Ocean Cay Bars & Drink Guide
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve might be MSC’s private island, but when it comes to drinks, it feels just like the ship — only with your toes in the sand and a better view. Whether you’re sipping a piña colada by the lighthouse or a cold beer under a palm tree, Ocean Cay’s bar scene is relaxed, scenic, and designed to make your beach day even better.
The best part? Your MSC drink package works on the island, so there’s no need to worry about paying extra for most cocktails. Every beach has at least one nearby bar or drink stand, and service is billed the same way as onboard using your cruise card or wristband.
For guests without a package, drink prices are about the same as on the ship — cocktails usually range from $8 to $13, beers around $7, and soft drinks $3 to $5. Ocean Cay isn’t about wild beach parties; it’s about good drinks, ocean views, and the sound of music drifting from the nearest bar.
Drink Packages on Ocean Cay
All MSC drink packages work seamlessly on the island. That means everything included in your onboard package is also covered ashore. Drinks are charged exactly as they are on the ship, using your cruise card or wristband. Bottled water, soda, beer, cocktails, and wine by the glass are all covered depending on your specific plan.
Guests without a package can purchase à la carte at standard prices (cocktails $8–$13, beer $7, soft drinks $3–$5).
Ocean Cay Bar Map Overview
The island has a relaxed bar scene spread across multiple areas, so no matter where you set up your beach chair, you’ll never be far from a drink.
Main Bars:
- Lighthouse Bar: At the base of the lighthouse — the island’s signature bar and the last one to close at night.
- Springer’s Bar: Near the marina and downtown area, close to the island’s entrance.
In addition to those two, there are seven smaller bars scattered across the island near the beaches and food stations. Each serves the same menu of cocktails, beer, and soft drinks, and all accept drink packages.
You’ll also find food trucks and pop-up drink stands positioned near popular beaches like South Beach and the Lagoon during the day.
Lighthouse Bar
Location: At the base of the Ocean Cay Lighthouse, overlooking the water.
Lighthouse Bar is the most iconic spot on the island — and the one you’ll likely remember most. It’s open all day and into the evening for the famous Lighthouse light show. With a wide variety of frozen drinks, tropical cocktails, beer, and mocktails, it offers the most complete bar menu on the island.
The seating area includes plenty of tables, shade, and loungers, all with postcard-worthy ocean views and a great ocean breeze. You’ll often find live music or a DJ in the afternoon, and the atmosphere transitions perfectly into a relaxed, social evening scene.
Why it’s special: It’s the only bar open late, so it’s the go-to place for sunset cocktails and nightcaps under the stars.
Must-try drinks:
- Lighthouse Mule – MSC’s twist on the classic Moscow Mule.
- Ocean Cay Breeze – fruity, refreshing, and perfect for hot days.
- Bahama Mama – sweet, tropical, and strong enough to remind you you’re on vacation.
Tip: Stop by right before sunset — it’s the best seat on the island when the light show begins.
Springer’s Bar
Location: Near the Marina and downtown area, close to where you first arrive on the island.
Springer’s Bar is where most guests grab their first drink of the day. It’s lively and fun, often featuring entertainment or live music during the afternoon. The vibe is similar to a beachside pub — casual, upbeat, and full of energy.
This is a great place to start your day with a cocktail before heading off to the beaches or to stop in for a mid-day break out of the sun.
Why it’s special: Central location, great music, and close to shops and restrooms.
Must-try drinks:
- Frozen Daiquiri – choose from strawberry or mango.
- Classic Mojito – light, minty, and perfect for warm afternoons.
- Rum Punch – simple, strong, and island-approved.
Springer’s Bar usually closes before the Lighthouse Bar, so plan to visit earlier in the day if it’s on your list.
Smaller Bars Throughout the Island
MSC placed smaller bars near nearly every public area and beach on Ocean Cay. These bars are smaller but serve the same menu as the main ones.
Busier beaches like South Beach or Lighthouse Bay may have longer waits during peak hours, and frozen drinks can melt faster when lines get long. The off-the-beaten-path bars, such as those near North Beach or the Lagoon, tend to be quieter and provide a much more relaxed vibe. Ordering easier drinks like beer out of the coolers makes the process a bit quicker.
If you’re planning a beach day, it’s easy to find your favorite spot and stay close to the nearest bar — just follow the sound of blenders.
Food Trucks and Pop-Up Drink Stands
Throughout the day, MSC operates rotating food trucks and pop-up stands that sell pre-mixed cocktails, beer, and soft drinks. These are perfect for grabbing a cold drink without walking to the main bars.
They accept drink packages and your cruise card like any other bar. Food trucks usually park near South Beach or the Lagoon around lunchtime, making them a convenient stop for both food and drinks.
Prices for Guests Without a Drink Package
Here’s what to expect if you’re paying à la carte:
- Cocktails: $9–$13
- Frozen cocktails: $10–$14
- Beer: $6–$8 (Heineken, Stella Artois, and local options)
- Wine by the glass: $8–$12
- Soft drinks: $3–$4
- Bottled water: $3–$5
A 18% service charge is automatically added, just like onboard. All purchases are charged to your cruise account — credit cards and cash aren’t accepted on the island.
Final Thoughts
Drinking on Ocean Cay feels like an extension of your cruise, just with more sand and a better view. Whether you’re sipping a frozen daiquiri at Springer’s Bar or watching the sunset with a Bahama Mama in hand at the Lighthouse, the island’s relaxed bar scene is a highlight of any MSC itinerary.
If you have a drink package, take advantage of it — explore different bars, try a few tropical cocktails, and soak in the views. Stay for sunset, grab a nightcap, and end the evening watching the lighthouse glow across the water.
Bottom line: The drinks taste better when the ocean is just a few feet away.