian lunch. The menu includes grilled chicken, hot dogs, mixed green salad, and vegetable pasta salad—plus lemonade and a fully stocked open bar. Reviewers consistently mention the quality of the food, with Ashley M calling it “good” and Todd L describing the lunch as “delicious.” The drinks are cold and plentiful, perfect for unwinding after water activities.

For an upgrade, premium liquors are available, which some guests find worth the extra charge. The inclusive nature of the meal and drinks adds great value to the overall experience, especially considering the scenic setting.

Leisure and Return Journey

Post-lunch, you can lounge on the deck, nap in a hammock, or explore a bit more before heading back to Nassau. The boat ride back offers a different perspective of the coastline and is a peaceful way to reflect on the day. The return trip generally takes around 20 minutes, and most guests arrive back by mid-afternoon, feeling relaxed and fulfilled.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The authenticity of this experience is a major selling point. Unlike commercialized pig beaches or crowded cruise ship stops, Sandy Toes prides itself on well-cared-for animals and a laid-back atmosphere. The guides and staff are known for their friendliness and professionalism, making all guests feel safe and well looked after.

The combination of marine activities, wildlife encounters, and food makes this tour appealing for a wide range of travelers. Kids especially love swimming with pigs and exploring the sanctuary, while adults appreciate the quality of the lunch and the scenic boat ride. Many reviews mention that the experience felt like a true escape—a day spent away from Nassau’s busy streets, immersed in nature.

Considerations and Tips

While most reviews rave about the experience, a few mention the basic beach chairs and limited shade, so packing a hat, sunscreen, and perhaps a personal towel can enhance comfort. Since weather plays a role, checking the forecast beforehand helps ensure maximum enjoyment.

For those interested in snorkeling, bringing your own gear or using the snorkel equipment provided is straightforward, but do keep in mind the deposit requirement. Also, since the tour is about six hours, it’s best suited to travelers with a flexible schedule and a love of outdoor activities.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for families, couples, or groups who want a mix of wildlife encounters, water fun, and laid-back island relaxation. It suits travelers who appreciate authentic, well-organized experiences and are comfortable with a little adventure, such as snorkeling or swimming with pigs. If you’re after an Instagram-worthy day with friendly animals, tasty food, and stunning scenery, this tour is a solid choice.

Those who prefer a more luxurious or secluded experience might find the basic beach chairs and limited shade a bit underwhelming, but for most, the overall value and authentic charm outweigh these minor inconveniences.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, from departure at 9:30 am to return by mid-afternoon.

What activities are included?
You can swim, snorkel, sunbathe, visit the animal sanctuary, and swim with the pigs. Lunch and drinks are also part of the package.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, you can use snorkel gear, which is available with a refundable deposit of $10.

Are the pigs safe to swim with?
Yes, the pigs are vet-checked, clean, and well-mannered, making the experience safe and fun for guests.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, cash or credit card for optional activities or upgrades, and possibly a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Final Thoughts

The Sandy Toes tour to Rose Island offers a genuine Bahamas experience with a combination of scenic beauty, wildlife, and local flavor. It’s a relaxed yet lively way to spend a day, especially if you enjoy animals, water activities, and good food. The guides and staff’s friendliness, along with the well-maintained animal sanctuary, make it stand out as a fun yet responsible choice.

This trip suits those looking for an active, authentic adventure that doesn’t break the bank and offers a memorable mix of marine and land experiences. Whether you’re traveling as a family, couple, or group of friends, you’re likely to leave with plenty of stories and photos—and maybe a new appreciation for Bahamian hospitality.

Remember: Check the weather forecast, arrive on time, and come ready to relax, explore, and enjoy some of the most inviting waters and animals Nassau has to offer.