Map Legend
Transportation & Entry
1. Tender Pier: Primary arrival point from the ship.
– Welcome Center: Information booth, Straw Market, and Ice Cream Parlor.
– Tram Path: Main transport artery connecting the Welcome Center to the Food Pavilion.
– Shore Excursions Booth: Booking hub for island activities.
Dining & Bars
– Food Pavilion: Main island BBQ area for lunch.
– Dining Pavilion Area: Covered seating for meals.
– Half Moon Saloon: Located on the pier for immediate refreshments.
– Bell Bar: Central beach bar near the Dining Pavilion.
– “I Wish I Could Stay Here Forever” Bar: Iconic large beach bar and photo op.
– Rumrunners Bar: Quieter bar located closer to the tender pier.
– Lookout Bar: Elevated bar overlooking the lagoon.
Activities & Sports
1. Water Sports Center (Pier): Rental gear for arrival.
2. Water Sports Center (Mid-Beach): Central hub for floats and toys.
3. Water Sports Center (North): Less crowded rental point.
2. Half Moon Lagoon Aqua Park: Children’s water playground.
3. Stingray Adventure: Enclosure for stingray interactions.
4. Aqua-Trax® Adventure: Jet ski and motorized water sports start point.
5. Horseback Riding: Equestrian trails and ocean swimming.
6. Kayak Adventure: Bone Fish Lagoon exploration.
– Snorkel Area: Designated reef zone for fish sightings.
– Bahamian Church: Wedding and photo venue.
– Sports Center: Basketball and volleyball courts.
Facilities & Lounging
– Cabanas: Private rental units (marked as red squares on the beach).
– Massage Cabana: Beachfront spa services.
– Club HAL: Supervised kids’ area.
– Misting Stations: Cooling zones marked with blue circles.
Where to Stay (Cabana Selection & Renovations)
Since Half Moon Cay is a day-port private island, “staying” refers to booking private Cabanas or Villas.
– Renovation Status: The Villas (two-story units) have recently seen interior refreshes including new upholstery. The standard Cabanas are well-maintained but basic; guests recommend checking the AC unit immediately upon arrival.
– Quiet & Sleep: For seniors or those seeking peace, book Cabanas 12 through 15. These are furthest from the tender pier and the loud music of the central bars, offering a “private island” feel.
– Convenience: Families should aim for Cabanas 1 through 5. These are closest to the Half Moon Lagoon Aqua Park and the Food Pavilion, minimizing long walks with children and gear.
Top Spots & Hidden Gems
- Guest Favorites: The Stingray Adventure is the highest-rated excursion, but for pure relaxation, the hammock groves near the Bahamian Church offer the best breeze.
- Secret Locations: Walk past the last cabana toward the northern tip of the beach. The crowds disappear, and the water remains just as turquoise. Also, the Lookout Bar is often overlooked by guests staying on the main beach; it offers the best panoramic views of the ship.
- Dining Tips: Skip the standard burger line at the Food Pavilion and look for the Caribbean Jerk Chicken station—it’s the standout dish. At the Ice Cream Parlor, the rum-raisin fudge is a cult favorite among HAL frequenters.
Practical Layout & Distances
- Logistics: The Resort Layout is linear. Walking from the Tender Pier to the furthest beach point takes about 20 minutes at a brisk pace.
- The Tram: The Tram is free and essential for those with mobility issues, but it can have long lines immediately after the ship anchors.
- Accessibility: Most main paths are paved or hard-packed sand, making the Welcome Center and Food Pavilion wheelchair accessible. However, the path to the Horseback Riding area is rugged and not recommended for strollers.
Map FAQ
- Where are towels distributed? You must bring towels from the ship; there are no towel stations on the island map.
- Is there a pool? There are no traditional swimming pools. The Half Moon Lagoon Aqua Park is the only dedicated freshwater-style play area for kids.
- Where is the best snorkeling? Head to the Snorkel Area (1) near the rocks; the central swimming area has a sandy bottom with very few fish.
- Are there lockers? Limited lockers are located at the Water Sports Centers, but most guests leave belongings in their locked cabanas or on their beach chairs.
- How do I get to Bone Fish Lagoon? You must book an excursion (Kayak or Boat) to access this protected area on the north side of the Property Map.
