If there’s one stop that’s given me more good memories than just about anywhere else I’ve cruised, it’s Perfect Day at CocoCay. I’ve pulled into this island more times than I can count — sometimes with Sarah and the girls, sometimes with friends, sometimes solo — and it never gets old. Whether you’re coming with kids, with a group of friends, or just looking to unwind, CocoCay has a way of giving everyone the exact day they were hoping for.
I’ve sailed in on everything from Freedom of the Seas to Icon of the Seas over the years, and no matter which ship brings me here, CocoCay is always the stop I look forward to most.
When I think back on my favorite moments from cruising, so many of them happened right here. One of my absolute favorites is watching my daughters hop around the adventure pool like little frogs, bouncing from one obstacle to the next — it gave me hours of enjoyment just sitting back and watching them have the time of their lives. Watching the smiles on their faces as they raced down the slides and splashed around all day. The slow, easy afternoons chilling at the beach club with the water stretched out in front of us. Those are the kinds of memories that stick with you long after the cruise is over, and CocoCay has given me a whole collection of them.
That’s exactly why I wanted to put together this guide. I’ve spent enough days on this island to know it inside and out — the beaches, the pools, the waterpark, the paid areas, the food, and all the little things that make a day here go smoothly. So whether this is your first visit or your fifteenth, my goal is to walk you through everything you need to know to plan the CocoCay day that’s perfect for you and the people you’re sharing it with.
If you want to see how a CocoCay day fits into a full sailing, I’ve covered it firsthand in my Star of the Seas review and my Utopia of the Seas review. And if your next cruise is something completely different, like Odyssey of the Seas over in the Mediterranean, don’t worry — CocoCay will be waiting for you next time you’re back in the Caribbean.
What Is Perfect Day at CocoCay?
Perfect Day at CocoCay is Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Berry Islands of the Bahamas, about 55 miles north of Nassau. It was originally a quiet beach stop called Little Stirrup Cay; a $250 million transformation that began in 2019 (and kept expanding through 2024) turned it into the full island-resort experience it is today. Royal Caribbean’s own fact sheet puts it at 125 acres, and the island can host two ships at once, so on big days there can be several thousand guests around.
Here is the part that surprises first-timers: simply getting onto the island is included with your cruise fare. The beaches, the giant freshwater pool, free loungers and umbrellas, the kids’ splash areas, the tram, and several restaurants cost nothing extra. A handful of premium areas — Thrill Waterpark, Coco Beach Club, Hideaway Beach, the helium balloon, the zip line, snorkeling, and cabanas — are the optional add-ons.
Getting There & Getting Around
One of the best things about CocoCay is how easy it is to reach: your ship docks right at the pier, so there is no tendering. You walk straight off and down the pier — about a six-minute walk — into the Arrivals Plaza at the heart of the island. Ships typically arrive in the morning, and you can come and go from the ship all day until the all-aboard time, so it is easy to head back for a break and come out again.
One change worth knowing: the old ship-to-Arrivals pier tram was discontinued in October 2024, so everyone now walks the pier. The exception is guests with mobility needs, who can still get an accessible tram near the end of the pier.
The Island Tram
Because the island is close to a mile long, the free island tram is a big help — especially if you are carrying beach gear, wrangling little kids, dealing with the heat, or have any trouble walking. You catch it at the Arrivals Plaza, right in front of Thrill Waterpark (to your right as you come off the pier). It runs all day, roughly every 15 minutes, and loops the major areas — stops generally include Arrivals Plaza, Chill Island, Oasis Lagoon, Breezy Bay at Chill Island, and South Beach. The exact stop list shifts a little by source and season, so check the signs on the day.
A separate dedicated tram runs between Arrivals Plaza and Hideaway Beach, and during the busy morning there is often a dedicated tram to Coco Beach Club as well. For accessibility, select island trams are wheelchair-friendly, and you can request an accessible tram through Guest Services on the island. Free beach-access wheelchairs are also available first-come, first-served — just ask a crew member.
Arrivals Plaza: Splashaway Bay, Captain Jill’s Galleon & Captain Jack’s
The first thing you reach off the pier is the Arrivals Plaza, the island’s central hub — maps, shaded seating, the tram stop, and the big CocoCay photo arch. Clustered right here are two free kids’ water areas and the island’s first bar.
Splashaway Bay
Splashaway Bay is one of the best spots on Perfect Day at CocoCay for younger kids — a free kids’ water park near the entrance, right beside Oasis Lagoon’s zero-entry side. It gives them their own dedicated space to run, splash, and play without being in the middle of the bigger pool or beach scenes, and it’s one of those areas where Royal Caribbean really nailed the family experience. When my daughters were smaller they loved it, and even now my 10-year-old still likes to stop in for a bit every time we’re at CocoCay.
What makes it work is that it feels like a true kids’ zone — colorful, energetic, and built specifically for younger cruisers. There are slides, water cannons, fountains, a pool, a toddler whirlpool, and a giant tipping drench bucket that soaks everyone underneath, so kids can rotate between spraying water, running through features, sliding, and playing without getting bored. Some features carry a 42-inch height recommendation, and free life jackets are available. It’s ideal for roughly ages 3 to 12, though it’s really best suited for the younger end of that range — for little ones it covers a lot of what the paid Thrill Waterpark does, and it’s contained enough that you can relax nearby and keep an eye on them without chasing them all over the island. Somewhere around age 7 or 8, the paid Thrill Waterpark tends to take over as the bigger draw, but for youngsters this is a fantastic spot.
There are also some smaller water slides in Splashaway Bay. My daughters loved them when they were young. It really gives them a great option when they are a bit too small for the waterpark. My daughters could go over and over again and never get bored.
A big part of the appeal is how close it is to everything in the central family area. You’re right near Captain Jill’s Galleon, Skipper’s Grill, and Captain Jack’s, which makes a full day here easy to manage — if the kids are playing, you’re never far from food, drinks, or a quick break. I especially like that you can sneak up to Captain Jack’s for a drink while they’re still playing. It also pairs naturally with the spots around it: Captain Jill’s adds a little climbing-and-exploring adventure, and Skipper’s Grill gives you a simple included lunch right there. You can genuinely spend a big chunk of your day in this one area without needing to go far for anything.
That’s what makes Splashaway Bay so useful — it works as a “home base within a home base.” Even if you’re set up at Oasis Lagoon, Chill Island, or Thrill Waterpark, it’s a great place to rotate back to when younger kids need a break from bigger crowds. It may not have the ocean views of Chill Island or the energy of Oasis Lagoon, but it has something just as valuable on a family day: a simple, safe, well-designed space where kids get to be kids and parents can breathe a little while staying close to everything they need. If you’re traveling with little ones, this is one of the easiest places on the whole island to just settle in and enjoy the day.
Captain Jill’s Galleon
Right next to Thrill Waterpark, this free pirate-ship splash zone is built for the littlest kids: 16 water cannons, mini and dry slides, a lookout tower, and a splash pad. Easy to supervise from the seating around it.
Captain Jack’s
Captain Jack’s is one of those spots I don’t build my day around, but I always like having it there. It’s the first bar you’ll hit, sitting by the harbor next to Skipper’s Grill and right by Splashaway Bay and Captain Jill’s Galleon, which makes it an easy stop if the kids are playing nearby and you want a drink, a quick bite, or just a few minutes to sit down and enjoy the island. That’s the whole appeal for parents: if the kids are having fun at Splashaway Bay, Captain Jack’s is close enough that you can grab a drink or take a little break without feeling like you’ve left the area. When you’re traveling with kids, that kind of convenience makes a real difference.
The bar itself is fun and casual, with a good energy to it — more laid-back island bar than full restaurant. It’s a skiff-style bar with rope-swing seats and board games, and there’s often live music playing, which gives the whole area a nice vacation feel. It’s a good place to cool off, grab a beer or a cocktail, listen to some music, and take a breather from chasing kids around the splash zones.
The one thing to know is that Captain Jack’s is not one of the complimentary food spots — the food here is an extra charge (wings and crispy steak fries with signature sauces like mango-habanero and Caribbean jerk). So if you’re after an included lunch, Skipper’s Grill is right nearby and the better move. But if you want something easy, the wings or the fries are a fun little add-on. It’s not fancy, and it fits the setting perfectly. For me, that’s exactly why it deserves a mention: it’s not the biggest or flashiest part of CocoCay, but if your kids are playing nearby and you want a quick drink, a fun bar atmosphere, some live music, and a simple snack, Captain Jack’s is an easy win.
Chill Island
Chill Island is one of those areas on Perfect Day at CocoCay that really lives up to its name. This is the classic beach-day side of the island — soft sand, clear water, plenty of lounge chairs, beach bars nearby, and a much more relaxed feel than some of the louder, busier spots around CocoCay. I won’t tell you it is always my number-one go-to every single visit, but I absolutely enjoy it and find myself spending time here often. When I want to snorkel, swim in the ocean, or just hang out in the water with the kids, Chill Island is one of the best areas on the island.
What I like about it is that it feels like the “traditional private island beach day” part of CocoCay. You are not dealing with the nonstop energy of Oasis Lagoon, the party atmosphere of Hideaway Beach, or the sportier vibe over at South Beach. Chill Island is more about grabbing a chair, getting in the water, floating around, ordering a drink, taking a walk, and just enjoying the fact that you are standing on a beautiful beach in the Bahamas. There is still plenty going on and it can definitely get busy, but the overall feel is easygoing.
The beach itself is the big draw. The water is usually calm and clear and great for swimming — especially if you are there with kids who want to actually get in the ocean instead of hanging around the pool. I have always liked this area for family swimming because it feels manageable; you can spend a lot of time in the water without feeling too far from your chairs.
The protected coves give Chill Island a little more character than one long stretch of sand, and it is one of the best spots on CocoCay to snorkel. This is the premier area for self-guided exploration — you can swim out to sunken ships, cannons, and floating platforms that draw in marine life like stingrays, starfish, and nurse sharks.
And I mean up close: one time we were standing in the water and a nurse shark settled onto the bottom right next to us and just stayed there the whole time, like a pet. Someone from CocoCay told us they hang around because people feed them. It never bothered us at all — honestly, it was pretty cool. The stingrays are the same way, always cruising around out in the water. Bring your own gear or rent it on the island, and there are floating mats too if you would rather just relax on the water for a while.
Everything you need is close by, which is a big part of why this area is so easy to enjoy. There are complimentary lounge chairs and umbrellas throughout, so you can have a great beach day here without paying for an upgrade. As with most beach spots on CocoCay, the chairs closest to the water go first — especially on two-ship days — but Royal Caribbean has added a lot of seating across the island.
Chill Island makes it easy to grab some food and settle in here for a good chunk of the day. Chill Grill is the main dining spot near Chill Island, and it is included with your cruise fare. It is one of the larger complimentary food areas on CocoCay, with exactly the kind of food you want on a beach day: burgers, hot dogs, grilled items, sandwiches, salads, fruit, desserts, soft-serve, and a taco station. The taco station is always a good move — build something light or load it up depending on how hungry you are. Casual, quick, and convenient, which is all you need when you are trying to get back to the beach.
There are a couple of easy drink stops right here too. Wacky Seagull Bar and Wacky Seagull Junior Bar are the main bars in this area, and they keep the beach-day drinks flowing without making you walk halfway across the island — beer, cocktails, frozen drinks, soda, bottled water, or the island’s famous Coco Loco. If you have Royal Caribbean’s drink package, it works on CocoCay, which makes this area even easier: you can bounce between your chair, the water, lunch, and the bar without thinking about it.
Chill Island is also close enough to the shopping that you can take a quick break from the sun and browse. Nearby you will find the Perfect Day at CocoCay Logo Shop and the CocoCay Island Market, along with hair braiding. Shopping is not a huge part of the day for me, but it is nice to have if you want a CocoCay shirt, a souvenir, or something small for the kids — and the island market adds a little local Bahamas flavor if you are already walking by.
Chill Island is also the home for the Shore Excursions area. The main shore excursions desk on CocoCay is located over in the Chill Island area, tucked at the corner where Chill Island meets Breezy Bay — look for it near one of the Wacky Seagull bars. This is the island’s hub for the active stuff: it’s the departure and meeting point for jet ski and Wave Jet tours, kayak rentals, the Snorkel Shack for snorkel gear, and the Diver’s Den SCUBA tours, and it’s also where you’ll grab floating mats and other beach rentals.
Here’s the tip I give all my clients, though — think of this desk as a check-in and gear spot, not a booking office. The excursions worth doing tend to sell out well before your cruise, so book them ahead through the Royal Caribbean app or Cruise Planner (or the Shore Excursions desk on your ship) instead of counting on walking up day-of. And remember CocoCay is cashless, so everything runs on your SeaPass card.
For me, Chill Island is at its best when I want CocoCay to feel like a beach day. It is not where I head for the loudest music or the biggest party — but when I want to snorkel, swim with the kids, enjoy the ocean, and still have food and drinks close by, it is a really strong choice. It is one of the best no-extra-cost areas on the whole island, and that is a big deal: you can spend hours here without buying a thing and still feel like you had the full private-island experience. Even with all the flashier additions around CocoCay, sometimes you do not need slides, pools, DJs, or upgrades. Sometimes you just want to get in the ocean with your kids, snorkel for a while, and enjoy a beautiful beach. That is where Chill Island shines.
Chill Island Cabanas & Day Beds
If you want something more reserved, Chill Island has both day beds and full cabanas. The cabanas are a nice option for families or groups who want a dedicated home base — shade, seating, towels, floating mats, and cabana attendant service — and the appeal here is that you get a quieter beach feel without being tucked away from the rest of the island. Day beds are the lighter-weight version (a lounger and umbrella), while the full cabanas run around $900+ on average. Either way, it is priced per structure, not per person.
There are two areas with cabanas and day beds in the Chill Island area. For reference, the area closest to the ship has the day beds and the full cabanas are at the far end just past the shore excursion area. Just make sure to look at each area to see what works best for your group.
Harbor Beach
Harbor Beach is a smart pick for certain families, especially if you’re traveling with smaller children. It’s a sheltered inlet wrapped around Harbor Lagoon, just steps from Arrivals Plaza, with little to no wave action — and honestly the best way I’d describe it is that it feels almost like a really big pool. You do give up a little of that classic “sitting on an open ocean beach in the Bahamas” feeling here; if that wide-open water view is what you’re after, this isn’t the spot. But what you get instead is calm, protected, easy water, and for a lot of families that trade is well worth it.
That calm-water feel is exactly why it works so well with little ones. Not every kid is ready for bigger ocean swimming, snorkeling around rocks, or a full day in a packed pool, and Harbor Beach gives them that beach-day feeling without the waves or depth of the more open areas. They can splash around and play near the shore, the water is manageable, and the whole area is easy to keep an eye on — which means the adults can actually relax a little. Not every CocoCay day has to be about chasing the biggest pool or the loudest bar; sometimes the best spot is just the one where the kids are happy and the water is easy.
Location is a big part of the appeal. Harbor Beach sits much closer to the center of the island than somewhere like South Beach, so you never feel tucked far away from everything — and that matters a lot with kids. You’re not committing to a long walk every time someone needs a snack, a bathroom, or a change of scenery. There’s a Snack Shack right here with good views, plus free loungers and umbrellas and a fountain-and-waterfall feature, and you’re an easy hop from Splashaway Bay, Oasis Lagoon, and the main included dining. Nobody wants to drag wet, hungry kids halfway across the island just to find lunch, and from here you don’t have to. And the Cracked Coconut is there to keep the drinks flowing!
So Harbor Beach isn’t the flashiest area on CocoCay, but it’s a smart one: calm, convenient, family-friendly, and easy. I’d look hard at it if I were traveling with toddlers or younger kids, or with anyone who likes the idea of beach water without the full ocean experience. You give up a little of that oceanfront feel, but you gain calm water, a central location, and a very manageable beach day — and with small kids, that convenience is sometimes the whole ballgame.
Seaside Point
Tucked behind Harbor Beach and next to Chill Island, Seaside Point is one of the quieter, more tucked-away corners of Perfect Day at CocoCay, and I wouldn’t think of it the way I think of Chill Island, South Beach, Oasis Lagoon, or the waterpark. This isn’t a big action area or a place most guests will make their home base — it’s mainly known as a private event and wedding location, so it’s not really a standard stop on a regular CocoCay day. What it gives you instead is a calmer, more removed, scenic feel: a short walk from Arrivals (about three minutes), less developed, and clearly set up for a more intimate gathering rather than a full beach-day crowd.
I wouldn’t plan my day around it, but I think it adds something to the island. It’s a good reminder of how many different personalities CocoCay has — the party vibe at Hideaway Beach, the family fun of Thrill Waterpark, the huge pool scene at Oasis Lagoon, the beach-club feel of Coco Beach Club, and then a quiet, scenic corner like this. If you walk by or you’re there for a wedding or private event, it’s one of the more peaceful spots on the island, and it gives that side of CocoCay a nice sense of calm.
Breezy Bay at Chill Island
Breezy Bay is one of those little pockets of Perfect Day at CocoCay that is easy to walk right past, but it is actually a really nice option if you want a quieter, more relaxed beach setup within the Chill Island area. I think of it as the “settle in and stay awhile” side of Chill Island — the same calm beach feel, clear water, and easygoing vibe, just a little more comfortable. This is one of the areas I frequent, and the reason is simple: the location is hard to beat.
Where Breezy Bay really shines is proximity. You are a quick walk from a Snack Shack, a bar, and the games and sports area, and it is a very short stroll over to Oasis Lagoon, the island’s main pool. That is a big deal when you are traveling with kids. No matter how much you love the beach, the pool is almost always going to pull them in at some point, and from Breezy Bay you can bounce back and forth without feeling like you are packing up and moving across the whole island — the ocean in front of you for swimming and snorkeling, and the main pool just steps away.
Food and drinks are easy here too. Chill Grill is the main included lunch spot for this side of the island — burgers, hot dogs, grilled items, salads, fruit, desserts, soft-serve, and that taco station I always end up at — and depending on where you set up, the nearby Snack Shack can be even more convenient when the kids just want something quick. For drinks, Wacky Seagull Junior Bar is right in the area and Wacky Seagull Bar is nearby on the Chill Island side, so a Coco Loco, a beer, or a frozen cocktail is never far. If you have the Royal Caribbean drink package, it works on CocoCay, so you can settle in, swim, grab a drink, walk the kids over to the pool, come back to the ocean, and not overthink any of it.
Breezy Bay is also close to the beach rentals and snorkel equipment on one side and the games area on the other. This makes it a smart base for a mixed group — since Chill Island is the best snorkeling on CocoCay, you can have one person floating, another out at the shipwreck, kids playing in the water, and someone else parked in the shade, all from the same spot. You are close enough to the Oasis Lagoon as well. Overall it is a great fit for couples, smaller families, or anyone who likes a comfortable beach day with a little more breathing room and easy access to activities if needed.
There are even things to keep the little ones busy. My daughter loved the jumbo Jenga and the Giant Pool. The beach by the sports courts is closest to the Oasis Lagoon, Snack Shack and the bar. I find myself here often when visiting with my daughters.
Day Beds
The thing Breezy Bay is really known for is its beach day beds, which line this stretch of shore. They are paid upgrades, but they can make a lot of sense depending on your plan. A day bed gets you a reserved spot without going all the way up to a cabana, while a cabana gives you a true home base for the day — no hunting for chairs, no shuffling towels around to hold your spot. I think they make the most sense when you know you will spend a good chunk of the day in one area, and this is one of the more practical cabana spots on the island for families: easy ocean access for swimming and snorkeling, the main pool a short walk away, and food, drinks, and the games area all close by.
The one time I would skip it is if you plan to bounce all over the island — Thrill Waterpark in the morning, South Beach in the afternoon, Hideaway later. If that is your day, a day bed or cabana probably is not worth it. But if you want to relax, swim, eat nearby, and keep the pool within reach, it is a great option. I really love the beach area by these cabanas as well.
South Beach
South Beach is one of my favorite areas at Perfect Day at CocoCay — but it is also one where you really need to know what kind of day you are planning. I love it here: it is a great self-contained area with just about everything you need in one space. The catch is that it sits a good bit out of the way from the rest of the island. You are farther from Oasis Lagoon, Splashaway Bay, Captain Jill’s Galleon, and Thrill Waterpark, so if your plan is to bounce between the pool, the kids’ splash areas, the waterpark, and the beach all day, South Beach can feel like a bit of a hike. If you are walking, just follow the path just past the Coco Beach Club.
That is not a knock on the location — it just means South Beach works best when you make it your destination. If you are planning to spend most of your day there, it makes perfect sense. Once you are set up — beach chairs, ocean views, food, bars, sports, cabanas, and day beds, all with plenty of room to spread out — you really do not need to leave unless you want to go explore the rest of CocoCay. I actually like that it feels a little removed from the center of the island, in a good way.
The vibe here is more active than Chill Island. Where Chill Island is snorkeling, swimming with the kids, and a calmer feel, South Beach has more energy. There is a nice area for beach games, volleyball, and basketball, so it works well for families with older kids, teens, adults, or any group that wants to do more than sit in a chair all day. There is still plenty of room to relax, but it has more of an up-and-moving feel. If your crew likes to play a little, swim a little, grab a drink, then play some more, this is a great fit.
The activities in South Beach will definitely keep the kids busy. Volleyball is a big hit.
One of the coolest features is the Floating Bar. There is just something fun about swimming or wading out to a bar in the water to grab a drink — standing out there, looking back at the beach with a drink in hand, it just feels like vacation. It is one of those classic CocoCay experiences you cannot do on the ship, and it gives South Beach a personality all its own without turning it into a full party scene. There are regular bars nearby too, the South Beach Bar and Coconut Willie’s (right by the sports courts), so you do not have to swim out every time. If you have the drink package, it works on CocoCay, so you can rotate between the beach, the water, the bar, the sports area, and your chair without thinking about it.
Food is easy here because there is a Snack Shack right in the area — which matters, because you really do not want to walk all the way back toward Oasis Lagoon or Chill Grill just to eat. It has the quick, complimentary beach-day stuff: burgers, hot dogs, salads, and the kind of bites that are perfect when everyone is sandy, wet, and hungry.
South Beach can absolutely work with kids, as long as you set the right expectations. It is not next to Splashaway Bay or the waterpark, so if your kids are young and those are the main draw, it may not be the most convenient home base. But if they like the ocean, beach games, and having room to spread out, it is a lot of fun — just know that heading to the pool or waterpark means the tram or a longer walk. That is the whole thing to understand about South Beach: be realistic about where you are on the island. It is a “let’s go there and stay there” kind of place. If that fits your plan, it is fantastic; if you are trying to hit every major area in one day, it may feel a little too far removed.
For me, it is the pick when I want a more active beach day — beautiful ocean views, the Floating Bar, a sporty social side, and enough food, drinks, and activities to make it feel like its own little section of CocoCay. Underrated, and one of the best spots on the island when you want your beach day to come with a little extra activity.
South Beach Cabanas & Day Beds
The cabana and beach bed area at South Beach is really nice, and it fits the vibe — a more comfortable, slightly removed beach day with beautiful ocean views. A cabana gives you a reserved home base with shade, seating, and a relaxed setup for the whole day. The day beds are the lighter option if you want something reserved and comfortable without committing to a full cabana. I like this stretch because it feels a bit more private than the busier beach spots, and you still have the Snack Shack and bars close enough that the day stays easy. Same per-structure pricing as the island’s other day beds and cabanas.
I think the best part about the cabanas on South Beach is the view — it really makes the day perfect. And there are bathrooms, a bar and a snack shack behind the cabana area.
The cabanas are centrally located but the day beds are further down the beach. You will need to walk well past the cabana area to get to the day beds. So if you opt for a day bed, just know they are further away from the main area and factor that into your decision. On a positive note, this does give them an amazing stretch of beach and great views.
Cove Beach
If you really want to be secluded, head past the day beds on South Beach until you reach Cove Beach. Cove Beach is the most remote and secluded of all of the beaches — the farthest walk (around 14 minutes), tucked away with minimal development. If your goal is a quiet, nap-worthy stretch away from the music and crowds, this is the payoff. Couples and solo cruisers especially love it.
Oasis Lagoon
Oasis Lagoon is a must-visit every single time I go to CocoCay. I don’t always make it my home base for the whole day, but no matter where I settle in — Chill Island, Coco Beach Club, South Beach — I almost always end up here for a while. It’s the island’s centerpiece pool and the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean, and it has a real wow factor when you first see it. It’s not one big rectangle, either: there are coves, shallow areas, three swim-up islands, and a sloped zero-entry edge, so even on a busy day it breaks into little zones where everyone can find their own kind of fun.
For my family it’s always a big draw — my girls love it, and I get why. There’s just something about the big pool, the music, and the energy that makes it feel exciting. Kids can splash, adults can relax, and everyone cools off without dealing with waves, sand, or walking back and forth to the beach. The zero-entry side sits right by Splashaway Bay and has life jackets and bubblers for little ones, which makes it easy with young kids. It’s one of those places that works for almost every kind of cruiser, which is exactly why it’s so popular. My youngest loves the pool!
The swim-up bar is one of the best parts. It’s lively and fun and exactly what you want from a private-island pool bar — swim over, grab a Coco Loco, a beer, a cocktail, or a soda without ever leaving the water, and if you have the drink package it works here too. There’s still a DJ and real energy at that end of the pool, but here’s something worth knowing: since Royal Caribbean opened the adults-only Hideaway Beach, a lot of the heavier party crowd has a home of its own now, and Oasis Lagoon feels noticeably more family-friendly than it used to. You get the fun vacation vibe without it tipping into a full-on party pool.
What I like is that Oasis Lagoon can be whatever you want depending on where you sit. Want the lively side? Stay near the swim-up bar and the music. Want it calmer? You can usually find a quieter stretch farther from the action. That flexibility is what makes it so useful — it works for families, couples, and groups all at once.
There are a ton of loungers around the pool, but they do fill up. This is one of the most popular spots on the island, so if you plan to make Oasis Lagoon your home base, get off the ship early and grab a spot — the best chairs, especially the shaded ones near the water, go fast. If you’re just swinging by from another area for a while, it’s less of a deal.
Location is one of its biggest advantages. It’s dead center and close to almost everything — food, bars, restrooms, Splashaway Bay, Captain Jill’s Galleon, Thrill Waterpark, and the main pathways. For free food you’ve got Skipper’s Grill and Snack Shacks nearby depending on which way you’re coming from, which matters a lot on a pool day with kids — nobody wants to dry off and hike across the island just to eat. Compared to South Beach, which I love but is definitely farther out, Oasis Lagoon keeps you right in the middle of everything, which makes it a strong home base for families who want to move between pool time, splash areas, snacks, and maybe the waterpark.
It also works great as a middle-of-the-day stop. Sometimes I start somewhere calmer like Coco Beach Club or Chill Island and walk over when the kids want more action; other times we hit the pool first, let everyone burn off some energy, then move somewhere quieter later. The one real downside is that it can get crowded — no surprise, since it’s the main pool and it’s included with your fare. On a two-ship day you’ll feel it: the bar gets busy, chairs fill, and the energy is a lot if you were hoping for a quiet beach day. But that’s part of the deal. Oasis Lagoon isn’t trying to be the hidden corner of CocoCay — it’s the big, lively, central pool, and it does that job really well. I may not always make it my base, but I always want to stop by, and if it’s your first time on the island, you should absolutely make time for it.
Oasis Lagoon Cabanas
Oasis Lagoon has poolside cabanas with attendant service — a great option if you want to be right by the pool action but still have a shaded, private home base. They are located at the far end of the pool, which gives you a bit of privacy as well. They are honestly my least favorite cabana location on CocoCay, but if you are looking for a pool day, they are the only way to go.
Coco Beach Club (Paid)
Coco Beach Club is my favorite area on Perfect Day at CocoCay — and it isn’t close. I’ve done it many times, and every trip back reminds me why. I like the island as a whole, and there’s a lot of fun packed into it, but Coco Beach Club feels different: more relaxed, more elevated, more resort-style, while still keeping enough of that CocoCay energy that the day stays easy and fun. It’s tucked behind a lush path on the far side of the island — you’ll walk past Oasis Lagoon and the waterpark to reach it, or grab a shuttle — and the day pass gets you the exclusive beach, the infinity pool, premium loungers, and lunch at The Grille.
If that sounds like your speed, Royal Caribbean has brought a similar upgrade to the Bahamas’ capital, too. I put together a full Royal Beach Club Paradise Island review if you want to see how that newer beach club compares to Coco Beach Club.
The first thing that stands out is the vibe. The rest of CocoCay can be loud, busy, and full of action, which is great when that’s the day you want. Coco Beach Club is more polished and peaceful — it feels like Royal Caribbean carved a private resort out of the island. You still know you’re at CocoCay, but everything is calmer, less crowded, and more comfortable. For me it’s the best mix of relaxing and fun on the whole island.
The infinity pool is one of the biggest reasons I love it. It’s beautiful, and the ocean views from the water are fantastic — standing in that pool looking out at the water, with the beach and cabanas around you, makes the whole day feel like a serious upgrade. It’s not the massive, high-energy scene you get at Oasis Lagoon, and that’s the point. This pool is about relaxing, cooling off, having a drink, and enjoying the view.
The beach is just as good — beautiful sand, clear water, and more spread out and comfortable than some of the busier included beaches. This is one of those places where I’m happy to bounce between the beach and the pool all day: sit by the ocean, jump in, head to the infinity pool, grab a drink, have a great lunch, and do it all again. It’s very easy to spend the whole day here and not feel like you missed a thing.
The food is another big reason it stands out — in my opinion it’s the best on the island. The included food around CocoCay is genuinely good for a beach day, and I love having the grills and Snack Shacks, but The Grille at Coco Beach Club is another level. It’s a real sit-down, multi-course meal instead of a quick island lunch. You start with a spread of starters — the ceviche, hummus, and baba ghanoush are all great, and I never skip the appetizers — and then move on to a made-to-order entrée. I always get the filet and the lobster: the herb-marinated filet mignon and the grilled Bahamian lobster are both on the menu, and if you order just one, the servers will usually turn it into surf and turf for you (and they’re happy to bring seconds). There’s more if you want it — the coconut-crusted Coco lobster sandwich, grilled Caribbean grouper, the cabana burger — and a Bahamian rum cake to finish. It’s one of the strongest arguments for paying: you’re not just buying a quieter pool and beach, you’re getting the best meal on the island. You can dine in an open-air dining area or out on the pool deck — I always opt for the pool deck.
It also gives you a slower lunch break. Everywhere else, lunch is more grab-and-go; here it’s part of the experience — sit down, cool off, enjoy the view, then head back to the pool or the sand.
Coco Beach Club is also easy to enjoy with kids, which I don’t think people always realize — it’s not adults-only. I’ve done it with my daughter several times and we’ve always had a great day. The vibe is calmer than the main island areas, but there are usually at least a few kids around, so yours has a shot at finding someone to play with. It’s not Splashaway Bay and it’s not the waterpark, but it works well for families who want a more relaxed setup.
A big reason it works with kids is the location. It feels private and tucked away, but it’s a short walk from Oasis Lagoon — and that’s huge with children. No matter how nice the beach club is, kids are kids, and at some point they may want the big pool. I like being able to start the day at the beach or infinity pool, have a great lunch, walk the kids over to Oasis Lagoon for a while, then come back and settle into the quieter side. You get the upgraded, relaxing feel without being locked into staying put every second.
Whether it’s worth the cost really depends on the price for your sailing and how you’ll use the day. Prices move around a lot, and this isn’t something everyone has to do every time — CocoCay has plenty of great included areas. But when the price makes sense, I think it’s absolutely worth considering, especially for couples, adults, families who want a relaxed home base, or anyone who’s done the island a few times and wants to upgrade. It’s also a great middle ground if you don’t want the party feel of Hideaway Beach or the busy energy of Oasis Lagoon all day. For me, this is the best overall area on CocoCay — the beach is beautiful, the infinity pool is outstanding, the food is the best on the island, and the whole atmosphere feels a step above. There are still plenty of days when Chill Island, South Beach, or Oasis Lagoon make more sense — but when I want my CocoCay day to feel relaxing, easy, and a little elevated, this is my favorite place to be.
Coco Beach Club Cabanas
Coco Beach Club has its own cabanas right on the club’s private beach. These are a regular-size cabana — a comfortable, shaded home base on the sand with seating, a dedicated attendant, towels, and the same elevated food and service you get everywhere in the club (your group can order straight to the cabana). If you want to lock in a spot in the nicest part of the island and not think about chairs all day, it’s a great way to do it.
It is fair to mention that some of the Cabanas at Coco Beach Club look out at the Overwater Cabanas. It’s not a deal killer, but something to keep in mind.
The Overwater Cabanas at Coco Beach Club
If there’s one thing on CocoCay that makes you stop and say “wait, am I really still on a cruise?” it’s the overwater cabanas at Coco Beach Club. These were the first floating cabanas in all of the Bahamas, and the second you walk out onto them you understand the hype — it’s a little slice of Bora Bora tucked onto Royal Caribbean’s private island. There are 20 of them lined up over the crystal-clear water at the far end of Coco Beach Club, each one its own private, palapa-topped hideaway reached by a floating walkway out over the ocean.
Step inside and there’s a lot more room than you’d expect. You’ve got four cushioned lounge chairs, a big sectional sofa, a shaded dining area, and a ceiling fan to keep the air moving, plus little touches that make the day easier — lockable storage for your stuff, power outlets to keep your phone charged, and a Bluetooth speaker so you can set the soundtrack for your day. There’s a wet bar and a minibar stocked with wine, beer, and soft drinks, and unlimited bottled water is complimentary no matter what (the rest is included if you’ve got a drink package, or available a la carte if not).
But let’s be honest — you’re not booking an overwater cabana for the couch. You’re booking it for the stuff you can’t get anywhere else. Each cabana has its own private slide that drops you straight off the deck into the ocean, which my girls would have ridden a hundred times in a row if I let them. There’s a two-person overwater hammock strung above the water for the most relaxing nap of your life, a freshwater shower to rinse off, and floating mats and snorkel gear so you can hop right into the water beneath you. And that water is unreal — people regularly spot fish, rays, and even the occasional harmless shark cruising around right under the cabana.
Then there’s the service, which is honestly what takes it over the top. Every overwater cabana comes with a dedicated attendant you can summon right from a touchscreen in the cabana, and one of my favorite little details is watching the staff pedal the food out to you on bikes, cruising down the walkway with your lunch from the Coco Beach Club restaurant. It’s such a fun, only-at-CocoCay touch, and it means you never really have to leave your spot over the water if you don’t want to.
And the food is no afterthought. Because your cabana includes full Coco Beach Club admission, you’re eating from the club’s upscale restaurant — think ceviche, herb-marinated filet mignon, grilled Caribbean grouper, the famous Coco lobster sandwich, and Bahamian rum cake to finish. There’s a solid kids’ menu too, with burgers, chicken fingers, grouper sandwiches, and wings, plus coffee and pastries in the morning. You and your whole group also get run of the rest of the club, including that gorgeous 2,600-square-foot oceanfront infinity pool with in-water loungers and poolside service.
A few practical things to know. Each overwater cabana holds up to eight guests, and admission to Coco Beach Club for all eight is included — which matters, because this is the priciest cabana on the island, usually running somewhere between $2,000 and $4,500 depending on your sailing and how early you book. Split among a bigger group, that math gets a lot friendlier. Book as early as you can, because there are only 20 of them and with two ships sometimes in port on the same day, they sell out fast — bookings open up to a year ahead, and you’ll want to grab your specific cabana number onboard as soon as you’re able. Two small heads-ups: the cabanas do bounce a little since they’re floating over the water, and if you’ve got toddlers, keep a close eye on them near the open edges.
Here’s my bottom line: you really can’t go wrong with an overwater cabana. It’s the closest thing to a luxury overwater resort day you’ll find on a cruise, and every time I’ve been out on them I walk away thinking the same thing — if the price point doesn’t hurt too much, just do it. And remember, you have full access to the Coco Beach Club as well! So grab a group to share the cost, spend the day sliding into the ocean and napping over the water while someone brings you filet mignon on a bike, and you’ll have one of the best days of the entire cruise.
Thrill Waterpark (Paid)
Thrill Waterpark is my go-to spot at Perfect Day at CocoCay when I’ve got the kids with me. I love a lot of areas on this island — there are days when Coco Beach Club, Chill Island, South Beach, or Oasis Lagoon is exactly right — but when the girls are along, the waterpark is usually the one that makes the most sense. It gives us a fun home base, it keeps everyone entertained, and it’s one of those places the kids can keep coming back to again and again all day. For a family, it’s one of the best add-ons on the island.
My favorite way to do it: get off the ship early, head straight in, and grab a front-row chair by the wave pool. That’s the move. Once we’ve got that spot, the waterpark is our home base for the day — the kids know exactly where we are, they can get back to the chairs easily, and if they’re old enough to explore a little on their own, we’ve got a clear meeting place. On a busy CocoCay day, that kind of anchor is a huge win.
The wave pool is one of the biggest reasons we love this area. My daughters could stay in it all day, and honestly it’s fun for adults too — it gives the park a different feel than just waiting in slide lines. You jump in, float around, ride the waves, laugh with the kids, then head back to your chair and relax for a bit. It’s a great centerpiece, and if your chairs are near it you always feel like you’re right in the middle of the action. It’s also the largest wave pool in the Caribbean, so there’s plenty of room.
The Adventure Pool is another hit — an obstacle-course-style area where kids can climb, splash, and burn off energy without doing one slide after another. That’s what I like about Thrill: it isn’t only about the big drops. The wave pool and activity pool open it up to a wider range of ages and comfort levels, because not every kid wants to march up a giant slide right away, and not every parent wants to spend the whole day doing that either. Those pool areas are what make it easy to enjoy for a full day.
The slides are the main attraction, of course, and they’re a blast. Thrill has 14 waterslides across two towers, headlined by Daredevil’s Peak — the tallest waterslide in the Caribbean at 135 feet, towering over the island. Daredevil’s Tower has Daredevil’s Peak, Dueling Demons, Screeching Serpent, Green Mamba, and Manta Racers; Splash Summit has Slingshot, Twister, Splash Speedway, and Tailspin.
It’s a good mix — racing slides, raft slides, body slides, and more family-friendly options — so there’s something depending on how brave everyone’s feeling. Most of the marquee slides need a 48-inch minimum (a couple allow 40 to 42 inches with a life jacket and adult), kids under 14 need a ticketed guest 14 or older with them, and kids under 4 get in free.
So the big question: is it worth paying extra? With my kids, the answer is yes. If they love pools, slides, and wave-pool fun, this area can carry the entire CocoCay day — you’re not paying for one ride, you’re paying for a full day of easy entertainment in one place. Slides, wave pool, activity pool, food, a rest, then right back at it. Pricing is dynamic, roughly $37 to $159, with $50 to $80 typical when you book early through the Cruise Planner, and there’s a weather-cancellation credit policy (full credit if it’s closed 4+ hours, half for 2 to 4).
Thrill Waterpark Cabanas
The Thrill Waterpark cabanas come in three locations, and honestly, they’re not all created equal. The best of the bunch sit near the wave pool — that’s where I’d point you if you’re set on a cabana inside the park — but even those are a little out of the way from everything else. The rest are clustered up by the slide towers, and in my view those are the weaker spots. You’re tucked away from the crowds, but you don’t get the same easy access to the wave pool, which is where a lot of families end up spending their downtime between slides.
Here’s the practical case for booking one anyway: a Thrill cabana holds up to six people and includes full-day waterpark admission for everyone in it, plus a shaded, furnished home base with a cooler, bottled water, a table, and an attendant who’ll run food and drink orders for you. If you’ve got four or more in your group and you’re planning to spend the whole day in the park, that admission-included math can genuinely make a cabana worth it. But I’ll be straight with you — these aren’t the best cabanas on CocoCay. If a cabana is the centerpiece of your day, the overwater and beach cabanas at Coco Beach Club or the setups over at Hideaway Beach are a nicer experience. The Thrill cabanas fall into the “if you need a cabana in the waterpark, these will do” category rather than being a destination in their own right.
Hideaway Beach (Paid — Adults-Only, 18+)
Hideaway Beach is Royal Caribbean’s adults-only (18+) area, opened in January 2024 on the island’s northwest end, and it’s the spot to pick when you want your CocoCay day to feel more like a beach party. I’d steer you here for that — but I’d also make sure you know what you’re booking first. Some people hear “adults-only” and picture a quiet, spa-like escape. Hideaway is not that. It’s the fun, music-driven, cocktail-in-hand, DJ-by-the-pool version of adults-only — loud, lively, and a little rambunctious, especially around the pool and swim-up bar. There’s plenty of room to relax and real ocean views, but the overall vibe is much more party than peaceful. It’s capped around 2,000 guests a day, which at least keeps it from feeling like the entire ship showed up.
The pool is the heartbeat of the area. The heated infinity pool is beautiful, the ocean views are great, and the two-level swim-up bar is a blast if you want energy — this is where it gets loudest and most social. The music is going, people are hanging out in the water, the drinks are flowing, and the whole scene has that adult pool-party feel. If you love a lively swim-up bar, the Hideaway Bar is one of the more fun ones on CocoCay. If you’re looking for a quiet place to read a book, this is not the corner I’d plant myself in all day.
The beach side gives you more room to breathe. There’s ample seating with loungers and umbrellas, plus in-water hammocks, and the beach itself is really nice. I like that you can dip into the party energy when you want it and then step away toward the ocean when you’ve had enough. It’s not as calm or elevated as Coco Beach Club — still my favorite spot on the island — but Hideaway has a fun “adults on vacation” atmosphere you don’t get anywhere else on CocoCay.
Food is easy here, and that’s one of the biggest perks of booking it: the area is self-contained, so once you’re inside you don’t need to leave for lunch, snacks, or drinks. Hideaway Hut covers the complimentary all-American stuff, and Slice of Paradise is a great little pizza spot that fits the vibe perfectly — casual, quick, and exactly what you want when you’re bouncing between the pool, the beach, and the bars. The guava-BBQ chicken pizza and the empanadas are a nice change from the burgers-and-tacos you’ll find everywhere else on the island, and it’s all included with the day pass. I did enjoy the pizza option in this area.
There are also several bars spread around Hideaway, which keeps the whole area moving. The Hideaway Bar is the main swim-up bar and the center of the action, but the Lost Flip Flop Bar, Sweet Ting in da Can, On the Rocks, and the bar at Slice of Paradise give you other places to grab a drink without always being in the middle of the pool crowd. On the Rocks is a fun one in particular — a rocky-shore lookout with live music, games, and sports on the TVs. If you have the drink package, it works here too.
To be honest, Hideaway Beach isn’t my favorite spot on CocoCay — but with the right group, it can be an absolute blast, and that’s the whole story with this area. If you’re traveling without kids and want music, drinks, pool energy, and a lively swim-up bar, this is probably the best fit on the island; it has a beach-club-party feel you don’t get at Chill Island, South Beach, or Coco Beach Club. The flip side is that you really have to want that vibe. If you want calm water with the kids, I’d point you to Chill Island; if you want an elevated resort feel, Coco Beach Club still wins; if you want a more active, family-friendly beach day, South Beach makes sense. Hideaway is different on purpose — adults-only, louder, more social, built around the pool-and-bar scene — and that’s exactly why people love it. It’s not where I’d go every single time, but when the mood and the group are right, it’s a really fun option. On value it’s also compelling: day passes run around $57, roughly 60% cheaper than Coco Beach Club.
Hideaway Beach Cabanas
One thing to check before you book: the cabanas here are set farther back from the beach rather than right on the sand with the ocean in front of you. If that’s your mental image of a cabana, look closely at the location first. The upside is what the step-up tier comes with — access to a more private, reserved pool-style space away from the main crowd, which is a big perk if you want the Hideaway energy but not the wall-to-wall party all day. For the right group of adults traveling together, that trade can absolutely be worth it.
Hideaway Beach has two cabana tiers, both 200 sq ft for up to eight people and both including the Hideaway Beach day pass. Hideaway Cabanas come with an attendant, wet bar, lockable storage, ceiling fan, cooler, charging outlets, and floating mats. The Hideout Cabanas are the VIP step up, adding an exclusive infinity plunge pool, a Bluetooth speaker, an outdoor shower, and in-water loungers.
Up, Up and Away (Paid — The Helium Balloon)
Up, Up and Away is the tethered helium balloon that lifts you roughly 450 feet for panoramic views of the island and the ships below — about a 10-minute ride. Big caveat: it is very weather-sensitive and gets grounded in even a moderate breeze, so it often is not running. I would suggest not prepaying and only buying it on-island if it is actually flying that day.
Zip Line, Snorkeling & Other Paid Activities
Beyond the big three paid areas, there is a handful of a la carte activities. The zip line runs about 1,600 feet across roughly three segments (around 45 minutes) and starts up near the Arrivals Plaza, flying over the harbor — closed-toe shoes required. The zip line is really fun and I recommend doing it! Snorkeling gear rentals let you explore the Chill Island shipwreck and reef. Both the zip line (averaging about $48) and snorkeling (about $28) are among the most consistent values on the island and are on sale most of the time. Other options include Wave Jet guided tours, glass-bottom kayak and boat tours, jet ski tours, and kayak and paddleboard rentals.
Cabanas & Day Beds Across the Island
I cover the specific cabanas inside each area’s section above. Here is the one thing worth pulling together in a single place: the cost, because cabanas at CocoCay are not cheap. Across the island there are roughly eight tiers, from about $199 for a basic day bed up to around $4,500 for a Coco Beach Club overwater cabana. The most important thing to understand is that cabanas and day beds are priced per structure, not per person — so split across a group of six or eight, even the pricier ones get more reasonable. On a budget, the day beds are still a nice home base for the day, providing the kids with an easy area to call home. Prices are dynamic and on sale most of the time, so book early through the Cruise Planner before they climb or sell out. And remember, if the price goes down, you can always cancel your cabana and then rebook at the cheaper rate.
- Day beds (Chill Island, Breezy Bay, South Beach): the entry point — roughly $199 to $699 (median around $329).
- Oasis Lagoon / Chill Island cabanas: baseline full cabana with attendant; Chill Island averages around $900+.
- Thrill Waterpark cabanas: include waterpark day passes for your group.
- Hideaway Cabanas (18+): include the Hideaway Beach day pass.
- The Hideout Cabanas (18+, VIP): Hideaway’s premium tier, adding an exclusive infinity plunge pool.
- Coco Beach Club beach cabanas: include Coco Beach Club admission for up to eight.
- Coco Beach Club overwater cabanas: the top of the ladder, running $2,000 to $4,500, and include admission for up to eight.
Where to Eat at CocoCay
Here is the food picture in one place, and the good news is that most of it is free.
The two main buffets/grills. Your sit-down free meals are Chill Grill (at Chill Island) and Skipper’s Grill (near the harbor and Arrivals). They serve the same menu on opposite sides of the island — BBQ, build-your-own tacos, burgers, sandwiches (the shaved ribeye cheesesteak is a standout), salads, fresh fruit, desserts, and self-serve soft-serve — and both run about 11:30 to 3:00. If you want a real meal, head to whichever is closest.
And for those trying to be healthy, there are salad and fruit options!
Snack Shacks (grab-and-go, free). For quick bites there are Snack Shack locations serving burgers, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, the famous mozzarella sticks, loaded fries, and salads (beer costs extra). And I have to be honest, the food at the snack shack is really good. Royal has the best food options of any of the private islands and the snack shacks are all over and a great option. They keep longer hours than the grills (about 10:30 to 3:30). Royal Caribbean’s materials list three locations; you will generally find them around the Chill Island/Oasis side, at Thrill Waterpark, and near South Beach.
The one paid casual spot. Captain Jack’s at Arrivals Plaza is the lone a la carte food venue — wings and steak fries (see the Arrivals Plaza section).
The premium-area restaurants. If you have bought into a paid area, you have The Grille at Coco Beach Club (elevated Mediterranean surf-and-turf, included with the day pass) and, at Hideaway Beach, Slice of Paradise (pizza and empanadas) and the Hideaway Hut (all-American), both included with the Hideaway pass.
A few notes: complimentary eateries have self-serve water and juice stations, your drink package extends to the island’s bars, and there are self-serve soft-serve machines and cookies at the grills.
Tips for Visiting CocoCay With Kids
- Get off the ship early and grab loungers near Splashaway Bay or Harbor Beach before the good spots go.
- Use the free life jackets — they are stationed around the pools and beaches.
- For little ones, Splashaway Bay and Captain Jill’s Galleon (both free, both near Arrivals) cover most of the fun without the Thrill Waterpark price or height limits.
- Harbor Beach’s calm water is great for young swimmers; Oasis Lagoon’s zero-entry side is the family corner.
- Use the tram to save little legs (and your arms full of gear).
- Pack a sunscreen-and-shade plan — free shade is limited and fills up.
- Bring cash if you want to tip a cabana attendant.
If I can leave you with one personal tip, this is my go-to plan whenever I’ve got the kids with me: get your family off the ship early and head straight to Thrill Waterpark, then grab a front-row seat right by the wave pool. That one move sets up your whole day. The kids have endless stuff to keep them busy between the wave pool and the slides, so they’re happy for hours, and you’ve got a home base right in the middle of everything. From there you’re just steps from Oasis Lagoon if you want to cool off in the pool, an easy walk over to Breezy Bay if anyone’s ready for a little beach time, and just as quick a walk to Splashaway Bay for the little ones. There’s even a dedicated Snack Shack right there, so you’ve got easy access to food with really short lines when everyone gets hungry. Get in early, plant your flag by the wave pool, and let the day come to you — it’s worked for my family every single time.
What to Know Before You Go
- Book paid add-ons early through the Cruise Planner. Pricing is dynamic and climbs closer to sailing, and popular items (Coco Beach Club, overwater cabanas, Thrill Waterpark) can sell out.
- Weather cancellations: paid attractions like Thrill Waterpark have a credit policy if closed by weather (full credit at 4+ hours, half at 2 to 4).
- Your SeaPass card works everywhere — no cash needed on the island (except cabana tips).
- Drink packages and VOOM internet purchased on the ship both extend to the island, though Wi-Fi can be spotty.
- Towels: grab them on the ship or at the exchange stations (Oasis Lagoon, Thrill Waterpark, Coco Beach Club). Lockers are available (small fee, first-come).
- Closed-toe shoes are required for the zip line.
- Fun heads-up: you will likely spot wild chickens and iguanas roaming, plus seagulls eyeing your food — please do not feed them.
Is Perfect Day at CocoCay Worth It?
So, is Perfect Day at CocoCay worth it? For me the answer is an easy yes — and if you’re traveling as a family, I don’t think there’s a better private island out there. I’ve been to CocoCay more times than I can count, with Sarah and the girls and on my own, and it still delivers every single visit. What sets it apart is just how much there is to do for every kind of traveler, whether you’ve got little ones, teenagers, or you’re an adult chasing a particular vibe.
That variety is really the whole point. From the high-end, resort feel of Coco Beach Club, to the non-stop fun of Thrill Waterpark, to the beautiful beaches, to Splashaway Bay for the little ones — you can literally carve out the exact day you want. Want a laid-back beach day? It’s there. An adults-only party scene at Hideaway? That’s there too. Want to keep the kids moving from splash zone to slide to pool all day long? Easy. The options are the key, and on CocoCay it’s all right there in one place.
And you can dial it up as much as you want. Cabanas, day beds, and overwater cabanas all give you the ability to upgrade your day however you like, whether that’s a shaded home base for the family or a splurge out over the water. But here’s the real reason I think CocoCay is the best: you can have an absolute blast without spending a single dime beyond your cruise fare. The beaches, the pools, Splashaway Bay, the included food — it’s all there, free. The upgrades are a nice bonus, but they’re a choice, not a requirement, and that’s exactly what makes Perfect Day at CocoCay so hard to beat.
The Bottom Line
Perfect Day at CocoCay packs a beach day, a pool party, a waterpark, an adults-only escape, and a luxury beach club onto one small island — and the baseline is free. Plan one or two priorities, get off the ship early, use the tram, and let the rest unfold. Whether you are chasing thrills with the kids or hiding away with a frozen drink, there is a version of this island that fits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Perfect Day at CocoCay included in your cruise fare?
Yes — island access and a lot of what is on it (the beaches, Oasis Lagoon, the kids’ splash areas, the tram, and the buffets and Snack Shacks) are free with your cruise. The extras are Thrill Waterpark, Coco Beach Club, Hideaway Beach, the balloon, zip line, snorkeling, and cabanas.
Should I get off the boat early at CocoCay?
Yes — if there’s a specific spot you have your heart set on, get off early. The island is big and there are plenty of loungers to go around, but the best spots go fast, and you have to remember there’s always someone else who wants that same prime location. If you’re dreaming of a front-row lounger facing the ocean, one of the front chairs by the wave pool in the water park, or a spot right by your favorite bar or food venue, the early birds get them. I always tell my clients to disembark as close to opening as they can — even 30 to 45 minutes can be the difference between landing your ideal setup and settling for whatever’s left. You can always slow down once you’re on the island; the goal is just to claim your spot first.
How do you get to CocoCay from the ship?
Your ship docks right at the pier — no tender boats. It is about a six-minute walk down the pier to the Arrivals Plaza. The old ship-to-plaza pier tram was discontinued in October 2024, though mobility-assist trams still run at the end of the pier on request.
Is CocoCay good for toddlers and young kids?
Very. Splashaway Bay and Captain Jill’s Galleon are free splash areas built for little ones, Harbor Beach has calm water, Oasis Lagoon has a zero-entry side, free life jackets are everywhere, and the paths are stroller-friendly.
Is the Thrill Waterpark worth it for families?
It depends on your kids’ heights — most of the marquee slides need 48 inches (a few allow 40 to 42 with a life jacket and adult). If your kids are tall enough and love big slides, it is a blast; if they are little, the free Splashaway Bay covers a lot of the same fun.
What’s the difference between Coco Beach Club and Hideaway Beach?
Coco Beach Club is the all-ages premium option — calm, upscale, with an infinity pool and the island’s best sit-down lunch. Hideaway Beach is adults-only (18+), livelier and DJ-driven, and runs roughly 60% cheaper. Pick by vibe and budget.
Are there free things to do at CocoCay?
Plenty: Oasis Lagoon, the free beaches (Chill Island, Harbor Beach, Breezy Bay, South Beach, Cove Beach), Splashaway Bay, Captain Jill’s Galleon, the buffets and Snack Shacks, and the tram — all included.
Is CocoCay accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
Yes — paved paths and ramps across the island, select wheelchair-accessible trams (and an accessible tram on request via Guest Services), and free beach-access wheelchairs first-come, first-served.