If your next Royal Caribbean cruise includes a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay, get ready for an island experience that truly lives up to its name. CocoCay is Royal Caribbean’s exclusive private island in the Bahamas and offers everything from high-energy thrills to peaceful tropical escapes.
I recently had the opportunity to personally tour the island with Royal Caribbean, exploring every corner — from the tallest waterslides to the most relaxing beach cabanas. After taking in all the details, I’ve curated this list of tips and experiences to help guests make the most of their time on this incredible island destination.
Whether you’re chasing adrenaline, relaxation, or family fun, here’s how to plan your perfect day.
1. Start Early — Be Among the First Ashore
The island opens as soon as tenders or the pier welcome guests, and early risers are rewarded. Head ashore soon after arrival to enjoy shorter lines and grab prime beach chairs or poolside loungers before the crowds arrive.
Pro Tip: Bring your SeaPass card, towel, sunscreen, and water shoes — and download the Royal Caribbean app for real-time island maps and schedules. Need a paper map? Visit the Shore Excursions Desk or Guest Relations Desk onboard to pick one up before disembarking.
Pier shuttles are available for guests’ needing assistance from the ship.
2. Choose Your Adventure Zone
CocoCay is divided into themed areas so you can easily design your day around your travel style. Plan your route ahead of time — knowing the island layout and where you want to start will save you time and make your Perfect Day stress-free.
Thrill Waterpark (Extra Charge)
Home to the tallest waterslide in North America, a massive wave pool, and multi-slide towers. If you love excitement, arrive early and spend the morning here before lines grow.
Pro Tip: If you have children or teens, add this day pass to your travel budget and reserve ahead of time — kids, teens, and young adults at heart won’t want to miss these amazing slides.
Oasis Lagoon
The largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean! Great for couples and groups — enjoy a swim-up bar, in-pool loungers, and music. Oasis Lagoon can get crowded, so families seeking a quieter experience may want to consider Coco Beach Club or Hideaway Beach passes.
Chill Island
For a serene beach escape. Perfect for reading, snorkeling, and floating in turquoise water. Lounge chairs are complimentary.
Coco Beach Club (Extra Charge)
For an elevated experience — infinity pool, private beach, and floating cabanas with concierge service and premium dining. Guests should make dining reservations at the restaurant for the best times.
Hideaway Beach (Adults Only, Extra Charge)
A lively, adults-only area featuring a DJ, exclusive bars, and oceanfront cabanas — perfect for couples or groups seeking a grown-up vibe.
💡 Pro Tip: Purchase day passes for Thrill Waterpark, Coco Beach Club, and Hideaway Beach as soon as they’re available in your Royal Caribbean Cruise Planner. These popular spots often sell out well before sailing. Don’t wait until onboard — reserve early to guarantee your spot and sometimes lock in lower pricing.
3. Enjoy Delicious Complimentary Dining
Several included dining spots serve fresh Caribbean flavors and familiar favorites:
- Skipper’s Grill – Burgers, BBQ, salads, tacos, and desserts
- Chill Grill – Beachside bites and tropical drinks
- Snack Shacks – Don’t miss the crispy chicken sandwiches and funnel cakes!
Soft drinks, beer, and cocktails are included if you’ve purchased a beverage package. Water and juice stations are available around the island and are complimentary.
4. Find the Perfect Spot to Relax
For a quieter retreat, walk toward the far ends of Chill Island or South Beach. Rent floating mats, snorkel gear, or shaded cabanas. Families will love Splashaway Bay and Captain Jill’s Galleon water play areas — both free of charge.
💡 Pro Tip: Breezy Bay at Chill Island is less crowded and offers a lagoon-style beach with calmer waters. It has easy access to bathrooms, sand games, a Snack Shack, and the Oasis Lagoon pool. South Beach is more laid-back but may have more jellyfish — still enjoyable, just be aware.
5. Don’t Miss the Views from Up, Up and Away
For a bucket-list experience, soar 450 feet above the island in the Up, Up and Away helium balloon. You’ll get sweeping views of the ship, island, and shimmering Bahamian waters. (Weather permitting; extra cost.)
6. Shop, Sip & Savor
Stroll through the local market for souvenirs or grab a frozen drink at the floating bar near South Beach. DJs and volleyball add to the lively island vibe.
Getting from one area to another is easy using the island shuttle, which has multiple pickup and drop-off stations.
7. Save Time to Return Aboard Smoothly
Ships typically depart late afternoon, so head back at least one hour before all-aboard time to avoid last-minute rushes. The pier area has showers and towel exchange huts.
💡 Pro Tip: Bring a beach towel from the ship. You can grab one at the towel hut on the pool deck or during disembarkation. Exchange wet towels at the island huts and return your towel to the ship to avoid fees.
Make It Part of Your Perfect Cruise
CocoCay is featured on many short and long Royal Caribbean itineraries from Florida, New Jersey, and beyond. Whether you’re sailing to the Bahamas, the Caribbean, or on a family getaway, this stop is often the highlight of the trip.
Our Travel Advisors can help you choose the right ship, stateroom, and itinerary to experience CocoCay your way — from budget-friendly getaways to luxury cabana experiences.
More Exciting Private Islands on the Horizon:
- Royal Beach Club Paradise Island (opening December 2025)
- Royal Beach Club Cozumel (opening 2026)
- Perfect Day Mexico (opening 2027)
Ready to Plan Your Own Perfect Day at CocoCay?
Contact us today for exclusive Royal Caribbean offers and expert planning tips to make your next cruise truly unforgettable:
📅 Schedule a 30-Minute Consultation
Written By: Steph Austera, Travel Advisor, Severna Park, Maryland
Email: stepha@worldtravelservice.com | Phone: 410-647-4000
