Overview of Half Moon Cay

Half Moon Cay (pronounced key) is a private island owned by Holland America Cruise Line, open to guest of Holland America only. A large percentage of the island's land has been designated a Wild Bird Preserve by the Bahamian Government. Because it is a private island, there are no hustlers or beggars to hassle you while you enjoy the beach.

What language is spoken in Half Moon Cay? Do they speak English?

English is the official language of the Bahamas, with a strong accent, generally easily understandable to tourists.

What is the national currency in Half Moon Cay?

Bahamian dollars are the official currency of the islands.

Do they accept US Dollars around the cruise port?

Yes, US Dollars are accepted everywhere along with travelers checks and major credit cards.

Where can I get or exchange money?

There is no need to exchange money in the Bahamas - US dollars are accepted everywhere. Bahamian currency is difficult if not impossible to exchange outside of the Bahamas, so be sure to spend it before leaving the island.

• Banks closest to cruise port: 

  There are no banks on Half Moon Cay.

• ATMs closest to Port: 

  There are no ATM machines on Half Moon Cay. If you need cash ATMs are available in the casino on board the ship.

How do I get around Half Moon Cay?

There are no taxis, rental cars, buses, etc. available on Half Moon Cay - everything is within walking distance of the area where the tenders put ashore at the Welcome Plaza. There is a 24-seat tram that runs between the Welcome Center and the food area.

How can I stay in touch with home? (Ex. Email, phone, etc.)

There is no cell phone coverage or internet access on Half Moon Cay. There might be internet access or phone service available at the Welcome Center but they do not list that in their information.

What are the cell phone rates?

Verizon is $1.99/minute and AT&T is between $1.69 and $1.99/minute. Contact your cell phone provider for international roaming rates.

What are the top attractions and must-sees in Half Moon Cay? How long will it take me to get there and to explore?

Attractions

There is a Welcome Center with a bar and restaurant along with several shops, a first aid station, and a chapel. You might want to stop to get your hair braided in the plaza as well. Near the Welcome Center is the Watersports Center, which can arrange whatever type of tour/equipment rental that you need - they have paddle boats, Hobie Cats, parasailing, beach floats, Banana Boat rides, snorkeling equipment, etc.

There is also a Water Park with a pirate ship and water cannons, slides, floating animals, and fountains and a separate Children's Park.

Beaches

The beach is 2 miles long, and offers white sand and sparkling turquoise water. It is important to note that there is a not a lot of shade on the island, so bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, etc. You can, however, rent a cabana (including an overwater cabana) but these book up very quickly and you should plan ahead.

Shopping

There are only a few small shops and kiosks in the Welcome Center - you may find some souvenirs in the Straw Market area.

Golf

There is no golf on Half Moon Cay.

Scuba

Scuba and snorkeling gear are both available at the Watersports Center, and the water is some of the clearest on Earth - there is often visibility of over 200 feet, and the Bahamas offers the world's largest barrier reef.

Tours

There are many different things to see and do on Half Moon Cay - you can go horseback riding on the shore and ride bareback in the water, play volleyball, basketball, horseshoes or shuffleboard, take a nature hike, or explore the recreated Caribbean village.

Others

Open-air massage is available near the beach as well.

What are the best eats in Half Moon Cay? Where are the best places to get them?

Food is served buffet-style in an open-air pavilion, usually to the sounds of a steel band. You can also grab a refreshing ice cream cone in the Welcome Center.

What are the must-drinks in Half Moon Cay? Where is the best place to get them?

There is a frozen drink bar in the Welcome Center area - you might want to enjoy a Bahama Mama in honor of your stop in this tropical paradise. This cocktail includes light and dark rum, coffee and coconut liqueur, lemon and pineapple juice.

Which are the best souvenirs to buy in Half Moon Cay? Where can I get them?

Under $25:

Homemade guava jelly is usually found in shops in the Bahamas - remember that haggling on the price is not only accepted, it is expected.

$25-$75

A handmade straw hat would be an excellent purchase in the Bahamas, and one you can enjoy right away as you enjoy the beach.

Over $75

Bahamian art is colorful and resonably priced. Hang it on a wall and it will be a constant reminder of your trip to Half Moon Cay.

What is the weather like in Half Moon Cay?

Current Temperature

Average Monthly Temperatures and Rainfall in Half Moon Cay