Guide to Visiting Half Moon Cay, Carnival's Private Island in the Bahamas

The Bahamas is teeming with idyllic private islands, some of which are only accessible via cruise ship. Among them is Half Moon Cay. Formerly known as Little San Salvador, the isle was purchased by Holland America Line (owned by Carnival Corporation, the parent company of Holland America and other cruise lines including Carnival, Princess, Seabourn, Cunard, and more) in 1996. The island was officially opened as a port of call in 1997 and has been welcoming cruisers ever since. Its new name comes from the name of the ship in Holland America’s former logo (Halve Maen, which was captained by none other than Henry Hudson). Coincidentally, the island boasts a beautiful half-moon-shaped beach, making the name extra apropos. Here’s what you need to know about visiting Half Moon Cay, according to travel experts. 

Getting to Half Moon Cay

Both Holland America Line and Carnival Cruise Line make stops at this private island paradise. “Due to the shallow waters,” notes Tiffany Formby, travel advisor at Travels by Danielle, “this is a tender port.” This means that passengers have to take a smaller boat from the cruise ship to get to land. With this in mind, she recommends “getting in line early to get tender tickets or booking an excursion/cabana to be one of the first off the ship.” 

Carnival and Holland America offer a variety of itineraries from several North American ports that include stops at Half Moon Cay. 

Related: 6 Private Islands in the Bahamas for the Ultimate Tropical Escape

Things to Do on Half Moon Cay

“There is no shortage of things to do on Half Moon Cay!” says Kari Dillon, travel advisor and owner of Marvelous Mouse Travels. With miles of sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and all-around stunning scenery, this private island offers something for everyone. Best of all, Formby says, “Half Moon Cay can be an expense-free port stop,” thanks to complimentary amenities like lounge chairs plus a splash pad and playground for children. Whether you prefer to hang loose on the beach or embark on an action-packed excursion, here are some of the best things to do on Half Moon Cay.

Beach Activities

Half Moon Cay is perfect for beach lovers, says Dillon. Per the travel advisor, those seeking extra seclusion along the sand should walk further down the beach area. Oftentimes, “the further you walk away from the tender area, the more secluded the beach becomes,” Formby explains. 

Additionally, while the aforementioned loungers are great, you can spend the day swaying away in one of the hammocks  (available on a first-come, first-served basis) or rent clamshell sunshades or umbrellas for extra shade. Cruisers can also rent snorkeling gear, floats (from basic single-person tubes to large multi-person inflatables called “Banas”), and a selection of water sports gear including jet skis, kayaks, water bikes, and stand-up paddleboards. 

Excursions and Tours

Both Holland America and Carnival offer a handful of tours and excursions on Half Moon Cay. Fan favorites include horseback riding on the beach, kayaking adventures, snorkeling excursions, glass-bottom boat tours, and stingray encounters. On land, cruise passengers can embark on a bike tour or nature walk (both guided and self-guided options are available). Alternatively, sign up for a guided tram tour of the island to stop at its most popular spots while basking in the beautiful views. Exact offerings vary depending on your itinerary, so be sure to check which will be offered during your sailing as you plan your trip. 

Cabana Rentals

For a true treat, splurge on a cabana or villa rental. The former is ideal for smaller groups since the starting price (around $500) includes up to four guests (two additional guests can also utilize the cabana, but expect to pay a per-person surcharge). Amenities include snacks (chips, dip, and fruit), drinks (water and soda), and use of water floating mats and snorkel gear. Cabana facilities include a refrigerator, outdoor dining table and chairs, two deck loungers, and a misting shower. Those interested in renting a cabana should do so as early as possible, says Formby. “Cabana rentals sold out quickly for our sailing since the main draw to the island is relaxing beach-side.” 

Meanwhile, the 1,620-square-foot Private Oasis cabana, which, per Dillon, “is the largest and most luxurious on the island,”  is truly in a league of its own. In addition to the aforementioned amenities, this cabana includes a BBQ lunch plus a selection of alcoholic beverages (beers, wine by the glass, and tropical cocktails); other highlights include an eight-person hot tub, indoor and outdoor showers, and your very own team (a chef, bartender, butler, steward, and lifeguard) who are on hand to make your day as memorable and fun as possible. The Private Oasis starts at $1,850 for 12 people, though it can hold a maximum of 24 (you’ll pay an additional per-person charge for groups larger than 12). 

Two-story beach villas are also available for rent and include all of the above, plus a five-person hot tub. The starting price of $800 covers eight guests; for groups larger than eight, you’ll incur an extra per-person charge (though there is a maximum of 18 allowed per villa). 

Related: The Best Bahamas Cruises for Island Hopping and Optimal Onboard Fun

Dining

When it comes to drinking and dining on Half Moon Cay, there are several options. Budget-conscious travelers can take advantage of the open-air BBQ lunch buffet, which, per Dillon, “is delicious, so you do not need to go back to the ship.” The buffet includes barbecue favorites like burgers, hotdogs, chicken, fruits, salads, and desserts. 

Alternatively, for a worth-it splurge, eat at the Lobster Shack, which is priced a la carte. The menu here is simple and straightforward, with the star of the show being — you guessed it — grilled lobster. Next to the Lobster Shack is the Wish I Could Stay Here Forever bar, marked by its Instagram-worthy sign. The island boasts three additional bars, including The Bell Bar and Rum Runners. The most famous bar is the pirate ship-shaped Captain Morgan On the Rocks bar, which, per Formby, is “one of the landmarks on Half Moon Cay.” Dillon echoes these sentiments, describing the fan-favorite bar as “a great place to spend the day sipping on cocktails and enjoying snacks.” According to Dillon, the four bars offer similar menus, and your onboard drink package does not include drinks on the island. There’s also beachside drinks service so you can enjoy a beer or cocktail without stepping foot off the sand.

Tips for Visiting

While a visit to Half Moon Cay is one for the books, there are a few things to note to make the most of your time. There is no Wi-Fi on the island, so Formby recommends bringing another form of communication (like walkie-talkies) to use if you separate from your group. 

Dillon also shares a few tips and tricks to consider. First, do not forget to bring towels from the ship ashore with you. Second, remember that the earlier you get off the ship, the better chance you’ll have at scoring a seat in a prime beach location. Otherwise, walk a little further down the beach to find more secluded areas. When hunger calls, she recommends eating on the earlier side so you are not caught in a line during the lunch rush — that way, you have more time to explore the island, relax on the beach, or wade in the water. 

Also, unbeknownst to many, the island has a small post office where guests can mail postcards to friends and family back home — a fun and low-cost activity for everyone in your group. You can also treat your loved ones to something from the on-site souvenir shop or straw market. Animal lovers may have the opportunity to snap a selfie with Ted, the island’s absolutely adorable resident donkey. 

Last but not least, couples can even choose to get married on Half Moon Cay. The oceanfront scenery and on-site chapel serve as the perfect setting for nuptials. Both cruise lines offer wedding packages and can provide further information and assistance to help plan your special day.