Things to Do on Castaway Cay (And What to Skip)
Castaway Cay may be a tiny island, but it’s packed with so many activities that you might have a hard time deciding how to best spend your time. Measuring 3.1 miles long and 2.2 miles wide, Disney’s private island in The Bahamas offers everything from bike rentals and watersports to parasailing and a hands‑on stingray experience. Follow this list of dos and don’ts for the best things to do on Castaway Cay, plus what to skip so you can enjoy every beachy minute.
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1. Do Know Your Castaway Cay Options
Before you start planning your time on the island, it helps to know about the things to do on Disney’s Castaway Cay. It’s tempting to try to squeeze all the activities into one visit, but this tropical paradise is so much better when you slow down. Pick a few must‑dos that make your crew happy, then let the rest go. The point here is to relax, island-style.
Things to Do in Castaway Cay
- Beaches – Family Beach, Sports Beach, and the adults-only Serenity Bay Beach
- Snorkeling Lagoon – An underwater Mickey Mouse statue, a staged shipwreck, and plenty of tropical fish
- Pelican Plunge – A floating waterslide structure that kids love
- Bike Rentals – With easy island paths leading to an observation tower
- Watersports – Kayaks, paddleboards, jet skis, and boat excursions
- Parasailing – Thrilling views of Castaway Cay from above
- Castaway Ray’s Stingray Adventure – An educational, hands-on animal encounter
- Massage at Serenity Bay – A relaxing adults‑only treat right by the water
- Beach Yoga – A complimentary light yoga session at Serenity Bay
- Games – Beach volleyball, Ping-pong, basketball, pool tables, and giant board games
- Character Meet-and-Greets – Disney characters in adorable beach outfits
- Shopping – Exclusive Castaway Cay merch you can’t get anywhere else
- Food & Drinks – Beach fare at Cookie’s BBQ, Cookie’s Too BBQ, and Hangar 98 BBQ
- Tram Transportation – A great way to get around the small island
2. Don’t Forget Your Stateroom Key
You absolutely must bring your Key to the World card when heading off the ship. It’s required to disembark and reboard. Thankfully, most other beach essentials, like sunblock and sand toys, can be purchased right on the island if you forget something. Towels are provided on Castaway Cay, so no need to lug those along.
3. Do Take the Tram
The walk from the ship to the main beach areas is longer than most first‑timers expect, especially in the heat. Thankfully, Castaway Cay’s complimentary tram system makes getting around easy. Hop on at the pier and ride to Family Beach, Sports Beach, or the transfer stop for Serenity Bay. It’s the quickest way to start your island day without wasting energy on the trek.
4. Don’t Bring a Stroller
Save yourself the hassle of hauling a stroller off the ship. Castaway Cay provides complimentary strollers, wagons, and joggers, all conveniently located near the tram stops. The island also offers special sand‑friendly wheelchairs designed for guests with mobility challenges.
5. Do Choose the Right Beach
Castaway Cay offers three distinct beaches, each with its own vibe: Family Beach, Sports Beach, and Serenity Bay.
Family Beach
For families with babies or young children, stick to the stretch of Family Beach closest to the ship. As Keryn Means of Twist Travel Magazine notes, this area tends to be calmer and less crowded.
A little farther down, you’ll find Pelican Plunge, a floating water play structure anchored offshore. Kids and playful adults swim out to enjoy two water slides — one enclosed and one open. Sliders must be at least 38 inches tall, and those under 48 inches must wear a complimentary life vest.
Note: Castaway Cay’s Spring‑A‑Leak splash pad closed permanently in 2023 during the island’s refurbishment, and it was never replaced. It’s too bad because so many children adored this spot, including my kids when they were little.
Sports Beach
If lounging all day isn’t your style, head to Sports Beach. This active area features sand volleyball and tetherball.
Serenity Bay (18+)
Adults looking for peace and quiet will love Serenity Bay, the island’s dedicated 18+ beach lined with palm trees. Soft sand, wide‑open space, and a mellow atmosphere make it a great place to escape the hubbub. In my opinion, the adult-only Hangar 98 BBQ at this beach serves the best food on the entire island, too.
6. Don’t Miss Entertainment and Games
Castaway Cay offers more than just beaches, with plenty of entertainment sprinkled throughout the island. At the Gazebo near Family Beach, you’ll often find character dance parties, live music, and the popular Island Vibes DJ.
Jodi Grundig of Family Travel Magazine says, “We love sitting on Family Beach by the island’s Gazebo because we can easily walk over and see things like a character dance party and the Island Vibes DJ performance.”
Over at In Da Shade Game Pavilion, cruisers can join in on activities like basketball free‑throw contests, ping‑pong tournaments, and oversized games such as giant checkers, chess, foosball, and pool tables.
7. Do Stay Active on Castaway Cay
If you want to stay healthy and fit while cruising, Castaway Cay makes it easy to balance all that unlimited soft serve ice cream. You can take a free yoga class on the beach, swim and snorkel, or join a game of volleyball or tetherball at Sports Beach.
Cruisers can explore the island on the 1.5 miles of bike trails. Look for rentals for adult bikes, kids’ bikes, and child seats. You can also rent paddleboats, kayaks, or aquabikes from Gil’s Fins and Boats. If you prefer to play in the shade, head to one of the island’s two Game Pavilions for a covered round of ping‑pong or basketball.
8. Don’t Skip Snorkeling
Castaway Cay’s Snorkeling Lagoon is calm, clear, and full of tropical fish beneath the surface, making it a great option for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. An underwater Mickey statue and a separate sunken shipwreck make snorkeling here unique, with their algae-coated surfaces and small hiding spots that attract marine life.
Kirsten Maxwell with Kids Are a Trip says snorkeling at Castaway Cay was the highlight of her family’s day on the island. For kids, Maxwell recommends bringing your own full‑face snorkeling mask, which makes it easier for children to breathe comfortably without juggling separate pieces. You can also rent snorkel gear, like traditional masks and fins, right on the island. Life vests are complimentary and required for all snorkelers.
9. Do Pack Your Running Shoes
You might be surprised to learn that Disney’s private island has a self‑paced 5K course you can run or walk anytime during your visit. It used to be an organized race, but now you simply follow the marked path near the bike rental stand and complete the 3.1 miles at your own pace. When you’re done, you can pick up a rubber finisher medal from Bike Rentals for bragging rights and a fun souvenir. Kimberly Tate of Stuffed Suitcase says her entire family enjoyed running the course and still had plenty of time afterward for beach time and snorkeling.
10. Don’t Wait to Buy Castaway Cay Souvenirs
If you spot something you love on the island, buy it right then and there. I assumed I could pick out a Castaway Cay-themed shirt, hat, or magnet later on board the ship, but I was sadly disappointed. Castaway Cay merchandise is only sold on the island. Once you sail away, those souvenirs are gone.
11. Do Visit the Castaway Cay Post Office
Castaway Cay has a tiny Bahamian post office near the island entrance where you can mail a postcard with a special Castaway Cay postmark. This makes a fun keepsake for all ages. Because it’s run by the Bahamian government (not Disney), it’s the one place on the island that requires cash, and hours can be limited, so stop by early if it’s on your list. Both U.S. and Bahamian dollars are accepted.
12. Don’t Bring Your Wallet
Nearly all purchases on the island, from souvenirs and beach rentals to cocktails and mocktails, are charged to your Key to the World card account. If you want to send a postcard from Castaway Cay, tuck a few dollars in your beach bag, but leave the credit cards back in your stateroom safe.
13. Do Book a Shore Excursion or Activity
Castaway Cay has plenty of ways to enhance your beach day, from jet boat tours to snorkeling, kayaking, and jet ski rentals. Parasailing gives a thrilling, bird’s‑eye view of Disney’s island as you float high above the water behind a speedboat. Kids especially love the Stingray Adventure, where they can actually touch these amazing creatures. And if you need some serious relaxation, adults can’t go wrong with a beach massage at Serenity Bay.
14. Don’t Pay for Bottled Water
Cruisers must pay for bottled water, but non-alcoholic drinks such as sodas and fruit juices are free at bars and drink stations throughout the island. Why pay for water when you can hydrate for free? Castaway Cay has filtered water stations throughout the island where you can grab a complimentary cup of cold water anytime you need it. Bringing your own reusable water bottles is better for the environment, too.
Adults aged 21+ can also purchase beer, wine, and tropical cocktails like frozen mojitos. Grown-ups who choose to imbibe should double up on water to stay hydrated under the Bahamian sun.
15. Do Eat on Castaway Cay
There’s no sense wasting beach time eating on the ship when the food is tasty and free on the island. Choose from three places to eat: Cookie’s BBQ, Cookie’s Too BBQ, and Hangar 98 BBQ (formerly Serenity Bay BBQ). Expect simple beach day fare like hot dogs, hamburgers, fresh fruit, ice cream, potato salad, and soft drinks.
Hangar 98 BBQ is my favorite place to eat on the island. This adults‑only dining spot serves bonus entrées you won’t find at the other two locations, including ribeye steak, a spicy chicken sandwich, and seafood gumbo.
If you’d like to eat lunch on Castaway Cay, don’t wait till it’s too late. The restaurants typically shut down for the day at 2 pm.
16. Don’t Bring Your Own Pool Floats
Cruisers can rent standard inflatable inner tubes and large float mats at the Float Rentals near Family Beach. Water toys like these provide oodles of fun for children or a relaxing way for grown-ups to laze about in the water. Your pool noodle or fabulous flamingo pool float takes up valuable luggage space and may be confiscated by Disney, so it’s better to leave your own floating devices at home.
Keep in mind that the only floats you can bring to the island are “Coast Guard personal flotation devices (PFDs), water wings, and flotation sewn into bathing suits,” according to Disney Cruise Line policies. Basically, this means the only floats you can bring are life vests, and these are available for free on Castaway Cay.
17. Do Look for Disney Characters on the Island
Meeting Disney characters on Castaway Cay is a highlight for many vacationers, and photos with friends like Goofy and Minnie Mouse in their island outfits make wonderful souvenirs. You’ll often spot characters like Captain Jack Sparrow near the Arrival Plaza, along the paths to Family Beach, and occasionally around Pelican Plunge. Check your Personal Navigator or the Disney Cruise Line app for meet‑and‑greet times so you don’t miss your favorites.
18. Don’t Get Stuck Without a Beach Chair
Beach chairs fill up quickly on Castaway Cay, especially at Family Beach, which is the most popular area for cruisers with kids of all ages. Robin Hutson of Luxe Recess warns, “Unless you take the tram early in the morning to the Family Beach, you won’t get a spot, as this section fills up first.”
If you prefer a slower morning and disembark after 10:30, head to the first tram stop near the Snorkeling Lagoon. This area usually still has plenty of lounge chairs and umbrellas available later in the day, and you might even find an open hammock if you’re lucky.
19. Do Book a Private Cabana in Advance
If you want guaranteed space, shade, and extra luxury on Castaway Cay, renting a private cabana is the way to go. They are definitely pricey, but they come stocked with all kinds of goodies that elevate your beach day. You’ll get snacks, unlimited non‑alcoholic drinks, sunblock, sand toys, snorkeling gear, free float rentals, and even a one‑hour bike rental.
Private cabanas are extremely limited, so you need to book them online well ahead of your cruise. If you miss out, keep checking the Disney Cruise Line website because cancellations do pop up. You can also stop by Guest Services as soon as you board the ship to see if any last‑minute openings have appeared.
20. Don’t Forget Free Childcare on Castaway Cay
If you want some kid-free time on Castaway Cay, you’re in luck. Disney offers free supervised childcare at Scuttle’s Cove for children ages 3 to 12. It’s run by the same trained youth counselors who staff the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab on the ship. Check the Navigator App for operating hours so you can time your drop‑off around your beach plans.
Scuttle’s Cove gives kids a fun, sandy play space with organized activities, water play, and plenty of entertainment. There’s also a Teen Hideout for kids ages 14 to 17 to hang out and do cool stuff without parents or little siblings getting in the way. Meanwhile, parents can find their favorite things to do on Castaway Cay, knowing the kids are having a blast.
Plan and Book Your Disney Cruise Early
Anticipating your Disney Cruise is half the fun, and research shows travelers often enjoy the planning process as much as the vacation itself. I recommend buying The Unofficial Disney Cruise Line Guidebook for tons of helpful tips to make the most of your time at sea and in ports of call. Start planning early so you can dream, compare itineraries, and get excited before you sail.
Disney Cruise Line prices usually rise as sailings fill up, so booking early gives you lower rates and better stateroom choices. If you want help choosing the right cruise, Get Away Today is a fantastic resource. Plus, they offer bonuses like onboard spending credits and Mickey and Minnie plush toys when you mention Colleen Travels Between sent you. Book your Disney Cruise with Get Away Today now!
Disney’s Castaway Cay FAQ
What are the best things to do on Castaway Cay?
The most popular Castaway Cay activities include the Pelican Plunge water slides, the Snorkeling Lagoon, Castaway Family Beach, Serenity Bay for adults, bike rentals, and the Observation Tower. Your day goes smoother if you pick just a few favorites instead of trying to do everything.
Do I need to bring cash or a credit card?
No. You won’t need a credit card or cash for most of the island. Your Key to the World card handles purchases. The only exception is the Castaway Cay Post Office, which is run by the Bahamian government and still requires either U.S. or Bahamian cash.
Is food free on Castaway Cay?
Yes. Cookie’s BBQ, Cookie’s Too, and Hangar 98 BBQ are included in your cruise fare. Soft drinks and fresh fruit are free as well. Alcoholic drinks cost extra.
Is filtered water available for free?
No. Filtered water stations and soft drinks are free across the island. Bring a reusable bottle and skip the bottled water charge.
Where can I find shade on Castaway Cay?
Serenity Bay has the most palm trees and natural shade. Family Beach has scattered palm trees and plenty of umbrellas. If shade is a priority, arrive early or reserve a cabana.
Does Pelican Plunge cost extra money?
No. Pelican Plunge is completely free and included in your Castaway Cay day. You don’t need to book it in advance, and there’s no additional charge to use the water slides.
Do I need to book Port Adventures in advance?
Book early if you want parasailing, jet skis, or cabanas. Bike rentals, inner tubes, and snorkel gear are easy to grab day‑of.
Was the Castaway Cay splash pad shut down?
Yes. Spring‑A‑Leak splash pad near Family Beach, closed permanently during Castaway Cay’s 2023 refurbishment and hasn’t been replaced.
What’s the adults‑only beach like?
Serenity Bay is peaceful, palm‑lined, and quiet. It has its own bar and BBQ and is a great escape from the crowds.
Can I walk the whole island?
You can, but the tram is faster. The bike trail is a great way to explore the entire island, too.
Learn More Cruise Tips
Before you set sail with Mickey and friends, find out what to pack for a Disney Cruise.
Not sure which itinerary and ship are right for you? Here’s how to choose the best Disney Cruise.
Parents and grandparents sailing with children should read these helpful tips for cruising with kids.
Quench your thirst at sea with this review and rating of Royal Caribbean mocktails.
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Do you have any questions or additional Castaway Cay tips? Share your comments and questions below!
Thank you to Disney Cruise Line for inviting me to sail on Fantasy and Dream. My family has also paid full price to sail with Disney, and we’ve loved every voyage. All opinions are mine, as always.
Hi,
We’re going on the Disney cruise to Nassau. I was thinking about the Catamaran trip to go snorkeling and was wondering if it’s better on Castaway Cay (2.5 hours) or Nassau (4 + hours)?
Thanks!
Hi Kelly – I can’t help you out on that once since I haven’t done either snorkeling tour. You will really need to weigh the pros and cons for each. You may want to ask your question on a cruise chat board, like those on CruiseCritic.com.
The snorkeling is so so. They have what they call a rock garden with Mickey and Minnie and other man made objects for corrals and a sunken boat. It is very BUSY and the kids can be loud and stand on the bottome frequently making visibility an issue at times. If you have your own gear stop at the snorkel hut and get your life preserver!! They are required and it is a long walk in the sand to get back to them!
Diana – Thank you for the Castaway Cay snorkeling insight & tip!
Oh man, this makes me even more excited! We are going on our first cruise in September. Thanks for sharing this information. It’s very helpful and we can’t wait till it’s our turn.
Joy – So glad you found my Castaway Cay tips helpful. Bon voyage!
Hi we are going this February, we are two adults two children 9 and 5, is it possible to use the water coaster due to the weather?
Thanks
Hi Gaby – I assume you mean the ship’s water coaster? Yes! Where are you headed in February? If it’s the Caribbean, I imagine it will be plenty warm enough to enjoy the water coaster on board the ship. Enjoy!
Do they have good snorkeling for all ages at Castaway??
Melissa – Snorkeling is available for adults and children on Castaway Cay. You can rent gear on shore or buy or bring your own. They even have a sunken ship to attract fishies!
Hi – we are going on a Disney cruise next week with a 3 year old and a 1 year old. They can play in the sand all day so we are really looking forward to this stop. Does Disney have shovels and sand toys for the kids? Can we rent them on the island? Should we think about bring our own?
Becky – What fun! I believe Disney does provide sand toys. I know they did on a beach excursion in Sardinia during our Mediterranean cruise. If not, you could easily pick up a few sand toys from the gift shops on Castaway Cay. If you really want to bring something with you, I like these buckets/shovels from Small World Express because they are small & easy to fit in luggage: http://astore.amazon.com/travmama03-20/detail/B001798SFC
Hi we are going this April, we are two adults two children 10 and 13, is it possible to have a great day without spending money on the organized trips, many thanks.
Andy – For sure you can have a fabulous time on Castaway Cay without any organized excursions. Bike rentals, inner-tubes and alcohol cost a little bit extra but you could simply play on the beach, swim in the ocean and go down the waterslides…all for no cost. Food is included too!
How I wish I’d seen this before our cruise earlier this month! We were at Castaway Cay and it was fabulous. However I didn’ t know the food was inclusive at Cookies’ places. Not that it mattered–we came up from the beach at 3:30 to get lunch and BOTH Cookies were CLOSED!! The bar where they gave us some chips was closing too, with a lock up time of 4:00. They told us that Cookies’ places both closed at 2:00. What’s up with that Disney!?! We didn’t have be back on the ship until 5:30. :*( Booo hooooooo We were so looking forward to relaxing with some BBQ and a cold drink after playing hard all day.
Mary – Good to know that the restaurants close so early on Castaway Cay. I hope you had a great time on Castaway Cay nonetheless!
We missed lunch as well because they close down at 2. We asked why they closed early and we were told that the cast members that were working on the island had to get back to the cruise ship & prepare for the evening meals.
Jaime – Oh no! Yep, you’ve got to get your grub on early on Castaway Cay. I’ll add that tidbit to my post. Thanks!
Congrats on this Nice post.
2 Questions:
We will be there in first week of December. We have a 5 1/2 & 1 1/2 year old with us. Do you think we need Cabanas? Can we get hire Cabanas outside of Disney Cruise Web Site from private parties?
Hi KG – It’s really up to you if you want to have the luxury of the private cabanas. It will not be very warm in December, so I would think you will not need the extra shade the cabanas provide. You can’t hire cabanas from private parties – everything at Castaway Cay is Disney-owned and operated. Have an incredible time on your cruise!
I am so happy that I’m going on the disney cruise! It sounds so fun!
Oh, I’m so jealous, Leela! Have a wonderful cruise!
We are doing this in February. We have a waterproof camera. I would love to get some great shots from up in the air. But I also want some of us taken from the boat. I’ve seem some great ones with the ship in the background. Is there anyone official taking photos like that for purchase that you know of?
Amanda – Disney has “official” photographers available all over the boat and even at Castaway Cay. All different kinds of photo packages are available for purchase; I’m sure you will get some great shots. Enjoy your cruise! (So jealous…!)
The great thing about DCL is that the cast members will take photos of you and your kids with YOUR camera as well as the professional cameras they use! Other cruise lines won’t do this, they want you to buy all the good photos!
So true, Paula. Great tip!
This is one great post! You were able to show how fun would it be in the Castaway Cay while sharing tips at the same time.
Thanks so much for your kind words, Emanuele. I’m glad you found the post helpful!
Renting bikes was definitely our family’s favorite thing to do. It was a little chilly when we were there in December so the water wasn’t too inviting. The weather was perfect, however, for biking and you can ride out to a great overlook tower, and see the whole island while riding on flat and easy paved bike paths. I will definitely do it again next time I’m there.
I LOVED renting a bike on Castawy Cay too, Megan! I felt like Julia Roberts in the movie, “Eat, Pray, Love” while peddling along the island’s gorgeous bike trails.
Looks like an awesome place to visit! A little piece of paradise.
Great timing for this article. We will be there next week and I’ve been trying to get info on Castaway all week. This has been the best article I’ve read so far… mainly cause this is the first I have seen the little splash area. My one year old loves those.
I DO really want to go to Castaway Cay now! Great tips.
This sounds like a great break from the ship. Does the ship stop there only once per voyage?
All Disney Caribbean cruises include at least one stop at Castaway Cay. Some cruises include two days at this private isle.
HI, Will be at Disney Cay in late February,how do you pay for anything you buy or drink there,can you use your bracelet from the ship and have it charged to your room? Thanks
Hi Dave – You can charge alcoholic beverages, souvenirs and activities to your room on Castaway Cay. The food is included, so no need to pay for that!
There are no bracelets on the ship, .they use key cards.
Leaving 6/4 on The Fantasy. Can’t wait to visit Castaway Cay & Serenity Bay. Whoop!
SO SO FUN! Enjoy your Disney Cruise, Don!