Admit it. There are times when you wish you could get away from it all by moving to your own private island.

Well, some cruise passengers actually can – at least for a day.

Each of the following cruise lines below offer passengers a day of fun in the sun on their very own private island. For many cruisers, this stop is the highlight of the trip. After all, what could be better than sitting on a white-sand beach, drinking a piña colada and soaking in the rays without crowds?

All of these islands have pristine shores, swaying palm trees, aquamarine waters and lots of ocean-side adventure. There usually are fees for shore excursions and equipment rental. Every destination offers something a little different for cruise passengers.

The Straw Market at Royal Caribbean's CocoCay offers authentic Bahamian crafts.

CocoCay, Bahamas
Royal Caribbean International

Even at first glance, CocoCay looks like the quintessential Caribbean hideaway. There are wide stretches of beach in quiet coves, island huts in bright Caribbean pinks and blues, and a colorful straw market offering Bahamian crafts and goods.

Many of the island buildings look brand new — and they are. In 2002, the company invested more than US$ 21 million to turn this 140-acre (0.5 km²) slip of land into a destination their passengers would never forget.

Nature trails wind through the isle, which is home to wild chickens, peacocks and occasional iguanas. Those seeking solitude will enjoy the hammocks that are hung under coconut trees in quiet locations.

Sea lovers have plenty of activities to choose from. Hop on a jet ski (US$ 95 for 50 minutes) and speed across waters so clear that you can see orange starfish 20 feet (6 m) below, or don a snorkel mask and explore life under the sea up close.

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For a great view of the island, try your hand at parasailing (US$ 79 per hour). You’ll soar 200–400 feet (60–120 m) in the air and maybe even take a cooling dip in the water before returning to the boat.

Children will enjoy Caylana’s Castle Cove and SeaTrek Aqua Park (US$ 15 adults, $10 children). Its floating sand castle and aquatic trampolines are just the things for those who are young at heart.

A staff of 45 people lives on CocoCay, and it’s obvious they take pride in keeping the island’s natural beauty in top condition. Their pampering service makes the island experience so pleasurable that you won’t want to leave when dusk falls all too soon.

Castaway Cay, Bahamas
Disney Cruise Line

Disney knows children, so it’s no wonder that they feel right at home on Castaway Cay.

The cruise ship docks right at the island (other cruise ships use tender boats to ferry passengers back and forth), so youngsters can head right down the ship’s ramp and out to explore Castaway Cay.

There is a beach just for families, and Scuttle’s Cove is a safe and fun club for children. Parents need some time on their own, so there is Serenity Bay, a secluded beach for adults.

For a little pampering, have a relaxing massage in the open-air cabanas at the seaside spa. The soft ocean breeze, the sound of the waves and an expert’s soothing touch are just the thing for leaving worries behind.

Game for a little exploration? Then grab a bike (child seats are available for little ones) and hit the trails (US$ 6 per hour). This is, after all, a secluded island getaway, and there are miles of empty shoreline and tropical forest to explore.

If you prefer the water, check out the Walking and Kayak Nature Adventure ($60). Participants walk with a guide through the island’s lush fauna and kayak through an ecologically sensitive mangrove environment. If paddling wears you out, just jump in for a refreshing swim in the crystal clear island waters.