Hey mamas! Planning a magical family vacation? Let me spill the tea on our unforgettable adventure from San Diego to Orlando for a Disney Cruise. From scavenger hunts in the Animal Kingdom Lodge to a night spent at Pandora, my family had an amazing time during our Disney cruise! One of the most overwhelming parts of being a photography lover though is the amount of photos to go through and edit. I’m seriously years behind in organizing and going through old vacations, but I finally finished this one – our trip to Disney World last Summer.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Our family flew from San Diego to Orlando for the Disney Dream cruise and my six year old son had an absolute blast. We spent four days in Orlando at the Animal Kingdom Lodge which was an absolute dream for zoo lovers like us! Here are a few tips if your family decides to stay there on your next vacation.
- Room with a View: Request a savannah view room. Waking up to giraffes and zebras right outside your balcony is pure magic.
- Kid-Friendly Activities: The lodge offers fun activities like storytelling around the fire pit, animal programs, and an amazing pool area.
- Dining: Don’t miss the Boma – Flavors of Africa buffet. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
My son especially loved the scavenger hunt for animals as we walked through the Disney hotel. Most of them walked around right outside of our balcony. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun trip for the family! It rained most nights in Orlando and there was a lot of lightning so definitely plan what time of year you go. The pool closed a couple of times because of the weather. Either way, it was a great adventure for us all.
Disney Cruise With Kids
We then spent a few days on the Disney Dream cruise to Castaway Cay and the Bahamas. I get seasick even on big cruise ships, so I was sure to bring Dramamine. I LOVE cruises so much because of the endless buffets, drinks, and fancy dinners. We were sure to take advantage of the amazing kids clubs that were seriously decorated to a T also. A favorite was the It’s A Small World room. My son loved going to the kids clubs which made us feel way less guilty for taking our own adult time at night!
- Kids Clubs: The Oceaneer Club and Lab are fantastic for kids of all ages. They’ll love the themed activities and meeting new friends.
- Family Entertainment: Don’t miss the Broadway-style shows and deck parties too . They’re spectacular! We were so surprised when a pirate show happened our first day on the cruise.
- Relaxing for Parents: Check out the adults-only areas like the Quiet Cove Pool and Senses Spa for some much-needed relaxation.
Cruises are such a favorite for my family because there really is something to do for everyone, and when you need a break from your kids there are actually opportunities to get it! The Dream Cruise also had water slides ON the deck of the ship. So while I tanned, my son went on the slides and had endless ice cream with his cousins (such a win-win).
Disney Castaway Cay – Private Island in the Bahamas
Let’s dive into the magic of Castaway Cay for a minute… Disney’s private island in the Bahamas. This little slice of paradise is packed with fun activities for the whole family, and even has on-site childcare if you want to soak it all in kid-free! Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Castaway Cay seriously has something for everyone. Let’s explore all the highlights to make your visit unforgettable.
The water on this island was legit crystal clear.. the clearest and most blue I’ve ever seen. My family spent most of our time on the family beach which had shallow waters for everyone to splash around safely. We all also went on the Pelican Plunge slides, but I DO NOT recommend these if your child can’t plug their nose well! I even had a hard time plugging mine, so we all only went one time. You can also snorkel in the lagoon to find hidden tickets and other underwater treasure!
- Scuttle’s Cove: This supervised kids’ club is filled with activities, games, and adventures just for the little ones. They’ll love the water play area and sandy playground.
- Spring-a-Leak: An interactive water play area where kids can cool off and have fun with water jets, sprinklers, and more.
- Serenity Bay: This adults-only beach is a haven of peace and relaxation. Enjoy a quiet day lounging on the beach, floating in the calm waters, or with a beachside massage.
- Private Cabanas: For the ultimate luxury, rent a private cabana. These secluded spots offer shade, comfy seating, and personalized service, making your day on the island even more special.
- Parasailing: Soar high above the island and enjoy stunning views from above.
- Water Sports: Rent paddle boards, kayaks, or jet skis for some thrilling water fun.
- Nature Trails: Explore the island’s natural beauty on foot. The trails are perfect for a leisurely walk or a jog.
- Bike Rentals: Rent a bike and ride along the scenic paths. You’ll discover stunning views, hidden beaches, and the peaceful tranquility of the island. Don’t forget to stop by the Observation Tower for a breathtaking panoramic view.
We ate at Cookie’s Bbq for a buffet lunch. It was a little packed for sure, but the food was delicious. There’s also adult-only dining at Serenity Bay, but we decided to keep my son with us on the island to enjoy everything together. I’m so glad we did!
There you have it mamas! Our Disney Dream Cruise adventure was filled with incredible experiences and so many memories. I hope these tips help you plan your own magical journey. If you have any questions or need more tips, drop a comment below. Check out our family’s photos and happy travels!
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