Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is one of the easiest private islands to enjoy without booking anything at all. Beaches are included, loungers are available, and the overall vibe is relaxed. That said, MSC does offer a handful of beach and relaxation rentals designed to make a long beach day a little more comfortable.
This guide breaks down what those rentals actually include, who they make sense for, and when they are worth paying for versus skipping entirely.
The Truth About Relaxing on Ocean Cay
Let’s start with the most important point.
You do not need to rent anything to enjoy Ocean Cay.
Beaches, swimming areas, and loungers are included for all guests. Rentals are not about access. They are about comfort and convenience, especially if you plan to spend several hours in one spot or floating in the water.
If your idea of a perfect Ocean Cay day involves parking yourself at the beach with minimal movement, rentals can be a nice upgrade. If you like walking, exploring, or bouncing between activities and don’t mind the sun, you may not need them at all.
What Falls Into the Beach & Relaxation Category
Beach and relaxation rentals are not excursions in the traditional sense. There is no schedule, no guide, and no itinerary. These are simple add-ons meant to enhance your beach time.
This category includes:
- Floating beach mats
- Family floating beach mats
- Aqua saddle rentals
- Umbrella rentals with loungers
All of these rentals are low effort, low activity, and focused on comfort.
Floating Beach Mat Rentals
Solo Floating Beach Mat – All Day
- Price: $20
- Duration: All day
- Best for: 1 person
The solo floating beach mat is designed for one person to lounge comfortably in shallow water. Think of it as a personal floating pad rather than a toy. You see most of the mats in the North/South beach lagoon area, but some are also used at other beaches on the island.
Why people like it
- Very relaxing
- No swimming required
- Easy to drift just offshore and cool off
Who it’s best for
- Adults who like floating quietly
- Guests who want to stay cool without effort
- Anyone who plans to spend long stretches in the water
This is not meant to be shared. It works best when treated as a personal float.
Family Floating Beach Mat – All Day
- Price: $41
- Duration: All day
- Best for: Groups and families
The family floating beach mat is in a completely different category. It is huge, more like a floating island than a mat.
What makes it different
- Fits roughly 4 to 6 adults comfortably
- Extremely stable
- Designed for group floating and socializing
Why it’s popular
- Kids love it
- Families or groups of adults can float together and relax
- Great easy to find and central hangout spot in the water
If you are traveling with a group or family and want a shared place to float and relax, this is one of the best-value rentals on the island.
Aqua Saddle Rental – All Day
- Price: $16
- Duration: All day
- Minimum age: 8+
The aqua saddle is a simple foam floating seat that keeps you upright in the water. It requires almost no balance and very little effort.
Why people choose it
- Extremely low physical demand
- Easy to get on and off
- Great for chatting, relaxing, or just staying cool
This is one of the most budget-friendly rentals and works especially well for guests who like being in the water but do not want to swim or float flat.
Umbrella Rentals – All Day
- Price: Varies by sailing
- Duration: All day
- Includes: 1 umbrella + 2 dedicated loungers
Shade is one of the most underrated considerations on Ocean Cay.
Outside of umbrella areas, shade on the island is limited. Free loungers are available, but shaded ones can fill up quickly, especially on warm, sunny days.
When you rent an umbrella:
- You get guaranteed shade
- You receive two dedicated loungers.
- You don’t need to worry about time limits – the loungers and umbrella are yours for the day, whether you are in them or not.
- You do not need to hunt for a spot
This makes umbrella rentals especially appealing for couples, guests sensitive to sun, or anyone who wants a guaranteed home base for the day.
Can You Bring Your Own Floaties?
Yes, you can bring your own floats or inflatables.
However, there are a few trade-offs:
- You have to pack them
- You have to inflate them yourself
- You have to carry them on and off the ship
For some guests, that is worth it. For others, paying for a rental and avoiding the hassle is an easy decision.
Booking and Availability Notes
One nice thing about these rentals is flexibility.
- All beach and relaxation rentals can be booked on the island
- You sign up once you arrive
- There are usually extras available, even if you did not pre-book
Unlike jet skis or SNUBA, these rentals rarely sell out far in advance. Many guests wait to see how the day feels before committing.
Are Beach & Relaxation Rentals Worth It?
Often Worth It If
- You plan to spend most of the day on the beach
- You enjoy floating and relaxing in the water
- You are traveling with kids or a group
- Shade is important to you
Probably Not Worth It If
- You prefer walking and exploring
- You will be off the island for excursions
- You are happy moving around to find seating
These rentals work best as background comfort, not the main attraction.
How Rentals Fit Into a Full Ocean Cay Day
Many guests use rentals to complement, not replace, other activities.
A common approach:
- Morning excursion or swim
- Lunch on the island
- Floating or relaxing in the afternoon
Beach rentals shine during that slower, sun-soaked part of the day when you want to settle in and unwind.
Final Thoughts
Beach and relaxation rentals at Ocean Cay are exactly what they sound like. Simple upgrades that make a beach day easier and more comfortable. They are never required, but for the right traveler they can significantly improve the experience.
If your goal is to relax, float, and enjoy Ocean Cay at a slower pace, these rentals are worth a look. If you are more active or constantly on the move, you can skip them without missing out.