Castaway Cay vs Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point: What’s the Difference?
Planning a Disney Cruise and wondering which private island destination is right for you? Or maybe you're lucky enough to visit both! Let’s explore the similarities and differences between Disney Cruise Line’s two tropical destinations in The Bahamas—Disney’s Castaway Cay and Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.
Whether you're a longtime Castaway Cay fan or curious about Disney’s brand-new destination, this guide will help you choose—or inspire you to try both!
The Disney Treasure docked at Disney’s Castaway Cay
🌴 The Basics: Two Disney Private Destinations in the Bahamas
Disney’s Castaway Cay is Disney Cruise Line’s original private island, welcoming guests since 1998. It’s located in the Abaco Islands and features a laid-back, classic island experience beloved by repeat cruisers.
Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is Disney’s newest private destination, which opened in June 2024. Located on the southern tip of Eleuthera, Lookout Cay blends Disney magic with vibrant Bahamian culture, art, and conservation.
✨ What’s Similar: What Both Islands Offer
No matter which island you visit, you can count on the signature Disney experience with:
🏖️ Beautiful, family-friendly beaches with crystal-clear water
🍽️ Included beach BBQ lunch and soft drinks
🎉 Disney character appearances in tropical outfits
🚲 Bike rentals, water activities, and family-friendly excursions
👶 Dedicated kids’ areas and adults-only beach zones
🛳️ Convenient access—guests step right off the ship onto the island
Both are exclusive to Disney Cruise Line guests and designed to be an extension of the onboard experience—relaxing, family-oriented, and full of magic.
| Feature | Castaway Cay | Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Bahamas, near Great Abaco Island | Eleuthera, Bahamas |
| Vibe | Classic, relaxed beach day with Disney charm | Vibrant Bahamian culture and eco-friendly design |
| Beaches | Family Beach, Serenity Bay (adults-only), Teen Beach | Family Beach, Serenity Bay (adults-only), new play areas for kids |
| Activities | Snorkeling lagoon, stingray adventure, bike rentals, Castaway Cay 5K | Snorkeling, cultural performances, water play areas, bike rentals |
| Dining | Cookie’s BBQ, Cookie’s Too BBQ | Local-inspired cuisine and traditional Bahamian dishes |
| Unique Highlights | Private island feel, classic Disney beach experience | Immersive Bahamian art, music, and architecture |
🐚 Which Island Is Better?
It depends on your cruise style!
Choose Castaway Cay if…
You want a classic, relaxing beach day with familiar Disney touches, more shaded areas, and a nostalgic vibe.
Choose Lookout Cay if…
You’re looking for something new and immersive, with cultural experiences, vibrant colors, and a modern feel infused with Bahamian spirit.
Pro Tip: Castaway Cay is currently more likely to appear on 3-7 night sailings from Port Canaveral, while Lookout Cay features more often on newer sailings from Fort Lauderdale.
🎟️ Final Thoughts: You Can’t Go Wrong With Either
Whether you visit Castaway Cay or Lookout Cay, you’ll enjoy a beautifully curated Disney day, complete with plenty of magic, turquoise waters, and sandcastle-worthy beaches.
But here’s the truth: these itineraries sell out quickly, especially for summer and holiday cruises. If either destination is on your travel wish list, it’s best to start planning now!
✨ Let’s Plan Your Disney Cruise Together
Whether you want to sip a piña colada at Castaway Cay or explore Bahamian art at Lookout Cay, I can help you find the perfect Disney Cruise Line sailing for your family.
📩 Message me today to get started—your dream island day is waiting!
🌐 Start planning at cousinscrewtravels.net
