castaway cay shore excursions

Disney Castaway Cay Excursions and Activities Updated 2024 – Disney Cruise Line Private Island

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Which Disney Castaway Cay Excursions and Activities are the best?

Now you have booked your Disney cruise you are probably very excited to be sailing to Disney’s private island Castaway Cay.

However, which are the best Disney Castaway Cay excursions? Which activities do you want to do on Disney’s Castaway Cay?

• Disney Castaway Cay Activities

Here is our guide to all the Disney Castaway Cay Activities and Excursions.

This article was updated in December 2023.

Castaway Cay Free Activities

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• Castaway Ray's Stingray Adventure

The Wild Side Teen Adventure

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There are two main types of activities on Castaway Cay. Those you pay extra for and those which are included.

It is very possible to go to Disney’s Castaway Cay and not spend any extra money on activities.

Castaway Cay is a highlight of your Disney Cruise and is a favorite port for many cruisers. You can just relax on the beach and enjoy the ocean. No extra costs are needed.

However, there are some special Disney Castaway Cay excursions and activities that you may want to consider which cost extra.

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The most obvious thing to do on Disney’s Castaway Cay is to enjoy one of the beaches. There are plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas for everyone.

You don’t need to spend an arm and a leg to have a great time, the Castaway beaches are beautiful, and a great way to unwind and relax.

Related Post: The Ultimate Guide to Castaway Cay

There are two main beaches on Disney’s Castaway Cay: Castaway Cay Family Beach and Castaway Serenity Bay.

The most popular beach is the Castaway Cay Family Beach .

This is the first beach that you will see when you either take the tram or walk from the ship.

The island is small so you will not have very far to walk. If you prefer, there is a tram. Usually, the wait for the tram is not too long.

Disney’s Castaway Cay Family Beach is for everyone. You aren’t exactly going to be on your own out there, but the island is large enough so that you will not feel as though you are overcrowded.

If you are sailing on the Disney Wonder or the Magic, these ships are much smaller than the Fantasy and Dream. Therefore you are going to have a lot fewer people on the beach to share with.

The Disney Wish has the same amount of guests as the Fantasy and the Dream.

Castaway Cay Serenity Bay is the adult beach. Usually, this is quieter.

Of course, you don’t have children on the beach as this is strictly for the over-18s.

However, we have been on the beach sometimes when it seems to be just as busy as the Family Beach.

It really does depend upon the composition of your particular Disney cruise. Some just don’t have as many kids on board.

The ocean at Castaway Cay is mostly shallow and ideal for simply relaxing and enjoying gentle swimming. I am 5′ 4″ and can usually stand up in the water near the shore on the Family Beach.

One thing that you really might not expect at Castaway Cay is that the level of the ocean floor changes as the day goes on.

The sand on the bottom really does move! So always be aware that the depth can change.

There are plenty of lifeguards and there is a very clearly designated area where you are not supposed to go past. It feels very safe.

It also hurts your feet!

The sand is full of small shells and stones which can be really painful on the feet.

Particularly for the kids.

At the edge of the Family Beach is a part of the beach that is reserved for Concierge Guests only.

This, of course, is the best beach area as there are very few guests on it, particularly if you are sailing on one of the Disney classic ships the Wonder or Magic.

A popular attraction at the Family Beach on Castaway Cay is Pelican Plunge . This is a 2,400 floating platform out a short distance from the shore in a sectioned-off area of the ocean.

There are two water slides to enjoy. Lines do form, so if you want to go to Pelican Plunge it is best to do it as soon as you arrive on Castaway Cay.

You can read all about Castaway Cay Pelican Plunge here

You can enjoy all the beaches on Disney Castaway Cay for free. However, if you want to rent a float or inner tube this is a lot of fun.

Castaway Cay float or inner tube rental costs $13 for the whole day.

If you are sailing on a Castaway Cay Double Dip the price is $16 for 2 days. A double-dip is a Disney Cruise with 2 stops at Castaway Cay.

There really isn’t a need to rent one for everyone if you want to cut down on costs. We usually get one between the two of us.

What to Pack in Your Castaway Cay Bag!

The inner tube is the most popular. It isn’t exactly dignified getting on and off this! However, once you master the art of just throwing yourself onto it you will be fine!

The blue float is ok but we all prefer the inner tube. If you change your mind about which one you want, you can always swap it for the other kind.

Related Post: What is the Real History of Castaway Cay?

If you are feeling energetic the Disney Castaway Cay 5K is one of the most popular activities. The Castaway Cay 5K is free to enter and you even get a medal when you finish!

The emphasis is on fun rather than the race for the finish. Anyone can participate provided they are at least 10 years old. It is a lot of fun to take part in this informal Disney Castaway Cay 5K.

You no longer need to register to participate in the Castaway Cay 5K.

You can start the route at any time that you want. However, you are probably best to do this in the early morning before the heat of the day builds.

So, if you’re a runner, or even if you’re not, the Castaway Cay 5k is a great way to go sightseeing and get your legs moving. You’ll come away from this free run with more than a medal!

The Disney Castaway Cay 5K race really is meant to be fun. There are water stations along the route. Make sure that you take advantage of them and stay hydrated. Castaway Cay can get pretty hot, even at that time of the morning.

The 5K really is one of the most popular of the Disney Castaway Cay Excursions and Activities.

How much does the Castaway Cay 5K cost? It’s completely free! What’s not to like?

If you’re looking for an early morning activity, and a great way to go sightseeing, renting a bike from the Castaway Cay Bike rental place is a great idea.

You can rent a bicycle on Castaway Cay for $13 an hour. A 2-day rental is $16.

They really are pretty flexible with this hour limit though – no one is actually watching the clock to make you return the bike on time.

There are a number of different-size bikes to choose from.

You can also rent a bike with a baby seat.

All riders under the age of 18 have to wear a helmet. It is optional but recommended for adults.

There are 1.5 miles of bike trails on Castaway Cay.

All of the trails are paved and it is very easy getting around the island. It is a lot of fun to explore places that you wouldn’t usually see.

There are a couple of lookout towers along the way. It is the same track that the 5K uses.

The sun can be pretty strong in Castaway Cay so always wear sunscreen. Also, it may be better to have your bike ride early in the morning. It can get pretty hot!

You will find a good choice of boat rentals on the beach close to the ship. Prices vary for these. Here are the prices for 30 minutes of rental time:

Sea Kayak 1 seater $18 2 seater $23

Hobie Cat $32

Aqua Trike $26

Paddle Boat 2 seater $16 4 seater $21

Fun Kat $31

Stand-up Paddle Board $19

Chiliboats Waterbikes $29 for ages 14 and up

For the Hobie Kat, you do need to have previous sailing experience.

Just be careful and be aware that the sun can get pretty hot out there! Be sure to always use sunscreen and wear a hat.

You get some amazing views of the ship out on the water so be ready with your phone or camera to take some pictures.

The best time of day to rent a boat at the Castaway Cay is early in the morning, or in the evening, when the beaches are less busy, and the sun isn’t as strong.

Snorkeling is very popular on Castaway Cay. You can bring your own equipment.

However, snorkel equipment is available to rent on Castaway Cay for $34 for adults and $18 for ages 5 to 9.

A Castaway Cay Double Dip 2-day rental is $45 for adults and $23 for children.

This is the price for an all-day snorkel rental. It includes a snorkel, mask, fins, and snorkel vest.

Consider going on your snorkeling adventure in the morning, to avoid the harsh sun, and experience the stillest water.

You can find out more details at Castaway Cay Snorkeling .

If you are looking for a thrilling banana boat ride this is available for $45. You do have to be at least 8 years old to participate.

It promises to be a high-speed ride along the Bahamas, allowing you both the thrill and serenity of the Caribbean.

This glass-bottom boat voyage is available for all ages.

The cost is $59 for adults and $39 for ages 3 to 9 and $39 for 0 to 2.

The voyage takes about an hour.

In this hour, you will see the beautiful wildlife surrounding the boat, in its natural habitat. Plus, the kids will love it too!

The Castaway Getaway Package lets you bundle some rentals, this will let you save money, and avoids the hassle of bringing in your own equipment.

This includes snorkel equipment, a float or tube rental, and a bike rental. The cost is $46 for ages 10 and up. There is a discount for children aged 5 to 9 as the price is only $26.

There is a Castaway Cay Double Dip 2-day price of $60 for adults and $33 for children.

If you know you are going to need all 3 of these rentals it will save you money. However, you must book this onboard the Disney ships as it is not available on Castaway Cay once you are there.

Castaway Ray’s Stingray Adventure

Photo by Scott Ableman

This activity is great for nature lovers who love being in the water, and aren’t afraid of a little adventure.

This is a very popular excursion. It does get booked up so be sure to book online as soon as you can. There is a special Stingray area for this excursion.

Guests learn about these fascinating creatures and then get the chance to spend some time in the water snorkeling with them.

The Castaway Ray Stingray Adventure lasts about an hour and costs $56 for adults and $45 for children aged 5 to 9.

You do have to be accompanied by an adult if you are under 17.

You can see more detail about this Disney Castaway Cay excursion at

You can also have a Getaway Package and Snorkel with the Stingrays activity for $66 for adults and $51 for children aged 5 to 9.

There is a special excursion for teens available on Castaway Cay. Teens must be at least 14 to participate. This experience includes snorkeling, biking, and a high-speed boat ride.

The excursion starts with snorkeling in the Snorkel Lagoon. Then you will ride around the island on a bike.

For most teens, the highlight of this Disney Castaway Cay excursion is the high-speed boat ride.

The cost of this Castaway Cay activity is $54.

This activity is suspended right now.

This kayak and walking tour is only available to those aged 10 and up. The cost is $73 and the excursion lasts about 3 hours.

The first part of the Castaway Cay excursion is the guided walk which takes around 45 minutes.

Then you will board a double kayak to explore the tidal zones and mangroves around Disney’s private island. You finish your Disney Castaway Cay excursion with some time on a private beach.

This 3-hour Castaway Cay activity costs $73 for ages 10 and up.

This is a great activity for those with moderate levels of fitness and allows you to see a large amount of the island.

If you want an adventurous Disney Castaway Cay excursion this could be the one for you. Guests start on a Zodiac Rigid Hull inflatable and take a fast ride out to a deserted sandbar.

You get away from the crowds and can sunbathe or swim as you want. Guests 21 and older can enjoy a sampling of Bahamian rum.

This Castaway Cay port excursion is for ages 8 to 70. The cost is $77 per person.

This Castaway Cay package lets you bundle up various options so that you can save some money. It combines snorkel equipment rental, bike rental a float or inner tube, and the Castaway Ray Stingray Adventure.

The cost for this Castaway Cay adventure is $88 for ages 10 and up and $67 for children aged 5 to 9.

This is a great option for families who plan on getting around the island and want some adventure to boot!

This excursion is for adults only. The age range specified is 18 to 70 and the cost is $89.

If you enjoy snorkeling and want something more challenging then this could be the Castaway Cay excursion for you. You travel to a snorkel site on a Zodiac Rigid Hull Inflatable. The snorkel site is between 6 to 15 feet deep.

You will also get a sample of Bahamian rum after the snorkeling is finished – not good to combine the two activities!

You will most likely see more fish than you will closer to the shore.

This is the only way to rent a jet ski on Castaway Cay. It is a timed, guided excursion. The cost for 1 hour is $183 and you need to be at least 18 years old to drive a Wave Runner. Passengers must be 8 and up.

The guide will take you out to open waters before returning to Boat Beach after about 1 hour. Guests must weigh less than 375 pounds.

This Castaway Cay excursion will give you a very different view of Disney’s private island!

Parasailing is available for anyone aged 8 and up weighing between 90 and 375 pounds. Single rides are not guaranteed and you may be required to ride tandem, depending upon the weather conditions.

Your actual air time will last about 5 to 7 minutes. You will reach heights of between 600 to 800 feet.

This is certainly a very thrilling experience. The cost is one of the more expensive excursions on Castaway Cay. It is $129 for all ages 8 and up.

If you’re looking for an adrenaline kick, and a view like no other, this is a great way to try parasailing and make unforgettable memories.

This excursion also uses a Zodiac to take guests out into a snorkeling site. All equipment is included and you will spend about 90 minutes of actual snorkeling time. There is a snack and beverage provided on your way back to Castaway Cay.

The cost of this Castaway Cay Snorkelling Adventure is $122 for adults and $109 for ages 6 to 9.

There is an adult-only departure for $89.

If fishing is your thing you may want to think about this Castaway Cay excursion. Take a 2 person boat out with a guide.

All equipment is included. This is a catch-and-release fishing excursion. The cost is $259 for ages 8 and up.

This is a perfect activity for those who love to fish and a great way to share the love of fishing with the whole family!

With this excursion, you fish in the backwaters of Castaway Cay. The cost is $84 for this 3-hour excursion. You need to be at least 8 to participate.

If you enjoy fishing but are looking for something a little different, consider the Abaco Back Country Fishing Adventure which will add a sense of adventure to your fishing trip!

This is for anyone aged 8 and up who wants to ride a Wave Runner. This is for two people and you must share your Wave, Runner.

You do have to be 18 to drive, but anyone aged 8 and up can be a passenger. The cost is $183.

So if you’re looking for a thrill, and love being out in the water, this is the perfect activity for you and your loved ones. Just make sure you have an even number in your group.

If you prefer fly fishing you can take this Castaway Cay excursion. At $243 for anyone aged 8 to 70, this is the most expensive of all of the Castaway Cay port adventures.

You will be taken to a local flats fishing area. You may even catch a barracuda. As with all of the Disney Castaway Cay fishing experiences, all equipment is provided and it is catch and release.

Although on the expensive side, this is a great activity for fishing fanatics. The only thing you need is yourself, and some confidence!

You will be able to book most Castaway Cay Adventures and Excursions prior to your cruise. You can do this online. Also when you board the ships you can go to the Port Adventures Desk.

All excursions are subject to availability. Some do get booked up well ahead of time so if you know what you want to do be sure to book as soon as you can.

All Disney Castaway Cay Excursions and Activities activities prices are correct as of July 2019.

Cancellations are fully refunded if they are made up to 3 days prior to your cruise departure date.

Which Disney Castaway Cay Excursions and Activities do you want to experience?

CLICK HERE To Join My Disney Cruise Group With Exclusive Tips and Giveaways!

Alison Meacham is the founder of EverythingMouse Disney Blog. For over 15 years she has shared her love of Disney Parks, Disney Cruises and Universal Orlando.  In over 30 years of Disney Travel she has spent countless months in Disney Parks and has sailed on over 45 cruises. A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 200,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.

Sunday 9th of July 2023

Seems like a lot of the watercraft options, like the jet skis, are still "suspended". Might anyone know when/if they're bringing these back?

Monday 10th of July 2023

Unfortunately I am not sure why these are still not offered or when they are bringing them back

Tuesday 20th of December 2022

Another great post Alison! I appreciate your time with posting all this great information. We can't wait to go!

Disney Cruise For Teenagers - EverythingMouse Guide To Disney

Sunday 1st of March 2020

[…] are lots of activities on Castaway Cay to choose from.  You can snorkel, paraglide, kayak, meet the stingrays, rent a bike. There are […]

Monday 3rd of December 2018

Castaway Cay looks way better than I could’ve imagined. So many activities, plus it’s Beach Fun with Disney Fun all in one place!

Friday 30th of November 2018

We never got to experience anything on Castaway Cay! We were evacuated due to a storm after 15 minutes of getting off the ship! :(

Really sorry to hear that! I hope that you get the chance to visit again one day.

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Global Munchkins

Travel + Global Inspired Lifestyle

April 5, 2023

The 15 Best Castaway Cay Activities [10 of them are FREE!]

Castaway Cay might be my favorite place on earth. I have visited Disney’s Private Island 10 times now and it never gets old. There is always something different to try out, plus there are our mainstays that we have to do every time we go.

Most people I talk to, consider this stop the highlight of their Disney Cruise and I imagine this will continue until Disney opens their 2nd private island .

Our List of the Best Castaway Cay Activities

One of the things I love about Castaway Cay is so many of the things to do, eat and drink are free which is great when you are calculating your Disney Cruise budget . That being said, we have done a lot of Castaway Cay Activities, both paid and FREE (the best kind) so we are breaking down our favorites.

1. Snorkeling on Castaway Cay (Paid or FREE)

Snorkeling in Castaway Cay is one of the boys’ favorite things to do on the island. Not only can you see some amazing fish, but there is also plenty of Disney Magic in the waters.

You will find many sunken ships and other artifacts along the way. If you search far enough you will find one ship with Captain Mickey at the helm. 

If you have your own snorkel gear, snorkeling is free, you just need to wear one of these inflatable yellow life vests (see pic above). They are free to use. Otherwise, you can rent snorkel gear.

Our Other Snorkeling Adventures

On a side note, if you love snorkeling, then you might want to check out some of our favorite snorkeling adventures on past vacations below:

• INCREDIBLE SNORKELING IN MALDIVES: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
• MAUI SNORKELING – 5 AMAZING SPOTS TO SEE INCREDIBLE FISH & TURTLES

2. Bike Around the Island

This is a mainstay for us as we bike around the island every time we are on Castaway Cay. You can rent bikes for $8 and ride on a path around the island. The path will lead you to a lookout where you can see the cruise ship way in the distance. The bike ride takes between 30 minutes to an hour.

They have bikes for all sizes and seats for baby’s to safely ride on your bike behind you. The bike rental is located just past pelican’s plunge water slides.

3. Castaway Cay 5k (FREE – Signup Required for This Activity)

If you want to be the first one on the island than the Castaway Cay 5k is for you. You do not have to be an avid runner to enjoy this morning run (walking is perfectly fine).

There is a signup and safety meeting required the day before, but this is a fun event where you can jog around the island and take in its beauty before the rest of the cruise heads ashore.  You can check out my full details about the Castaway Cay 5k here)

4. Enjoying the Family Beach (FREE)

There is nothing like the beach at Castaway Cay. The water is calm, warm and beautiful. The sand is incredibly soft. There are plenty of chairs to relax, so you don’t have to be the first off the ship to get one of the thousands of beach chairs. (Although, we do recommend getting off early to get the most out of the day).

There are also hammocks to enjoy a lovely nap and servers coming around serving delicious beverages to enjoy the day. 

5. Water Slides at Pelican’s Plunge (FREE Castaway Cay Activity)

What is the Castaway Cay Pelican Plunge

Pelican Plunge is a thrilling water play area located on Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island in the Bahamas. A few years ago Pelican Plunge was added to the many Castaway Cay activities. It is a popular attraction for families with kids as it offers a variety of fun water activities suitable for children of all ages.

The main feature of Pelican Plunge is a two-story water slide that sends riders splashing down into the crystal-clear waters below. There you can zoom down one of three slides into the warm Caribbean waters. (Plug your nose as it is saltwater).

My kids love going down the slides and I love making their father go with them. (I am not so much of a waterslide person!)

There are also water cannons, geysers, and other interactive elements that keep kids entertained for hours. There is also a Splash Pad to entertain the little ones at Pelican Plunge!

Parents can relax on the nearby lounge chairs and watch their children play, or join in on the fun themselves. With its exciting atmosphere and endless water adventures, Pelican Plunge is the perfect destination for families looking for a fun-filled day in the sun.

6. Enjoy a delicious BBQ at Cookies BBQ (Free)

One of the best parts of the Castaway Cay is the amazing BBQ on the island. There are two locations to enjoy the BBQ, Cookies BBQ, and Cookies Too. The BBQ is included with your cruise fare. You will find ribs, bbq chicken, mahi-mahi, couscous, potato salad, cheese bread, hot dogs, hamburgers and even veggie burgers. 

There are also some tasty desserts and fruit, plus unlimited ice cream from the soft-serve machine. 

7. Sting Ray Adventure

The Sting Ray adventure is probably the best paid Castaway Cay Activity in my opinion. There you and your family learn about stingrays, pet the stingrays and even feed them, which is really a weird feeling. The adventure takes about 90 minutes. The excursion is available for adults and kids ages 5 and above. 

8. Basketball Free Throw Challenge, Ping Pong & Shuffleboard (All FREE Castaway Cay Activities)

In a nice shaded enclave,  there is a great place to enjoy some fun games with the family and other cruise-goers. “In Da shade” is the place to be on a hot or rainy day. You can enjoy ping pong, chess, checkers, shuffleboard, and basketball.

In addition, usually around noon, they have a Free Throw challenge for all cruise-goers. Our 10 year old won the challenge on one of our visits and it is one of his favorite memories. 

9. Parasailing

Another great Castaway Cay Activity is to enjoy parasailing off Castaway Cay. There is something incredible about sailing high above Disney’s Private Island and the massive Disney Cruise Ship. It is such an incredible and exhilarating adventure that adults, teens, and kids love.

10. Find Insta-Worthy Spots (FREE)

Let me be honest, pretty much everywhere on Castaway is an Instagram worthy spot. On our recent visit for Disney Creator Days, we received a map (see below) with some great spots to get some shots that are perfect for your Instagram feed and great for memories. 

11. Drop the kids off at Scuttle’s Cove & Relax at Serenity Bay (FREE)

One of the most amazing things about Castaway Cay is Scuttle’s Cove. The amazing kids club that is onboard your Disney cruise, comes ashore and can entertain your kids in a secure environment at scuttles cove.

You can drop off your little ones and then head off to the adults-only Serenity Bay and enjoy a beach full of….. well, serenity. 

12. Enjoy a Beach Side Massage

Hey, if you have the kids dropped off at Scuttle’s Cove, might as well get the most possible relaxation and enjoy a beachside massage in a private open-air cabana. These dreamy massages do book up pretty quickly, so try to book this Castaway Cay activity as soon as you book your cruise. 

13. Rent a Cabana

Probably one of the hardest things to book on the island (unless you are a Platinum Castaway Club Member or a Concierge Guest) is renting a private cabana on Castaway Cay .

The cabanas tend to book up right away but they are simply amazing. We have never booked one ourself but our friends from Tink’s Magical Vacations recently did. We visited their cabana and now are dying to have one ourselves. 

These cabanas are not cheap by any means, as they run around $600 but if you can afford it they are a dream. Not only do you get your own private beach which looks out at the Disney Cruise or Serenity Bay.

Your cabana includes a cabin steward to attend to your parties’ needs, comfy lounge chairs, snorkel equipment, and your bike rental. You can check out our full review here.  

Keep in mind, if you aren’t traveling with little ones, renting a cabana on the adult’s beach is a bit cheaper. The Serenity Bay Cabanas run $399 for four guests. 

14. Enjoy a Dance Party with Mickey & Pluto (FREE)

One of our kids’ favorite things to do when they were little is the dance party with Mickey, Minnie & Pluto. The event is held in front of the DJ Booth near Cookie’s BBQ. Kids of all ages can join in on the fun!

15. Snap some Pics with your Favorite Disney Characters! (FREE!)

Throughout the day character will visit certain spots on the island to take pictures with cruise guests. These are some of my favorite spots to grab photos because the location is beautiful and the lines are much shorter than on the cruise boat. 

Pro Tips When Visiting Castaway Cay and Booking Activities

Castaway Cay is an amazing day all around. So here are a few tips to make it even better while you are experiencing all the amazing Castaway Cay activities. 

• Eat Breakfast Beforehand – Breakfast is not served on the island so grab a bite before you head off the ship
• Get out there early – I know you are on vacation but this is one of those places you want to get the most out of your day.
• Do the Bike Ride Early – Castaway does get warm, so it is best to do the bike ride early before it gets too hot. 
• Don’t Bring a Stroller – There are free strollers and wagons and wheelchairs on the island
• Pack Sand Toys for the Little Ones – You can buy some on the island, but you can save some money by packing some
• Don’t Buy the Bottled Water- There is free water at the soda stations and at other spots throughout the island
• Don’t bring towels off the ship – They will supply you with towels as you exit. 

Castaway Cay Activities – The Overall!

Overall, have a great time. Whether you are enjoying some BBQ after snorkeling or taking a ride down Pelican Plunge, we are confident that you will enjoy yourself!

Enjoy the beautiful scenery and take some amazing pictures to make those memories last forever. 

Map of Castaway Cay Activities

If you have any questions about Disney Cruises or Castaway Cay Activities, feel free to leave a comment or message me on Instagram !

Pin-it for later: the best castaway cay activities.

Frequently Asked Questions about Castaway Cay Activities

What activities are available at castaway cay.

Snorkeling Parasailing Bike Riding Jet Skiing Water Slides Childrens Water Play Area Dance Parties Character Interactions & More Basketball

Are there Rides at Castaway Cay

No, there are a few water slides, but no rides

What are the costs at Castaway Cay?

Castaway Cay is free for the most part. The food is free, the beach is free. There are paid activities like stingray adventures, cabanas parasailing and more. But if you just want a fun beach day, most things are free.

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July 1, 2022 at 4:36 pm

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The Ultimate Castaway Cay Guide For Disney Cruisers

For many, Castaway Cay, Disney Cruise Line’s private island in the Bahamas, is the pièce de resistance of their pixie-dusted trip to the Caribbean – and with good reason. Between the crystalline lagoons teeming with sea life, sprawling family and adults-only beaches and all sorts of fun activities, there’s a lot to love. 

So, slather on your sunscreen and bring your beach towel as we dive deep into everything Disney Castaway Cay has to offer, as well as some tips and tricks to help you really make a splash. Let’s jump right in!

Everything You Need to Know About Castaway Cay, Disney’s Private Island

From Royal Caribbean and Carnival to Norwegian and Virgin Voyages, a trip to a private island is often a cruising mainstay, especially for those setting sail for the Caribbean, and Disney Cruise Line is no exception. 

Acquired by The Walt Disney Company in 1997 from the Bahamian government – the company signed a 99-year lease good through 2096 – Castaway Cay (pronounced Castaway ‘Key’) has long been a favorite of Disney cruisers. 

Where Is Castaway Cay?

Originally known as Gorda Cay, Disney’s Castaway Cay is located just west of Great Abaco Island in the Bahamas. Sprawling 1,000 acres in size (though only 55 acres are actually developed), this enchanting island oasis is chockful of fun activities, as well as a fascinating history. In fact, before serving as a tropical escape for vacationers, Gorda Cay was a popular stop for both bootleggers and drug runners, a far cry from the island’s family-friendly atmosphere of today. 

But, that’s not all. The island has also played host to mermaids and pirates – on the big screen, that is. Scenes from both Splash , starring Tom Hanks and Daryl Hannah as a wayward mermaid, and Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl were filmed on Castaway Cay. At one time, you could even see the Flying Dutchman ghost ship of Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest fame, which was docked at the island from June 2006 to November 2010.  

Which Disney Cruises Stop at Castaway Cay?

Sadly, only some Disney cruises go to Castaway Cay. After all, cruising from California or Alaska all the way to the Bahamas would be quite a lengthy voyage. However, most Disney Cruise Line itineraries heading to the Caribbean, Bermuda or, of course, the Bahamas do include a stop at Castaway Cay. 

How Much Time Should You Spend on Castaway Cay?

It depends on how many of the island’s amenities you’d like to take advantage of, as well as if you opt to do one of Castaway Cay’s port adventures. In general, you can expect your Disney cruise ship to be docked at the island for between six to eight hours. This gives you plenty of time to hang out by the beach, go biking and/or snorkeling, do an excursion or two, and indulge in a delicious BBQ buffet. It’s all up to you!

How Busy Is Castaway Cay?

Only one Disney cruise ship docks at Castaway Cay at a time. This ensures that the island isn’t completely overrun with guests, turning your lazy day at the beach into an overcrowded, stressful and sandy mess. 

Still, even with the island’s one-ship limit, Castaway Cay can feel pretty busy, especially if you’re hanging out on the Family Beach, which is on the part of the island closest to where the cruise ship docks. An early arrival will help you avoid a battle for a beach chair or, for a relaxing retreat away from the crowds, splurge on one of the Castaway Cay cabanas. 

How’s the Weather on Castaway Cay?

Thanks to its location in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay enjoys balmy weather all year round, with an average temperature of 79 ° F. In the summer, temperatures top out around 90 ° F, while winters dip to the 60s to 80s. The water at Castaway Cay is similarly pleasant, ranging from as low as 68 ° F to as high as 86 ° F.

What’s Included and Not Included at Castaway Cay?

Similar to being onboard, guests have access to both complimentary amenities and for-purchase extras. These include:

Castaway Cay Freebies

You don’t need to pay to have a good time at Castaway Cay. Disney’s private island has enough free activities and food to keep you fed and happy all day long. In addition to the tram that transports people around the island, guests also enjoy complimentary access to the Castaway Cay beaches (including things like beach towels, loungers and hammocks), kids club areas, Castaway Cay 5K, and the Pelican Plunge and Spring-a-Leak water play areas. However, while it won’t cost you anything to access the Snorkeling Lagoon, snorkel gear is extra. 

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time for lunch – and you won’t have to pay a penny more. Castaway Cay cooks up a free beachside barbecue at three locations island-wide, including Cookie’s BBQ, Cookie’s Too BBQ and Serenity Bay BBQ. Be sure to save some room for another favorite Disney cruise freebie: bottomless soft-serve ice cream. 

Additional Cost Extras at Castaway Cay

While you will find a fair few freebies at Castaway Cay, some of the island’s available activities do come with a cost. Castaway Cay excursions, including sea kayaking and parasailing, as well as rentals like bikes, tubes and cabanas. Adult-friendly upgrades like refreshing cocktails and luxurious massages also have an additional fee.

Do Cell Phones Work on Castaway Cay?

Another thing that doesn’t come free on Castaway Cay? Cell phone signal! Although the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app does work on the island, if you want to call or text someone or need to search for something online, you’ll either need to pay for Disney’s pricey Wi-Fi plan, which can be spotty at times, depending on where you are, or splurge on steep roaming charges. Luckily, Castaway Cay does have a cell phone tower, so your mobile data should get plenty of bars. 

How to Make the Most of Your Day at Castaway Cay

Think of Disney Castaway Cay as a Choose Your Own Beach Adventure kind of place. From where you decide to hang out to how you want to get around, there’s something for everyone. To maximize your time and keep your stress levels low, plan your attack ahead of time. Here are some things to keep in mind when figuring out your day.  

Arriving at Castaway Cay

Castaway Cay was the first of the cruise line private islands where the ship could dock directly on the shore. As a result, since guests don’t need to ride a tender to the island, getting to and from the beach is about as easy as it gets. 

Typically, the all-ashore announcement comes between 8 AM and 9 AM, with Castaway Cay 5K and shore excursion participants usually allowed to disembark first. After that, cruisers are free to get on and off the ship as much or as little as they’d like until it’s time to go.  

With a little bit of planning, you can even enjoy a sneak peek of Castaway Cay from the comfort of the ship. For an especially memorable morning, book an exterior stateroom or have breakfast on the starboard side of your Disney cruise ship. As this is the side of the boat that looks out over Castaway Cay, you’ll have sweeping views of the island as the ship comes in to dock and when leaving at the end of the day. 

Getting Around Castaway Cay

You have a few different options for getting around Castaway Cay, and two of them won’t cost you a thing. A complimentary tram is available between the dock and the Castaway Family Beach, as well as another between the family area and Serenity Bay on the far side of the island. Or, if you’d rather get your steps in after all that soft serve, Serenity Bay is just a well-marked, 20-minute walk away. 

Alternatively, if you don’t mind paying extra for a bit of two-wheeled adventure, you can also rent a bike to get around. Bike rentals cost $13 per hour on the island, with bicycles available in a variety of sizes, and include a helmet. 

Things to Bring to Castaway Cay

Honestly, since Disney provides most of the beach necessities like lounge chairs and towels, you don’t need to bring too many things for your day at Castaway Cay besides a few essentials. Along with your Key to the World Card and passport or photo ID, be sure to pack your beach bag with things like sunscreen (you can buy some in the shops on the island, but it’s expensive), sunglasses, a swimsuit coverup and a good book. You’ll also need some cash for Bahamian stamps from the post office if you want to mail a postcard and snag a covetable Castaway Cay postmark. 

Things to Do at Castaway Cay

Although only 55 of Castaway Cay’s expansive 1,000 acres are developed, you’ll find no shortage of things to do , no matter what you’re interested in or who you’re traveling with. Let’s dive in and take a look.

Castaway Cay Excursions

It wouldn’t be a cruise without a selection of shore excursions. While occasionally overpriced, these port adventures are a great way to get away from the throngs of people and experience more than just Castaway Cay’s beaches and water park. 

Castaway Cay excursions are available for a variety of activities and price points, from relatively affordable rentals like sea kayaks and paddle boats (both from $18) to more expensive experiences, including stingray and fishing adventures (from $36 and $164, respectively), jet boat tours ($85) and glass bottom boat rides ($59). 

The best value for Castaway Cay port adventures is the Getaway Package. Priced at $46 for guests ages 10 and up, the Castaway Cay Getaway Package includes snorkeling gear and a float rental for the day, along with an hourlong bicycle rental.   

Castaway Cay Activities for Cruisers of All Ages

Castaway Cay is a family-friendly paradise filled with all sorts of activities for guests of all ages, whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teens. The island’s family area is located just a short walk or even shorter tram ride from the dock, making it easy to get to and from the ship, a boon for families with little ones. 

To keep your visit as hassle-free as possible, consider splurging on one of the Castaway Cay cabanas at the family beach. Starting out at $549 for a Family Beach Cabana and $899 for a Grand Family Beach Cabana, these tricked-out retreats come packed to the gills with refrigerated drinks, snacks, lounge chairs, a shower and extras like snorkel equipment, sand toys, tubes and bikes. 

Here’s everything on offer for families at Castaway Cay.

Castaway Family Beach

With gentle waves, plenty of shaded seating and kid-centric activities like tube rentals and the Monstro Point dig site only a short walk away, Castaway Family Beach is the heart of the family-friendly action. Tons of loungers, hammocks and umbrellas are available to choose from. Just be sure to arrive early to stake your claim on the best spot, as this can be one of the busiest places at Castaway Cay. 

Snorkeling Lagoon

Looking to take your aquatic adventures to the next level? Paddle past the Swimming Beach and out into the big blue world of Castaway Cay’s Snorkeling Lagoon. Snorkelers of all skill levels are welcome to explore this enchanting undersea realm, from the novice-level Discover Trail to the more experienced Explorer Trail. 

Along the way, keep an eye out for splashes of underwater pixie dust, including Hidden Mickeys and submerged statues of Dumbo and Prince Eric from The Little Mermaid . Bring your own snorkel equipment for complimentary access to these sunken treasures, or rent your own for the day for $34.

Spring-a-Leak and Pelican Plunge

Castaway Cay also boasts its own aquatic play areas, both just a short walk from Castaway Family Beach. The Spring-a-Leak splash pad is made with the littlest cruisers in mind and features freshwater jets to cool off in. 

Or, to get your heart pumping, splash into the saltwater in style from Pelican Plunge, Castaway Cay’s pint-sized floating water park named for the island’s resident pelicans. Although Pelican Plunge is easily reachable by wading out to the platform, its two water slides empty swimmers out into the lagoon. So, only relatively strong swimmers should take the plunge. 

Sports Beach and In Da Shade Game Pavilion

Ready to dry off for a bit without putting the fun on hold? Make your way to the Sports Beach or the In Da Shade Game Pavilion. Perfect for a little friendly competition, these hands-on areas are stocked with fun activities the whole family will love. 

Soak up some more Vitamin D and show your skill during tetherball or beach volleyball on the Sports Beach or step out of the sun for a bit with games like basketball, pool, foosball and table tennis at the In Da Shade Game Pavilion. 

Castaway Cay 5K

Want to kick the competition up a notch (or, at the very least, burn off some calories from all that delicious cruise food you’ve been devouring)? Sign up for the Castaway Cay 5K. Available to guests 10 years and older at no additional charge (unless you opt to upgrade to the Premium Package before you set sail, which comes with a Disney Castaway Cay 5K hat, cinch sack and water bottle), this race past palm trees and sandy beaches is a great way to work out and see the sights all at once. All finishers are rewarded with an exclusive Castaway Cay 5K medal. 

Disney Character Meet-and-Greets

What could be better than meeting some well-loved Disney characters in paradise? From Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in their beach gear to everyone’s favorite pirate, Captain Jack Sparrow, Castaway Cay is a unique meet-and-greet spot worth waiting in line for. Just think of the photos! On the bright side, the lines tend to be on the short side, so you shouldn’t have to wait too long. 

Scuttle’s Cove & Teen Hideout

Just like on Disney cruise ships, Castaway Cay offers dedicated areas and activities specifically for kids, tweens and teens. Best of all, as with the likes of the Oceaneer Club, access to these youth-focused spaces is completely free. 

Scuttle’s Cove, located just next door to Monstro Point, is designed for kids ages 3 to 12 and features everything from supervised activities to its own aquatic play area. For the older kids, the Hide Out is a haven for 14 to 17-year-olds, while tweens ages 11 to 13 can enjoy their own special time at Pelican Plunge and the In Da Shade Game Pavilion. 

Adult-Friendly Castaway Cay Activities

Hoping for some time away from the kids? Whether you’re traveling as a family or doing a Disney cruise for grown-ups , Castaway Cay offers an adult escape from the craziness of the family beach. 

Serenity Bay

Castaway Cay doesn’t only offer dedicated areas just for kids and teens. It also touts a secluded, adults-only beach: Serenity Bay. Nestled on the other end of the island, close to a mile from Castaway Family Beach, Serenity Bay is an idyllic retreat complete with soft, white sand, swaying palm trees, umbrella-covered loungers, two-person hammocks and icy alcoholic beverages. 

Since this adults-only beach is further from the dock, the competition for a good seat isn’t as stiff. However, things can still get pretty busy, and if you don’t claim a spot early, you could be left out of the shade. Or, for the ultimate in relaxation, snag a coveted Serenity Bay Cabana, which starts at $399. 

Massage Cabanas

There’s nothing more relaxing than a soothing beachside massage. Offered in open-air cabanas overlooking the water, located right next to the Castaway Air Bar and Serenity Bay BBQ, this indulgent experience is the perfect way to unwind. 

Castaway Cay Bars

After splashing around in the water, cool off even more with a cool drink from one of the Castaway Cay bars . Over at Serenity Bay, sidle on up to Castaway Air Bar or order a cocktail from one of the roving servers and let the alcohol come to you. Talk about relaxing! 

But you don’t need to hang out at Serenity Bay to enjoy an adult beverage. Castaway Cay’s family area boasts a few different bars, which make for the ideal temporary escape from all the beach-crazy kiddos. 

Dining at Castaway Cay

For some, one of the best meals of the entire cruise is the barbecue buffet on Castaway Cay. Available at Cookie’s BBQ and Cookie’s Too BBQ at the Castaway Family Beach and Serenity Bay BBQ on the other side of the island, this sun-sational picnic dishes up bottomless cookout classics like hot dogs, burgers, ribs, corn on the cob and potato salad. Adults can even tuck into freshly grilled ribeye steaks, exclusively at Serenity BBQ. Just remember to save some space for unlimited soft serve from one of the nearby stands.

Keep in mind that this beachy barbeque is only served for a limited time, running from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM. Needless to say, make sure to eat breakfast before you get off the ship (this is a great day for room service) or risk being hangry before lunchtime rolls around. Additionally, crew members are prompt about taking down the food. So, if you miss the cut-off, you’ll need to walk back to the ship to scrounge something up.  

Other Tips & Tricks for Your Day at Disney’s Castaway Cay

Ready to take on your day at Castaway Cay? Here are some simple hacks to help you make the most of your time. 

Get Off the Ship Early (or Late) for a Better Chance at a Good Seat

Typically, folks tend to go to the island pretty early, as the competition for a lounge chair or hammock is fierce. So, if you don’t want to be left stranded without shade or a place to kick back and relax, try to be one of the first people off the ship. Alternatively, as many cruisers head back onboard around two hours before the ship’s departure time, waiting it out until later in the day can also be effective. 

Mail a Postcard from the Post Office for a Unique Souvenir

Looking for an affordable yet unique souvenir? Send something from the Castaway Cay Post Office. Located near the dock, this outpost will mail postcards, letters and even messages in a bottle. Best of all, it will even get an extra-special Castaway Cay postmark. Just remember to bring some cash for Bahamian stamps, as your Key to the World Card won’t be accepted. 

Save Money by Booking Port Adventures or Rentals Ahead of Time

When it comes to Castaway Cay excursions, it often pays to reserve things in advance. For example, the Castaway Cay Getaway Package – which includes a bike, tube and snorkel gear – is a great deal for active cruisers hoping to explore the island by both land and sea. 

However, this rental package can only be booked online prior to sailing away or onboard the ship before reaching Castaway Cay. Should you choose to wait until you get to the island, you’ll wind up paying $20 to book the exact same rental equipment individually. 

Don’t Forget Your Camera

Castaway Cay is jam-packed with photo opportunities, whether character meet-and-greets, family pictures in front of Mount Rustmore (Mickey, Pluto, Donald and Goofy painted on big buoys) or requisite beach selfies. Going snorkeling? Bring an underwater camera (or live on the edge and use a waterproof phone pouch) to snap shots of the Snorkeling Lagoon’s undersea statuary. 

Well, Disney cruisers, that concludes our deep dive into all things Castaway Cay. Have you been to Disney’s private island before? What is your favorite thing to do at Castaway Cay? Let us know in the comments! Then, find out how to save on your next pixie-dusted adventure at sea by booking your Disney cruise with us .

The Ultimate Guide to Enjoying Disney Castaway Cay Activities

Posted on Last updated: April 4, 2024

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Are you heading on a Disney Cruise that stops by Disney’s private island in the Bahamas? If so, you won’t want to miss this guide to Castaway Cay! Scroll for all the info!

This guide to castaway cay activities was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

One of the coolest shore excursions my family has done on a cruise is to Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay activities. We seriously couldn’t handle seeing our favorite Disney characters dressed up for a day at a family beach!

If you have a Caribbean or Bahamas cruise on the Disney Cruise Line , there is a good chance you’ll dock at least once at this private island paradise run entirely by Disney.

While you are there, you can discover an array of beaches and activities. Whether you like to lay on the beach or prefer more adventure, there is never a dull moment.

This guide on the best Castaway Cay activities will help you break down what the island provides and what there is to do during the most anticipated port day on most Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy Cruises.

What to Bring to Castaway Cay

When you come off the ship, you won’t have to bring very much with you. Make sure you have comfortable clothes and swimwear.

Remember your sunscreen too. Because it’s so bright, a sun hat is a good idea. Towels are provided at the beach.

You don’t need cash for souvenirs or food. You can buy items with your Key to the World card and the food is free.

There is plenty of all-you-care-to-enjoy barbecue on the island for no additional fee.

If you need strollers or wheelchairs, don’t worry about those either. you’ll find complimentary strollers and wagons for kids. Special wheelchairs with blimpy tires designed for the beach are also available.

Everything is designed to be as stress-free as possible, so all you have to worry about is how you choose to enjoy yourself during your time there.

That’s why I’ve put together this brief Castaway Cay guide: to show you what the island is like and what activities are available there.

The Layout of Castaway Cay

Castaway Cay is a private island where most of the area you’ll experience is a harbor with an enclosed lagoon segmented into separate beaches.

One of the first things you can do is stop at the post office if you want to send anything out with a Castaway Cay postmark. Before you stray too far, there’s also a fun photo opportunity with characters.

There are two sides of the island adjacent to each other. The furthest side is accessible by bike or by tram. There, you’ll find Serenity Bay sand bar (an adult-only area) and the Massage Cabanas.

Between the two beaches is a looping trail that leads to an observation tower for a sweeping view of the island.

Out in the water, there are lots to explore. Buoys on the water indicate sunken relics left for you to find, like a rusting old submarine from the 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea attraction that used to operate in Walt Disney World .

Castaway Cay Trams

When you arrive at Castaway Cay, you can walk through the little town and head to the beaches, restaurants, shops, and activities or hop on the tram.

The tram station is located at the end of the dock. It stops at the various beaches of Castaway Cay. The furthest out is Serenity Bay (adults-only).

The trams are a very convenient way to get across the island, but if you prefer, you can also rent bikes.

Castaway Cay Activities

Castaway Cay is an amazing place to spend the day doing activities If you plan to spend the day doing more than relaxing on the beach.

Make sure you reserve your adventures ahead of time and be aware that any of these are subject to cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances.

When we were there in February, most of the activities were canceled due to the weather.

While visiting Castaway Cay, you can fish, snorkel, take a glass-bottom tour, jet ski, kayak, and paddleboat. If that’s not enough, there are plenty of games and sports to play on a designated beach.

If you prefer a more relaxing time, you can lounge in a hammock or get a massage at Serenity Bay, a slice of paradise only for adults.

For kids, there’s Pelican Plunge, duel waterslides on a floating barge.

Be sure to take a look at all the scheduled activities on your Navigator app, as some are only offered at specific times.

Check out other must-have experiences on your Disney Cruise with your kids .

Castaway Cay Kids Clubs

What’s extra awesome about Castaway Cay is that Disney brings the Kids Club experience to the island. This is a great option for parents who want to take advantage of the adults-only Serenity Bay.

Scuttle’s Cove

At Castaway Cay, kids up to age 12 can have supervised fun on their own beach. As with the clubs onboard, Scuttle’s Cove allows free play in addition to optional programmed activities.

Kids can dig at Monstro Point, an excavation site, and play games in the sand. From soccer to building sandcastles, there is no lack of opportunities for fun at this kids-only club.

Teen Hideout

Teens on Castaway Cay can reserve a spot on the Wildside Teen Adventure, which is loaded with activities and a great opportunity to bond with peers in a counselor-guided experience.

At the Teen Hideout, an exclusive beach for kids 14-17, they’ll have the opportunity to play games or chill out.

Castaway Cay Beaches

Castaway Cay is divided into several different beaches.

• The long strip of private beach closest to the dock is segmented for families, sports, boats, and teens.
• Scuttle’s Cove is a sandy section away from the shore just for kids.
• Near the sports beach, there is a game pavilion for less athletic diversions.
• The fifth beach is an isolated one just for adults, called Serenity Bay.

Private cabanas are available at both the Family Beach and Serenity Bay. Trams are available to take you to your beach, where you can enjoy your own style of paradise.

Shops at Castaway Cay

There are shops on Castaway Cay where you can pick up exclusive merchandise such as shirts, pins and beach accessories. It’s a small shopping area, so you probably won’t spend more than 5-10 minutes perusing the goods.

There are also rental shops for beach equipment and gear.

You don’t need to bring anything with you other than your ID and your Key to the World card to charge to your room.

Disney Characters at Castaway Cay

If you like characters, there are SO many opportunities to meet them throughout your day at Castaway Cay.

The Disney characters from the ship hop off wearing their special Castaway Cay outfits. There are photo spots set up along the way from the ship to Castaway Cay.

While you are there, there will be designated meet-and-greets throughout the day, character dance parties, and more.

Mickey even surprised us while we were digging for whale bones!

Food Options on Castaway Cay

The buffet lunch on Castaway Cay is free and irresistible. The smell of the barbecue on the beach will make your mouth water.

At Cookies and Cookies Too, you can enjoy hot dogs, burgers, ribeye, and cajun Mahi Mahi. You can also load up on side dishes, chips, and cookies.

There is also a bar in the middle of the Family Beach area for frozen drinks and cocktails.

Of course, you’ll also be able to enjoy soft-serve ice cream cones, just like on the ship!

Castaway Cay 5K Fun Run

Castaway Cay offers a unique port experience in its come-one-come-all 5K run. You can sign up for the event on embarkation day at Guest Services.

The night before you arrive at Castaway Cay, you’ll receive tickets and instructions for the race, along with a meeting place and time.

Escorts will take you to the starting line prior to the start of this non-competitive event. At the end of the race, every participant receives a commemorative medal, and other 5K merchandise is available for purchase.

How do you spend the day at Castaway Cay?

There are many ways to spend a day at Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island in the Bahamas. Here’s a sample itinerary that can help you make the most of your time:

Arrive on the island and pick up beach towels and snorkeling gear if desired. You can also drop off your kids at Scuttle’s Cove, the island’s supervised children’s program.

Head to one of the island’s beaches, such as the family-friendly Castaway Family Beach or the adults-only Serenity Bay Beach. If you desire, grab beach chairs, an umbrella, and a beachside cabana.

Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea and try out some water activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, or kayaking.

You can grab lunch at one of the island’s quick-service dining locations, such as Cookies BBQ or Cookie’s Too BBQ, or enjoy a frozen drink or cocktail from one of the island’s beach bars.

After lunch, participate in some of the island’s organized activities, such as a bike ride around the island or a volleyball game on the beach.

Take a break from the sun and head to the island’s shopping area, where you can pick up souvenirs or relax in a hammock.

Return to the family beach for more relaxation, swimming, and sunbathing.

As the day winds down, head back to the ship to freshen up and get ready for the evening’s onboard activities, such as dinner at one of the ship’s restaurants, a Broadway-style show, or a movie under the stars.

Of course, there are many other activities and experiences you can enjoy on Castaway Cay, depending on your interests and preferences. It’s always a good idea to check with Disney Cruise Line or your travel agent for a full list of available activities and amenities.

Castaway Cay Activity FAQs

Is castaway cay exclusive to disney cruise line guests.

Yes, Castaway Cay is exclusive to guests of Disney Cruise Line. The island is privately owned and operated by Disney, and only Disney Cruise Line ships are able to visit and dock at the island.

This exclusivity means that guests can enjoy a unique and immersive experience that is tailored specifically to Disney’s standards of quality and entertainment.

During a Disney Cruise Line sailing, Castaway Cay is typically included as one of the ports of call on the itinerary. Guests can disembark from the ship and spend the day on the island, enjoying its many amenities and attractions.

While Castaway Cay is only accessible to Disney Cruise Line guests, it is one of the most popular ports of call in the Caribbean, thanks to its pristine private beaches, crystal-clear waters, and wide range of activities and experiences for guests of all ages.

What is the weather like on Castaway Cay?

Castaway Cay is located in the Bahamas and enjoys warm, tropical weather year-round. The island has a tropical maritime climate, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (mid-20s to mid-30s Celsius) throughout the year.

In the summer months, from May to September, temperatures can be quite hot and humid, with occasional thunderstorms and rain showers. During hurricane season, which typically runs from June to November, there is a higher chance of tropical storms and hurricanes in the region.

In the winter months, from December to April, temperatures are typically cooler and more comfortable, with lower humidity and fewer rain showers. This is a popular time for tourists to visit the island, as the weather is ideal for outdoor activities and relaxation on the beach.

Overall, Castaway Cay’s weather is generally warm and sunny, making it a great destination for a beach vacation. It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack appropriate clothing and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.

Is everything on Castaway Cay free?

No, not everything on Castaway Cay is free. Castaway Cay is Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, and it is a stop on some Disney Cruise Line itineraries.

While many island amenities, such as beaches, lounge chairs, and character meet-and-greets, are included in the price of your cruise, some activities and services require an additional fee.

What costs extra at Castaway Cay?

While many amenities on Disney’s Castaway Cay island are included in the price of your Disney Cruise Line fare, there are several activities and services that come with an additional fee. These may include:

• Water sports equipment rentals such as snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and kayaks.
• Guided tours such as fishing excursions, bike tours, and nature walks.
• Private cabanas and beachside massages at Serenity Bay.
• Alcoholic beverages and specialty items like smoothies and ice cream.
• Souvenirs, such as clothing, hats, and Castaway Cay-themed merchandise.

It’s important to note that the cost of activities and services at Castaway Cay can vary depending on the time of year and availability, so it’s a good idea to check with Disney Cruise Line or your travel agent for the most up-to-date information.

Is there a waterpark on Castaway Cay?

No, there is no waterpark on Castaway Cay. However, the island offers a variety of water activities and attractions, including swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and more.

The island features a family-friendly beach called Castaway Family Beach, which offers a variety of water activities such as water trampolines, paddleboats, and snorkeling.

Castaway Cay Excursion Wrap-Up

I hope you can see why this is one of our favorite port adventures! Disney Cruises has amazing customer service, and that definitely extends to their private island in the Bahamas.

You’ll see your favorite Disney characters, enjoy a buffet lunch, play in the turquoise water, and explore this beautiful island—it’s fun for the whole family!

Looking for more Disney Cruise content? Check out Disney Cruise pin trading , must-have Disney Cruise experiences , what NOT to do on a Disney Cruise , and how to save money on a Disney Cruise .

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Castaway Cay: A guide to Disney Cruise Line's private island

A visit to Castaway Cay is a highlight of any Disney cruise to the Bahamas or Caribbean. The island is the exclusive beach-day playground for Disney Cruise Line guests, and cruisers can enjoy a fun, hassle-free day of sunbathing and water sports at the island.

Your day on Castaway Cay is idyllic because you have to make very few arrangements. You can walk off the ship and head right to the beach. Beach chairs, umbrellas, towels and a delicious lunch are all provided to you. Your biggest decisions will be if you want to book a shore excursion, which will leave from a convenient location just steps from the ship, and which beach you and your family want to check out first.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

The island is themed around a shipwreck, as if you are the castaways and your mates have used the crates and driftwood that have washed ashore to build the island's structures. You'll also find many of your Disney friends ashore in their best beach attire, so the cruise ship magic continues on island.

Castaway Cay, like all things Disney, focuses on family fun, but it still reserves some on-island spots for drop-off kids activities supervised by the ship's youth staff and adults-only relaxation. Teens get their own secret hangout.

You can choose your own adventure on Castaway Cay and a visit here is never the same twice. Plan your perfect private island day in the Bahamas with our guide to Disney's Castaway Cay.

Note: Prices for activities and rentals can vary based on sail date and whether they're booked pre-cruise, on board or on shore.

Where is Castaway Cay?

Disney Cruise Line's Castaway Cay is located in the Bahamas, near Great Abaco island. It's 225 nautical miles from Port Canaveral, home port of several Disney cruise ships. Disney leases the island from the Bahamian government.

The 1,000-acre island is roughly 3 miles long by 2 miles wide, but only 55 acres are developed. You can get a great view of the undeveloped areas of the island from the observation tower on the way to Serenity Bay, the adults-only beach.

Related: Bahamas cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

Which cruise ships go there?

All Disney Cruise Line ships except Disney Wonder will visit Castaway Cay. It's a staple on Bahamas and Caribbean itineraries, which is where the majority of Disney ships travel.

Ships visiting Castaway Cay on upcoming cruises include:

• Disney Dream
• Disney Fantasy
• Disney Magic
• Disney Treasure
• Disney Wish

How do you get to and around Castaway Cay?

Castaway Cay was the first cruise line private island to feature a pier where ships can dock. One ship at a time can visit Castaway Cay, and passengers can walk straight off the ship and onto the island.

It's a decent walk from the ship to the first section of beach. To accommodate all cruisers, Disney runs a tram from the end of the pier to stops by Scuttle's Cove and Pelican Point, on either end of the main family beach, and from the Pelican Point area to Serenity Bay.

Note that the Serenity Bay tram is separate from the main tram between the ship and the main beaches. A kind driver saved me from going in circles because I thought the Serenity Bay tram would take me all the way back to the pier.

Paved paths throughout the island will take you anywhere you want to go. I walked all the way to Serenity Bay down the bike trail (which doubles as an air strip), and it's not a short walk. You can take a detour to loop around the paved nature trail that leads to the observation tower.

Related: A guide to cruise line private islands: What they are and what you can expect

Disney also provides beach strollers and wheelchairs for passenger use.

What are the Castaway Cay beaches?

Castaway Cay's main strip of beach is sheltered by a rocky breakwater, making the water calm and perfect for swimmers of all ages. The beach is divided into three sections: Boat Beach, where you'll find water sports rentals, and two family beaches, including a beach area exclusive to cabana guests.

An adults-only beach, Serenity Bay, is on the adjacent side of the island, open to the sea, and separate from the family beach.

Castaway Cay's three main beaches are:

Castaway Cay family beaches

Castaway's family beaches are divided by Pelican Point, a rocky breakwater, where the Heads Up Bar sits. Both beaches have loungers, low-to-the-ground upright beach chairs and beach umbrellas that are free to use. Many adults like to drag the upright chairs down to the water's edge and hang out there, watching their kids frolic in the waves.

Both beaches have lifeguards and racks of life jackets available for guest use.

The closest family beach to the ship is near the Scuttle's Cove kids area and tram stop. It has a swim-out floating ropes course. The farther beach is closer to the Pelican Point tram stop. Its highlight is the Pelican Plunge floating water play area, with a splash area and dump bucket, water cannons and two slides (a tube slide and an open slide).

Lines can get long for the slide, and smaller sliders need to wear life jackets. The tube slide is much faster and shorter than the open slide. Be ready to get water up your nose, as it's a drop from the end of the slide into the water.

For the best choice of lounge space, you'll want to get off the ship early and trek to the farther ends of the beach. It was hard to find available chairs when we moved mid-afternoon from one side of the family beach to the other to use the slides.

The farthest end of the beach is lined with cabanas and reserved for cabana guests.

The first beach you come to on your way from the ship is Boat Beach. This is where you'll find all the larger water sports gear available to rent, such as water bikes and kayaks. (A separate shack rents out snorkel gear).

No one sunbathes on Boat Beach.

Serenity Bay

The adults-only Serenity Bay is exclusive to cruisers ages 18+. The beach is on the other side of the island from the family beaches and a long trek (or tram ride) from the Pelican Point area.

The beach itself has the same lounge chairs, low upright chairs and umbrellas as the other Castaway Cay beaches. There are cabanas for rent here, too; they lurk behind the main beach and share the sand and sea with regular guests.

Because Serenity Bay is a long haul from the Pelican Point tram stop area, it has its own facilities: barbecue pavilion, bathrooms, bar, float rental and massage hut.

I visited Serenity Bay at lunchtime, and the beach was not crowded at all. Plenty of loungers were unclaimed — likely because the majority of Disney cruisers were spending time together as families. Also, the water was not as clear or calm on this beach because it does not have a breakwater to protect it from the waves, so some adults might prefer the family beach area for swimming.

Related: 5 reasons why Disney cruises aren't just for kids

What are the best Castaway Cay things to do?

Splashing and sunbathing are not nearly the only things to do at Castaway Cay. Its small developed area has a lot going on, both on land and in the lagoon.

Designated areas on both sides of the family beaches are reserved for snorkeling. The main snorkeling lagoon is between Boat Beach and the family beach, conveniently located by Gil's Fins and Boats, which dispenses snorkel gear, as well as tubes and floats for rent. Rumor has it that you can find a shipwreck and even some hidden Mickeys, as well as interesting sea creatures.

You can also pick up snorkels, floats and tubes at Flippers and Floats (located between the two halves of the family beach) and The Windsock Hut at Serenity Bay (float rentals only). If you rent an inner tube, don't let it out of your grasp. I saw several of these floating out past the ropes marking the end of the swimming area. The crew must have to come out on boats at the end of the day to round them all up!

The floating ropes course and Pelican Plunge water slides are also fun diversions for families and gives you something to do besides swimming that doesn't involve spending money.

Scuttle's Cove is the beachside extension of the shipboard Oceaneer Club. Parents and caregivers can drop off their younger children to play in the sand under youth staff supervision in order to snag some time at Serenity Bay or in the snorkel lagoon. As with the onboard kids club, the service is complimentary.

Scuttle's Cove include the Monstro Point whale dig site (where kids can play archeologist and dig in the sand for bones), a small splash pad and an area for sand games.

Between the Scuttle's Cove and Pelican Point tram stops, In-Da-Shade Games offers basketball, ping pong, billiards, giant checkers, foosball and table games in an open-air wooden pavilion.

Over by the Pelican Point area, a beach sports area offers tetherball, volleyball and soccer, and the Spring-A-Leak wet play area is fun for littles who want to get wet without the waves. A bike rental station rents bikes for kids and grownups; I didn't see trail-a-bikes, but they did have adult bikes with child seats on the back. One-hour bike rentals cost $15 (for ages 3+).

The full bike path, from the rental area to Serenity Bay and around the loop to the observation tower is 1.5 miles. If you prefer to run, doing the trail out to the adult beach and back again (including a second tower loop) is 3 miles or 5K.

Disney used to host an official race called the Castaway Cay 5K. Currently, it's not offered as a group activity, but you can do it on your own, on your honor, and pick up a medal back at the bike rental booth. If you're not racing, the observation tower is a nice stop for views of the island.

A few water stations are set out along the race course.

Teens have their own secret hangout called The Hideout, tucked away behind the beach sports and bike rental area.

Adults can book 50-minute solo or couples' massages at the massage cabana on the adults beach.

If you're interested in water sports, Disney offers a selection of rentals on Boat Beach.

Rentals include:

• AquaTrike, $30 for 30 minutes
• Chiliboats Waterbikes, $30 for 30 minutes (ages 14+)
• Float or tube, $15 for the day
• Paddle boat, $20 for 30 minutes for 2-seater boats or $25 for a 4-seater
• Sea kayak, $20 for 30 minutes on a single kayak (ages 14-plus) or $25 for a double kayak
• Snorkel equipment, $22 (ages 5 to 9) or $38 (ages 10-plus) for the day
• Stand-up paddle board, $20 for 30 minutes (ages 14-plus)

The shore excursions desk assured me that it's easy to rent water sports gear on the island if you're not sure you want to commit in advance.

If you're an active family, consider the Castaway Cay Getaway Package. The three-in-one rental package includes snorkel equipment and a float or inner-tube for the day, plus a one-hour bicycle rental. The package is valued at $52 for little kids or $68 for anyone ages 10 and up, but costs $30 or $50, respectively, saving you $18 to $22.

The Castaway Cay Getaway Package is only available for booking online pre-cruise or aboard the ship; you cannot book it once on the island.

Related: 11 ways to save money on a Disney cruise

Can I meet Disney characters on Castaway Cay?

A favorite Disney cruise pastime is meeting Mickey Mouse and friends, princesses, superheroes and pirates, and you have those opportunities on Castaway Cay. The island has numerous spots set up for photos, and throughout the day, various characters will make an appearance in their beachwear to pose for photos. On my cruise these included Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck and Captain Jack Sparrow.

Check your Navigator app to find out which character will be at which station at what time. The post office, Marge's Barges, Mt. Rustmore and the beach across from Scuttle's Cove are popular photo spots for the characters. If you want the beach spots, plan to line up and get your photos early before your family gets all wet and sandy.

Related: The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line

What are the excursions at Castaway Cay?

If you're looking for a little more than just a beach day, you can book a handful of Castaway Cay excursions. The available tours are predominantly guided water-based activities taking place in or around the island's waters.

On my cruise, the following tours were available:

• Banana boat ride, $45 for 30 minutes (ages 10-plus) or $39 (ages 8 to 9)
• Castaway Cay Fishing Adventure, $219 for a 3-hour tour (ages 8-plus)
• Castaway Ray's Stingray Adventure, $59 for a 1-hour tour ($48 for ages 5 to 9)
• Castaway Snorkel By Boat Adventure, $95 for a 3-hour tour ($79 for ages 6 to 9)
• Glass Bottom Boat Scenic Voyage, $59 for a 1-hour tour ($39 for kids under age 9)
• Parasailing, $140 for 1 hour (ages 8-plus)
• Walking and Kayak Nature Adventure, $73 for 3.5 hours (age 10-plus)

In addition, the Extreme Getaway Package combines a one-hour stingray adventure with snorkel equipment, bicycle and float or inner-tube rentals. The cost is $95 for kids and adults ages 10 and up or $73 for kids ages 5 to 9.

Many of the boat-based excursions (such as parasailing and fishing trips) depart from the Marge's Barges and Sea Charters dock at the end of the cruise pier. The stingray adventure meets at the Castaway Ray's Stingray Adventure hut at the end of Boat Beach farthest from the ship; the protected stingray lagoon is just offshore.

Related: Shore excursions: What you need to know

Does Castaway Cay offer cabanas to rent?

Yes, Castaway Cay cabanas are available to rent both on the family beach and at Serenity Bay. From what I saw, the family beach cabanas could be a great way to have a more relaxing, less crowded experience on Castaway Cay. The Serenity Bay cabanas seemed less of an upgrade, given that the beach was empty and all the services are so close.

Related: Ultimate guide to cruise ship cabanas

Family Beach cabanas

Castaway Cay offers 20 cabanas on the farthest end of the family beaches, just around the corner from Serenity Bay. The cabanas line a stretch of beach that is roped off, so regular cruisers cannot go there. They are numbered 1 to 21 as there is no cabana #13.

The 325-square-foot cabanas are tucked away under the palm trees. They are outfitted with indoor seating, a ceiling fan, drinks refrigerator, safe, plush towels and cooling face cloths, magazines to read and complimentary sunscreen. Portable cribs are available on request for guests with babies.

Fresh fruit and light snacks are provided, as are unlimited soda and bottled water. Servers will come around to take alcoholic drink orders. You can press a button in your cabana to call them if you don't see anyone and want to order a drink or get your soda, water or snacks restocked.

Outside the cabana, guests have access to lounge chairs, a hammock and a freshwater shower. The cabana rental comes with access to snorkel equipment, sand toys and floats or inner tubes, plus a one-hour bike rental.

Cabanas are identical with two exceptions. Cabana #16 is wheelchair accessible; it cannot be booked online. Cabana #21 is called the Grand Family Cabana, and it's oversized at 650 square feet.

On my cruise, cabanas cost $797.50 for an eight-hour rental for up to six people. You could add up to four more people, for a total of 10, for $56 additional per person. For groups larger than six people, children under 3 are not charged; however, they count toward the maximum number of people allowed on the rental.

The Grand Family Cabana cost $1,127.50 for up to 10 people and could accommodate up to 16, with each additional guest charged $56 per person.

Serenity Bay cabanas

The six Serenity Bay cabanas are only available to guests ages 18 and up. They're numbered 22 through 27 and are located behind the adults-only beach and its rows of lounge chairs.

The cabanas are the same size and come with nearly the same inclusions as the family beach cabanas. The difference is that snorkel equipment is not provided because there is no snorkeling lagoon at Serenity Bay.

Despite being the same size, Serenity Bay cabanas are priced for just four guests at $493.90 for the day; additional guests up to 10 total will pay $56 each over the base rate.

Related: Best Disney cruise ships for everyone — even Disney adults

Is food included on  Castaway Cay?

Yes, multiple venues serve a complimentary barbecue lunch on Castaway Cay. The main venues are Cookie's BBQ and Cookie's Too BBQ, but a small lunch buffet is also available by the Serenity Bay tram stop so adults on that beach don't have to trek back to the Pelican Point area to eat.

All three venues serve the same food, buffet style, in open-sided pavilions with outdoor picnic tables, some shaded, for eating. Lunch is typically served from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The main event is all kinds of grilled meat: burgers and hot dogs, Cajun-spiced chicken, salmon and barbecue brisket and pork. Vegetarian chili and veggie burgers are also available (the latter on request).

Sides include cole slaw, potato salad, corn and bean salad, macaroni salad, chips, corn on the cob and corn bread. Dessert options include a variety of fruit, amazing chocolate chip cookies, chocolate and strawberry-cheesecake mini cakes and soft-serve ice cream. Pro tip: Take the cookies to the soft-serve machine to create a DIY ice cream sandwich.

Self-serve soft drink machines dispense complimentary soda, water, sports drinks, iced tea and lemonade.

Lines can get long, so plan accordingly, especially if you have hot and hungry little ones in tow.

Related: TPG's top Disney cruise tips, tricks and secrets to enhance your vacation

Are there bars on Castaway Cay?

Even this family-friendly island has plenty of bars serving extra-fee drinks and frozen concoctions. You'll find them throughout the island. You'll have to pay a la carte for drinks purchased at Castaway Cay's bar because Disney Cruise Line does not offer an all-inclusive drink package .

The Conched Out Bar and Sand Bar are the main beachside bars along the family beach, serving beer, cocktails and frozen drinks. The Heads Up Bar serves the same, but is located atop Pelican Point, the rocky breakwater between the two halves of the family beach. Its patio is occasionally the setting for on-island weddings.

You can also find stands selling smoothies and drinks outside the lunch pavilions. I saw many cruisers carrying drinks in souvenir coconut-shaped cups.

Right by the Pelican Point tram stop, Summertime Freeze serves up smoothies and alcoholic frozen drinks in "Frozen"-themed souvenir cups.

Out at Serenity Bay, the Castaway Air Bar, housed in what looks to be an airplane hangar, keeps adults refreshed throughout their beach day. It's got a wooden deck with comfortable seating for anyone who wants to kick back with a drink without getting sandy.

Is there shopping on Castway Cay?

Castaway Cay has multiple shops selling everything from Castaway Cay exclusive Disney merchandise, local Bahamian crafts and souvenirs and beach items you might have forgotten (hats, sunscreen, sunglasses, sand toys, etc.).

She Sells Sea Shells and Everything Else by the Scuttle's Cove tram stop and Buy the Seashore by Pelican Point are your go-tos for Disney merch and sundries. Midway between the two are a couple of Bahamian retail outlets grouped together.

The only accepted method of payment is your Key to the World cruise ship card, even in the Bahamian-run shops.

If you're a Disney fan hoping to buy some swag not found anywhere else, you'll be happy browsing the Castaway Cay shops. Prices on beach items, however, are incredibly marked up, so if you forget to bring toys or a hat, try to pick them up at an earlier port or go without.

Can I get married on Castaway Cay?

Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings department can absolutely help couples plan a wedding on Castaway Cay during cruise itineraries that visit the island. (Weddings can also be held on board the ship.) You can choose from ceremony venues on the beach or at Wedding Pointe (the deck that juts out over the water by the Heads Up Bar).

Note that most Castaway Cay weddings take place in the morning, and the reception will be held back on board. In case of inclement weather or the ship's failure to dock at the island, your wedding might need to be rescheduled to an onboard location.

Also, Castaway Cay weddings are not legal weddings. You will need to file paperwork and get legally married in your home state. Your island ceremony will be purely symbolic.

What additional amenities will I find?

Crew members are on hand at several stations to hand out towels as you're leaving the ship. Towel return bins are located throughout the island, but I didn't see anywhere by the beaches to swap out a wet towel for a dry one.

Bathrooms and beach showers are found throughout the island, as are plenty of garbage and recycling bins.

A First Aid station is located by Scuttle's Cove. Island information kiosks are available at both Scuttle's Cove and Pelican Point tram stop areas.

Beach wheelchairs and strollers are available to borrow.

Disney's Wi-Fi is not available off the ship at Castaway Cay, so if you wish to use your phone, you'll need to have a plan that works in the Bahamas.

Can you stay overnight on Castaway Cay?

Some Disney employees do live on Castaway Cay to take care of the island. However, passengers do not have the opportunity to spend the night.

If you love Castaway Cay, look for "double dip" itineraries that feature two calls at Castaway Cay. Even if the visits are on consecutive days, you still must reboard the ship in the afternoon and cannot stay late on the island.

What's the typical weather like ?

You can find great weather in the Bahamas year-round. Average high temperatures are in the low 80s in winter and low 90s in summer. The rainiest months are June, August and September. The Bahamas is subject to hurricane season, which runs June through November. The peak time for tropical storms and hurricanes is August through October.

That means it will likely be either pleasant or hot during your visit to Castaway Cay. Make use of those complimentary beach umbrellas and shaded trams when journeying out to Serenity Bay. Apply and reapply sunscreen (choose the reef-safe brands) if you're spending the day on the beach or biking around the island. It's easy to burn.

It's also smart to stay hydrated during your day on island. Mix up your water intake with some of the sports drinks at the soda machines to keep your electrolytes up.

Castaway Cay has a pier, so your visit likely won't be canceled due to wind that might make tendering unwise. However, if conditions are too dangerous for the captain to safely dock, your call might be canceled or rescheduled.

Related: Best time to cruise to Bahamas

Can I see a Castaway Cay map?

Sure! Here is a map of the island to help you plan your day.

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13+ Things to Do at Disney's Castaway Cay

D isney’s private island, Castaway Cay , is a highlight for anyone traveling on a Disney Cruise Line Caribbean or Bahamian itinerary. This activity-filled island paradise offers some fantastic amenities for everyone in the family and is completely private – just for Disney Cruise Line. Once you visit Castaway Cay for the first time, you’ll be absolutely in love with the island.

Most of the staff that you’ll grow to love on the cruise ship disembarks to work on the island for the day, making it a fantastic experience. Whether this is your very first time on Disney’s private island, or you’ve been before, this list of things to do at Disney’s Castaway Cay should help you plan a fabulous stay for the day.

I’ve been to Castaway Cay 15 times on separate sailings, and have found that there are so many things to do. You’ll definitely want to go back and it probably won’t feel repetitive. Even if you don’t want to do anything, and just want to sit in a beach chair, it’s a beautiful destination.

Disclosure: I’ve experienced Castaway Cay on complimentary press trips, at a discount on the Disney Social Media Moms trip, and at full cost on personal trips. All opinions are my own. We received the Getaway Package at no cost during one of our sailings.

This post contains affiliate links. A purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no additional cost to you. 

If you want to take a cruise on the Disney Cruise Line, consider booking with Get Away Today. When you mention Family Travel Magazine, you get an extra $25 on board credit! Give their agents a call at 877-510-2929.

Things to Do at Castaway Cay

What’s on disney’s castaway cay.

Until you visit Castaway Cay, it’s difficult to imagine exactly what to expect when you get there. Is it a beach, or a town? Most frequent cruisers claim that it’s the best port of call on their itinerary. I definitely agree with that.

Upon disembarking the ship, you’ll find a number of fun activities for your day at Castaway Cay. Here’s some of what you’ll expect.

The island offers several beautiful beach areas, including the snorkel lagoon, the family beach, and Serenity Bay (the adult-only section). Beaches include hammocks, lounge chairs, and umbrellas that are available at no extra cost. These are first come first served.

There’s also a small beach area that is only available to guests renting a Castaway Cay cabana . These are very difficult to book, and are expensive, but are also so worth it.

There’s plenty of room on Castaway Cay for everyone, but I always love to disembark early so that I can choose my favorite location and settle in for a nice beach day. Note that if you are on one of the larger ships (the Disney Wish , Disney Fantasy , and Disney Dream ), you’ll find that the beaches get more crowded and it’s more difficult to get a cabana. That’s because those ships accommodate more passengers.

Another fun area is the Pelican Plunge, which includes two water slides and a bucket dump. This is one of my kids’ favorite spots, but it can definitely be cold when the water temperature of the Caribbean Sea is cold. 

The Spring-a-Leak water play area is another fun area for kids, as is Scuttle’s Cove, a kids’ club for ages 3-12. Cast members for the club are the same ones from the ship, so your kids will have some familiarity with them., especially if your Castaway Cay day is toward the end of your sailing.

Teens may enjoy the Teen Hideout. This area is for kids aged 14-17. There’s also a special teen excursion, The Wild Side Teen Adventure, which is offered at an additional fee.

You’ll also find character greetings (see the Disney Cruise Line app for a full schedule). My kids love seeing Captain Jack Sparrow on the island, although characters are always subject to change.

Entertainment is offered on the island. You’ll find the various offerings on the Disney Cruise Line app. In the past, these have included a DJ and crab races, run by the cruise staff, but can always vary.

If you love to shop, you’ll find several shops selling Castaway Cay exclusive merchandise. Keep in mind that the discount for Castaway Club gold, pearl, and platinum members doesn’t apply in the Bahamas, however. Purchases can be made on your ship account, and everything is in US dollars.

There’s also a separate post office on the island, as well as a few outdoor, open-air bars (like the Conched Out bar, Heads Up bar, and others. Chair service is also available on the beaches. If you want to play sports, there’s a Sports Beach featuring sports like volleyball, ping pong, and soccer.

On Castaway Cay day, activities and meals on the ship are fairly limited, since the cruise staff heads outside to the island. I definitely recommend getting off the ship for a good part of the day. If you are like me, and chase shade, there are plenty of umbrellas where you can sit in the shade.

What’s Included at Disney’s Castaway Cay?

As soon as you disembark, you’ll find bins of beach towels to use for the day. Cast members will assist you in getting them. You’ll also be offered the opportunity to purchase cooler bags filled with cold water bottles.

Beach chairs, hammocks, life vests, and umbrellas on Castaway Cay are free to use but are first-come, first served. It’s pretty easy to find a beach chair and umbrella, but the hammocks are usually taken pretty early, especially if you are on one of the larger ships.

Meals on Castaway Cay, including soda and ice cream, are complimentary at Cookies BBQ, Cookies Too (a little further from the Family Beach), and Serenity Bay BBQ (smaller, but adult-only and located near the adult-only beach). While it’s standard BBQ fare, I always find the food to be delicious, and perfect for a beach day. The restaurants are staffed by the dining room teams from the ship. 

While you are allowed to walk to all of the beach areas at Castaway Cay, there is also a tram service that can take you from near the ship, all the way to Serenity Bay (although you will have to change trams). I find it easy to walk to the family beach, but take the tram when I go to Serenity Bay. It’s a long walk and it can be hot.

What are the Extras at Disney’s Castaway Cay?

There are definitely some extras that you’ll be able to book/purchase on Castaway Cay, although you can still have lots of fun without spending any money at all. Castaway Cay activities include the following:

• Charter boats for fishing, snorkeling, and parasailing
• Bike rentals (fun for a bike ride exploring the island)
• Inner tube and snorkeling gear rentals. You can also bring your own snorkeling equipment but need to wear a yellow vest.
• Excursions, including the popular Castaway Ray Stingray experience. Book these on the ship, and keep in mind they may be canceled based on weather conditions.
• Private cabanas , which cost extra, but include inner tubes, snorkeling equipment, bike rentals, canned soft drinks, snacks, and sunscreen. Book those right when your booking window opens, because they are extremely popular.
• Alcoholic beverages (purchased either at one of the several bars on the island or the beach-front servers).
• Specialty non-alcoholic drinks, including those served at Olaf’s Summertime Freeze
• Merchandise purchased at the shops.
• Bottled water

If you are thinking of renting snorkels, tubes, and bikes, the Castaway Getaway Package can be a good deal. It includes a bike rental for an hour and a snorkel/float or tube rental for the day. It’s a port adventure and can be booked online or through the port adventure desk. It’s a great deal if you plan to rent bikes and tubes/snorkels.

You’ll want to make sure you use everything that’s included in the Castaway Getaway Package to get full value. Otherwise, it’s best to rent just what you need. Gil’s Fins and Boats is where you’ll pick up snorkel gear and other equipment, while you can get tubes, fins, and floats at Flippers & Floats.

Castaway Cay Excursions

Excursions and cabanas can be booked in advance, according to the schedule based upon your Castaway Club level. Cabanas book up very fast and are often only available for platinum and pearl Castaway Club members and concierge guests (because of their earlier booking window) – especially on the Dream, Wish, and Fantasy. Keep checking if you aren’t able to get a reservation right away.

If you are interested in participating in the Castaway Cay 5K, it’s now an individual activity. However, you are still able to get a plastic metal for finishing Lots of people participate in the Castaway Cay 5K. It’s a great way to see the whole Island. If you are interested, talk to the Port Excursion desk on the ship to find out the latest details.

Port excursions include:

• A stingray adventure
• Parasailing
• Glass bottom boat trips
• Jetboat tours

When I go to Castaway Cay, I usually spend my time relaxing on the beach. Although there are tons of activities on the island, I usually just love to grab a beach chair and umbrella and spent time between the chair and the water.

Castaway Cay Weather

Castaway Cay is located in the Bahamas, so you’ll want to check the weather in the Bahamas before you go. It can definitely vary. I’ve been in January when the temperature was absolutely perfect – in the low 80s and sunny. But during another January trip, the weather was in the high 60s. 

After fifteen visits to Castaway Cay, I can say that I’ve only experienced bad weather twice. Once, during a hurricane, our visit to Castaway Cay was able to be rescheduled for another day.

Rainy weather is always a possibility, however, so be prepared, just in case. If that does happen, I can assure you that the cast members will do a great job of making sure you still have a great experience.

On that sailing with bad weather, we were able to spend the morning on the beach. When the thunderstorms came, we had to stay under shelter until it was safe to return to the ship. Once we were back on the cruise ship, we were met with towels, and additional onboard activities were added.

Frequently Asked Questions About Disney Castaway Cay

Castaway Cay is exclusively for Disney Cruise Line passengers. There are no hotels, homes, or other overnight accommodations on the island for guests. One ship docks there at a time so you’ll only be there with passengers from your ship.

The Caribbean and Bahamian Disney Cruise Line ships typically visit Castaway Cay. Other itineraries, including Alaska and Europe do not, for obvious reasons. There are some special double-dip itineraries that include two stops at Castaway Cay.

Lunch at Castaway Cay is complimentary, although just like on the ship, you’ll pay for alcohol and other specialty foods/drinks. 

You’ll have to take a photo ID off the ship. While you won’t go through customs, you will have to show your ID and your Key to the World card when you return to the ship. 

While you aren’t required to get off the ship at Castaway Cay, I highly recommend visiting the island. It’s absolutely beautiful, and there aren’t as many dining options or activities on the ship during Castaway Day. You can always return back to the ship whenever you’d like. 

No, it’s included in your cruise. You’ll pay for add-ons including alcohol and excursions.

Have you been to Castaway Cay? What was your favorite thing to do?

The post 13+ Things to Do at Disney’s Castaway Cay appeared first on Family Travel Magazine .

Plan Your Family Vacation

24 Fun Things To Do On Castaway Cay For Families (Disneys Private Island)

Castaway Cay is a Disney private island in the Bahamas.   It is awesome! If you are planning to visit and want to learn more about all of the things to do on Castaway Cay, you are in the right spot! 

We recently went and enjoyed all of the activities at Castaway Cay.  This Bahamas Disney island is so fun! I am excited to share with you all of the options of what to do on Castaway Cay!  

In this post, we are going to focus on all the fun things to do on Disney's private island Castaway Cay.  This will include the free things to do on Castaway Cay, all of the Castaway Cay activities and rentals available, food options on Castaway Cay, and some amazing Castaway Cay excursions.  

I know you are going to have an amazing time! Let's check out all of the awesome Disneys Castaway Cay things you can enjoy when you visit! 

If you want to save this information for later be sure to Pin this to Pinterest!  

This post may contain affiliate links (Including Amazon) that will give me a commission at no additional charge to you. 

Important Information About Disney Castaway Island

We are going to answer as many questions as you might have about visiting the Castaway Cay Disney Island Bahamas Port.  These Castaway Cay tips will help you know exactly what to expect! 

How Do You Say Disney's Castaway Cay?

Okay, good question.  I always want to say Disney's Castaway “K” but this is incorrect.   You say Disney Castaway Key! 

Who Can Visit Castaway Cay Disney Island?

You can only visit the Disney private island in the Bahamas if you are on a Disney Cruise Ship.  Castaway Cay is a Disney Cruise port! 

Are There Strollers on the Castaway Cay Island? 

Yes, there are strollers that can roll on the sand.  These are free but are limited to a first come basis. 

What is the Best Age for Castaway Cay?

Castaway Cay is great for all ages.  There is something for everyone from the splash pad for toddlers to the adult-only beach, not to mention the kid's clubs in between! 

What is Free on Disney's Castaway Cay? 

• Slides (Pelican Plunge)
• Kids Club (Scuttles Cove)
• In Da Shade Games
• Character Meet and Greets
• Trams (Transportation) 

What Do I Need to Get On and Off the Boat?

As an adult, it is good to bring both your license and Key to the World Card.  Kids will only need their Key to the World Card. 

Our Experience

My husband and I wanted to run the Castaway 5k. We left our kiddos with grandparents so they could meet us later.  If the kids are not in the same stateroom as grandparents they can not get to the island without jumping through hoops.  They had to go to customer care so they could exit the boat with our kids. 

Getting back on the boat was no big deal.  My 16-year-old was able to board solo without adults.  

We will answer more questions as we go along! 

Map Out Disney's Castaway Cay

When we arrived we were sure to check out the Disney Private Island Castaway Cay map.  This map will let you know exactly where to go.  

Castaway Cay is not very big or developed.  There are large beach areas (family and adult), bike paths, souvenir shops, and food establishments.  

Getting Around the Castaway Cay Private Island

You can easily walk the entire island but that is easier said than done when you have little kids.  Disney is amazing and provides tram service to different areas of the island.  

One tram will provide service to/from the boat to the family beach areas.  Another tram picks up those who want to go to Serenity Beach (The adults-only area)

Fun Things To Do at Castaway Cay

Now that we have some of the logistics in place, lets get to the fun part.  Here is a list to help you know exactly what to do on Castaway Cay.  

1. Castaway Family Beaches

The Castaway Cay beach is really nice. The sand is perfect and the water is so blue! 

There are plenty of beach chairs to choose from.  We went in January and the Castaway Cay weather wasn't great.  I think most of the people stayed on the ship.  There were lots of beach chairs to choose from.  

I imagine during the summer or warmer times of the year this beach could get crowded! 

There are two family beaches.  There will be two tram stops, one for each beach.  Both areas have a food pavilion and ice cream station located nearby. 

Castaway Cay Tips

One thing that is awesome about Castaway Cay is the amount of Sea Shells on the beach.  Shelling is one of the best things to do on Castaway Cay.  You will find a ton of cool sea shells.  Most are not broken! 

2. Swimming at Castaway Cay

Wow,  the water is clear and beautiful.  Most times of the year this is a magical paradise.  January it is a little too cold for me. 

My kids, on the other hand, dived right in and enjoyed the swimming dock just offshore.  The cold water did not bother them one bit.  

Are There Life Jackets Available?

Yes, lifejackets are avaialbe.  There are lifejacket stations in a few places near the beach areas. 

3. Pelican Plunge Water Slide

One of the best fun-free things to do on Castaway Cay is Pelican Plunge!  These water slides plunge right into the clear water of the ocean.  

Pelican Plunge is located closer to the second-family beach area.  Unfortunately, on the day we went the slides were closed.  If they had been open, I guarantee my kids would have gone one them! 

4. Build a Sand Castle on Castaway Cay Beach

Building a sand castle is one of the best things to do at Castaway Cay! This is a fun free Castaway Cay activity that the whole family can enjoy. 

I think my kids spent hours playing in the sand on Castaway Cay the day we went. I highly suggest purchasing a sand bucket and bringing it with you on your cruise.  You can buy them on the Bahamas Disney Island for an absurd price or just plan ahead and get them on Amazon . 

5. Spring a Leak Splash Pad

If you visit Castaway Cay with little ones in the spring a leak splash pad is a great place to bring a busy toddler.  They can run around and get wet! 

It is in an enclosed area which makes it easier to watch your little kids. It has a nice covered area where you can watch your kids.  

6. Visit the Post Office on Castaway Cay

The post office on Castaway Cay is a fun stop on the island.  You can buy a few postcards and send them to yourself!   

You can buy stamps at the post office or Bahaman stamps on board at guest services.  The post office is not always open but you can always mail yourself a postcard or even a message in a bottle (found in the souvenir shops) in the drop box near the post office. 

The mail does take a while to get to you.  It can be as little as 3  weeks or up to 2 months. 

7. In-Da-Shade Castaway Cay Private Island Retreat

In-Da-Shade is a great place for teens and families to hang out.  There are ping pong tables, foosball, basketball hoops, pool tables, and many large outdoor games.

This area is shaded and close to the lunch venue.  We were able to play a little foosball with the teens.  It was a fun area with lots of games. 

8. Character Meet and Greets

The Castaway Cay character meet and greets are awesome.  There are characters you might not see all the time.  

The Castaway Cay weather was so bad when we went that, characters did not make an appearance. 

What Characters are on Castaway Cay?

Rumor has it, that Captain Jack Sparrow is sometimes found on the island! You will always find the Fab 5. (Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, and Goofy).  Pluto, Chip & Dale, and occasional Captain Hook and Smee are also found on Castaway Cay. 

Typically there are lots of locations around the Castaway Cay island where they hang out.  Mount Rushmore, Dig Site, Post Office, Cookies BBQ, Summertime Freeze Drink Stand, Sometimes by the dock in afternoons and evenings. 

9. Castaway Cay 5K

One of the best things to do at Castaway Cay is run the 5K.  You can run at any time of the day.  

Of all the Castaway Cay activities, I was most excited about the 5K.  I love running and getting medals!!!  If you complete the 5K you get a Castaway Cay medal.  It is a fantastic souvenir and absolutely free! 

To participate you will go to the bike rental station and they will show you a map of the route you will run.  The route will take you on the backside of the island and down to Serenity Bay and back.  

I loved running the Castaway Cay 5K .

Fun Things to Do at Disney Castaway Cay (That Cost Extra)

So far we have listed out a lot of fun things to do on Castaway Cay.  All the items listed above are free things to do on Castaway Cay.

Now we are going to start listing some fun Castaway Cay activities that have a fee associated with them.  

10. Rent a Tube

How does floating in a tube on the ocean sound?!  There is a daily charge to rent tubes.  It is less than $15 for the entire day.  

If you plan to send the entire day enjoying the ocean and floating this is a perfect option for you.

Where Can I Rent Tubes on Castaway Cay?

You can rent the tubes from the Family Beach, Flippers and Floats, and Serenity Bay.

11. Rent a Float Mat

If you would rather rent a float mat, these are also available Flippers and Floats.   Daily fees apply to float on the mats as well.  It is around he same price as the tubes.   

Both are great ways to enjoy the beautiful Castaway Cay island views.   

12. Water Aqua Trike on Castaway Cay Island

Looking for what to do on Castaway Cay? Located closer to the ship dock is a beach area that is not for swimming.  There are lots of fun water toys to rent. So if you are wondering what to do on Castaway Cay I have a few options for you.

Our Experience on Disney's Private Island Castaway Cay

We rented a water Aqua Trike. It was around $30 for 30 minutes. This activity is for those 5 years of age and older. 

These are a lot harder than they look! It is an excellent workout! 

I took my son out for about 15 minutes and my husband took my daughter out for 15 minutes.  My quads were burning after 15 minutes. 

We had a lot of fun!  

13. Rent Paddle Boards at Castaway Cay

There are also paddleboards to rent in this area.  This is a fun Castaway Cay activity that you can try out! 

Paddleboards are for those 14 and up and cost about $20 for a half hour of fun. 

14. Rent a Kayak on Castaway Cay

We saw lots of people out on the kayaks.  Kayaking was perfect for January because you could still be out on the ocean without necessarily being in the Ocean.  

The kayaks are around $25 for 30 minutes.  Those who are 5 years and older can participate. 

15. Rent a Chiliboat on the Disney Private Island

I had never seen a chiliboat before visiting Disney's private Bahama Island. 

These cycle boats have a propeller that goes under the water. As you peddle you can get out on the water at a good speed.  This is exercise! 

Each of these boats has two seats, you will probably want someone who can share the workload of moving the boat.

You must be at least 14 years old with an adult to rent one of these.  

16. Snorkeling Castaway Cay

We love to snorkel! The Disney private island has a special area designed just for snorkeling.  

There is a shipwreck site and a submarine site.  There are different color buoys that indicate where Disney objects and other objects are located beneath the surface. 

As I said earliy, the water was way to cold for me, so I took my kiddos and went back to the Disney Wish ship.   My husband on the other hand took the opportunity to see what snorkeling at Castaway Cay was like.  

Snorkeling at Castaway requires snorkeling gear.  It is almost as much to rent the gear (around $38) on Castaway Cay Island as it would be to purchase your own on Amazon before you go and bring it.  

Our Experience Snorkeling on Castaway Cay

We always bring our own snorkel gear, my husband was able to jump right in and start exploring! I think it is 100% worth bringing snorkel gear to Castaway Cay.  

He loved snorkeling and had a fun time! 

17. Renting Bikes on Disney Castaway Cay Bahama Island

If the Castaway Cay weather is nice and you want to enjoy a little exercise, renting a bike is the perfect thing to do on Castaway Cay! There are a lot of bikes available.  They also have baby bike seats attached to some bikes.  

There are bike paths on the backside of Castaway Cay Island.  We did not rent bikes but ran most of the paths.  

Bikes are around $15 to rent for 1 hour. 

18. Castaway Cay Excursions

There are some fun Castaway Cay excursions you can book before your cruise.  You will do this through the app or online. 

Castaway Cay Excursions

• Catamaran Ride
• Sting Ray Adventure
• Castaway Cay Fishing Adventure
• Glass Bottom Boat
• Parasailing

All of the excursions were canceled the day we went.  So be prepared if that happens. The Castaway Cay weather plays a big role in if these 

19. Food on Castaway Cay

There are three main lunch pavilions. One at all three beach locations.  There are ice cream stations at each pavilion. 

Castaway Cay Food Locations

• Cookies BBQ
• Cookies Too
• Serenity Bay

  There is a buffet with hot dogs, brisket, hamburgers, salads, and much more.  I was not really impressed with the food. The food on the ship was a lot better in my opinion.  However, I did not go try the Serenity Bay offerings which include cajan chicken, Maui Maui, and steak.  

I wish I would have tried the food at Serenity Bay! 

I did have a lot of ice cream which was available at all three locations! 

20. Disney Castaway Cay Cabana's

Word of advice, If you want a Castaway Cay Cabana you better book it ASAP.  All of the cabanas were booked out! 

The Castaway Cabanas can range but most are over $800 for the day.  

Our day on Castaway Cay was such a gloomy day. We walked around the Cabana area and they were mostly empty. 

These Cabanas have direct access to the beach and are isolated from the crowds.  It would be wonderful to book one on a sunny warm day! 

21. Disney Castaway Cay Kids Club Scuttles Cove

Scuttles Cove is designed for kids 10 and under! There are games and sand pits to play in.  

We checked it out but I think because it was such a gloomy day they didn't have too much going on.  Like I said earlier, most passengers stayed on the boat! 

My younger kids didn't really want to go in and play! But if you want to sneak away to Serenity Bay this is the perfect place to take your kids and relax.  

22. Hideaway Teen Area

My 16-year-old and I walked around to check out the teen area.  It was empty.  There was some music playing with an area to hang out in but nothing special. 

There were lots and lots of volleyball nets, so if your teens love to play this would be the perfect place to hang out. 

23. Serenity Bay Adult Only Castaway Cay Beach

I wanted to check out the adult only section Castaway Cay Bahama island.  I took the tram and headed down.  

There is a nice beach with clear water.  However, I can see why this area was for adults.  The wind was blowing and the water was rough.  On the family side even with the wind, the waters stayed calm.  At Serenity Bay it was choppy.  

There is a bar and restaurant located in this area.  There are not as many beach chairs or Castaway Cay activities on this side of the Disney private island.  But if you just want to come  and relax this is a great spot. 

24. Shop for Souvenirs on Castaway Cay

One of the best things to do on Castaway Cay is get a souvenir! There are lots of different shops around the Disney private island.  Some were full of clothing, some beach toys, and others had special souvenirs from Castaway Cay.

Castaway Cay Shops

• Buy the SeaShore
• She Sells SeaShells and Everything Else
• Bahamian Retail

We were able to find some fun Disney pins.  It is fun to walk around and look at all the fun merchandise. 

Fun Things to Do on Castaway Cay

There are so many fun things to do on Castaway Cay.  You will be happy to know that you will not be bored! 

Our experience was kind of rainy and cold in January but hopefully, you will have a perfectly sunny day with lots of warm beautiful water to swim in! I know you will enjoy all of the Castaway Cay activiites on Disney's private Bahama island! 

Have so much fun! 

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10 Comments

It’s a dream of mine to one day do a Disney cruise and visit Castaway Cay. It looks like such a fun place, especially for Disney lovers. The float mat looks like my idea of a relaxing time!

The water is so blue and pretty. Very inviting to relax on a mat.

So much fun reading about Castaway Cay! I had no idea that Disney had this special island….I’m always learning about Disney’s fun and tucked away little surprises…love that! I wish my kids were still little so that I could take them here, although sounds just as fun for “big kids”! 🙂

My kids loved Castaway Cay, it is fun to relax and enjoy the beauty

Disney’s Castaway Cay in the Bahamas looks like so much fun with so many activities to do! And cool that you were able to run a 5k here!

I love running, so I was super excited to do it!

Castaway Cay looks like a fun way to spend the day! I’d want to kayak. However there are so many fun activities available.

There are so many fun ways to relax and have fun!

Castaway Cay looks like an amazing and super fun place to visit! I love that it’s a private island.

It is such a cool island to explore!

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Castaway Cay – Disney’s Private Island

• Castaway Cay FAQs
• Private Cabanas
• Activities and Entertainment
• Castaway Cay Photos
• Castaway Cay Map

CASTAWAY CAY OVERVIEW

Castaway Cay is Disney’s private island in the Bahamas and is always a highlight of their Caribbean cruises.

If you’re expecting a Mickey-shaped island with black, red, and gold umbrellas, guess again. While this is the tropics a’la Disney, its serene setting is the perfect accompaniment to your cruise.

The first thing that you’ll notice is that Castaway Cay has its very own dock. There is no tendering to this island – you step off the ship, and you’re there.

The next thing you notice is a pristine beach lined with colorful umbrellas. Each umbrella is the centerpiece for two adjustable lounge chairs and two beach chairs. There are a few hammocks scattered about for your use as well.

What you’re looking at is the Family Beach which all are welcome to use. For guests 18 and over, Serenity Bay is the Adult Beach, and there’s also a Teen Beach.

As you step off the ship, a friendly crew member hands you towels. From there, you can walk to the beach, or you can head to the Tram Station. Here, you’ll be transported to the Family/Teen Beach. For guests wanting to visit Serenity Bay Adult Beach, a second tram will take you there.

Not only is the water crystal clear, it’s comfortably warm for most of the year, and since it’s sheltered, the tide comes and goes with barely a ripple.

What’s the Caribbean without snorkeling ? There’s an area dedicated to this purpose that you’re welcome to explore. Another popular tropical venue is the Stingray Adventure, where you can book an excursion and interact with these fascinating sea creatures.

There’s something about sunshine and salt water that makes everyone hungry. Listen for the announcement that Cookie’s and Cookies Too are both open and serving lunch. (This is included in your cruise fare.) There will be an array of seasonal fresh fruit and barbecue favorites, including hamburgers, chicken, hot dogs, and the best potato salad you’ve ever tasted.

RELATED: What’s for Lunch on Disney’s Castaway Cay?

If you’re still hungry, soft-serve ice cream is the perfect beach dessert. There are covered pavilions with row upon row of picnic tables for you to dine at. (Serenity Bay has its own buffet, so you don’t need to traipse back from there.)

Keep your Key to the World card handy if you want to order those fantastic tropical drinks. The signature Castaway Cay Konk Kooler is a favorite of Disney Cruise Line devotees.

White sand beaches, turquoise water, sherbert-colored umbrellas, music in the air, lush vegetation, can this be Disney? There are a couple of stores called She Sells Sea Shells and Everything Else and Buy the Sea Shore. Exclusive Castaway Cay merchandise is sold here, as well as any essentials you may have forgotten (sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, etc.)

There’s a real working Post Office if you want to mail the “I’m here and you’re not” postcards back home. This is Bahama-run and gives new meaning to “island time.” You’ll be back from your trip well before the postcard ever arrives.

Here’s a tip: The Post Office requires cash. Do yourself (and the people standing behind you) a favor and either have change or small bills. They’re not equipped to break a steady stream of large denomination bills.

Hair braiding can be scheduled while at Castaway Cay. While it is popular, we’ve seen more than a few tears when the little girls find out it requires a lot of tugging and pulling of their hair.

Adults can book the ultimate in pampering. Over at Serenity Bay, there are open-air massage cabanas. Just head to the Vista Spa onboard the ship and schedule yours.

There are a ton of excursions to choose from. You can go on a guided jet ski tour or a banana boat ride, rent bikes, parasail, etc. Just about everything you can expect to do at a beach destination is offered.

If you’re reluctant to spend a full day in the sun, Groupers Pavilion is a sheltered area where you can play foosball, ping pong (and I promise, unlike the table on the ship, this one doesn’t move just as you’re about to make your game-winning serve), basketball, golf wiffleball, monster chess, and checkers.

Throughout the day, you may spot a few of your favorite Disney characters making appearances. Keep your camera handy, as you’ll also want to take some spectacular pictures of your ship.

There’s only one downside to Castaway Cay; you have to get back on the ship!!! This idyllic day always seems to fly by. This is the type of experience that you wish you could bottle and open again, especially when you’re shoveling snow.

The weather is usually picture perfect. Here’s hoping for blue skies during your visit to Disney’s island paradise!

CASTAWAY CAY FAQs

• What is Disney’s Private Island Called?
• Which Side of the Disney Dream Faces Castaway Cay?
• Has Your Disney Cruise Ever Had to Miss Castaway Cay Completely?

CASTAWAY CAY ACTIVITIES

Castaway Cay 5K

The Castaway Cay 5K is a great activity for folks who enjoy a more active start to their morning on this private island in The Bahamas. There is currently no official sign-up or start time for the race; you can complete it at your leisure any time during your time at Castaway Cay. The route is the same as it has always been; guest services can draw you a map if you need one. When you get back on the ship, stop by Guest Services for your finisher medallion.

Scuttles Cove (Kids & Teens)

Children’s Program Area – If you want your kids to take part in the kids’ programs on Castaway Cay day, you will check them into the program right at Scuttle’s Cove. (The program counselors have laptop computers with the check-in information). This area is located AWAY from the water and the counselors will not take the children near the water.

The fun, sandy play area features Monstro Point, a “whale dig” site complete with jumbo-sized whale bones. Several activities for the different kids’ age groups are planned throughout the day here. The programming closes down at 3:30 so the counselors can move from the island to the ship.

Teen Beach (Kids & Teens)

The Teen Beach includes Goofy’s Sand Lot with tetherball and sand volleyball courts. Special teen activities also take place here. For teens looking for a little more adventure, Wild Side is a Castaway Cay excursion just for them, featuring kayaking, cycling, snorkeling and exploration of the island. Sign up for this excursion in advance, at the Shore Excursion Desk.

Castaway Family Beach

Fun for the whole family, this beach features lounge chairs, beach umbrellas, sand chairs, and even a few hammocks. Go early for the best selection.

Pelican Plunge at Castaway Cay is within swimming distance of the shore. The attraction features a 2,400-square-foot floating platform with 2 water slides – one is an enclosed corkscrew slide and the other is a 140-foot-long open slide into the ocean. The platform also includes a giant bucket that dumps hundreds of gallons of water on guests, as well as four water cannons to shoot targets placed in the water.

You’ll also want to check out a 2,400-square-foot play area called Spring-a-Leak . This water playground is made to look like it was hit by a storm, with leaking pipes and broken plumbing squirting water all over the guests. One of the focal points of the area is a splash pad with water jets to squirt and spray the guests. This area is partially shaded with broken parts of the structure, so it’s a great place for the kids to play!

The Snorkeling Lagoon is located here, and features a snorkeling path to follow to see tropical fish and special buried hidden treasure. Snorkeling is best early in the day, before the sand has been kicked up by all the swimmers.

Your inclusive lunch is served at Cookie’s Bar-B-Q and features a buffet with ribs, chicken, hamburgers, salads, corn on the cob, fresh fruit, soft-serve ice cream, and other picnic-style fare.

Serenity Bay Adult Beach

Located on the far northwestern end of the island is Serenity Bay, a secluded beach for adults 18 and older only. This is where adults can enjoy the pampering of an open-air cabana massage, sip a drink, or relax and enjoy the quiet of the beach with no children around. A buffet lunch is served.

ARTICLE: Castaway Cay Cabana Couples Massage

Several bars are interspersed throughout the beach areas, and they serve a variety of tropical and soft drinks. A favorite is the Konk Kooler, a libation made with light and dark rum, orange juice, passion fruit and coconut cream (it can be made without the rum) that can also be purchased in a souvenir glass.

PRIVATE BEACH CABANAS

Castaway Cay offers guests the luxury of renting one of 20 private cabanas. These 325-square-foot cabanas are divided between Castaway Family Beach and Serenity Bay Beach. On the family beach, the cabanas are located on the far side of the beach, offering a little more seclusion, along with a great view of the ship from the cabana’s front deck.

Cabanas have cushioned chairs, chaise lounges, side tables, and a dining table. Also included are a refrigerator, a lockable storage unit, an outside fresh water shower, and a shaded deck. You will receive non-alcoholic beverages, suntan lotion, and towels when you rent a beach cabana. Other packages with special services, food, and beverage options are available. For an additional fee, guests can also reserve the services of a private cabana host.

Cabanas can be reserved online ahead of time or at the Port Adventures desk while onboard the ship. They will hold a maximum of 6 guests. On the Family Beach, they can be rented for $880* daily.

The Serenity Bay Beach cabanas are $523* per day.

A Grand Family Cabana is available and can hold up to 16 guests. The price for ten guests is $1,238*, but six more can be added for $56* per person. This cannot be booked online.

*All pricing is subject to change at any time without notice.

CASTAWAY CAY SHOPPING

Visit one of the island’s shops, She Sells Sea Shells everything else, or Buy the Seashore for Castaway Cay logo merchandise, sand toys, beach towels, sunscreen, postcards, and other small sundries including sunscreen. Cultural Illusions sells authentic Bahamian arts and crafts.

CASTAWAY CAY RENTALS

Snorkeling equipment and floating mats/tubes can be rented in advance and picked up at  Gil’s Fins and Boats  or  Flippers and Floats  near the Family Beach. A variety of small boats and water craft, as well as bicycles (with child seats if desired) can also be rented on the island.

The pricing below can change at any time without notice.

• Snorkeling Equipment — $34 for adults, $18 for children for the entire day
• Float Rentals — $13 for the entire day
• Bicycle Rentals — $13 per hour
• Castaway Cay Getaway Package – includes snorkeling and floats for the whole day and a 1-hour bike rental, $46 for adults, $26 per child
• Strollers, complimentary on a first come basis
• Sand wheelchairs complimentary on a first-come, first-served basis

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Take a Photo Tour of Castaway Cay, Disney's Private Island

Caribbean sailings with Disney Cruise Line include a day at Castaway Cay , Disney's 1,000-acre private island in the Bahamas.

Each guest's cruise fare includes access to the island and youth areas, a barbecue lunch buffet, non-alcoholic beverages and self-serve ice cream. Guests can use their ship stateroom key cards to charge incidentals such as alcoholic beverages or rentals for bicycles, snorkel gear, or watercraft.

Follow the Signs to Island Fun

Only about 55 acres of the island is developed, and all the facilities are within walking distance of the ship. (Get oriented with these maps of Castaway Cay .)

Got little ones? A fleet of strollers and wagons is available to roll your kids and gear around the island. There is also a tram to bring guests from the beach areas back to the ship.

Bring the Kids to the Beach

The crescent-shaped family beach is in a well-protected cove so there's no big waves or rip currents. There are plenty of umbrellas, chairs and hammocks at no charge. You can also rent tubes and floats for fun in the swimming lagoon.

Take the Pelican Plunge

Within easy swimming distance of shore, Pelican Plunge is a 2,400-square-foot floating platform with two curvy water slides that drop you with a splash in the ocean. There are also water cannons and other fun ways to get wet, and a lifeguard is always on duty.

Keep Your Kids in Sight

If your kids love the Pelican Plunge, grab some lounge chairs on the lovely family beach right next to it. The kids can get to the water slides and still stay within your sight.

Meet Your Favorite Disney Characters

There are opportunities to meet Disney characters on Castaway Cay, just like on the ship. Consult your "Personal Navigator" leaflet or the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app to find out where to find your favorite characters on Castaway Cay.

Give Your Teen Some Chill Time

This picture tells the story. The  Hideout is a secluded retreat for teens (ages 14-17) where they can hang out, listen to music, or play beach volleyball and soccer.

Teens can also explore Castaway Cay during the optional Wild Side excursion that includes snorkeling, biking and kayaking through the island and finishes with a big lunch.

Take a Break from the Sun

Getting too much Vitamin D? Take your kids to In-Da-Shade , an outdoor game pavilion with a giant checkerboard, pool tables, foosball, Ping Pong, and basketball hoops.

Tweens (ages 11-14) will often have scheduled time here, supervised by youth counselors.

Let Kids Join the Club at Scuttle's Cove

Do your kids love the Oceaneers Club on the ship?  Scuttle’s Cove  is the island equivalent, with supervised youth activities for kids ages 3 to 12. It features a 1,200-square-foot water play area with a soft wet deck and an array of pop jets, geysers and bubblers. It also connects to a  Monstro Point , a dig site filled with artificial whale bones.

Fun activities at Scuttle’s Cove include:

• Gotta Get Soaked , a team challenge with water balloons and buckets
• Water Mania , water play for younger kids
• Caribbean Beach Party , sand castle challenges and bubble games

Give Little Ones Some Splash Time at Spring-A-Leak

Your little ones can splash around safely to their hearts' content at Spring-A-Leak , a splashpad with fountains and geysers. There is bench seating for adults around the perimeter of the area.

Pet a Stingray

One of the most popular and memorable shore excursions on Castaway Cay is the stingray experience . Adults and kids 5 and up can stroke debarbed Southern Stingrays during a demonstration and then snorkel in a stingray lagoon with the docile creatures. (Price: $45/adult and $36/child age 5 to 9.)

Explore on Two Wheels

You can rent bicycles on Castaway Cay for $10 an hour, enough time to explore the island on the designated bike trails . 

Fun fact: Before Disney bought the island in the late 1990s, it was a stopover for drug runners. Some of the bike path follows a wide ribbon of tarmac that used to be an airstrip.

Sneak Away Without the Kids

If your kids want to spend time in the supervised youth clubs, take advantage of the opportunity to relax at Serenity Bay , the adult-only beach on the island.

Enjoy an Empty Beach

While the family beaches are fun and action-packed, the just-for-adults  Serenity Bay is rarely crowded and much more quiet. The beach is reserved for guests age 18 and up.

Pull Up a Chair to the Water's Edge

 Pure bliss.

Pose with the Fab Four

It may not be a national monument, but Mount Rustmore is an iconic destination on Castaway Cay. This is a popular meeting spot and a fabulous photo op.

Say Hello to Captain Jack Sparrow

You might spy Captain Jack Sparrow walking along the beach. He's happy to chat and pose for pictures.

Get a Picture With Olaf at the Post Office

Send a postcard to a friend—or even to yourself as a souvenir. The island's post office  has special Bahamian postage with a "Castaway Cay" postmark. And remember to get your photo op with Olaf from "Frozen," who sometimes stands sentry outside.

Admire Your Ship

At the island's watersports beach, you can rent sailboats, kayaks, Jetskis, standup paddleboards and more. That's the Disney Dream in the background.

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Castaway Cay - Disney's Private Island

Always a favorite of Disney cruisers, Castaway Cay is Disney Cruise Line's private bit of paradise in the Bahamas. The Disney ship docks right at the island, allowing Disney cruisers to simply walk off the ship directly onto this island with beautiful white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters. As you leave the ship, you'll see the Castaway Cay post office. This is the place to purchase special Disney Cruise Line stamps and mail those postcards that will have the Castaway Cay postmark. NOTE: this is one place where you DO need cash, if you want to purchase postcards or stamps. Your Key to the World charge is not valid here. Also, be aware that it could take weeks or even months for your postcard to arrive at its destination.

You'll also be handed a beach towel as you leave the ship, so no need to bring any towels from your room. Ship's photographers will be on hand to take your picture if you'd like. You then proceed down the path to the Tram Stop. Although you CAN walk to the Castaway Family Beach (it's about a 15-minute walk) it's much faster to take the trams waiting for you at the tram stop. If you want to go on to Serenity Bay Beach (adults 18 and over only) you must exit the tram at the Family Beach and take a separate tram to Serenity Bay Beach. There is also a Teen Beach located at the far west end of the Family Beach.

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Port Adventures

Bring every destination you visit to life., more magic. less effort., leave-it-to-disney dependability.

Avoid the uncertainty of navigating unfamiliar ports, negotiating excursion fees and dealing with currency exchange. Disney Cruise Line takes care of all this—with the unparalleled service you’ve come to expect.

No-Worry Cruising Convenience

Port Adventures are coordinated with the ship’s arrival. If the ship is late, tour times will be adjusted. If an excursion runs late, we’ll wait or arrange complimentary transportation to the next port of call. Plus, Port Adventures are fully refundable for missed ports if the ship itinerary changes.

PREMIUM EXPERIENCES

Private adventures.

Enjoy the comfort and convenience of sightseeing at your own pace with your own personal vehicle or vessel. This exciting class of excursions delivers more chances to customize your vacation ashore, with easy access to luxurious settings and the best in local art and culture.

Accessible Adventures

Perfect for seniors and those with limited mobility, Disney Cruise Line now offers accessible Port Adventures in various countries. Discover an exciting world of excursions featuring step-free tours, specially equipped vehicles, and guides familiar with the needs of Guests with disabilities.

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Explore the world through food! Disney Cruise Line brings you one-of-a-kind, cuisine-themed Port Adventures that celebrate the remarkable stories, cultures and flavors of the places you’ll visit.

PORT ADVENTURES BY DESTINATION

Alaska port adventures.

Alaska’s rugged beauty is unrivaled with activities to match—from glacier floatplane tours, whale watching and horseback riding, to lumberjack shows, wildlife expeditions and salmon bakes.

Bahamas Port Adventures

There’s something for everyone in the Bahamas—from harbor cruises and city tours, to sea lion and stingray encounters, to parasailing, kayaking, snorkeling, fly fishing and more.

Bermuda Port Adventures

Scuba dive amid colorful coral reefs, observe hundreds of delightful animals at an aquarium and zoo, or venture underground to uncover a mysterious world of sparkling saltwater pools—in Bermuda, there’s something for everyone.

Canada Port Adventures

Step into proud maritime communities, relishing their enduring Victorian ambience and hearing fascinating stories at every charming stop—Port Adventures along the Canadian coastline promise a memorable balance of history and heart.

Caribbean Port Adventures

The Caribbean—from the Gulf of Mexico to the Virgin Islands—boasts an abundance of sun and plenty of active fun, like horseback riding and jungle zip-lining, snorkeling and submarine tours—even ancient Mayan ruins.

Disney Castaway Cay Port Adventures

Find your perfect paradise at Disney's private island, reserved for Disney Cruise Line Guests sailing to the Caribbean and Bahamas. Enjoy azure waters, sandy beaches—plus a host of family-friendly activities and amenities.

Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point Adventures

Experience the wonders of our newest island destination on the Bahamian island of Eleuthera. Bike and kayak along a pristine coastline, dive into a snorkeling adventure or hop into an off-road buggy and explore mystical caves, lush forests and remote beaches. All this and more awaits.

Hawai'i Port Adventures

Explore wild jungles and discover the extraordinary jewels of the Hawaiian tropics. Experience the best this exotic paradise has to offer on the islands of O'ahu, Maui, Kaua'i and the Big Island of Hawaii.

Mediterranean Port Adventures

Discover places awash with history thousands of years in the making. Be swept up in the charms of quaint seaside villages and bustling cosmopolitan cities where longstanding architectural marvels and scenic geological wonders converge.

Mexican Riviera Port Adventures

Baja Mexico has much to offer, including snorkeling and scuba diving, tequila-making tours and whale-watching excursions—even a Mexican cooking lesson that includes a delicious lunch.

New Zealand & Australia Port Adventures

Incredible natural wonders await Down Under and beyond. Experience close encounters with extraordinary wildlife, traverse underground caverns and stroll the shores of a Tasmanian isthmus.

Northern European Port Adventures

Adventures abound from majestic fjords to medieval cities—explore royal castles, grand plazas, hillside villages, landmark museums, scenic shorelines and a diversity of cultures.

Pacific Coast Port Adventures

From America’s Golden State to Canada’s British Columbia, discover breathtaking parks and landmarks, inviting museums and gardens, plus delightful tours and tastings.

Panama Canal Port Adventures

Our Panama Canal adventures are a wonderful mix of active, scenic and historic experiences—passing through the Panama Canal locks, golfing at breathtaking courses or whale watching, kayaking and snorkeling.

South Pacific Port Adventures

Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures of the South Pacific—learn the art of Siapo painting and experience a traditional Samoan welcome ceremony. Plus, enjoy thrilling outdoor adventures from waterfall hiking to rainforest ziplining.

Transatlantic Port Adventures

Your adventures await—explore charming retreats and tropical cultures of the Caribbean islands, as well as age-old locales and ancient wonders of the Mediterranean.