Jess at Sea

If you’re sailing on a Disney Cruise Line itinerary that includes a stop at Castaway Cay, get ready – you’re about to experience one of the most magical private islands in the Bahamas. With white sand beaches, turquoise water, family-friendly activities, and all-you-care-to-enjoy BBQ, Castaway Cay is Disney magic meets tropical paradise.

Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth (or in my case as a Crew Member – one hundred and something-th haha!), this complete guide to Castaway Cay has everything you need to plan the perfect day on the island.

What Is Castaway Cay?

Castaway Cay (it’s sometimes a debate but I can assure you it’s pronounced “key”) is Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, exclusive to guests sailing on Disney Cruise Line. It’s consistently voted one of the top cruise line private islands—and for good reason.

Fun facts:

• Only accessible via Disney Cruise Line
• Completely Private Island – your ship’s for the whole day!
• Fully staffed by Disney Crew Members
• Offers beaches, snorkeling, food, excursions, and even a 5K run

How Do You Get to Castaway Cay?

The only way to visit Castaway Cay is by booking a Disney cruise that includes a stop there. Itineraries from Port Canaveral, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale often include Castaway Cay as a port of call, and some special cruises, fondly known as a “Double Dipper” may even visit twice!

When the ship docks, you’ll walk right off onto the island—no tender boats required. Hop on a tram and you’ll be beachside within minutes!

Beaches on Castaway Cay

There are three main beach areas on the island:

Family Beach

• Most popular spot
• Closest to ship and tram stop
• Includes Pelican Plunge (floating water slide/play area)
• Great for swimming, snorkeling, water sports and playing in the sand

Serenity Bay (Adults Only)

• Exclusive to guests 18+
• Peaceful, quiet, and far less crowded
• Has its own lunch spot (Serenity Bay BBQ)
• Ideal for lounging, reading, and unwinding in the quiet

Scuttle’s Cove (Kids Club)

• Supervised kids’ area for ages 3–12
• Run by Disney Cruise Line Youth Counselors
• Splash zone, games, sand play, and more
• Great spot for parents to enjoy Serenity Bay while the kids are safe and entertained

Activities and Things to Do on Castaway Cay

There’s so much to do on Castaway Cay other than just relax (though you can absolutely do that too).

Must-Do Experiences:

• Castaway Cay 5K – Run/walk/ride a 3.1-mile loop on your own schedule and get a medal!
• Snorkeling Lagoon – Explore sunken treasures, tropical fish, and hidden Mickeys.
• Pelican Plunge – Floating platform with water slides and splash zone (fun for kids and adults!)
• Swim with Stingrays! Book this onboard through Disney Cruise Line Port Adventures.
• Biking – Rent a cruiser bike and explore shaded trails and the Observation Tower.
• Kayaking or Paddleboarding – Rentals available near the beach.
• Glass Bottom Boat Tours, parasailing, and more—book these through Disney Cruise Line Port Adventures!

Free Things to Do on Castaway Cay

Not looking to spend extra? No worries—Castaway Cay has plenty of free fun, including:

• Beach chairs, umbrellas, and hammocks
• BBQ lunch (included in your cruise fare)
• Splash zones and play areas for kids
• Soft-serve ice cream
• Beach games (volleyball, ping pong, etc.)
• Character meet-and-greets

Where to Eat on Castaway Cay

Dining is complimentary on the island and features an island-style BBQ lunch.

Main BBQ Spots:

• Cookies BBQ (Family Beach)
• Cookies Too BBQ (Pelican Plunge area)
• Serenity Bay BBQ (adults only)

Expect grilled favorites like:

• Burgers, hot dogs, BBQ chicken, mahi-mahi
• Corn, coleslaw, salad, fresh fruit
• Brownies, banana bread, cookies (my favorite!)
• Unlimited fountain drinks, lemonade, and iced tea

Where to Get Drinks

Thirsty for something tropical? Castaway Cay has several bars offering frozen cocktails and beachy beverages.

Top Drink Spots:

• Conched Out Bar
• Heads Up Bar
• Sand Bar
• Castaway Air Bar (at Serenity Bay)

Try a Bahama Mama, piña colada, or a souvenir cup filled with something fruity.

Shopping on Castaway Cay

You’ll find a few shops offering Castaway Cay-exclusive merchandise, including:

• T-shirts, hats, and beach towels
• 5K merch
• Trinkets, beach toys, and Disney cruise collectibles

Pro tip: You can’t buy Castaway Cay merch anywhere else, so grab it while you can! Just a note for Castaway Cay Members/DVC Members – there are no discounts on the island.

What to Bring to Castaway Cay

• Swimsuit, towel (you can grab towels before leaving the ship)
• Water bottle
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Sunglasses and a hat
• Waterproof phone pouch
• Key to the World card (to get on/off the ship and make purchases)

Optional but nice to have:

• Snorkel gear (rental available if you don’t bring your own)
• Waterproof sandals or water shoes
• Day bag or backpack

Pro Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Get off the ship early to grab the best beach spots.
• Don’t miss the photo ops—Castaway Cay has some iconic backdrops and there will be Photo Crew Members out and about to take your pictures!
• Use the Navigator App before to check activity/dining schedules.
• Hydrate constantly—Bahamian sun hits hard!
• Use the free island tram to get between beaches and BBQ spots.

Castaway Cay Is Disney Cruise Magic at Its Best

There’s no place like Castaway Cay – even after visiting this island every week as a Crew Member, it never gets old. Whether you’re building sandcastles with the kids, sipping a drink at Serenity Bay, or running your first-ever 5K on island time, the memories made here last long after the cruise ends.

So pack your flip-flops, bring your appetite, and prepare to fall in love with Disney’s slice of Bahamian paradise.

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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links – at no extra cost to you. All opinions in this post are my own and not affiliated with Disney in any way.

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