Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Perfect Day at CocoCay 2024
Perfect Day at CocoCay is Royal Caribbean’s privately owned island in the Bahamas. Many sailings in the Caribbean include CocoCay as a port on their itineraries. From the moment you step off the ship, you will be greeted by friendly staff guiding passengers from the dock further onto the island. Pick up a map and grab a bottle of water before heading to one of the beautiful beaches or finding a spot by the Oasis Lagoon pool.
Where is CocoCay?
Perfect Day at CocoCay is located in the Bahamas, at the northernmost end of the Berry Islands. This is about halfway between Grand Bahama Island and Nassau, 140 miles east of Miami.
Is CocoCay Worth Visiting?
Because the island is owned and managed by Royal Caribbean, there are many things on the island that do not require an additional cost. You can enjoy all of the beach chairs and umbrellas located by the beaches, pool, and lagoon. All of these amenities make it the perfect port day experience. It is no wonder that Royal Caribbean has invested over $250 million in the island.
There is something for everyone at every price point. There are enough complimentary activities and food if you don’t want to spend any additional money. If you would like to book something extra, there are plenty of opportunities for that as well. Getting on and off the ship at CocoCay is also very relaxed, as only Royal Caribbean guests are able to access the island. The only thing you need to worry about is bringing your sea pass, as there are often two ships docked at CocoCay and the staff need to ensure you are getting on the right one.
Things to Know Before Visiting CocoCay
You will want to beat the crowds and get off the ship early to start your Perfect Day at Coco Cay. The time the gangway will be down will be posted in your cruise compass, but can vary slightly due to the sometimes unpredictable tropical weather. Bring towels from the ship (check these out from the pool deck using your sea pass and return when you get back on the ship). Be sure to pack essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the island’s activities are mostly outdoors. Be aware that some of the amenities on CocoCay may require additional fees, so budget accordingly and bring cash if you would like to spend it. Most purchases can also be charged to your sea pass as well.
Your beverage package works on the island at any of the bars you come across. My personal favorite is the floating bar located about 30 yards off of South Beach (keep reading for more information on how to get there!) and the old VW bus converted into a small bar. Cool off with a frozen margarita, sip on your favorite tropical cocktail, or try the island special: the Coco Loco.
CocoCay is extremely walkable - there is a tram available that runs from the dock by the ships back to South Beach (the furthest point on CocoCay), but it is only a 10 minute walk from one end of the island to the other. Take a few moments to familiarize yourself with the island by looking at the on your cruise compass, or posted near the port once you arrive on the island. Figure out what areas you want to visit, so you can make the most of your time on the island! There is a plethora of activities awaiting you on this stunning private island. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mixture of both, let’s get into every CocoCay has to offer.
Here is how you should maximize your time on the island, and truly experience a Perfect Day at CocoCay:
Photo Credit: Royal Caribbean
Ride the Tallest Waterslide in North America
Are you ready to cross the tallest waterslide in all of North America off of your bucket list? Daredevils Peak is 135-feet tall from the platform and takes you through 764 feet of translucent and aqualucent tubing in just under 35 seconds. The slide was first unveiled by Royal Caribbean in 2019 and still holds the record in 2024. Admission to the waterpark is not included with your cruise, and will cost anywhere from $59-139, based on how far in advance you book your ticket. Tickets to the waterpark can be booked as a shore excursion through the Royal Caribbean app, after you have linked your cruise.
Lounge on the Beach at Chill Island
Continue the R&R of your cruise vacation by heading over to the ultimate relaxation spot: Chill Island. Reserve a private cabana for your family and friends or a comfy beachside bed meant for two. There is also plenty of seating around the beach, but keep in mind the chair and umbrellas are all first come, first serve. This also puts you the closest to some of the best snorkeling spots on the island, so head up to the Snorkel Shack to get yourself a mask and some fins. When you are ready to eat, stop by the Chill Grill for a complimentary bite to eat.
Splurge on an Over the Water Cabana
Looking for something luxurious to elevate your vacation? Consider purchasing an over-the-water cabana and feel like you are in Bora Bora. Cabana rentals are good for the entire day, and include a slide into the pristine waters of the Caribbean, and a personal cabana attendant to bring you food and drinks. These cabanas accommodate up to 12 people, so it is best to split between family and friends!
Photo Credit: Royal Caribbean
Party at the Largest Pool in the Caribbean
With the large swim up bar, DJ blasting party tunes from underwater speakers in the deep end, and complimentary poolside bar service, you will never have to leave your spot in the Oasis Lagoon, the largest pool in all of the Caribbean. The pool is so large that there is also a family-friendly end with shallow waters and water fountains for the kids to enjoy.
Photo Credit: Royal Caribbean
Sip on a Coco Loco
CocoCay has its own signature drink only available on the island, the Coco Loco! Made with dark rum, coconut rum, cream of coconut, grenadine, and orange, pineapple, and papaya juice, this frozen cocktail is the perfect way to cool off while enjoying the Caribbean sun. The Coco Loco is available at any of the bars on the island and is included if you have purchased the deluxe beverage package. CocoCay branded souvenir cups are also available for purchase to keep your drink cold in the heat.
Swim out to the Floating Bar
My personal favorite activity on the island, swimming out to the floating bar located 30 yards off of South Beach. Enjoy a classic mixed drink or a frozen Coco Loco while enjoying the views of the water and gently rocking back and forth with the waves. The bartenders are always the most laid-back and friendly at this bar, and will often whip up fruity shots for everyone to take together. Our favorite was a concoction created for us by one of the local bartenders who lives in the Bahamas full-time. The recipe was all in his head and not down to an exact science, but delicious nonetheless. The swim to the bar is not far and the water is typically pretty shallow, depending on the tides. There is also a pool ladder to safely get on and off of the floating platform.
Book a Jet Ski Excursion
For a thrilling experience during your cruise vacation, look into renting a jet ski for a few hours! This excursion is perfect for beginners looking to learn how to drive a jet ski, as there are experienced guides on hand to teach you everything you need to know about the safety and basic instruction on how to enjoy your time. You will embark on a journey around Coco Cay and the Berry Islands. If you want to share a jet ski with someone in your party, you can book one driver ticket, and one add-on passenger ticket at a discounted rate.
Photo Credit: Royal Caribbean
Rent a Floating Mat
By far the most affordable way to elevate your trip to CocoCay is by renting a floating beach mat to enjoy the waves. For just $12.99, you can pick up a mat from one of the stands on the island and enjoy it in the water off of any of the beaches. My personal favorite spot to take the beach mat is to the harbor off of Harbor Beach - the waters are so calm and relaxing, you may even fall asleep with the gentle current!
Visit the Thrill Waterpark
Along with the tallest waterslide in North America, the Thrill Waterpark has everything you need for an adrenaline-pumping day on the island. Grab a raft and make your way up the stairs of the Twister, a winding tube slide, or The Slingshot, a gravity-defying slide for a group of four. Get swept up in the Caribbean’s biggest wave pool, with waves suitable for all levels of swimmers. This waterpark will be the first thing you see once you walk through Arrivals Plaza, a 3-minute walk from the dock. As a reminder, tickets to the waterpark are not included with your trip to Cococay, but the price is well worth it for the memories that will be made for the whole family!
Enjoy Complimentary BBQ Lunch
That’s right, even the food on the island is complimentary. From 11:30am until 45 minutes before all-aboard, the buffet lunch at Skipper Grill is open for guests. Enjoy a hot dog, hamburger, taco bar, and a variety of other sandwiches and sides for the perfect beach day lunch. For dessert, enjoy a fresh chocolate chip cookie or brownie.
PTO and a Passport Pro Tip: ask the staff to top off your cookie or brownie dessert with soft-serve ice cream to create your own sundae!
Shop at the Straw Market
Looking for the perfect souvenir to bring home from your trip? Stop by the CocoCay Straw Market. A straw market is a traditional Bahamian open-air market selling hand woven straw crafts and other souvenirs. The largest and most famous is in Nassau, but has been recreated to a smaller scale at CocoCay. Explore the different vendor booths to discover everything from t-shirts, tote bags, and hats, to locally crafted handmade goods. You can charge purchases directly to your seapass card to pay on your post-cruise statement, or you can always pay with cash (USD accepted).
Photo Credit: Travel + Leisure
Go Snorkeling
The snorkeling locations on CocoCay are endless! Snorkel equipment is available for rent in advance or on the island, or you can bring your own. Discover a diverse marine life living in the waters surrounding the island. The best spots to explore are off of Chill Island where there are three breakers formed by rocks, a sunken airplane off the shore a little ways near Chill Island beach, and off of South Beach near the cabanas. We saw a variety of dinner plate-sized starfish, barracuda, lionfish, and even a reef shark! You will find that visibility is best early in the morning, so head off the boat and into the water as soon as the gangway is open.
PTO and a Passport Pro-Tip: Ask the lifeguards what type of marine life they have been seeing! They are very knowledgeable when it comes to what has been around, and can point you in the direction of where you should go.
Play Beachside Basketball, Volleyball, and Ping Pong
Grab some friends and head out to the Sports Court located near the South Beach. Join one of the hosted friendly competitions that happen daily at the court, or grab your family and friends for a casual pickup game.
Photo Credit: Royal Caribbean
Take a Ride in a Hot Air Balloon
One of the most unique activities Royal Caribbean offers at this private island is the opportunity to take a ride on Up, Up, and Away, the hot air balloon ride that will take you 450 feet in the air for stunning views of the island and surrounding ocean. The balloon itself is quite colorful and offers a memorable way to see the beauty of the Bahamas from a different perspective. You will ascend in a comfortable gondola that can accommodate several people, making it a great activity for families or groups. The ride lasts around 10 to 15 minutes, allowing ample time to take in the stunning views and capture some incredible photos.
Listen to Live Music at Captain Jack’s
Enjoy a beverage at one of the wooden swings surrounding the bar under the pavilion of Captain Jack’s, while you listen to live entertainment all afternoon. This pirate-themed bar has several performances throughout the day, as well as a full bar and snacks available for purchase. For specific events happening during your port day, be sure to check your cruise compass while on board!
Go Swimming with the Pigs at Goat Cay
One of the most unique shore excursions you can book while at CocoCay is swimming with the pigs. Enjoy a boat ride to a small island. Upon arrival, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with the friendly pigs that have become accustomed to visitors. You can feed them, take photos with them, and, of course, swim with them in the shallow waters along the beach. This activity is not included and must be purchased in advance as there is limited availability.
Get a Day Pass to the Beach Club
The Coco Beach Club is an exclusive area of the island reserved for guests who purchase access. It offers a more secluded and upscale beach experience compared to other areas of CocoCay. One of the highlights of the Coco Beach Club is the availability of beach cabanas. These private cabanas provide a shaded retreat with comfortable seating, a mini-fridge stocked with water and sodas, and personalized service from attendants. The Coco Beach Club features an infinity pool overlooking the ocean, providing a luxurious setting to relax and enjoy the stunning views. The pool area is equipped with lounge chairs and umbrellas for guests to unwind in style.
I have visited CocoCay on four separate occasions now, and it has become a port I truly look forward to. There is so much to do for the entire family, and it is the perfect destination for beach bums and adventure enthusiasts alike. With the beverage package, the all-inclusive feel makes you feel like you step off the ship onto a resort. I love that you are able to continue using your drink packaged while on the island, and that there are so many complimentary activities to do without spending extra money! Royal Caribbean seamlessly blends the experience between the island and the ship so that guests can enjoy a hassle-free port day experience.
Going on a cruise soon? Check out our list of the best things to do on a cruise ship. If your itinerary also includes a stop at Labadee, you can read all about how to spend a port day at Labadee, Haiti..
What did you think? Have you been to CocoCay before? What are your favorite things to do on the island?