Ahoy, Farah!
It’s such a pleasure to see your name sail through here again at planDisney! I can already picture you and your girls soaking up the
sunshine on Castaway Cay with sandy toes and salty smiles—it’s truly one of my favorite places on the planet (or under the sea!).
You’re absolutely right—those private cabanas are as popular as Hei Hei is confused, and they tend to get scooped up faster than you can say “double scoop of soft-serve.” But don’t worry—just because you missed out on a cabana doesn’t mean you’ll be stranded without shade like Olaf in July.
The good news? Disney provides plenty of complimentary beach chairs, loungers, and umbrellas scattered throughout the family beach, Serenity Bay (the adult-exclusive beach), and even the Pelican Plunge area. They’re first come, first served, but I’ve never had trouble finding a spot for my crew—even when we’ve taken our time getting off the ship. That said, if you’re aiming for a front-row seat to the crystal-clear water or a shady spot
close to the action, I recommend disembarking as early as you comfortably can.
Bringing your own beach umbrella is not allowed onboard, but honestly, you won’t need it! Disney’s done an amazing job setting up the beach like a scene straight out of Moana—minus the Kakamora. Everything you need is already there, including a few well-placed hammocks perfect for a mid-day snooze. (My personal favorite way to “let it go” for a while!)
Since you’re traveling with little ones, don’t miss Spring-a-Leak—this splash-tastic water play area is located near the bike rentals and Cookie’s Too BBQ and is the perfect spot to cool off, run around, and burn off that extra ice cream energy. And while they’re busy making a splash, you might just find your own happily ever after—lounging in the shade with a tropical drink in hand, feeling more relaxed than Baloo in a hammock singing 'The Bare Necessities.' Now that’s a Disney day done right!
I hope this helps you
feel even more prepared to enjoy Disney’s island paradise! If more questions pop up like bubbles from a snorkel, I’ll be here and happy to help.
Sea ya real soon with a June full of sun, sea, and shipshape adventures,
Dustin