Are you planning a cruise trip on Royal Caribbean Cruise line?  You may be making a stop at Coco Cay Beach in the Bahamas while on your adventure!

Royal Caribbean’s privately owned island is the perfect tropical paradise with shining, blue waters, to soft, white sand beaches.

Enjoy relaxing on this picturesque slice of heaven, tropical drink in hand, experiencing everything from zip lines to waterparks, and a peaceful overwater cabana.

With its vibrant colors, exciting water activities, and stunning views, a stop at Coco Cay Beach may become your favorite part of your cruise!

In this post, we’ll go over what to expect at Coco Cay Beach, and things to do on the island.  I was just here and loved it so let’s get you excited for your Royal Caribbean excursion!

What Is Coco Cay Beach In The Bahamas?

Located in the Berry Islands, just off the coast of the Bahamas, is Coco Cay.

This small island is privately owned by Royal Caribbean Cruises, and serves as a one-stop-shop for cruise passengers to have a great time!

It’s known for Royal Caribbean’s fun adventure known as Perfect Day at Coco Cay.

Here, you can splash around on the beaches, lounge in the pools, grab a drink at a swim-up bar, visit a waterpark, and more, all while on your cruise adventure.

The island is only open to cruise line passengers, and many Royal Caribbean cruises going through the blue waters of the Caribbean stop to let passengers experience it.

Things To Do At Coco Cay Beach

 

1. Chill Out At Chill Island

If you’re looking for some peaceful relaxation during your time on the island, visiting Chill Island will be right up your alley.

Located along the eastern side of the island, there is no cost to visit this beach, and there are several beach chairs available to kick back and relax.

Compared to other areas on Coco Cay, Chill Island is a quieter destination, and there won’t be as much commotion.

If you’re up for a little adventure, there are small shacks along the beach that offer snorkel gear and diving equipment, as well as jet skis.

 

2. Splash Around At South Beach

Another great spot for either relaxing on the beach or getting out into the water for some adventure is South Beach.

Wander along the beach in search of sea shells, rent a floating beach mat, or grab yourself a chair with an umbrella to relax on.

Cabanas are also available to rent, so you have somewhere to come back to when you need a break from the water.

Or, swim out to the floating tiki bar and grab a drink and be sure to check out Snack Shack when you get hungry.

 

3. Explore The Little Beach Shops

If you’re searching for the perfect souvenir to commemorate your Caribbean vacation, be sure to check out the beach shops on CocoCay.

There are shops with merchandise specific to CocoCay, as well as some small straw huts where you’ll find locals selling their goods.

Two areas are available with these small markets, and both are near Chill Island.

 

4. Hit The Oasis Lagoon Pool

The largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean can be found right here on Coco Cay.

It’s called the Oasis Lagoon Pool, which is free for all guests to use and is located in the middle of the island.

Whether you’re visiting as a family or on an adults-only getaway, there’s a place at the pool for everyone.

The kid-friendly cove is perfect for littles who love to dive, splash, and have fun in the water.

Adults can hang out near the swim-up bar and enjoy a more relaxing time in the Oasis Lagoon.

A really unique feature of the pool is that if you dip under the water, you’ll hear a track of music playing, within the pool!

5. Get Some Food At The Chill Grill

When you’re ready for some lunch, head on over to the largest restaurant on the island, Chill Grill.

On the menu, you’ll find burgers, sandwiches, tacos, and more.

This food shack is included with your cruise package, so no need to worry about pulling out your wallet!

You can also enjoy any alcoholic drinks if you’ve purchased a drink package.

Chill Grill is located near Chill Island, so it’s in the perfect spot and isn’t too far from the cruise port or the main island attractions.

 

6. Go On A Balloon Ride

Have you ever wondered what the ocean and an island like this would look like from above?

Well, now you can experience it firsthand!  At Up, Up, & Away, you can take a ride in a helium balloon and soar nearly 500 feet above the land and water.

This is a unique experience that you really can’t get just anywhere, and you’ll get to take in the incredible views of the blue Caribbean water and the adventurous island.

 

7. Splash In The Waterpark

Coco Cay Beach in the Bahamas is also home to Thrill Waterpark, where people of all ages can have a blast splashing around.

Whether you’re a thrill seeker looking for a fast waterslide, or someone who prefers relaxing on the pool deck, you can do it all here!

Experience the tallest waterslide in North America, Daredevil’s Peak, which sends you flying for 135 feet.

Or, dive into the Caribbean’s largest wave pool and get swept away in the waves.

Splash Summit also houses 6 more waterslides to experience, and there are even more waterslides underneath Daredevil’s Peak.

Thrill Waterpark does cost extra and isn’t included in your visit to CocoCay.

If your younger children want to enjoy a waterpark without paying extra, they can also visit Splashaway Bay or Captain Jill’s Galleon for free!

8. Take A Ride On The Tram

There is a tram that runs throughout the island and makes stops at some of the most popular destinations. 

Stops include at South Beach, Thrill Waterpark, Coco Beach Club, Up, Up & Away, Oasis Lagoon, and Chill Island.

Whether you’re trying to get from place to place or just want to see more of the island, a ride on the free tram is a nice way to spend some time!

 

10. Rent A Cabana 

Chilling out in a cabana is a perfect way to get some relaxation on your Royal Caribbean Cruise vacation in the Bahamas.

There are several places around the island where you can find cabana rentals, including on Chill Island, at Thrill Waterpark, at Oasis Lagoon, and at the Coco Beach Club.

For families and those looking to just hang out on the island, check out the ones at Oasis Lagoon and Chill Island.

If you’re looking for a bit more privacy and to get away from some of the crowds, upgrade to join the Coco Beach Club.

Here, you can have your own floating cabana, access to a private beach, clubhouse, and another dining option. 

12. Or Volleyball

If basketball isn’t your thing but you still want to get into a friendly competition, check out the sand volleyball courts near South Beach.

You can still enjoy the sounds and sights on the ocean, as the court is right near the beach! Balls are available at the rentals shack.

13. Swim With Pigs

Something that’s very unique to the Bahamas is their iconic swimming pigs, which can be found via a tour from Coco Cay Beach. 

No one really knows quite how these pigs got to the island, but today, you can book a tour to swim with them and feed them.

They’re found right between Nassau and Exuma on Pig Beach.

You’ll start your tour with a ride across the glistening waters of the Caribbean until you finally stumble upon a white sand beach with a group of friendly pigs awaiting your arrival.

It’s not everywhere that you get to say that you were able to swim with pigs, so don’t miss this Bahamas adventure!

 

14. Go On A Clear Bottom Bout Tour

Another fun excursion to take from Perfect Day at CocoCay Beach in the Bahamas is to head out into the ocean on a clear bottom boat.

One of the best ways to see into the underwater world without actually getting into the water is experiencing it through a glass bottom boat.

Look for tropical marine life such as colorful fish, starfish, sea turtles, and stingrays as you float along through the sea.

Along with admiring the tropical world, you’ll also get to soak up the warm sun and feel the cool breeze of the ocean on your face as you cruise through the water!  

15. Rent Jet Skis Or Paddleboards

Looking for a thrilling adventure out on the water during your visit to CocoCay? Rent a jetski or a paddleboard!

Renting a jet ski is a fun and adventurous way to explore the crystal-clear waters and take in the breathtaking scenery of this tropical paradise.

Rev up the engine and zoom across the waves, feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face. 

You can also rent a paddle board and take a more relaxed approach to exploring the teal, clear waters.

Paddleboarding is a pretty easy skill to learn, and it’s a great fit for people of all ages!

16. Go On A Snorkeling Adventure 

When you’re surrounded by colorful reefs and heaps of marine life, it’s almost impossible to visit without getting in the water for some snorkeling.

Snorkeling at this tropical oasis is something you won’t want to miss.

Explore the vibrant coral reefs and swim alongside an array of exotic sea creatures, from colorful fish to large stingrays.

There are a few places around the island, such as Chill Island, where you can snorkel from shore.

Or, you can take a tour and head out into the deeper waters for an even better time exploring the reefs. 

 

17. Have A Drink At Captain Jack’s

If you’re looking for a tropical drink to enjoy as you soak up the sun on the island, look no further than Captain Jack’s.

With live music, an a la carte menu, and of course, delicious tropical drinks, a stop here will give you a much-needed rest from all of the adventures on the island!

This restaurant isn’t included in your plan, so remember your SeaPass card!

What Is Free On Coco Cay?

As a cruise passenger on Royal Caribbean, there are many complimentary and included items on Coco Cay that you’ll have the opportunity to take advantage of.

From pools to waterparks to dining options, you’ll find plenty to do for free!

There are some activities that are an additional cost, but here are the free things to do on Coco Cay.

• Admission to the island
• Oasis Lagoon
• Chill Island and South Beach
• Splashaway Bay
• Captain Jill’s Galleon
• Sports courts (volleyvall & basketball)
• Visit the market
• Periodic organized activities
• Skipper’s Grill
• Chill Grill
• Snack Shack
• Tram service

Beach Amenities Included At Coco Cay Bahamas

There are many amenities that you’ll find on Coco Cay Beach that are available to all cruise passengers to take advantage of!

Here are some of the top complimentary amenities that you’ll have.

• Beach chairs with umbrellas
• Beach towels
• Showers and restrooms
• Beachside dining options
• Drinking water
• Alcoholic beverages and soda (with drink package)

Does Your Food And Drink Package Work On The Beach?

If you purchased a food and drink package for your cruise, you may be wondering if it’ll work while you’re on the beach.

The good news, is that yes! For the most part, your food and drink package will work on the island and you can eat and drink for free. 

The included restaurants are Chill Grill, Skipper’s Grill, and Snack Shack.

If you’ve purchased a drink package, you can additionally grab anything to drink at the Oasis Lagoon swim-up bar and at the floating bar at South Beach.

But, do keep in mind that some of the restaurants and bars on the island do cost extra. 

Captain Jack’s and Lounge in Luxury at the Coco Beach Club both come at an additional cost, as does the Wacky Seagull.

FAQs

 

How Big Is Coco Cay Beach?

Coco Cay Beach in the Bahamas is actually fairly small, measuring just about one mile long and about ⅓ of a mile wide!

The entire island is owned by Royal Caribbean Cruises, and only cruise passengers are able to visit it.

Is There A Free Beach At Coco Cay?

Yes, both South Beach and Chill Island on the island are free to visit for all cruise passengers.

If you’re looking for a more private and laid back atmosphere, then you can join the Coco Beach Club and relax at their private beach on the southern side of the island.

Can You Just Go To The Beach At Coco Cay?

Yes! You can absolutely only visit the beach at Coco Cay, especially if you don’t want to spend any extra money during your visit.

Both South Beach and Chill Island offer great places to relax and there are rentals for more adventurous people.

There are many beach chairs and umbrellas available, so you can relax on the beach for free.

Which Beach Is Better On Coco Cay?

Both South Beach and Chill Island are great, and which you visit will depend on what you prefer to do.

Chill Island is quieter and there aren’t as many activities. But it’s a great place for relaxing and enjoying the sun. It’s also closer to the cruise port and has more activities.

At South Beach, you can find plenty of water rentals, a large beach for swimming, and more people.

It takes about 15 minutes to walk here from the port, or you catch the island tram.

Can You Go To Coco Cay Without A Cruise?

No, Coco Cay is only open to visitors who are arriving on the island via a Royal Caribbean Cruise.

It’s owned by Royal Caribbean, so you won’t see any other cruise lines coming in either. 

Wrap-Up: Coco Cay Beach Bahamas

A visit to Coco Cay Beach in the Bahamas is an unforgettable experience that offers endless fun and adventure.

After hopping off of the Royal Caribbean cruise ship, you can choose to do whatever you like, from relaxing on the beach to zipping down a waterslide to snorkeling among the reefs.

This tropical paradise has something for everyone, and a visit here will create a lifetime of memories for you and your family!