Castaway Cay is Disney's crown jewel - a private 1,000-acre island in the Bahamas exclusively for Disney Cruise guests. Unlike port stops where you compete with crowds, Castaway Cay offers pristine beaches, delicious food, and Disney magic all included in your cruise fare. This guide reveals everything you need to maximize your island paradise day.
The Three Beaches
Family Beach: The main beach closest to the ship. Features the famous Pelican Plunge water play structure, gentle waves, lifeguards, and easy food access. Perfect for families with young kids.
Snorkeling Lagoon: Walk past the family beach to find the snorkeling lagoon with underwater Mickey statues, tropical fish, and snorkeling equipment available for rent. The water is calm and perfect for beginners.
Serenity Bay (Adults Only): Located on the far end of the island, this quiet beach is reserved for guests 18+. Take the tram or rent bikes. Features a full bar, massage cabanas, and a blissfully peaceful vibe.
What's FREE on Castaway Cay
- All beaches and swimming areas
- Beach chairs, umbrellas, and hammocks
- Beach towels from the ship
- Lunch at Cookie's BBQ and Cookie's Too
- Soft drinks, water, and ice cream bars
- Pelican Plunge water play area
- Walking/running trails
- Beach volleyball and sports
- Tram transportation around island
- Character meet & greets throughout the day
Paid Activities Worth Considering
- Private Cabanas ($549-$899): Air-conditioned, includes snorkeling gear, floats, and concierge service. Books FAST!
- Bike Rentals ($10/hour): Great way to explore the island and reach Serenity Bay
- Parasailing ($79-$189): Stunning views of the island and ship
- Float/Tube Rentals ($10): Sometimes included with cabanas
- Stingray Experience ($53+): Interact with stingrays in shallow water
- Snorkel Equipment Rental ($34): Free with cabana, otherwise rent for lagoon exploration
Food on Castaway Cay
All food is included! Cookie's BBQ (family beach) and Cookie's Too (Serenity Bay) serve fantastic BBQ burgers, ribs, chicken, hot dogs, and sides. The food is as good as the dining room - not typical cruise port fare. Ice cream bars are available throughout the island.
Pro tip: Arrive at Cookie's BBQ between 11:30-12:00 to beat the main lunch rush. Lines get long around 12:30-1:30pm.
Insider Tips and Secrets
- Get off the ship early! Lines grow longer after 9am
- Walk past the first umbrella section - less crowded areas are further down the beach
- Rent bikes early - they run out on busy days
- The 5K running trail is gorgeous even if you just walk it
- Visit the post office to send postcards with the Castaway Cay postmark
- Check out the outdoor basketball court - usually empty
- Hidden Mickey: Look for the Mickey-shaped buoy floats in the water
- Characters appear at specific times - check the Navigator app
- Last tender usually at 4:30pm - don't miss the boat!
Best Strategy for Your Day
Morning (9-11am): Arrive early, grab beach chairs in your preferred location before crowds. Do paid activities like parasailing or biking while it's cooler.
Late Morning (11am-12pm): Head to Cookie's for early lunch to avoid lines.
Afternoon (12-3pm): Beach time! Snorkel, swim, relax. Meet characters. Many guests return to the ship for a break - beaches get emptier around 2pm.
Late Afternoon (3-4pm): Final beach time or shopping. Head back to ship by 4pm to beat departure crowds.
What to Bring
- Reef-safe sunscreen (mineral-based, safe for coral reefs)
- Water shoes for rocky snorkeling areas
- Waterproof phone pouch that floats
- Cash for shopping (cards accepted too)
- Mesh beach bag - sand drains easily
- Your own snorkel gear (optional - saves rental fees)
- GoPro for underwater photos
Castaway Cay is consistently rated as the highlight of Disney Cruises. With unlimited food, beautiful beaches, and that signature Disney magic, it's easy to see why. Enjoy your day in paradise!