Heidi BucoloDisney fans, prepare to embark on a new adventure! As many of you know, Disney isn’t just about its theme parks. With Disney Cruise Line, you can experience the same wonder and magic on the high seas. And now, there’s a new DCL private destination in the Bahamas that you can visit during your cruise vacation: Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.
Whether it’s your first Disney cruise or your tenth, Disney’s Lookout Cay promises to add that extra sprinkle of magic to your voyage. We’ve been lucky enough to visit twice already and break down everything you need to know before your visit in our complete guide Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.
Our Complete Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point Guide
Welcome to Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point
Located on the picturesque island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is Disney Cruise Line’s latest private destination. It’s located east of Nassau and south of Disney’s other private Bahamian destination, Castaway Cay.
As a cruise line private destination, the only way to visit Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is to book a Disney cruise. This pristine paradise is designed exclusively to provide Disney guests with an unforgettable experience, blending the natural beauty of the Bahamas with the imaginative touches only Disney can offer.
By collaborating with local artists and vendors, Disney Cruise Line was able to showcase the culture and people of the area in the design and decor of Lookout Cay. This is evident from the curvature of the buildings, to the vibrant colors, right down to Mickey and Minnie’s outfits.
Navigating Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point
As you probably already know, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point has a dedicated pier. So, there’s no need to worry about tendering – you’ll step right off the ship and into paradise…after an approximately ½ mile walk down the pier to the tram station that is.
This walk is over a level surface, but the pier does not have any shade or any place to stop and rest along the way. For those needing assistance, golf cart transport is available upon request through guest services on the ship, although this service is limited.
Once down the pier, you’ll enter Mabrika Cove which is one of the two sections of this private resort. At Mabrika Cove, you’ll find the family cabanas, the boat charters, and a coffee shop. However, the Goombay Cultural Center area is where you’ll find most of the other amenities. Thus, most guests will want to head there. You can go between both locations via a 10-minute tram ride. It’s pretty self-explanatory as these are the only two stops along the route.
Once at the Goombay Cultural Center tram stop, there are mostly paved paths and wooden boardwalks to navigate the area during your fun-filled day in the sun. Just don’t forget to pick up your towels when getting off at this tram stop.
Beaches and Cabanas on Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point
Lookout Cay boasts stunning white sandy beaches that are perfect for relaxation and play. Whether you’re looking to build sandcastles with your kids, go for a swim, or simply soak up the sun, there’s a spot for you. The island features two main beach areas: Family Beach and Serenity Bay Beach.
Family Beach offers plenty of space for families to enjoy the sun and surf together. You’ll find comfortable loungers and umbrellas along with plenty of space to spread out. If your family wants a bit more adventure, there are other activities located nearby like Rush Out Gush Out water play area and the Play-Play Pavilion.
For those seeking a quieter escape, the adult-exclusive beach at Serenity Bay provides a serene environment where you can unwind and enjoy some peace and quiet. However, this area is much smaller and less private when compared to its counterpart on Castaway Cay. In fact, it’s on the same shoreline as Family Beach with just a little separation. So, if you want to secure your spot in this exclusive area, plan to arrive early.
Another thing to note is that there are limited loungers along the immediate shoreline at both locations. Many of the loungers are actually behind sand dunes. Guests will need to use the stairs or ramps to get over the sand dunes in order to access the water.
If you’re looking for a touch of luxury while at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, you may want to consider renting one of the island’s private cabanas. These cabanas offer shade, comfortable seating, and personalized service, allowing you to relax in style. There are two main cabana areas: one at Serenity Bay and the other at Mabrika Cove. The Serenity Bay cabanas are adult-only while the Mabrika Cove cabanas are family-friendly and afford great views of your cruise ship. There are regular cabanas that can hold up to 10 guests and grand cabanas that can hold up to 16 guests at both locations.
Exciting Activities for All Ages on Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point
Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point has plenty of activities and amenities designed to appeal to guests of all ages.
Snorkeling and Water Sports
At Lookout Cay, snorkeling equipment can be rented at the Flippers & Fins hut for $38, but there is no dedicated snorkeling lagoon like there is on Castaway Cay. You can still dive into the crystal-clear waters to explore vibrant coral reefs. Disney’s commitment to preserving the natural environment ensures that the snorkeling spots remain rich in marine life.
If you are looking for more water-based adventures, there are a number of shore excursions also available for an additional cost such as boat tours, banana boats, kayaks, and more. These tours can be booked pre-cruise or once onboard the ship if there is still availability.
Kids’ Play Areas
Disney Cruise Line is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, and Lookout Cay is no exception. Kids will love the dedicated play areas, which include splash zones and interactive playgrounds.
The Rush Out Gush Out water play area is where kids can enjoy slides, water drums, fountains, and more. There’s also Sebastian’s Cove, the dedicated youth area for younger children ages 3-10. Here, they can play all day under the watchful eyes of youth club staff.
The Play-Play Pavilion is a covered gaming area with life-sized games like Connect 4 and Jenga, hula hoops, and soccer nets. It is certainly not as elaborate as the In Da Shade Games on Castway Cay though, and there are currently no volleyball or basketball courts on the island either.
Families who have cruised with DCL before will also notice that there are no dedicated areas equivalent to Vibe or Edge for the tweens and teens on Lookout Cay. The Play-Play Pavilion doubles as their meeting spot.
Character Meet and Greets
One of the highlights of your visit to Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point will undoubtedly be the character meet-and-greets. This is the only place you will get to take photos of your favorite characters dressed in their best Bahamian attire.
Early in the day, you can catch Mickey and Minnie near the True-True BBQ for those must-have photos. You’ll also spot Daisy, Donald, Pluto, Goofy, and Chip & Dale throughout the day. These characters aren’t out all day and the lines get long, so we suggest visiting early for your photo ops.
Cultural Experiences
Disney has partnered with local Bahamian artists to create cultural experiences that celebrate the heritage of the Bahamas. You can participate in traditional Bahamian crafts, listen to storytelling sessions, and enjoy live music and dance performances. These activities give guests a deeper appreciation for the rich culture of the region.
The signature island activity is RUSH! A Junkanoo Celebration. This approximately 10-minute performance occurs at the Goombay Cultural Center twice daily and features costumed dancers and a percussion band. Be sure to check the Disney Navigator app for exact times during your sailing.
Another activity signature to Lookout Cay is the Fun in the Sun Beach Bash. This activity takes place at the Play-Play Pavilion and features Disney characters and games that all family members will enjoy.
There’s also a Nature Trail that leads to the island’s namesake lighthouse. This trail is a compacted dirt path that begins past the Reef & Wreck Bar and leads to the lighthouse. There are Discovery Trail signs along the way on which you can scan the QR code to learn more about the local flora and fauna.
Shopping
On Lookout Cay, you’ll find three shopping areas and the Plaits & Pleats hair braiding stand. The First & Last Chance Stand at Mabrika Cove is a small kiosk, while the Disney T’ings is the much larger Disney merchandise shop. Here, you will find exclusive Lookout Cay merchandise along with other Disney Cruise Line merchandise. Think t-shirts, spirit jerseys, Minnie ears, ornaments, Loungefly backpacks, and more.
Across from Disney T’ings is the Treasures of Eleuthera. This shop features handmade Bahamian goods, but it was pretty empty during our visit.
Delicious Food and Drinks on Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point
No Disney experience would be complete without delicious food, and Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point delivers. When you visit this private destination, there’s no need to return to the ship for meals. The island features three dining options: True-True BBQ, True-True Too BBQ, and Serenity Bay BBQ.
At all three locations, you can enjoy a casual, buffet-style meal that is completely complimentary. These spots serve up classic fare such as burgers, hot dogs, rotisserie chicken, and ribs, along with Bahamian specialties like snapper and chicken or seafood rice bowls. At Serenity Bay, the buffet includes steak along with all the other selections. Of course, there’s dessert like cookies and soft serve ice cream too.
Depending on what time your ship is in port, lunch is generally served from around 11:30 AM to 2 PM.
Nearby these BBQ spots, there are covered seating pavilions. The seating area at Serenity Bay BBQ is particularly small though. Unfortunately, flies are an issue near these food pavilions currently as well.
You won’t go thirsty on Lookout Cay either. While some drinks will cost you extra money, you won’t need to purchase soda or bottled water while ashore. There are fountain beverage stations throughout the island. If you bring a refillable Yeti-type water bottle, it will stay cold longer and save you from making multiple trips.
Of course, alcoholic beverages will cost extra money though. The signature cocktail of the island, the Eleuthera Euphoria, is a must-try. This delightful concoction blends Gosling’s Spirited Seas Ocean Aged Rum, with pineapple and Dole Whip, creating a tropical taste sensation.
There are four bars on Lookout Cay along with a smoothie stand and a coffee stand. The Bow & Ribbon Bar, Watering Hole Bar, and Reef & Wreck Bar are found along Family Beach. They all feature the same menu. The Blue Hole Bar is in Serenity Bay and has its own unique menu.
Mangroves & Go is the coffee shop, located in Mabrika Cove, featuring a signature Junkanoo latte. Sandsational Smoothies, located near the Watering Hole Bar, serves up non-alcoholic drinks like the Pineapple Pleaser. This signature frozen delight is made with Dole Whip Pineapple of course.
If you want a souvenir from Lookout Cay, you can purchase any of these drinks in the signature Pineapple cup.
Planning Your Visit to Lookout Cay: Tips and Tricks
To make the most of your visit to Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, here are some tips and tricks:
- Book Early: Disney cruises to Lookout Cay are sure to be popular, so book your trip as early as possible to lock in the best price.
- Pack Accordingly: Don’t forget your sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and refillable water bottle! The Bahamian sun can be intense, and you’ll want to stay protected and hydrated while enjoying the island’s activities. In comparision to some other destinations, there is limited shade and no air conditioned buildings while ashore.
- Reserve Cabanas and Shore Excursions in Advance: If you’re interested in renting a cabana or booking one of the up-charge shore excursions, be sure to reserve early to ensure you don’t miss out.
- WiFi and the App Work Ashore: If you’ve purchased a WiFi package for use on the ship, it will work on Lookout Cay as well. Your Disney Navigator app also works while ashore, so you’ll be able to check the daily schedule to see what’s happening.
- Your DisneyBand+ Works: If you decide to use a DisneyBand+ while on the ship instead of carrying your Key to the World card everywhere with you, you’ll be happy to know that it also works on Lookout Cay. You can use it to scan on and off the ship and to make purchases ashore.
- Explore the Island: While it’s tempting to relax on the beach all day, make sure to take advantage of the various activities and cultural experiences available on the island. There’s so much to see and do while on Lookout Cay!
A Magical Addition to the Disney Experience
Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point promises to be a magical addition to the Disney Cruise Line experience. With its stunning natural beauty, commitment to sustainability, and a wide range of activities and amenities, it’s sure to become a favorite destination for Disney fans of all ages.
Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or new to the world of Disney cruises, Lookout Cay offers something for everyone. Imagine exploring a beautiful tropical island, filled with the enchantment and attention to detail that only Disney can provide.
So, are you ready to set sail to Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point? Start planning your Disney cruise today, and get ready for an unforgettable journey to this new island paradise. If you’re looking for more cruise tips, head over to our sister site, Eat Sleep Cruise.
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