Top 22 Things to Do on Castaway Cay for an Epic Day
SPENDING THE DAY AT CASTAWAY CAY? LET ME SHOW YOU HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR TIME ON THE ISLAND.
Castaway Cay is a perfect Disney Cruise destination for a day of sun, sand, and fun for the entire family. With 1,000 acres of tropical paradise, the island has a lot to offer to visitors.
Let’s explore 22 Things To Do on Castaway Cay including:
- Free Things to Do on Castaway Cay
- Paid Things to Do on Castaway Cay
- Castaway Cay Packing Tips
Get ready to plan the perfect Castaway Cay day for your Disney Cruise vacation!
What Is Castaway Cay?
Castaway Cay is a private island in the Bahamas owned by Disney Cruise Line. It is a popular destination for Disney Cruise Line guests, as it provides a unique and immersive experience for families, couples, and individuals alike.
The 1,000-acre island is located approximately 225 miles southeast of Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and is only accessible by Disney Cruise Line ships. Castaway Cay is divided into three main areas: family beaches, Serenity Bay (an adults-only area), and a private beach reserved exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests staying in the island’s cabanas.
TRAVELISTA TIP: The island was formerly known as Gorda Cay and was used as a location for filming the 1988 Tom Hanks movie “Splash.” Disney Cruise Line acquired the island in 1996 and transformed it into a tropical paradise for their guests.
Free Things To Do On Castaway Cay
If your Disney Cruise is taking you to Castaway Cay, you may be wondering how to make the most of your time on the island without breaking the bank. Luckily, there are plenty of free things to do on Castaway Cay that will keep you entertained and relaxed during your stay.
1. Pelican Plunge
The first thing on my list is playing at Pelican Plunge. Pelican Plunge is a water playground located just off the beach. It features two water slides and a giant bucket dump that are fun for kids and adults alike!
Guests can climb to the top of the slide and race down into the refreshing waters below, or splash around in the nearby splash zone. So if you’re looking for a fun and refreshing way to cool off on the island, don’t miss Pelican Plunge.
2. Castaway Cay 5K
One other popular free activity on Castaway Cay is the Castaway Cay 5K. This fun run takes place on the island’s scenic trails and is open to all guests. The best part? There’s no charge to participate! So if you’re looking to combine fitness and fun on your Disney Cruise Line vacation, be sure to sign up for the Castaway Cay 5K.
TRAVELISTA TIP: There is no official start time for the Castaway Cay 5K. Simply make your way to the beginning of the trial, complete the 5K distance, and pick up your race medal when finished!
3. Relax on the Beach
The next free activity to do at Castaway Cay is to simply relax on the beach. This amazing island has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Bahamas. There are several beaches on the island, each with its own unique charm. These amazing beaches boast soft sand and crystal-clear waters for guests to enjoy. Spend the day relaxing on the soft sand and soaking up the sun!
4. In Da Shade Game Pavilion
If you are looking for some family-friendly competition during your day at Castaway Cay, head over to In Da Shade Game Pavilion! In Da Shade is an open-air game pavilion where guests can play a variety of games at no cost, including ping-pong, foosball, and basketball.
TRAVELISTA TIP: Guests at Castaway Cay can check out game equipment at In Da Shade Game Pavilion to enjoy a variety of complimentary activities!
5. Scuttle’s Cove
If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to check out Scuttle’s Cove while on Castaway Cay! Scuttle’s Cove is a supervised play area for children, where they can enjoy water activities, play on the beach, and participate in organized games and crafts. The suggested ages for kids at Scuttles Cove are age 3 to 12 years old.
6. Character Meet and Greets
One of the perks of visiting Castaway Cay is the opportunity to meet some of your favorite Disney characters. Guests can take pictures with characters like Mickey Mouse and Goofy on the island for free.
7. Join a Game of Beach Volleyball
Another great activity to do on Castaway Cay is joining in on a game of beach volleyball. Grab some friends and challenge them to a game of beach volleyball on one of the island’s sandy courts. There is also a beach volleyball court at Teen Beach, exclusively for teenage guests!
8. Relax in a Hammock
Another popular free activity on Castaway Cay is simply relaxing in a hammock. There are several hammock areas located throughout the island, where guests can swing gently in the breeze and take in the stunning views. It’s the perfect way to recharge your batteries and soak up the beauty of Castaway Cay.
9. Yoga on the Beach
Start your day with a relaxing yoga session on the beach. It’s a great way to unwind and connect with nature. This activity is offered on certain sailings and provides guests with a unique opportunity to practice yoga in a stunning outdoor setting. It’s a wonderful way to start your day and set a positive tone for the rest of your island adventure.
TRAVELISTA TIP: Be sure to check the activity schedule to see if yoga on the beach is being offered during your visit to Castaway Cay.
Paid Things To Do On Castaway Cay
In addition to the many free things to do at a day on Castaway Cay, there are also many activities available for a fee. Let’s dive into the rest of my list of things to do on Castaway Cay by looking at these paid options.
10. Rent a Cabana
The next thing to do at Castaway Cay is rent a private cabana. These cabanas provide a luxurious and private space for guests to relax and unwind on the island. Cabanas come equipped with comfortable furniture, a ceiling fan, a mini-fridge stocked with beverages, and a safe for valuables. Guests can also enjoy complimentary sunscreen and fresh towels, as well as a variety of other amenities.
This is the perfect option for guests who are looking to upgrade their island experience and enjoy a little extra privacy and comfort during their visit. So if you’re looking for the ultimate island oasis, be sure to reserve a private cabana on Castaway Cay.
TRAVELISTA TIP: Private Family Cabanas currently cost $599 for an all-day rental for up to 10 guests.
11. Go For a Bike Ride
Another paid activity on Castaway Cay is to go for a bike ride to explore the island. Guests can rent bicycles for an additional fee and ride around the island at their own pace. This is a great way to see all the sights, take in stunning views, and get some exercise in the process.
This activity is perfect for guests who want to explore the island at their own leisure and discover hidden gems that they might not have seen otherwise. So if you’re looking for a fun and active way to see everything that Castaway Cay has to offer, be sure to rent a bike during your visit.
12. Snorkeling
Snorkeling is one of the most popular activities at Castaway Cay. The crystal clear waters provide the perfect opportunity to explore the underwater world and discover colorful fish and coral reefs. Rent snorkeling gear from one of two locations and explore the 22-acre snorkeling lagoon.
TRAVELISTA TIP: Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for some familiar faces and hidden treasures during your underwater adventure!
13. Enjoy a Sweet Treat at Olaf’s Summertime Freeze
Another paid activity on Castaway Cay is indulging in a delicious frozen treat at Olaf’s Summertime Freeze. This frozen drink stand offers a variety of refreshing beverages, including non-alcoholic frozen cocktails, smoothies, and soft drinks.
So whether you’re in the mood for a classic frozen drink or a unique island-inspired concoction, be sure to stop by Olaf’s Summertime Freeze during your visit to Castaway Cay. It’s a great way to beat the heat and indulge in a little bit of tropical paradise.
14. Aqua Trikes
If you’re looking for a unique and exciting way to experience Castaway Cay’s beautiful waters, be sure to rent an Aqua Trike during your visit. These unique pedal-powered watercraft provide guests with a fun and exciting way to explore the island’s crystal-clear waters. Aqua Trikes are easy to operate and require no special training or experience, making them perfect for guests of all ages.
15. Stingray Adventure
Get up close and personal with stingrays in the Stingray Adventure area at Castaway Cay! Guests can wade into waist-deep water and interact with and feed friendly stingrays in their natural habitat. What a fun, unique experience to have on your Disney cruise!
TRAVELISTA TIP: The Stingray Adventure needs to be reserved in advance. Be sure to book this activity online prior to your cruise!
16. Glass Bottom Boat Ride
Another paid activity on Castaway Cay is taking a glass-bottom boat ride. These boat tours provide guests with a unique and fascinating view of the island’s underwater world, as the boats feature glass panels on the bottom that allow guests to see the marine life below.
This activity is perfect for guests who want to learn more about the island’s marine life and enjoy a relaxing boat ride at the same time. So if you’re looking for a fun and educational activity during your visit to Castaway Cay, be sure to book a glass-bottom boat ride.
17. Parasailing
If you’re looking for an adventure, parasailing is a great option. Soar high above the island and enjoy the breathtaking views. Each flight lasts approximately 5-7 minutes as you reach a height of 800 feet in the air!
TRAVELISTA TIP: This Castaway Cay adventure is only for guests ages 8 and up.
18. Get a Massage at Serenity Bay
Serenity Bay is an adults-only area of the island, with its own secluded beach and bar. It’s the perfect place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of the rest of the island.
Guests can indulge in a relaxing massage on the island, with the soothing sounds of the ocean in the background. Various massage packages are available for guests to enjoy!
TRAVELISTA TIP: Serenity Bay is an adults-only section of Castaway Cay. If you want to enjoy this section of the island, consider dropping children off at Scuttles Cove for a day of play while the adults enjoy Serenity Bay.
19. Sea Kayak
Another option of things to do on Castaway Cay is renting a sea kayak. This activity is perfect for guests who want to explore the island’s pristine waters at their own pace. Sea kayaking is a fun and exciting way to get some exercise, enjoy the island’s natural beauty, and possibly even spot some marine life along the way.
If you’re looking for a fun and active way to explore the waters around Castaway Cay, be sure to rent a sea kayak. It’s a great way to experience the island’s natural beauty and enjoy a little bit of adventure at the same time.
Click to Follow The Southern Travelista on Social Media!
20. Fishing
Go on a fishing excursion and try your hand at catching some of the island’s local fish, including snapper and grouper. The island offers a variety of fishing excursions for guests, from deep-sea fishing to catch-and-release trips.
Guests can rent equipment and enjoy a day on the water with experienced guides who can help them catch a variety of fish species. If you’re a fishing enthusiast or just looking for a fun and relaxing way to spend some time on the water, be sure to book a fishing excursion during your visit to Castaway Cay.
21. Paddleboarding
Try your balance on a stand-up paddleboard and paddle around the island’s lagoon. Explore the island’s calm waters while getting some exercise and enjoying the scenery. Paddleboarding is easy to learn and suitable for all skill levels, making it a great option for families and groups.
22. Ride a Banana Boat
The last activity on my list of things to do on Castaway Cay is taking a banana boat ride! The banana boat is a long inflatable boat that is pulled behind a powerboat, creating a thrilling ride with lots of twists and turns. A ride on a Banana Boat is perfect for guests who want to do something adventurous during their visit to the island.
Where is Castaway Cay?
Castaway Cay is located in the Abaco Islands of the Bahamas and is only accessible by Disney Cruise Line ships. It is a popular stop on many of Disney’s Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries and is often referred to as Disney’s private paradise.
So if you’re planning a Disney Cruise Line vacation and want to experience the beauty and fun of Castaway Cay, be sure to check the itinerary of your chosen cruise. This private island is a unique and unforgettable destination that is sure to create lasting memories for you and your family.
Which Cruises Go To Castaway Cay?
Castaway Cay is a popular destination on many of Disney Cruise Line’s itineraries, especially those that sail to the Bahamas and the Caribbean. Most of Disney’s cruises that include a stop in the Bahamas or the Caribbean will make a stop at Castaway Cay.
Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of itineraries that include Castaway Cay, ranging from short weekend cruises to longer voyages that visit multiple destinations. Some of the most popular itineraries that include visiting the island are the 3-night Bahamian cruises, 4-night Bahamian cruises, and 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises.
TRAVELISTA TIP: Be sure to check Best Disney Cruise Ships for Your Next Family Adventure to find the best Disney cruise for your family!
Castaway Cay Packing List
Packing for a day at Castaway Cay is similar to packing for a day at the beach with a few extra items to keep in mind. Here are some essential items to consider packing:
🏝 Sunscreen – The sun can be strong on the island, so it’s important to pack sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin.
☀️ Hat and Sunglasses – A hat and sunglasses are great for keeping the sun out of your eyes and protecting your face from sunburn.
🏝 Swimwear – Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit, as you’ll definitely want to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean.
☀️ Beach Towel – Disney Cruise Line provides beach towels on the island, but if you prefer to use your own, be sure to pack one.
🏝 Comfortable Shoes – Although most of the island is sandy, there are some areas with pavement or rocky terrain, so be sure to pack comfortable shoes that are appropriate for walking.
☀️ Change of Clothes – You may want to change into dry clothes after swimming, so be sure to pack a change of clothes.
🏝 Snorkeling Gear – If you plan to go snorkeling, you can bring your own gear or rent it on the island.
☀️ Waterproof Phone Case – If you want to take photos or videos on the island, a waterproof phone case is a must to protect your device from water damage.
If you’re planning a day at Castaway Cay on your Disney Cruise Line vacation, you’ll want to be sure to pack these essentials to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Castaway Cay Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Restaurants At Castaway Cay?
Yes, there are several dining options available on Castaway Cay. Disney Cruise Line operates three main dining venues on the island: Cookies BBQ, Cookies Too, and Serenity Bay BBQ.
Cookies BBQ and Cookies Too offer a variety of grilled items, such as burgers, hot dogs, chicken, and seafood, as well as vegetarian and vegan options. Both locations offer outdoor seating with views of the beach and the ocean.
Serenity Bay BBQ is located on the adults-only beach and offers a more relaxed atmosphere. The menu features grilled items, salads, and sides, as well as a full bar.
In addition to these main dining venues, there are several snack bars located around the island that offer a variety of quick bites, such as ice cream, nachos, and fruit.
For guests who prefer to bring their own food, there are several picnic areas with tables and grills available for use.
So whether you prefer to dine at one of the main dining venues, grab a quick snack at a snack bar, or bring your own food for a picnic, there are plenty of options for dining on Castaway Cay.
Are There Rides At Castaway Cay?
Castaway Cay does not have traditional amusement park-style rides. Even so, there are lots of fun and exciting activities for guests of all ages to enjoy.
Booking Your Disney Cruise That Includes Castaway Cay
If a relaxing beach day on Disney’s private island is on your must-do list, you’ll want to make sure the cruise you book includes a stop there. Here are the key things to know when planning:
Choose the Right Itinerary
Not every Disney Cruise stops at Castaway Cay. Look for itineraries that specifically list a visit to the island—these are most commonly found on Bahamian and Caribbean sailings departing from Port Canaveral or Miami. Some special cruises even offer double-dip sailings with two stops at Castaway Cay.
Pick Your Ship
While most Disney ships visit Castaway Cay, the ship you choose will affect your onboard experience. Each ship has unique dining, entertainment, and activities, so think about what matters most for your family’s vacation vibe.
Timing Matters
Disney Cruises to Castaway Cay are offered year-round. Consider weather, crowd levels, and school schedules when choosing your sailing dates. Peak times fill quickly, and prices rise as ships book up.
Select the Right Stateroom
Whether you prefer an inside room, oceanview, verandah, or concierge level, your stateroom choice will shape your cruise experience. Some guests love splurging on a verandah to enjoy ocean views—especially when docked at Castaway Cay.
Final Thoughts: What To Do On Castaway Cay
Castaway Cay is a tropical paradise and a highlight of any Disney Cruise Line itinerary. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the beach or an adventure-filled day of activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy on this private island.
Overall, a day at Disney’s private island is a highlight of any Disney Cruise Line vacation. There is truly something for everyone to enjoy. With so many activities and amenities to choose from, it’s easy to see why this private island is a favorite among Disney Cruise Line guests.
Pin It For Later!
