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A stop at Castaway Cay, Disney Cruise Line’s private island in the Bahamas, is often a highlight of the entire cruise. The island offers many fun and memorable activities for your crew, but if you want to make the most of your day on the island, a little planning goes a long way.

Here are 10 tried-and-true tips to give you the best day at Disney’s Castaway Cay:

1. 🌴 Go to the further beach for lower crowds

Many families will walk to the beach on Castaway and therefore stop at the first stretch of beach they see. What they may not realize is that there is another beach and a 2nd dining location. The beaches further down, especially at the end of the Family Beach area, tend to be less crowded. Here you’ll be more likely find plenty of chairs, umbrellas, and even hammocks. The dining location here will also typically have lower crowds and more open seating.

Pro Tip: If you want to go to the second beach, take the tram. The walk is long and hot.

2. ⏰ Pick your time wisely

If you’re trying to avoid crowds, timing is everything. Early morning tends to be quieter, with more available seating and a calmer vibe. Midday is the busiest, so if you prefer a more relaxed feel, either go early or wait until early afternoon as others begin to head back to the ship. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds or have the best chance of grabbing a chair in the shade, the worst thing you can do is go out late morning. Many guests will sleep in on this day of the cruise and try to hit the beach during this late morning time. Also, with lunch being served on the island, most visitors will try to aim to be on the island over lunch so if you can aim for before or after that you’re more likely to be able to avoid the crowds.

3. 💦 Bring a water bottle

Yes, there are drink stations around the island, but having your own reusable water bottle makes staying hydrated easier and reduces the amount of paper cups being thrown away. The dining areas on the island have the same options for free water and soda as you’ll find on the pool deck on the boat.

4. 🤿 Bring your own snorkel gear or float if you have room

Snorkel and tube rentals are available, but if you already own gear, bringing it with you can save money and make your beach day even better. The island has an extensive snorkeling area where you can venture out to see some of your favorite Disney characters under the sea.

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5. 🍽️ Head to the second BBQ location for shorter lines

Lunch is included on Castaway Cay, and there are two main food areas: Cookie’s BBQ and Cookie’s Too. Cookie’s Too (the second one) is usually much less crowded. Go early when it opens for the freshest food and shaded tables.

Pro Tip: Just like on the boat, there is free, unlimited soft serve on the island.

6. 🍦 Use your drink cup for ice cream

The self-serve ice cream is a crowd favorite! You’ll usually find cones nearby, but if you want a bigger serving—or a less-melty mess—grab your drink cup and use that instead. There are usually small wooden spoons located right next to the ice cream machines.

7. 🚤 Not beach people? Book an excursion

If lounging on the beach all day isn’t your thing, there are tons of excursions to choose from—bike rides, glass-bottom boat tours, stingray encounters, even fishing adventures. Booking an activity gives you a fun, structured way to explore the island.

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Whether you’re snorkeling in the lagoon, enjoying unlimited ice cream, or just napping under a palm tree, Castaway Cay offers a slice of paradise with Disney magic sprinkled in. With a little prep and these tips in mind, you’ll be set up for a stress-free and unforgettable beach day.