The BEST Things to Do at Castaway Cay During Your Disney Cruise

If you’re going on a cruise to the Caribbean with Disney Cruise Line, you’ll likely be stopping by Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island! Castaway Cay is owned and created by Disney, so everything was built with you in mind. But, in most cases, you’ll only have one day to do everything you want. And, with so many activities, excursions, and beaches, how do you decide?

Well, we’ve got an overview of the BEST things to do at Castaway Cay based on who you’re traveling with! From hidden places to relax to toddler-friendly water play areas and more, here’s a look at the top 15 activities on Disney’s private island.

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The BEST Things to Do at Castaway Cay During Your Disney Cruise

Best Activities For Families

When it comes to family fun at Castaway Cay, there are plenty of activities. While you can certainly spend the entire day at the beach playing in the sand and hopping into the ocean for a swim, there are some unique activities to check out that offer more than relaxation. Here are some of the best activities for families to enjoy together at Castaway Cay!

Snorkeling

One of the most popular activities on Castaway Cay is snorkeling. The crystal-clear waters offer a chance to explore the colorful marine life that lives just below the surface. Castaway Cay has a dedicated 22-acre lagoon for snorkeling with trails that are designed for beginners and “discoverers,” making it safe and easy for guests of all ages to enjoy the activity. Plus, you might even find some Disney items hidden underwater along with all the fish and coral!

To participate, all you have to do is head to Gil’s Fins and Boats or Flippers and Floats to rent your snorkeling gear. Here, you’ll also get basic instructions on what to do and where you can go in the water. The rental does cost $38 per day for guests ages 10 and up, or $22 per day for guests ages 5 to 9. However, you’ll have all-day access to the lagoon with the ability to enter and exit at your leisure.

Parasailing

If you have older guests in your traveling party, parasailing is a thrilling way to see the island and spend a portion of your day at Castaway Cay. This one-hour excursion takes you out into the open water just beyond the island where you’ll be sent up to 600 to 800 feet over the waves in a parasail for approximately 5 to 7 minutes.

Kids as young as 8 years old can participate in parasailing, but keep in mind that it does cost $140 per person.

Kayaking

Whether you’re a family that loves to kayak regularly or you’re looking to try it for the first time, you can take advantage of a 30-minute kayak rental on Castaway Cay. It’s a fun activity for the whole family, and you’ll have a chance to see the island from a different perspective.

The great thing about kayaking is that it’s one of the cheaper activities you can do on the island. It costs $20 for a single kayak and $25 for a double kayak. Just note that guests must be 14 to rent a single kayak and anyone under the age of 16 must have a guardian with them to rent a double kayak.

And, if you want to take your kayaking to the next level, consider booking the Walking and Kayak Nature Adventure excursion. This 3 to 3.5 hour tour takes you on a 45-minute walking tour around the island and then ends with a one-hour kayaking tour around the tidal zones and native mangroves. You’ll also have exclusive access to the shallow flats and sandy beaches that are usually closed off to anyone who isn’t on the tour! This excursion is a bit pricier, costing $79 per person for those ages 10 and up.

Fishing Excursions

If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience that the entire family will enjoy, consider fishing! You can book a 2.5 to 3-hour fishing excursion based on the fishing technique you’d like to learn. Then, you’ll be able to try your hand at catching some of the fish that live in the waters around Castaway Cay.

The excursions are led by experienced guides who will help you with everything from baiting your hook to reeling in your catch. It’s a great way to bond with your family and enjoy some time on the water.

Based on the fishing excursion you choose, it will cost $185 to $219 per person. Note that guests must be 8 years or older to participate.

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Best Activities For Adults

If you’re cruising without kids and are looking for a relaxing day on Castaway Cay, there are a few ways to escape the hustle and bustle of the large family beaches on the island. Here are two of the best options for adults.

Relax at Serenity Bay

Serenity Bay is a secluded, adults-only beach that offers a peaceful retreat away from the rest of the island. You can lounge in a hammock, read a book, or simply soak up the sun. There’s also a rental station at the beach, so you can rent things like water tubes to add some variety to your relaxing day. And, you won’t even have to leave for lunch because there’s a dedicated dining area here too!

Rent a Cabana

If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, consider renting a cabana. These private, shaded spaces come with a variety of amenities, including lounge chairs, a mini-fridge stocked with drinks and snacks, snorkel equipment, water tubes, bike rental, and a ceiling fan to keep you cool. You’ll also have a dedicated cabana host to take care of your needs.

These rentals can be a bit pricey, costing between $399 to $949 for the day. The cost will vary based on where you are renting the cabana (at the family beach or adult-only beach) and how many guests you’re visiting with.

Best Activities For Kids and Toddlers

If you are traveling to Castaway Cay with kids or toddlers, there are a few activities that are tailored specifically for you! Here are some of the best activities for kids and toddlers on the island.

Scuttle’s Cove

Scuttle’s Cove is the perfect place for kids and toddlers to burn off some energy. It is a supervised play area that includes a water play area, a playground, and a beach area. The water play area has small slides, water jets, and other interactive features that are perfect for young children. The playground has swings, slides, and climbing structures that are safe for toddlers and young children. And, the beach area is perfect for building sandcastles and playing in the sand.

Pelican’s Plunge

If your kids are a bit older, there’s Pelican Plunge. Pelican Plunge is a water platform located just offshore of the family beach. This activity is completely free and includes two slides, a drench bucket, and water cannons.

The minimum height for the Pelican Plunge water slides is 38″, and anyone under 48″ must wear one of the provided life vests. Further, to reach this floating platform, guests need to swim out to it.

In-Da-Shade Game Pavilion

The In-Da-Shade Game Pavilion is a covered area that is perfect for kids and toddlers who need a break from the sun. It is located near the family beach and includes a variety of games and activities like board games, table tennis, foosball, and more. The pavilion is also a great place to take a break and enjoy a snack or a drink.

Dining Options on Disney’s Castaway Cay

If you’re spending your day at Castaway Cay, you’ll probably get hungry! Luckily, Disney offers two different dining options that are staffed by the cruise line.

Cookie’s BBQ

Cookie’s BBQ is a great option for those who love a good barbecue. This quick-service restaurant located in the family beach area serves up a variety of classic barbecue dishes, including burgers, hot dogs, chicken, and ribs. There are also vegetarian options available, such as veggie burgers and salads. Of course, there’s also plenty of dessert options to choose from including unlimited ice cream!

Air Bar BBQ

Air Bar BBQ is the adults-only buffet located at Serenity Bay. This spot offers all the same barbecue essentials as Cookie’s BBQ, but there are a few more menu options here including the fan-favorite brisket.

Other Noteworthy Activities at Castaway Cay

Shopping

If you’re looking for something to take home to remember your trip, be sure to do some shopping at Castaway Cay! The island has three different shops including She Sells Sea Shells…and Everything Else, Buy the Seashore, and Cultural Illusions. She Sells Sea Shells and Buy the Seashore are where you’ll find exclusive Castaway Cay-themed merchandise, sand toys, sunscreen, beach towels, and postcards. And, Cultural Illusions has Bahamian-inspired decor.

Castaway Cay 5K

If you’re a runner or walker, you won’t want to miss the Castaway Cay 5K. This free event takes place on the island and is open to all guests at their leisure. The course takes you around the island, past the airstrip, and along the beach. And don’t worry if you’re not a serious runner – the event is meant to be fun, and walkers are welcome too.

Bike Rentals

One of the best ways to explore Castaway Cay is by bike. The island has several bike trails, ranging from easy to challenging, that take you through the lush vegetation, along the beach, and past the airstrip. You can rent bikes for adults and children at the bike rental stand near the tram stop for a small fee. And, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even rent a tandem bike.

Special Events

Throughout the year, Castaway Cay hosts special events that add even more fun to your visit. For example, during Halloween on the High Seas cruises, the island is decorated with Halloween-themed decor and there are special activities for kids. During the Christmas cruises, you can meet Santa Claus on the island. Be sure to check the schedule of events before your cruise so you don’t miss out on anything!

The great thing about Castaway Cay is that there’s so much to do, so you’re sure to find something that the whole family will enjoy. And, you probably won’t even be able to get to it all giving you a great reason to come back in the future.

Try some of these activities on your next Disney cruise and let us know what you think!

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