Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas has rapidly evolved into one of the Caribbean’s most talked about private island destinations, combining resort-style beaches, a record-breaking waterpark, pools, bars, and new adults-only enclaves.

Whether you want high-speed slides, quiet turquoise coves, or an all-day DJ-fueled pool party, CocoCay now feels less like a quick cruise stop and more like a full-scale beach resort. This guide breaks down the best things to do across the island’s beaches, waterparks, and signature experiences so you can plan a day that feels perfectly tailored to you.

Getting Oriented: How CocoCay Works

Before diving into the highlights, it helps to understand how CocoCay is laid out and what is included with your cruise fare versus what costs extra. The island is divided into distinct “neighborhoods” that range from complimentary public beaches to gated upcharge zones with private pools and upgraded dining. Knowing this structure allows you to prioritize your time the moment you step off the ship.

Most guests arrive at the Arrivals Plaza after walking down the pier from the ship. From there, free trams radiate out to key areas including Chill Island, Oasis Lagoon, South Beach, Coco Beach Club, and, on select sailings, the new adults-only Hideaway Beach. Thrill Waterpark, Splashaway Bay, and the Up, Up and Away balloon sit centrally, making it easy to mix thrill time with quieter beach hours.

Included vs Extra-Cost Experiences

Many of CocoCay’s biggest draws are included in your cruise fare, but some of the headline attractions require an admission pass or a cabana rental. Expect to pay extra for Thrill Waterpark, the zip line course, Up, Up & Away helium balloon rides, Coco Beach Club access, Hideaway Beach admission, and private cabanas across the island. Food at the main buffets and Snack Shack locations is complimentary, while specialty items and certain bar venues carry standard onboard pricing.

If you are traveling with a family or a group, it can be worth pricing a waterpark pass or a cabana in advance through Royal Caribbean’s cruise planner. Prices are dynamically priced based on demand and sailing date, so booking ahead sometimes secures better deals than waiting until you are onboard.

Using the Island Tram System

The free tram system is one of the simplest ways to see CocoCay and conserve energy for the waterpark and the beach. Trams typically circulate every 10 to 15 minutes and stop at the Arrivals Plaza, Chill Island, Oasis Lagoon, South Beach, Coco Beach Club, and a return stop near the pier. You can use the tram as pure transportation or treat one full loop as a quick orientation tour.

Because multiple cruise ships can call on CocoCay the same day, the trams are particularly helpful during peak midday heat. If you have mobility concerns, or you are traveling with small children, plan to use the tram for any longer transfer across the island instead of walking.

Top Beaches at CocoCay

CocoCay’s beaches are the heart of the island, offering everything from quiet family-friendly bays to sports-heavy stretches and a brand-new adults-only shoreline. Soft white sand, shallow turquoise water, and complimentary loungers are standard, but each zone has its own personality and amenities. Choosing the right beach for your travel style is one of the most important decisions you will make for your day.

Chill Island: Classic Caribbean Calm

Chill Island delivers exactly what its name promises: low-key, classic Bahamian beach time. Located on the side of the island closest to the pier, it tends to be one of the first places guests reach, but its multiple coves and stretches of shoreline provide ample space to spread out. Complimentary loungers and umbrellas line the sand and the water remains relatively calm and shallow, making it suitable for kids and casual swimmers.

This is also one of the best spots for snorkeling and light water sports. You can bring your own snorkel gear or rent equipment on the island to look for tropical fish and underwater features just off the beach. Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are typically available for rent here as well, turning a lazy beach day into something a little more active without the intensity of the waterpark.

South Beach: Sports, Games, and Active Fun

South Beach is designed for travelers who like their beach time with a side of competition. Here you will find volleyball courts, soccer areas, and options for beach games, often with equipment provided. The vibe is more energetic than on Chill Island, especially when groups set up friendly tournaments or when staff host organized activities.

The water off South Beach is usually calm enough for swimming, but the main draw is what happens on the sand. If your group is full of adults and teens who get restless lying still on a lounger, South Beach gives everyone a chance to burn off energy while still enjoying the Bahamian scenery.

Coco Beach Club: An Upscale Private Retreat

Coco Beach Club is a limited-capacity, extra-cost enclave that aims to feel like a boutique beach resort inside the wider island. Guests who purchase access can enjoy a more tranquil beach, an infinity pool, upgraded loungers, dedicated attendants, and an elevated lunch menu that typically features fresh seafood, steaks, and lighter, restaurant-style dishes.

The visual icons of Coco Beach Club are the overwater cabanas, which extend out over the clear lagoon and come with private water slides, hammocks over the sea, indoor-outdoor seating, and butler-style drink and food service. These cabanas often sell out months in advance and command some of the highest prices on the island, but for groups sharing the cost, they can create one of the most exclusive experiences available at CocoCay.

Hideaway Beach: Adults-Only Beach Club Energy

Hideaway Beach opened in January 2024 as CocoCay’s first adults-only zone, catering to guests aged 18 and over who want an all-day party atmosphere without kids. Access requires a separate admission pass, and capacity is managed to keep the space feeling like a beach club rather than a general public beach.

The area spans more than an acre of dedicated white-sand beach and Caribbean-blue water, with resort-style loungers and umbrellas, plus in-water hammocks and swings. A live DJ, beachfront games, and multiple bars keep the social energy high throughout the day, appealing especially to couples, groups of friends, and adult-only sailings.

Thrill Waterpark: High-Adrenaline Slides and Pools

For many visitors, Thrill Waterpark is the centerpiece of a Perfect Day at CocoCay. This gated zone includes some of the tallest and most intense water slides in the Caribbean, along with multi-slide towers, a massive wave pool, and a sprawling adventure pool full of obstacles. Access is sold as a full-day pass or, on some sailings, as a half-day option that allows you to combine waterpark time with a more relaxed afternoon elsewhere on the island.

If your group plans to ride multiple slides, a waterpark pass can easily become the focus of your entire visit. Planning a sequence that hits the signature rides while avoiding the longest lines will help you get the most from your ticket.

Daredevil’s Peak and Other Signature Slides

The headline attraction at Thrill Waterpark is Daredevil’s Peak, a towering body slide advertised at around 135 feet tall, making it one of the tallest water slides in North America. Riders climb a multi-story tower for panoramic views before plunging through a twisting, high-speed chute back to the splash pool below. Wait times can build quickly on busy days, so consider riding this first thing in the morning or during typical lunchtime lulls.

The park’s other towers feature a mix of raft slides, racing slides, and family-friendly options. Multi-person raft rides allow you to share the thrills with friends or family, while mat racers deliver side-by-side competition. If your group includes a range of ages, you can base yourselves in the central area and divide up between more extreme slides and moderate options while using the wave pool as a meeting point.

Wave Pool, Adventure Pool, and Family Zones

Thrill Waterpark’s wave pool is among the largest in the Caribbean and often becomes the social heart of the park. Wave cycles vary in intensity, giving younger guests time to enjoy the shallower end while more confident swimmers gravitate toward the deeper central area. Attendants typically enforce flotation and height rules to keep conditions safe.

The Adventure Pool offers a very different kind of excitement, built around floating lily pads, balance beams, cargo nets, and small rock-climbing elements. It feels like an aquatic obstacle course and can be as challenging or as laid-back as you make it. For younger children, a designated kids’ water area filled with smaller slides, spray features, and shallow pools means the whole family can enjoy the waterpark without sending everyone down the tallest towers.

Strategies for Maximizing a Waterpark Pass

To make the most of Thrill Waterpark, consider starting your day here and moving to the beaches or Oasis Lagoon later. Morning often brings cooler temperatures, shorter queues, and fresher energy for climbing staircases to the top of the towers. Aim to tackle the slides that consistently draw the longest lines early, leaving repeat rides on favorites for any quieter periods you find.

Footwear that can handle heat and water is essential, as walkways can warm up in the midday sun. Setting a central meeting point, such as the wave pool or a specific seating area, helps if your group separates to ride different attractions. Finally, keep an eye on the time if you also booked Hideaway Beach or Coco Beach Club, as it is surprisingly easy to spend an entire day inside Thrill Waterpark without realizing how fast the hours are passing.

Oasis Lagoon and Other Pools

Not everyone wants high-speed slides, and CocoCay delivers for pool lovers just as strongly as it does for thrill-seekers. Oasis Lagoon, billed as the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean, anchors the central part of the island with a mix of swim-up bar energy and quieter corners. In addition, new pools at Hideaway Beach and Coco Beach Club cater to specific crowds, from adults seeking a DJ-backed party to guests splurging on a more exclusive retreat.

Oasis Lagoon: The Island’s Social Hub

Oasis Lagoon sprawls across a large footprint and is carefully zoned to offer multiple experiences in one. On one side, a massive swim-up bar pumps out music and drinks, drawing an all-day crowd of adults who treat the pool as a floating beach club. This is where you will find the liveliest atmosphere, complete with dancing in the water and socializing on submerged bar seats.

As you move away from the bar, the pool becomes more relaxed, with shallow entries that work well for families and children. In-water loungers and small coves along the perimeter create pockets of calm where you can float with a drink or simply cool off after time on the sand. Because the pool is included in your fare, it serves as an easy fallback if the beaches feel busy or you want a break from saltwater.

Hideaway Pool: Adults-Only Party Scene

Inside Hideaway Beach, the Hideaway Pool is the centerpiece of the adults-only experience. This heated infinity-edge pool faces the ocean and features in-water seating, loungers along the rim, and an energetic swim-up bar at its core. A live DJ typically operates for much of the day, keeping the vibe pulsing with dance and beach-club tracks.

Because access is limited to adults who have purchased Hideaway Beach admission, the scene here feels more curated and intentionally social. Groups often stake out areas together, while solo travelers can easily mingle at the bar or along the pool’s edge. If your idea of vacation is an all-day pool party with ocean views, this is one of the most compelling offerings at CocoCay.

Coco Beach Club Infinity Pool

For a more subdued, upscale pool experience, the infinity pool at Coco Beach Club offers calm water and sweeping views out to the sea. The design emphasizes tranquility over volume, with cushioned loungers, umbrellas, and attentive service from staff who circulate to take drink and food orders.

Because capacity is capped and admission requires a paid pass, the pool rarely feels crowded, even on peak days when the main island areas are buzzing. This makes it an appealing option for couples, honeymooners, and anyone willing to pay extra for a quieter, more refined alternative to the main pool and beaches.

Signature Experiences Beyond the Beach

Perfect Day at CocoCay is not just about sand and surf. The island includes several signature attractions that offer new perspectives and different kinds of fun, from soaring above the island to zipping across it or exploring beneath the surface. Building a few of these into your day can help break up the pattern of swimming and sunbathing, especially if you have older kids and teens seeking variety.

Up, Up & Away Helium Balloon

The Up, Up & Away helium balloon is one of CocoCay’s most recognizable features, offering tethered rides that rise to roughly 400 to 450 feet above the island when wind conditions permit. From the top, you get sweeping views of CocoCay’s beaches, pools, and pier, along with vistas across the surrounding Bahamian waters and neighboring islands.

Rides are sold as an extra-cost experience, with capacity limited by weight and weather restrictions. Operations can pause or be canceled if winds are too strong, so if a balloon ride is a priority, plan it for earlier in the day and be prepared with a back-up activity in case conditions change. The experience is brief but memorable and particularly popular with photographers and first-time visitors.

Zip Line Course Across the Island

CocoCay’s multi-line zip course lets you glide above beaches, lagoons, and the harbor, adding a touch of adventure to the standard beach-day formula. Riders are typically outfitted with harnesses and helmets before climbing the departure towers, then complete a series of lines that may cross water and land segments of the island.

The zip line is priced as a separate shore excursion, and weight or height restrictions apply, so be sure to check requirements before booking for children or older family members. If you are combining the zip line with Thrill Waterpark, consider scheduling it later in the morning or early afternoon, when you may appreciate a change of pace from repeated runs on the slides.

Snorkeling, Kayaking, and Water Sports

Outside the structured attractions, CocoCay offers multiple opportunities for snorkeling and light water sports. Chill Island is often noted as one of the best starting points for snorkeling thanks to relatively calm water and accessible underwater features, including artificial structures and a variety of reef fish. You can bring your own mask and fins or rent gear by the day if you prefer to travel light.

Kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and guided jet ski tours are typically available as bookable activities as well, giving you a chance to explore beyond the immediate shoreline. For families with teens, pairing an hour of kayaking with relaxed beach time before or after creates a balanced itinerary that keeps everyone engaged without over-scheduling the day.

Dining, Drinks, and Cabanas

Food and drink have become a major part of the Perfect Day at CocoCay experience, and the island offers a mix of complimentary options and specialty venues. Understanding where to eat, how bar service works, and whether a cabana rental makes sense for your group can significantly influence your comfort and convenience, especially on crowded call days.

Complimentary Dining and Snack Shacks

Multiple buffets and Snack Shack locations across CocoCay serve complimentary food included in your cruise fare. Expect crowd-pleasing staples such as burgers, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, salads, and desserts, with some regional touches like jerk chicken or island-style sides depending on the day. Snack Shack outlets in particular have become guest favorites for made-to-order chicken sandwiches and casual comfort food.

Because lunch hours draw heavy crowds, consider eating slightly earlier or later than the midday peak to minimize wait times and the challenge of finding a table. If you are based at Thrill Waterpark, Oasis Lagoon, or Chill Island, look for the closest Snack Shack or buffet to avoid long walks back and forth when everyone decides they are hungry at once.

Bars and Specialty Spots at Hideaway Beach

Hideaway Beach amplifies CocoCay’s bar and dining game with several adults-focused venues in its gated area. The Hideaway Bar serves as a bustling swim-up bar in the main pool, allowing guests to order cocktails without leaving the water. On the Rocks, set along a rocky shoreline, combines ocean views with live music, televisions for sports, and a more laid-back, open-air bar vibe.

Slice of Paradise specializes in fresh-from-the-oven pizza with island-inspired toppings such as Bahamian-influenced guava barbecue chicken, giving adults a casual but satisfying food option to pair with drinks. A dedicated Snack Shack location in Hideaway Beach adds familiar complimentary items like fried mozzarella sticks, burgers, and salads so you can spend an entire day in the adults-only zone without needing to leave for meals.

Cabanas and Daybeds: When to Splurge

Cabanas are spread throughout CocoCay, from Thrill Waterpark and Oasis Lagoon to South Beach, Coco Beach Club, and Hideaway Beach. These shaded, semi-private spaces often include comfortable seating, drink service, food delivery from nearby venues, and, in premium locations, extras such as mini-fridges or floating mats. Prices vary widely depending on size, season, and location, with overwater and Hideaway Beach cabanas typically at the top of the range.

If you are traveling in a group that values having a home base with guaranteed shade and seating, a cabana can be worth the investment, especially when split among multiple people. Families with young children may also appreciate having a quiet shaded area for naps and breaks away from the busiest sections of the beach or pool. Book early if a specific type of cabana, such as an overwater or Hideout cabana at Hideaway Beach, is on your wish list.

Planning Tips for a Perfect Day

With so many neighborhoods and attractions, CocoCay rewards a bit of advance planning. You do not need a minute-by-minute schedule, but having a rough order of priorities ensures you experience your top picks without sprinting across the island in the afternoon. Different strategies work for different travelers, but a few common-sense tips help almost everyone make better use of their time.

Arrive Early and Prioritize Headliners

Once your ship is cleared and guests can disembark, it pays to head ashore promptly, especially if you are holding passes for Thrill Waterpark or hoping to ride Daredevil’s Peak and the zip line with shorter waits. Early morning temperatures are more forgiving, and you will have a better selection of loungers near your preferred beach or pool.

As a general rule, tackle the most popular or capacity-limited activities first: tall water slides, the balloon ride when available, and the earliest zip line slots. Then transition to pool and beach time in the late morning and afternoon, when lines tend to be longest and you will appreciate more passive relaxation.

Balance Chill Time with Activity

It can be tempting to stack your day with every headline experience, but CocoCay is at its best when you balance adrenaline with downtime. Consider alternating periods: an hour of waterpark slides followed by snorkeling and a quiet stretch on Chill Island, or a late morning at Oasis Lagoon before heading to South Beach for volleyball and then winding down at sunset near the pier.

Families will find it especially useful to set expectations in advance about how much time to spend at the waterpark versus the beach, so younger children do not feel rushed and teenagers do not feel stuck. Using the tram to hop between zones makes it easier to adapt your plans if a certain area feels too busy or the weather changes.

What to Pack for a Day at CocoCay

Packing smartly for CocoCay helps you avoid unnecessary purchases and keeps everyone comfortable. Consider bringing:

  • Reef-safe sunscreen and lip balm, reapplied frequently throughout the day
  • Water shoes or sandals suitable for hot walkways and rocky patches
  • Reusable water bottles to stay hydrated between bars and buffets
  • Light cover-ups, hats, and rash guards for added sun protection
  • Snorkel gear if you prefer your own equipment
  • A small waterproof pouch for cruise cards, small cash, and key items

Most guests can charge purchases on the island back to their onboard account using their SeaPass cards, but having a small amount of cash can be useful for tips where allowed. Check your ship’s policy on towels; you will typically check out ship towels before disembarkation and be responsible for returning them later.

The Takeaway

Perfect Day at CocoCay has redefined what a cruise line private island can be, blending high-thrill attractions, vast pools, and varied beaches with new, adults-only spaces and elevated dining. Whether your idea of a perfect day means racing down towering slides, drifting at the swim-up bar, snorkeling over gentle reefs, or splurging on an overwater cabana, the island offers a customizable mix of thrills and chill.

By understanding how the different neighborhoods fit together, deciding in advance which paid experiences matter most, and arriving with a loose plan, you can turn a few hours ashore into a highlight of your entire itinerary. From hideaway hammocks to DJ-backed infinity pools, CocoCay now delivers a spectrum of experiences that can make every visit feel slightly different and every traveler’s “perfect day” uniquely their own.

FAQ

Q1. Is admission to Perfect Day at CocoCay included in my Royal Caribbean cruise fare?
Yes. Access to the island itself, along with many beaches, Oasis Lagoon, basic dining venues, and select kids’ splash areas, is included in your cruise fare. Extra-cost options include Thrill Waterpark, the zip line, Up, Up & Away balloon rides when operating, Coco Beach Club, Hideaway Beach, and private cabanas.

Q2. Do I need to book Thrill Waterpark and Hideaway Beach in advance?
Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially on peak sailings or when your ship is sharing the island with another vessel. Capacity for Thrill Waterpark, Hideaway Beach, and Coco Beach Club can sell out before the cruise departs, and prices may rise closer to the sailing date.

Q3. Are food and drinks free on CocoCay?
Most buffet-style venues and Snack Shack locations are complimentary and included in your cruise fare. Standard bar drinks, specialty coffees, and certain upgraded menu items cost extra. If you have a beverage package on the ship, it generally works at island bars, but confirm the specific terms with your cruise line before arrival.

Q4. Is CocoCay suitable for young children and older adults?
Yes. Gentle beaches with shallow water, shaded play areas, and kids’ splash zones make the island very family-friendly, while the free tram system and abundant seating help older adults navigate without excessive walking. Some high-adrenaline activities have height, weight, or mobility restrictions, so check requirements before booking.

Q5. What happens if the weather is bad or the balloon and zip line are closed?
If wind or weather conditions force the cancellation of specific activities such as the Up, Up & Away balloon or the zip line, the cruise line typically adjusts or refunds those specific reservations according to its policies. Beaches, pools, and most dining venues usually remain open in light rain, but thunderstorms and high winds can temporarily pause water and outdoor operations.

Q6. Can I use cash on the island, or do I pay with my SeaPass card?
Most purchases on CocoCay are charged directly to your onboard account via your SeaPass or equivalent cruise card, which is the primary payment method on the island. Limited situations may accept cash, but relying on your ship card is the norm. Be sure to keep it secure in a waterproof pouch whenever you are in the water.

Q7. Are there quiet areas if I want to avoid the party atmosphere?
Yes. While Oasis Lagoon’s swim-up bar and Hideaway Beach’s main pool provide lively social scenes, areas of Chill Island, parts of South Beach, and the beach at Coco Beach Club are generally quieter. Arriving early, walking a bit farther from tram stops, and avoiding the most central bars will usually help you find a calmer patch of sand.

Q8. Do I need to bring my own towels, snorkel gear, or life vests?
Most ships provide beach towels that you check out and return, so you generally do not need to bring your own. Life vests are available in designated areas for certain water activities. You may bring your own snorkel gear to avoid rental fees and ensure a perfect fit, though rental equipment is available on the island for those who prefer to travel light.

Q9. Is Wi-Fi available on CocoCay, and does my ship’s internet package work there?
Royal Caribbean typically extends its shipboard Wi-Fi coverage to CocoCay, so if you have purchased an internet package like a high-speed option onboard, it should function on the island as well. Coverage and speeds can vary by exact location and crowd levels, so downloading key items before disembarking is still wise.

Q10. How much time do I realistically have on the island, and can I return to the ship midday?
Time ashore depends on your ship’s schedule, but many visits provide roughly six to eight hours at CocoCay. You are free to return to the ship at any point during the call for lunch, rest, or a change of clothes, and then head back to the island as long as tendering is not in use and the gangway remains open. Keeping an eye on the all-aboard time is essential to avoid last-minute rushes at the pier.