Castaway Cay vs Lookout Cay- Which is Best?
This post may contain affiliate links, which earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases. See full disclosure here.
If you know me, you know I love a good beach day. I’m a sucker for that crystal clear water and powdery white sand the Bahamas is so famous for. That being said, I tend to get bored easily and don’t want to spend the entire day lying around on a lounge chair, either. So, finding the perfect beach for my beach day is challenging.
I’ve been lucky to visit both Disney Cruise Lines islands, Castaway Cay, and Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, and I loved them in different ways. A lot of conversation was had on our ship and social media about which island was “better,” so I wanted to offer my two cents.
Beaches
When discussing the pros and cons of any beach in the Bahamas, it’s hard to be too picky. Both islands have gorgeous beaches. Castaway’s layout makes it feel like there are several different beaches to explore. In contrast, Lookout’s beach area is essentially one stretch of beach that transforms from family to serenity in mere steps.
Castaway Cay
The island features multiple beaches, including family areas and the secluded adults-only Serenity Bay. The waters are calm due to the surrounding seawall and marine nets, making it ideal for families with young children.
I love that Serenity Beach is “around the corner” from the family beaches, so you can’t see or hear anything while trying to relax. It would be best if you took a tram to get to Serenity from the family side, whereas, at Lookout its just steps away.
Lookout Cay
The beaches maintain a natural, untouched appearance, offering a more rustic charm. The open sea allows for larger waves, appealing to those seeking a more adventurous beach experience.
The walk to the lighthouse provides opportunities for solitude and scenic views. As you walk from the family beach, you can explore sea caves (at low tide) and I love the rugged natural coastline here.
However, as mentioned above, I don’t love how the adults-only area is right next to the family beach.
While both islands have plenty of chairs, Castaway seems to have more waterfront seating options, while many of Lookout Cay’s seating is behind the dunes, where you can’t see the water.
Activities
What do you want to do on your day? If you plan to do more than sunbathing, you’ll want to know your options for activities.
Both islands offer excursions and snorkeling options, although Castaway has a snorkel trail with hidden Disney memorabilia throughout.
Both offer areas for kids, families, and adults.
Both offer character encounters, but the layout of Castaway makes it easier to see more characters on your walk to the beaches.
Castaway Cay
Offers various activities, including a snorkel trail, character encounters, and organized events. Families can do plenty of things together in the water and onshore.
The island’s developed infrastructure supports a wide range of entertainment options.
Lookout Cay
While still developing, this island offers a more organic experience through nature trails and cultural activities.
The Goombay Cultural Center showcases Bahamian art and traditions, offering a unique cultural immersion.
There are areas for play for families and children, too, with good-sized water play areas for both.
Accessibility
I can’t speak to this firsthand, but I did spend time talking to other guests who either need assistance or have family members who do, and these were their assessments.
Castaway Cay is just a short walk to the tram, whereas Lookout Cay has a long pier before you get there. That being said, golf cart shuttles are available for guests who can’t make the walk.
Castaway Cay
Paved paths and developed areas make the island more accessible for guests with mobility challenges. Mats leading to the water allow guests to use wheeled assistance to access the water. Guests using scooters or wheelchairs can also navigate the island more comfortably.
I met a guest whose mom used a scooter. They stated that she had a much easier time at Castaway Cay.
Lookout Cay
The natural terrain may present challenges for those with mobility issues, as the island retains much of its natural landscape. The boardwalk areas are accessible making it easy for those in chairs to get to the main areas of interest.
Dining and Shopping
- Both islands offer similar dining experiences, with beachside BBQs and casual fare.
Shopping includes Disney merchandise and local crafts, providing guests various souvenir options.
You can shop for Disney merchandise on both islands with your Key to the World card.
Weather and Itineraries
Both islands can be found on 4, 5, and 7-day Bahamian itineraries on the Wish, Magic, Dream, and Fantasy. 3-day itineraries only visit Castaway Cay because it is closer to Florida than Lookout Cay.
- Castaway Cay’s location makes it more susceptible to itinerary changes during adverse weather conditions, which could lead to skipped visits.
- Lookout Cay: It appears less likely to be affected by weather-related itinerary changes.
Conclusion
Choosing between Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay depends on personal preferences.
Castaway Cay is ideal for families seeking a structured, entertainment-rich environment with easy accessibility. Its calm waters, character interactions, and developed amenities cater well to families and those with mobility considerations.
Conversely, Lookout Cay offers a unique experience for travelers desiring a natural, serene setting with cultural immersion. Its untouched landscapes, cultural centers, and opportunities for solitude appeal to those looking to connect with nature and local traditions.
Ultimately, both islands provide distinct experiences, and the best choice will depend on what you seek in your Disney Cruise adventure.
My choice is Lookout Cay… no, wait, its Castaway Cay… oh, I don’t know. I love them both.
