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September 16, 2024

Your Perfect Day at CocoCay: the Ultimate Guide to Beaches, Thrills, and Chill Vibes

Perfect Day at CocoCay from Icon of the Seas

Perfect Day at CocoCay from Icon of the Seas

Welcome to the be-all, end-all of cruising private islands, Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay! Here, you can pick your own adventure based on whatever vibe you’re feeling (or not feeling) that day. From the tallest waterslide in North America to a relaxing beach or partying at the beach club, Perfect Day at CocoCay offers something for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of all the major areas, what they offer, and any additional costs to keep in mind.

Hideaway Beach

Hideaway Beach at Perfect Day at CocoCay

Hideaway Beach at Perfect Day at CocoCay

If you’re looking for the party, it’s here at the adults-only (18+) retreat, Hideaway Beach. Nestled in a secluded cove with calm waters (also read no jellyfish), this area offers a blend of both beach and pool club with a swim-up bar, loud DJ sets, and a heated pool. You’ll also find exclusive food options here, like pizza, empanadas, a Snack Shack, and On the Rocks sports bar. It’s a great option if you’re looking to get away from kids or spend the day partying with the best of ‘em.

Cost: Access to Hideaway Beach starts at around $40 to $100 per person, but prices can fluctuate.

Pro Tip: Hideaway Beach offers cabanas that can be reserved through the Cruise Planner in advance, though this is not the most economical method of visiting (and there’s plenty of seating for those not booking cabanas).

Coco Beach Club

Surf and Turf Lunch at the Coco Beach Club

Surf and Turf Lunch at the Coco Beach Club

For those looking to get away from the masses, Coco Beach Club delivers a luxurious, serene beach club experience that does allow children. This spot is ideal for groups wanting top-tier service and upscale dining. Think filet mignon, lobster, and a gourmet tapas spread—honestly, the food here blows other island options out of the water. The club also provides complimentary towels, so there’s no need to check one out before you leave the ship.

Cost: Entrance to the Coco Beach Club generally ranges from $100 to $250 per person, depending on the season and demand.

Pro Tip: If traveling with a larger group or family, consider booking one of the cabanas, which start around $1500 (and go up quickly from there). They provide entrance to the beach club for the group (up to 8 guests), food and beverage service to the cabana, floating loungers, snorkeling equipment, etc.—everything you need to have the perfect day on the island.

Thrill Waterpark

Thrill Waterpark at Perfect Day at CocoCay

If your perfect day involves a major adrenaline rush, head over to Thrill Waterpark. Home to Daredevil’s Peak, North America’s tallest waterslide, and several other heart-pounding slides like the Screeching Serpent (which I do NOT recommend from personal experience), it’s a must for thrill-seekers. Not into slides? There’s also a massive wave pool and adventure pool for the younger kiddos if bringing the whole family.

Cost: Entry to Thrill Waterpark ranges from $50 to $150 per person, depending on demand and cruise length.

Pro Tip: The lines for some slides can get long, so hitting Thrill Waterpark early is key. If you’ve got a group, the cabana route is the way to go again here, which generally start around $800 and go up from there.

South Beach

Swim Up Bar at South Beach, Perfect Day at CocoCay

Swim Up Bar at South Beach, Perfect Day at CocoCay

Looking for sports and activities without the added cost? South Beach is free and loaded with beach sports like volleyball, basketball, pickleball, ping pong, and cornhole. It’s also home to one of the island’s best swim-up bars, where you can grab a drink without ever leaving the water. The vibe here is definitely more grown-up and chill, making it a great spot if you’re not into the family scene at some of the closer beaches.

Cost: Free! (Unless you’re hitting the bar, of course. Drink package, anyone?)

Pro Tip: South Beach is the farthest area from the ship, so be prepared for a bit of a walk—or hop on the tram that loops around the island to save some steps.

Oasis Lagoon & Pool

The Oasis Lagoon has the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean and is free! There are plenty of loungers around, a swim-up bar, and even a DJ spinning tunes in the afternoon. It’s close to the ship and perfect if you’re looking to grab a drink and float around. This used to get quite rowdy by mid-afternoon. However, with the opening of Hideaway Beach, the vibes in this pool are quite a bit more chill than they used to be.

Cost: Free.

Pro Tip: Get there early to snag a good lounger. It’s a great centralized hub if you plan to flit around the island.

Breezy Bay & Chill Island

Breezy Bay and Chill Island are great options for families at no additional cost if you’re looking for a beach day instead of a pool day. Both are free to use and located just a short walk from the ship. Chill Island is quieter, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming or snorkeling. Breezy Bay, on the other hand, offers views of the ships anchored offshore. The two areas are located on either side of the Wacky Seagull Bar, making it easy to grab a drink whenever you need a break from the sun.

Cost: Free.

Pro Tip: If you’re traveling with a larger group, renting a daybed at either location gives you a convenient “home base” for the day, which makes mustering the group easier. Daybeds start around $300 per day.

Food Options on the Island

Snack Shack Options at Perfect Day at CocoCay

Snack Shack Options at Perfect Day at CocoCay

Several included food spots around the island, including Snack Shacks, Skipper’s Grill, and Chill Grill, offer burgers, sandwiches, salads, and fries at no additional cost in between activities.

Pro Tip: Don’t sleep on the Snack Shacks! The boss move is to put the mozzarella sticks and marinera on the fried chicken sandwich…

Booking Tips

Plan Ahead: Many areas like Thrill Waterpark, Hideaway Beach, and Coco Beach Club require reservations through the Cruise Planner, which can book up quickly—especially on peak sailings.

Keep Checking for Deals: Even after you’ve already booked your excursions/plans, it’s worth checking the Cruise Planner regularly in case prices drop. You can often cancel and rebook at the lower rate.


If you liked this guide, reach out to customize and book your next travel experience. Or just to chat about travel in general!

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