Have you ever wanted to participate in a 5K but were afraid of being the last to complete the race or did not think you could keep up with the minimum mile time limit? Then, the Disney Castaway Cay 5K (post-Covid) is just for you!
Disney Castaway Cay is Disney's private island in the Bahamas, and it has plenty to do, see, and eat - one of those being a 5K. This port of call is found on most Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries that Disney Cruise Line sails.
What is the Disney Castaway Cay 5K?
The Disney Castaway Cay 5K is a 3.1-mile run or walk hosted by Disney Cruise Line on their private island, Castaway Cay. This 5K is a great way to explore the developed inland areas of this beautiful island, extending beyond the coastal regions.
Along the route, you will encounter an observation tower offering panoramic views of the entire island. Fun fact: most of the island is maintained in its natural state! You can also get a great picture of your cruise ship from this lookout tower!
What sets the Disney Castaway Cay 5K apart is its flexibility. There is no fixed start time, and there is no minimum time requirement for each mile. You have the freedom to participate at a time that suits your vacation experience best while on the island. You can also complete the 5K at your own pace - this allows you the perfect opportunity to blend fitness and exploration into your Disney cruise experience!
How much does it cost?
The Disney Castaway Cay 5K is free to participate in!
How do you sign up?
No formal sign-up is required since the 5K is now a complete-at-your-leisure race since COVID-19. As such, you will not receive a race bib as you would previously when it was an organized run.
Do you still get a finisher's medal?
Yes, you do! However, it is more so a rubber medallion rather than a RunDisney races medal.
Where does it start?
The 5K starts near the bike rental booth, located at the second tram stop on the island. The route is easily navigable and marked with clear signs along the path. Commencing from the starting line, the course leads participants along the airplane landing strip runway and through a side loop where the observation tower stands.
Following this loop, runners return to the airplane runway, heading towards Serenity Bay, situated at the end of the runway. Upon reaching this point, participants loop back, making their way to the starting line, which conveniently serves as the finish line as well!
Disney Cruise Tip: You can stop for a quick snack or ice cream cone at Serenity Bay if you are 18+ since this is the adults-only section. You can also stop at Cookie’s BBQ once you finish the race for a celebratory meal, snack, drink, or ice cream cone - no matter your age!
Are there water stations?
Yes, there are two water stations along the path. However, if you are able, bring your own water bottle to not chance the water stations being empty.
When is the best time to complete the 5K?
On a hot sunny day, it is best to complete the 5K in the morning before the blazing hot sun comes out for the day. With that, once you have completed the race, you can head over to Pelican Point and go on one of the water slides to help cool you down! During these times of the year, do not forget sunscreen, water, your bathing suit, and a change of clothes.
On a colder day at Castaway Cay, as we got on our recent Disney cruise, any time of the day works! However, you should still bring sunscreen and water.
Can I bike the 5K?
According to the Crew Member in the bike rental area, you cannot bike the 5K. Although, the 5K route and the bike path are the same. However, we were informed that you could not receive a finisher's medal if you completed the 5K by bike. You may ask yourself, "Well, how would they know?" But, it is all about the honor system with the Disney Castaway Cay 5K.
Is the 5K suitable for all ages?
Yes! Since you can complete this fun run at your own pace, the 5K is suitable for all ages.
What if I have kids who are not participating?
If you prefer to complete the race without the kiddos, you can drop them off at Scuttle's Cove, the Kids Club at Castaway Cay!
Why should I complete the 5K?
If you are like me, you do not correlate a cruise vacation with a 5K, nor would you typically want to complete one on land. However, this 5K is free, it is mostly on flat land, it allows you to check out parts of Castaway Cay that you would not normally see being on the beach, and you will get a cool medallion when you finish the race! Yes, there are other Port Adventures you can do while at Castaway Cay, but since the 5k is at your own pace, you can do it before or after your excursion!
Not sure what to pack for a Disney cruise?
Check out my blog post, Disney Cruise Line Packing List with Printable. The article breaks down what you need for a Disney Cruise and why. You will also find Amazon links to purchase most of the items and a downloadable checklist.
Do you just want the checklist emailed to you?
Fill out this form with your first name and email address below to receive the link for a downloadable PDF version of this listing that you can print out and treat as a checklist.
Our Experience
We went on our very first Disney Cruise in mid-January 2024, and on the day we docked at Castaway Cay, it was 63 degrees outside. Since it was cold out, we did not worry about being the first few people off the ship. Instead, we had a nice breakfast at Marceline Market, grabbed our jackets, and headed off the ship a couple of hours after we docked.
We rode the tram to the second stop, found some seats to drop off our stuff, grabbed lunch, and began the 5K. We walked the whole way, climbed the observation tower, stopped at Serenity Bay for a quick snack, and continued on the route! At the end of the race, we stopped at the bike rental station, informed the crew member, and received our medallion!
To learn more about Disney Castaway Cay and what else is included (and not included) with your Disney Cruise Fare, you can check out my blog post, What's Included and Not Included in your Disney Cruise Fare, for more details! For more Disney articles, check out these below:
Disney Cruise Line Port Canaveral: Terminal Info and More - Everything you need to know for getting to and parking at Disney Cruise Line's Terminal at Port Canaveral, Florida! Check it out!
Menus for Disney Wish Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure - Dining at Arendelle on the Disney Wish is an experience like no other! Check out this post for more details on what you can expect to enjoy!
Wishing you Magical Memories!
The Disney Castaway Cay 5K is the perfect blend of fitness and fun during your Disney Cruise. Whether you are a seasoned runner or just looking for a unique adventure, this 3.1-mile race on Disney's private island offers flexibility, breathtaking views, and a cool medallion at the finish line.
Have you done the Disney Castaway Cay 5K? Let me know in the comments below! Also, if you have any further questions about the 5K, be sure to post them below. Share this article with the person or people you want to go on your next adventure with! Also, be sure to SUBSCRIBE below to learn about other places you should add to your "To Visit" List! Ready? Okay, vamos. Time to have fun!
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