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 all 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 couple of 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.
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. There’s also usually a basketball free throw competition and ping pong tournament at In Da Shade Pavilion.”
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, not on the cruise ship. 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 are 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 aged 14 to 17 to hang out and do cool stuff without parents or little siblings to get 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
Not sure which itinerary and ship are right for you? Here’s how to choose the best Disney Cruise.
Before you set sail with Mickey and friends, find out what to pack for a 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.
Save These Castaway Cay Tips
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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,
Probably already answered but are towels provided on castaway cay? Do I need cash or do things like Alcohol get charged back to the room like the ship?
THANK YOU
JAMES
Hi James – You can charge things to your room on Castaway Cay, similar to how you would charge something on the ship. Enjoy!
At any time is there more than one ship at CC?
Hi Shelita – I don’t think two ships would dock at Castaway Cay on the same day, but I can’t be sure so I sent an email with your question to my DCL PR representative. I’ll let you know what I find out!
Shelita – Here’s what Disney had to say, “Just one Disney ship at Castaway Cay a time. There is just one dock and we do not tender at Castaway Cay.”
Enjoy your Disney cruise!
Hello,
Any tips on getting a cabana. We just booked last minute.
Hi Michelle – Cabana availability varies depending on your cruise. Try logging in to your DCL account and booking your cabana in advance. If there isn’t one available, I’d check back daily until your cruise to see if someone cancels. Once on board, check at the Port Adventures desk for any cancellations. Good luck!
Planning our first ever Disney cruise for February 2018 and hopefully, it will be the first of many.
Question: will the snorkeling activity be free, as in, there is a designated snorkeling area and we go there on our own, or is this an organized activity? The reason I ask is because on the DCL website, there are listed activities we can avail of at Castaway Cay but are operated by a non Disney party. Some of those include the snorkeling, stingray and dolphin adventures. So when I read about reviews and they talk about “snorkeling” , is this a paid snorkeling activity or there is plenty of sealife to be seen where we dont have to rent a boat?
Thank you.
Hi Gisela – You can bring your own snorkeling equipment and snorkel for free off of Castaway Cay. They do require you to wear a (free) life vest, though. Read more about snorkeling on Castaway Cay here: http://www.disneycruisemomblog.com/snorkeling-at-castaway-cay/
I’ve been to Castaway Cay 3 times, and always enjoyed it. Rented kayaks last time, and went quite far out by myself. I realized no one was watching from shore and felt uneasy about this. I know that the family beach is protected from sharks, but I doubt the kayaking area is. Does anyone have any info on this? Planning to go soon.
Hi Carolyn – I don’t have a definitive answer for you but I assume that any time I am in the ocean, there is a chance of coming across wildlife including sharks. That being said, I’d steer clear of any gatherings of seals or sea lions while kayaking since that’s what sharks love to eat.
Also curious if I should bring puddle jumpers or arm band floats for my 5-year-old if we are on the beach?
Hi Jen – I don’t think your own floatation devices are allowed on Castaway Cay but they have plenty of life vests in all sorts of sizes available at no charge for visitors. Enjoy your Disney Cruise!
We are thinking two days at Castaway (2stops) or one day is enough?
Maui- That’s really a personal preference. For me, one day at Castaway Cay per trip would be enough. But, if you happen to get one dreary weather day you may be wishing for another day to make up for it. Some people are absolute Castaway Cay fanatics and would tell you to go for two. Up to you!
We are leaving in 2 weeks heading to Castaway Cay. Just curious…I was told that we can bring our own snorkels, & floating devices. I was also told to definitely bring our small child’s life jacket, due to the deep water. Any advice on this?
Hi Ces – I am sure you can bring your own snorkel and floating devices since they sell them at stores in addition to renting them. Life jackets are provided on Castaway Cay and on the ship. (See the pic of my son floating in the inner-tube sporting a life vest above at the beach by Pelican Plunge.) There was not a huge drop off at any of the beaches, that I remember anyway. Here’s what Disney says on their website:
Flotation vests are available for children and adults at the Pelican Plunge water-play area on Castaway Cay. However, these vests are for use only at this site and may not be used at the beaches.
Hope that helps! Enjoy your cruise!
Thank you! I called and they said we can bring everything, but the floating device. I watch a video where a man stated that coming off of the slides is very deep (can’t touch the bottom)…so not sure. Thanks again!
Castaway Cay is the highlight of a Disney Cruise. This is a great collection of tips so that you make the most of your time on the island. If you are lucky you can book one of the “Double Dip” cruises so that you get two visits to Castaway Cay on one cruise
Alison – Thank you for your comment! A “Double Dip” DCL cruise sounds fantastic!
Are you allowed to swim in the water off the adult beach, Serenity Bay? Are there Lifeguards present? We’re renting a Cabana at Serenity Bay, but REALLY want to go snorkeling too! I know about the designated snorkel area at the Family Beach, but we’d really like to AVOID free-range kid areas at all cost!
Katie – Yes, you are more than welcome to swim at the adult beach. I can’t remember if there were lifeguards present, but knowing Disney, there probably were. I understand your desire to snorkel away from the children but keep in mind that you’ll find the most fish near rocks or other features. You may want to do a quick dive at Disney’s sunken boat manmade snorkel area if you don’t see a lot of sea life at Serenity Bay. Enjoy!
hello there travel mama
we are going to be at Castaway Cay this next week, the Serenity adults only area is appealing to my husband and I however, I wanted to ask where is there good shade but still can enjoy partial sun for sunbathing and view??
Please advise
Thank you
Heidi – There are plenty of umbrellas and beach chairs available if you want shade. I’d plan to get off the boat early-ish in order to be sure to nab one. Alternatively, you could rent a cabana but those are pretty expensive. Enjoy Castaway Cay!
You have given some great tips for Castaway Cay! It is one of the highlights of a Disney cruise. It is a great idea to take the tram as it can be a long walk, particularly in the heat if you have young children.
Thanks for your comment! With a name like EverythingMouse, I’m sure you know all about Disney Cruises! 🙂
We are leaving in 7 days to hop aboard the Disney dream, we want to go snorkeling at castaway cay, but we are worried about it being a little chilly. Would you recommend a wetsuit? We have our own wetsuits but if anyone has been in january I’d love some tips!
Brooklyn – According to Weather.com, it looks like temps will reach highs in the mid 70’s over the next 10 days. Personally, I’d pack the wetsuits! Have fun!
I just came back from a cruise on the Disney Magic that went to Castaway Cay this past weekend. My family had an amazing time. We hung out by the beach, ate at Cookie’s BBQ and enjoyed the bike ride around the island. It wasn’t too packed or nor was it too hot. We can’t wait to go again.
We have a 13 daughter. Are there activities for this age group? What do you recommend?
Trish – There is an excursion just for teens on Castaway Cay that your daughter might like: https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/port-adventures/castaway-cay-the-wild-side-teen-adventure/ but only if she’ll be 14 by the time you cruise. It includes bicycling, a high-speed boat ride and snorkeling. If she won’t have a birthday before you go, you could always go snorkeling with her and rent bicycles as a family. There were definitely some teens on the waterslides at Pelican Plunge as well. There’s also a teen club right at Castaway Cay, the Teen Hideout, for kids aged 13-18. If your daughter likes playing sports, she might appreciate a visit to Sports Beach for volleyball and tetherball. Or you could rent a fishing boat, a glass-bottom boat or catamaran. If she’s adventurous, encourage her to try out parasailing! Have a fab time!
We are going on a Disney cruise in January with our son, daughter-in-law, and grandson who is 5 years old. Is snorkeling and parasailing for 5 year olds permitted. This trip is all about him. He is a very mature 5 year old
Hi Doris – According to the Disney Cruise Line website kids must be age 8+ to parasail on Castaway Cay, but only age 5+ to go snorkeling. Have a fantastic time!