Complete Guide to RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay on Holland America Line: Beaches, Dining, Drinks, Excursions, and More
For many Holland America Line guests, a visit to RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay is one of the highlights of a Caribbean cruise. Located on Little San Salvador Island in the Bahamas, this private island destination is known for its long stretch of white sand beach, clear turquoise water, and relaxed atmosphere. The island spans approximately 2,400 acres, with only a small portion developed for guests, helping preserve the natural beauty that has made it one of the most highly rated private island destinations in the Bahamas and Caribbean.
RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay was opened by Holland America Line in 1996 as its designated private island resort in the Bahamas. Since then, the island has gone through multiple expansions and renovations, all while preserving the relaxed beach day setting that the island is famous for. While Holland America Line was the original exclusive owner of the island and still calls here on many of its Caribbean and Bahamas cruises, sister cruise lines like Carnival Cruise Line and Princess Cruises also regularly visit Half Moon Cay.
Whether you're visiting Half Moon Cay for the first time or returning on another Holland America Bahamas cruise, understanding how the island works can help you make the most of your day ashore. From the tender process and beach facilities to dining, excursions, drink packages, and cabana rentals, here's everything you need to know before arriving at Holland America Line's private island.
Getting to RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay
Before stepping onto Holland America Line's private island, it's helpful to understand how the tender process works and what to expect upon arrival. Here's what you need to know about getting ashore, navigating the island, and making your way between Half Moon Cay's beaches, attractions, and amenities.
Half Moon Cay © Holland America Line
Tendering Ashore
Unlike some cruise line private islands that feature a cruise pier, Holland America ships still anchor offshore at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay. Guests travel to the island aboard dedicated tender boats that shuttle between the ship and shore throughout the day.
The tender ride typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes, depending on sea conditions and the ship's anchorage position. Guests with priority tender access, including certain suite guests and those with qualifying benefits, can receive expedited access to head ashore. Guests booked on early shore excursions will also receive tender priority based on their ticketed tour time.
Upon arrival, tenders dock at the marina area near Fort San Salvador. This serves as the main gateway to the island and places guests within walking distance of the beach, shopping areas, dining venues, excursion meeting points, and tram stops.
Getting Around the Island
Half Moon Cay Map © Holland America Line
Guests requiring mobility assistance should review accessibility options before sailing, but most venues are generally accessible, and beach wheelchairs are readily available. Tender operations are weather dependent and accessibility can vary based on sea conditions.
The island itself is easy to navigate. The marina and welcome area sit near the center of guest facilities. From there, a wide beach stretches along the shoreline, while the lagoon, excursion areas, shops, bars, and food venues are located throughout the developed section of the island. Complimentary tram transportation is available for guests who prefer not to walk longer distances, making it easy to reach quieter stretches of beach and various activity areas.
Beaches, Amenities, and Dining
From its famous crescent shaped beach to complimentary lunch options and guest facilities, Half Moon Cay is designed for a relaxing day in the Bahamas. This section covers where to find the best beach areas, what amenities are available, and what's included with your visit.
Half Moon Cay Beach and Facilities
The centerpiece of Half Moon Cay is its famous crescent shaped beach, which stretches for nearly two miles along the shoreline. The beach features soft white sand and calm waters that are ideal for swimming, floating, and spending a relaxing day in the Bahamas.
Guests who stay close to the marina and main tender area will generally find the liveliest atmosphere, with easier access to bars, dining venues, shopping, and activities. Those willing to walk farther down the beach can reach quieter sections of the island with more space and fewer crowds.
Complimentary beach loungers are available throughout the island and are included with your visit. Holland America has recently expanded seating capacity with additional loungers, while guests seeking more shade can rent clamshell sunshades, umbrellas, and other upgraded beach accommodations, depending on availability.
Restrooms, outdoor showers, and towel stations are conveniently located throughout the guest areas. Towels are provided from the ship and can be exchanged ashore during your visit if needed.
Lunch and Dining Options
One of the advantages of visiting Half Moon Cay is that lunch is included. During port calls, guests can enjoy a complimentary meal at the Island Market Grill featuring favorites such as hamburgers, hot dogs, grilled chicken, fresh salads, fruit, desserts, and other casual outdoor dining options. The buffet operates during designated lunch hours (typically from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM) and is included as part of your cruise fare.
Guests looking for upgraded dining options may find additional food available for purchase at venues such as the Lobster Shack. These offerings provide an alternative to the complimentary buffet for those looking to enhance their beach day experience. Here, you can enjoy grilled Caribbean lobster tails, alongside more casual beach fare like lobster rolls and seafood chowder.
Shopping and Island Services
Shopping is available at the island's straw market and retail areas, where guests can browse souvenirs, local crafts, beachwear, and gifts. Many cruise operated purchases can be charged directly to your onboard account using your stateroom card, although some local vendors may prefer cash.
Additional guest services, excursion desks, rental locations, and information points are located near the marina area, making it easy to find assistance throughout the day.
Cabanas, The Beach Club, and Excursions
Guests looking to upgrade their day ashore will find a variety of premium experiences available throughout the island. Learn more about private cabanas, the new Beach Club, and some of the most popular activities and shore excursions offered at Half Moon Cay.
Private Cabanas and Beach Villas
Guests looking for a more exclusive beach experience can reserve one of Half Moon Cay's private cabanas. These popular rentals provide a shaded retreat near the beach and include upgraded amenities designed to create a more comfortable day ashore.
Depending on the cabana type, amenities may include snacks, fresh fruit, beverages, floating mats, snorkel equipment, lounge furniture, ceiling fans, and dedicated seating areas. Recent island enhancements have refreshed many of these accommodations with updated furnishings and upgraded outdoor spaces.
For larger groups and families, Half Moon Cay also offers spacious beach villas that provide additional privacy and premium amenities. These accommodations are among the most sought after experiences on the island and often sell out well before sailing.
The Beach Club
The Beach Club Bar & Grill © Holland America
One of the newest additions to RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay is the Beach Club. Designed as an upgraded private retreat, the Beach Club includes priority tender access, dedicated waiter service, exclusive food and beverage offerings, upgraded seating, and access to a private beach area.
Guests also enjoy indoor and outdoor spaces overlooking the shoreline, creating a more secluded experience compared to the island's main public beach areas.
Popular Things to Do at Half Moon Cay
While many guests visit simply to enjoy the beach, Half Moon Cay also offers a variety of shore excursions and activities.
Horseback riding through the surf remains one of the island's signature experiences. This excursion allows guests to ride along the beach before entering the shallow waters of the Bahamas on horseback.
The Stingray Adventure gives visitors an opportunity to observe and interact with southern stingrays in a controlled environment and remains a popular option for families and first time visitors.
Water sports rentals are also available, including kayaks, snorkeling equipment, paddle sports, and other recreational activities depending on the season and daily operations. Guests can also participate in nature focused tours and guided experiences that showcase the island's natural beauty.
Recent enhancements have expanded recreational offerings with new pickleball courts, sports facilities, and additional guest amenities throughout the island.
Does the Holland America Drink Package Work on Half Moon Cay?
Many cruisers are surprised to learn that onboard beverage packages operate differently once ashore. Here's what Holland America guests should know about drink package policies, purchasing beverages on the island, and where to find drinks throughout the day.
Half Moon Cay Drinks © Holland America Line
What Is and Isn't Included
One of the most common questions cruisers ask before visiting Half Moon Cay is whether Holland America's beverage packages work on the island.
Unfortunately, the answer is no. Holland America's Signature Beverage Package, Elite Beverage Package, and Quench Beverage Package are valid onboard participating ships but do not apply to purchases made on Half Moon Cay. Additionally, any drink packages or benefits associated with the Have It All Package (including beverages and wifi benefits) are also not included on the island. Any drinks purchased while ashore are charged separately to your onboard account.
This is an important distinction because many guests assume their beverage package carries over to Holland America's private island. Official beverage package terms specifically exclude purchases made on RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay.
Bars and Drinks on the Island
Guests can still conveniently purchase drinks throughout the island using their stateroom card. Several bars and beverage stations, including larger beach bars like the Stay Awhile Beach Shack Bar and the Lil’Tiki Beach Bar, operate during port calls and serve cocktails, frozen drinks, beer, wine, bottled water, soft drinks, and other refreshments.
As with onboard purchases, applicable service charges and local taxes may apply where required. Guests do not need to carry cash for purchases at cruise operated venues since charges are posted directly to their onboard account.
Tips for Visiting Half Moon Cay
A little planning can help you make the most of your time on Holland America Line's private island. From what to pack to the best times to head ashore and return to the ship, these practical tips can help make your visit smoother and more enjoyable.
Half Moon Cay © Holland America Line
What to Bring
A little preparation can help you make the most of your day at Half Moon Cay.
Be sure to bring your stateroom card, which serves as both your identification and payment method while ashore. Sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, and beach towels are also essential for a comfortable day on the beach.
Guests planning to explore beyond the main beach areas may appreciate water shoes, particularly in areas where the shoreline can be less sandy. If you plan to shop at the straw market, carrying some cash can also be helpful when purchasing items from local vendors.
Making the Most of Your Day
Guests hoping to maximize their beach time should consider taking an earlier tender to shore, especially on days with favorable weather. Arriving early allows more time to enjoy the beach before lunch crowds arrive and provides better access to preferred seating locations.
Similarly, returning to the ship before the final rush can help avoid longer tender lines later in the afternoon.
Weather conditions in the Bahamas are generally warm throughout the year, with water temperatures suitable for swimming during every season. However, tender operations remain dependent on sea and weather conditions. On rare occasions, strong winds or rough seas can impact tender service or force schedule changes.
Final Thoughts on RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay
Half Moon Cay © Holland America Line
RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay remains one of the most popular destinations on Holland America Bahamas cruises and Caribbean itineraries. With its expansive white sand beach, complimentary dining, private cabanas, beach villas, shore excursions, and growing list of enhanced amenities, the island offers a classic private island experience while maintaining much of its natural beauty.
Whether your ideal day includes relaxing on the beach, snorkeling in clear Bahamian waters, horseback riding through the surf, enjoying a private cabana, or exploring the newest additions to the island, Half Moon Cay continues to be one of the signature experiences available to Holland America Line guests visiting the Caribbean.
All photos © Freestyle Travelers and © Holland America Line.
Learn everything included in Holland America's Have It All package, including the Signature Beverage Package, specialty dining, shore excursion credits, WiFi, and prepaid gratuities on select sailings. This complete guide breaks down pricing, value, package rules, and break even calculations to help determine whether Have It All is worth it for your cruise.