🏖️ Ports · 10 min read
Castaway Cay: The Complete Guide to Disney's Private Island
The crown jewel of any Bahamas itinerary — how to make the most of every hour on Disney's private island.
What is Castaway Cay?
Castaway Cay is Disney's private island in the Bahamas, accessible exclusively to Disney Cruise Line guests. The ship docks directly at the island — no tender boats required. The island is masterfully themed to feel like a real Bahamian village.
Castaway Cay is consistently rated the #1 highlight of Disney Cruise Line by guests. It is the best private island experience in the cruise industry.
The Beaches
Family Beach (Pelican Plunge) is the main family beach with waterslides on a floating platform offshore — calm water, excellent for young swimmers.
Serenity Bay is the adults-only beach (18+) at the far end of the island — hammocks, bar service, and genuine peace. Spring-A-Leak is the ground-level water play area perfect for toddlers and young kids.
Activities & Rentals
Snorkeling trail with a sunken Mickey plane, treasure chest, and diverse marine life. Bike rentals for exploring the island's 2.5 miles of paved trails — book early, they sell out. Water sports including kayaks, paddleboards, and banana boats.
The Castaway Cay 5K is an unofficial run around the island with a commemorative medal — no registration required, just wake up early and go.
Food & Drinks
Cookie's BBQ is the main family beach lunch — BBQ ribs, grilled chicken, hot dogs, corn, watermelon, and sides. This is included in your cruise fare and genuinely excellent.
Soft drinks, lemonade, water, and soft-serve ice cream are included throughout the island. Alcohol is available for purchase at the Heads Up Bar and Castaway Air Bar at Serenity Bay.
Want a hand planning? Ask our travel agents — free — or try the planning tools.