Half Moon Cay (RelaxAway)
Carnival's private Bahamian island with powder-soft beaches, turquoise shallows, and laid-back beach-day energy.
Overview
Half Moon Cay, officially Little San Salvador Island and now branded as RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, is a private destination used by Carnival Corporation lines including Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America. The island is known for a classic beach-focused day: long white sand, clear shallow water, and easy family-friendly swimming. A new north-side pier opened in June 2026 and takes up to two Carnival ships at a time — including Carnival's largest Excel-class ships, which previously couldn't call here at all — so Carnival guests now dock rather than tender. Holland America ships still tender to the south side of the island (about 20 minutes), so check your specific sailing.
Quick Facts
- Currency
- US Dollar (USD)
- Language
- English
- Climate
- Tropical marine. Warm year-round, with wetter months generally June-October.
- Best Months
- December-April (drier and breezier)
- Pier to Town
- No town transfer needed - this is a private-island port. On the Carnival (north) side a free tram links the arrival plaza and beach zones, and the Papaya Pathway connects zones with 5–15 minute walks.
DIY Port Logistics: "From Pier to Town"
The first 30 minutes can make or break your port day. Use this quick plan to exit the terminal fast and avoid overpriced transport mistakes.
- Is it walkable?
- Yes. This private island stop is designed for walkable beach access from tender landing.
- Water taxi or cheap local shuttle?
- Island shuttles and marked trails handle movement between activity zones.
- Expected taxi rate to the main beach
- No local taxi system applies on Half Moon Cay.
- Are ride-shares legally permitted at the pier?
- Ride-share is not applicable on private island operations.
Top Beaches
Half Moon Beach
The island's signature crescent beach, roughly 2 to 2.5 miles long, with calm water and wide sandy areas for swimming.
Natural Lagoon
The island's roughly 700-acre lagoon is preserved wildlife habitat rather than a swimming beach; the island is mostly undeveloped, and swimming is on the calm crescent beach.
RelaxAway Cabanas
Premium beach-front cabanas (about $800, up to 7 guests) and luxury daybeds (from about $150) for a quieter, shaded day.
Must Eat
Island BBQ Lunch
Included beach lunch — Orchid Beach Grill and Hibiscus Beach Grill on the Carnival side, Island Market Grill on the Holland America side — with grilled chicken, burgers, salads, and tropical sides.
Conch Fritters
A Bahamas favorite that appears at many Caribbean island stops and specialty snack points.
Goombay-Style Rum Punch
Sweet tropical rum punch served cold, perfect for a beach afternoon. Drinks are paid per item on the island; drink packages are not accepted here.
💡 DIY Tip
Get ashore early to claim beach chairs near shade (if your Holland America ship tenders, take one of the first boats). Keep the day simple: swim, snorkel, then head to the included beach grill for lunch before the crowds peak — and bring cash or your card, since drink packages do not work on the island.
🚢 Ship Excursion Verdict
Most guests can skip paid extras and still have an excellent day here because the core value is the included beach experience. Book add-ons only if you specifically want horseback riding, a private cabana, or guided water activities.