As cruise lines resume their itineraries, one kind of port stop in particular has new, creative shore activities: the cruise lines’ own private islands, designed to give their passengers an immersive getaway experience.

Over the past year, many cruise lines have enhanced, renovated and (in some cases) rebuilt on some of these special islands. Here’s a look.

Great Stirrup Cay

At 270 acres, Great Stirrup Cay (shared by Norwegian Cruise Line and Regent Seven Seas Cruises) in the Bahamas offers more than just a private beach—although that is the main attraction—with swimming, snorkeling, rafts, paddleboats, catamarans and kayaks.

Beyond the beach, there are volleyball courts and hiking trails as well as several zip lines. Villas and cabanas are available for day use for an additional cost.

There’s a beach barbecue and bar, and music arrives courtesy of a calypso band. Everybody limbo!

Perfect Day at CocoCay

Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay (formerly known as Little Stirrup Cay) is located west of Great Abaco and south of Grand Bahama.

In 2019, a $250 million renovation of the island added a pier to allow ships to dock directly, a water park, a wave pool, an in-water rock wall and ninja challenge areas.

Seeking a thrill? You can also conquer the tallest waterslide in North America—Daredevil’s Peak—or take to the skies in a hot-air balloon that goes up to 450 feet for an incredible view.

Princess Cays

Princess Cruises is planning to return to its private island, which is located at the southern tip of the island of Eleuthera in the outer Bahamas, in November. You can immerse yourself in a number of quintessential beach activities there, including banana boat rides and aqua bikes on the island. You can snorkel along a very shallow and easy-to-navigate reef nearby. Then there’s the stingray encounter—an up-close, interactive, in-the-water experience with rays.

The private island also offers several private options, including clamshell-style loungers. And then there’s the Sanctuary at Princess Cays—an area that offers more privacy in its secluded bungalows. You can order (for an extra fee) a VIP gourmet lunch that includes a chilled seafood platter and jerk chicken as well as salad and fruit.

For those who are concerned with other forms of connectivity, Princess has also installed fast, unlimited and reliable Wi-Fi on the island.

Disney Castaway Cay

Castaway Cay in the Bahamas continues to play a big part for Disney Cruise Line and its ships’ itineraries.

The island is home to Castaway Family Beach and the Snorkeling Lagoon, a 22-acre stretch of water located just off the Family Beach.

If you need some time away from the kids, head to Serenity Bay, an adults-only area where grownups can relax (think specialty drinks and outdoor massages).

Conversely, if you are a teen who needs some time away from your parents, check out the Teen Hideout, designed for ages 14 to 17.

Half Moon Cay

Half Moon Cay, shared by Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America Line, is located in the Bahamas.

You can bike around the island or hike. But it’s the water activities that shine: snorkeling, two-person guided kayak tours through the island’s Bonefish Lagoon, and horseback rides—both on trails and at the shoreline.

There are free lounge chairs for all to use, and private cabanas and villas available to rent. Children have a water park to play in, complete with water cannons on a pirate ship and a water playground.