10 Differences Between Lookout Cay and Castaway Cay

Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay are not the same island, nor the same experience. Which is a good thing! It’s good to have variety, and it’s good to have options. Disney made official commitments to the Government of the Bahamas to protect the environment and ocean at Lookout Cay, which resulted in some necessary modifications to the experience long-time cruisers have become accustomed to at Castaway. Here are ten of the differences.

1. Privacy – Disney owns (technically leases) all of the island of Castaway Cay. The only people there are Disney employees and guests. Lookout Cay, however, is only a small section of a Bahamian island called Eleuthera. Disney does not own or lease the entire island, just Lookout Cay. They also have an agreement with the Bahamas that locals can purchase a day pass and enjoy parts of Lookout Cay. In reality, it seems the locals have better things to do than drive down to Lookout for a day. I’ve been to Lookout perhaps a dozen times now, and I’ve only seen locals with wristbands once.

2. Tram – Both islands have trams! But it takes a lot longer to get to one of the trams! The walk to the tram on Castaway is pretty short, but the infamous walk to the tram on Lookout is about 6/10ths of a mile down a long, unshaded pier. The pier was necessary to protect the coral surrounding the island, and was the subject of much criticism when the first ship made it to Lookout. I’m of the mindset that it looks a lot worse than it is. Is it a huge hardship? No. Are there other options for guests who can’t walk that far? Yes! It’s just something to keep in mind as you plan your day. I do recommend getting off at Lookout as early as possible to avoid making that walk down the pier in the midday sun.

3. Protected Cove – Castaway’s family beach is built in a protected cove, which means there won’t be unexpected sea creatures, and if there are any waves at all, they’re tiny. Lookout is on a straight beach with no protection at all. There is no barrier to keep out large fish, much like most other beaches in the world. The waves can be fairly significant as well. Some guests will love that more authentic ocean experience at Lookout; others will prefer the calm waters at Castaway.

4. Snorkeling – Both islands have snorkeling available, but Castaway has a designated snorkeling lagoon where snorkelers can find sunken Disney artifacts like Boo’s door and a Dumbo ride vehicle. There is no designated snorkeling area at Lookout, but the coral is beautiful, and the colorful fish are abundant. The water is so beautiful and clear, it’s like swimming in a fishbowl at times.

5. Food – Whereas Lookout has some of the same basics you’ll find at Castaway – burgers, chicken sandwiches, etc., they’ve also added some food with a Bahamian or island flair like baked plantains, Bahamian Pigeon Peas & rice with marinated chicken, and grilled pineapple and black bean salad. You won’t go hungry at either destination.

6. Kid Activities – Both islands have a great Oceaneer Club for kids ages 3-10, but only Castaway has a dedicated space for the older kids. The Hideout on Castaway is for the teens, although there are times when the tweens will have organized takeovers. Special shoutout to Rush Out Gush Out, the splash pad on Lookout Cay, which is a big highlight for kids.

7. Serenity Bay – Both have a dedicated adult beach called Serenity Bay, cabanas, and a restaurant! On Castaway, Serenity Bay is removed from the family beach area, although the new family cabanas at Mickey & Minnie Cove are next to Serenity. On Lookout, Serenity is right next to the family beach area, with just a sign and sometimes rope lying on the ground to separate the two. Both are very nice though!

8. Hammocks – Unfortunately, Lookout does not have hammocks, which is a devastating blow to anyone whose favorite island activity is a nap in the hammocks at Castaway!

9. 5K – Castaway Cay has had a free 5K for many years now. It’s self-led, but there are medals at the end! While Lookout has a path and merchandise for a 5K, not to mention a medal that’s mistakenly been leaked, there is still no 5K there. There is a nice walking trail to the lighthouse and a beautiful empty beach next to picturesque rock formations.

10. Excursions – Both islands have a good variety of excursions. Castaway has bikes, floats, snorkeling equipment, stingrays, banana boat rides, and more. Lookout has similar offerings, but noticeably missing from Lookout Cay are bikes to rent, although they’ve been alluded to for two years now, and floats, which would be difficult with no barriers in the water to stop them from floating away. Because Lookout is part of a larger island, there are excursions off property, which is a fun addition.

Have you been to Lookout and Castaway? What did you think?