Castaway Cay vs. Lighthouse Point: Which Disney Cruise Line Private Island Should You Choose?

Imagine this: your Disney Cruise Line ship pulls into port, and before you stretches paradise. White sandy beaches, palm trees swaying in the breeze, and shimmering turquoise waters as far as the eye can see. This is the magic of Disney’s two exclusive Bahamian destinations: Disney Castaway Cay and Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

Both islands promise unforgettable experiences, but each has its own unique personality. So how do you decide which one is right for your cruise vacation? Whether you’re chasing family adventures, a cultural escape, or pure relaxation, let’s dive into what makes Castaway Cay and Lighthouse Point different, and equally magical.

Getting Around the Islands

Accessibility is a big part of the island experience, and both locations are designed to be guest-friendly. At Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, guests cross a ½-mile pier before hopping on a tram to the Family Beach. Complimentary strollers, wagons, and golf carts are available to make the journey easy for families and those with mobility needs. Disney built the long pier to preserve the reef and ocean habitat that exists just of the shore of Lookout Cay. Even though it’s a ways to get too and from the ship, we appreciate Disney’s commitment to preservation.

Castaway Cay is a bit more compact, with a shorter walk from ship to shore. Guests can take the tram system to Family Beach, the Sports Beach, or Serenity Bay, the adult-exclusive area. Both destinations make it simple to get around, but Castaway Cay feels a little more streamlined, while Lighthouse Point invites you to take in the sweeping views during your arrival stroll.

Kid-Friendly Adventures

If you’re traveling with kids, both Castaway Cay and Lighthouse Point deliver nonstop fun, but in different ways.

Castaway Cay is a playground built for children (and the young at heart). Scuttle’s Cove provides supervised activities run by Disney counselors, giving parents a chance to relax while little ones enjoy games, crafts, and water play. Pelican Plunge, a floating water park, is a favorite for older kids and teens with its thrilling slides and splash cannons. Spring-a-Leak offers a whimsical splash zone, while Monstro Point turns kids into explorers digging for whale bones. Families who love a little competition will find foosball, basketball, and table tennis at In Da Shade Game Pavilion, and the snorkeling lagoon is the perfect place for beginners to try spotting tropical fish.

Lighthouse Point, by contrast, incorporates Bahamian culture into its family fun. The Disney Fun in the Sun Beach Bash brings high-energy games and character-led activities like Goofy’s Good Day Limbo and Pluto’s Pineapple Ring Toss. Rush Out, Gush Out keeps the excitement flowing with water slides and splash areas, while Sebastian’s Cove caters to toddlers with shaded play spaces. Active families can take part in volleyball, Gaga Ball, or rent bikes to explore the natural beauty of the island. Here, the fun feels more infused with local flavor, offering kids both play and cultural discovery.

Relaxation and Luxury

While kids burn off their energy, parents (and adults without kids in tow) will find plenty of ways to unwind.

At Castaway Cay, Serenity Bay is an adults-only beach that lives up to its name. Guests can indulge in beachside massages, relax in hammocks, or sip cocktails at the open-air bar. Families can retreat to private cabanas on the Family Beach, complete with hammocks, loungers, and stocked fridges for a VIP-style day in the sun.

Lighthouse Point offers similar indulgence, with private cabanas at Serenity Bay and Mabrika Cove. Larger groups can book grand cabanas, which elevate the experience with extra space and luxury touches. Lounge chairs, hammocks, outdoor showers, and the ability to order food and drinks directly to your cabana make this island ideal for those who crave a stress-free day in paradise.

Dining on the Islands

Good food is always part of the Disney Cruise Line experience, and both islands deliver, each with its own twist.

Castaway Cay keeps it classic with Cookie’s BBQ and Cookie’s Too, serving barbecue staples like ribs, chicken, burgers, and corn on the cob. Adults can escape to Serenity Bay BBQ for a quieter dining option. Snack shacks and bars around the island keep the soft-serve and frozen drinks flowing.

Lighthouse Point takes dining to the next level with menus inspired by Bahamian cuisine. At True-True BBQ and True-True Too BBQ, you’ll find island flavors like lime-marinated grilled snapper, conch salad, and pigeon peas with rice, alongside traditional barbecue. Serenity Bay BBQ provides adults with a relaxed dining experience, while the Bow & Ribbon, Blue Hole, and Watering Hole Bars serve up tropical cocktails like the Eleuthera Euphoria, a refreshing blend of rum, pineapple smoothie mix, and DOLE Whip. Non-alcoholic smoothie bars and locally sourced coffee add even more variety.

Excursions and Activities

When you’re ready to venture beyond the beach, both islands offer a wide selection of excursions.

At Castaway Cay, adventurous guests can try water biking, parasailing, fishing, or a snorkeling safari. The Castaway Cay 5K is a fan favorite, offering a scenic run (or walk) across the island. The snorkeling lagoon, dotted with hidden treasures like sunken Mickey statues, is always a hit with families.

At Lighthouse Point, the focus expands to eco-cultural adventures. Guided snorkeling excursions highlight the vibrant coral reefs, while kayaking and paddleboarding let guests experience the crystal-clear waters up close. Glass-bottom boat tours are perfect for those who want to enjoy marine life without getting wet. Unique cultural excursions also introduce visitors to Bahamian traditions, local art, and storytelling, blending Disney fun with an authentic island experience.

Which Island is Right for You?

So, Castaway Cay or Lighthouse Point? The answer depends on what kind of day you’re dreaming of for your family.

Castaway Cay is pure Disney magic, designed from the ground up to deliver a seamless, immersive island escape. Everything from the themed play areas to the snorkeling lagoon has that signature Disney touch, making it a must if you love the classic Disney experience.

Lighthouse Point offers something a little different: a fusion of Disney hospitality with authentic Bahamian culture. While you’ll still find the family fun and relaxing spaces Disney does best, you’ll also connect more deeply with the island of Eleuthera and its heritage. If you want Disney with a side of cultural immersion, Lighthouse Point is your pick.

Either way, Disney Cruise Line ensures your day in paradise will be filled with sunshine, crystal-clear water, delicious food, and magical memories.

Are you ready to plan your Disney Cruise Line adventure to Castaway Cay or Lighthouse Point? Drop your questions in the comments, and start dreaming about your perfect island day!