Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, is a highlight for anyone traveling on a Disney Cruise Line Caribbean or Bahamian itinerary. This activity-filled island paradise offers some fantastic amenities for everyone in the family and is completely private – just for Disney Cruise Line. Whether this is your very first time on Disney’s private island or you’ve been before, this list of things to do at Disney’s Castaway Cay should help you plan a fabulous stay for the day.
Note that I’ve been on a few discounted/complimentary cruises but have been on many others at full price.
What’s On Castaway Cay?
The island offers several beautiful beach areas, including the snorkel lagoon, the family beach, and Serenity Bay (the adult-only section). Beaches include hammocks, lounge chairs, and umbrellas available at no extra cost. These are first come, first served. There’s also a small beach area only available to guests renting a Castaway Cay cabana. These are very difficult to book, and are expensive, but are also so worth it.
Visit the Water Play Areas
On Castaway Cay, you’ll find Pelican Plunge, which includes two water slides and a bucket dump. This is one of my kids’ favorite spots, but it can be cold when the water temperature of the Caribbean Sea is cold. The Spring-a-Leak water play area is another fun area for kids, as is Scuttle’s Cove, a kids’ club for ages 3-12. Cast members for the club are the same ones from the ship, so your kids will have some familiarity with them., especially if your Castaway Cay day is toward the end of your sailing.
Greet Characters
You’ll also find character greetings (see the Disney Cruise Line app for a full schedule). In the past, my kids have loved seeing Captain Jack Sparrow on the island, although characters are always subject to change. These characters are often dressed in their special island apparel.
Visit the Beach
Beach chairs, hammocks, life vests, and umbrellas on Castaway Cay are free to use but are first-come, first-served. It’s pretty easy to find a beach chair and umbrella, but the hammocks are usually taken early, especially if you are on one of the larger ships. There are lots of different beach areas, including an adult-only beach.
Excursions (Separate Fee)
Like other ports of call on a cruise ship, you can book excursions for an additional fee at Castaway Cay. These include the Castaway Ray Stingray experience, fishing, parasailing, kayaking, and boat tours. Book them on the app or at the Port Excursions desk.
Bike Around the Island
If you want to exercise and explore the island, bike rentals are available. The island has natural trails, an old airplane runway, and the main pathways. Visit the bike rental centers on the island to pick yours up.
Snorkel in the Sea
Want to snorkel at Castaway Cay? Equipment can be rented on the island, or you can bring your own. Snorkelers are required, however, to wear a yellow vest for safety. These can be picked up on the island.
Entertainment
The ship’s activity team plans a full day of activities and entertainment on Castaway Cay. This can include competitions, DJs, and much more. The schedule will be loaded in your Disney Cruise Line Navigator app. Read more about Castaway Cay here.