Planning Your Perfect Day at CocoCay

Kristravels
View from Ship of CocoCay.

Planning Your Perfect Day at CocoCay

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them — at no extra cost to you.

If you have read any of our other posts you will know that we love Royal Caribbean cruises- if you haven’t read any then welcome!  I am a mom of 4 who loves traveling and especially loves Royal Caribbean!  CocoCay may just be our family’s favorite place to visit!  CocoCay is Royal Caribbeans Private island destination in the Bahamas.  It is complimentary for you to enjoy though there are add on options you can choose.  As a family of 6 we love to maximize complimentary amenities on our cruise.  This post will help you enjoy the best day at CocoCay without spending any additional money.Two Royal Caribbean Ships at Coco Cay.

Be sure to grab your towel as you leave the ship.  You can replace for fresh towels throughout the day on the island!

A Thought About Thrill Waterpark

Thrill Waterpark’s slides and zip lines tempt thrill-seekers, but families save $50-100/person by focusing on complimentary gems like Splashaway Bay and beaches. Free zones offer pools, pirate ships, and calm waters ideal for toddlers through tweens—no lines, no upcharges and plenty of sunshine and relaxation. I know many people that have gone to CocoCay and bought waterpark tickets and have had a great day.  We have been to CocoCay 5 times and have never paid for the waterpark and still had an amazing time.

Splashaway Bay & Captain Jill’s Galleon

Right off the pier, these kid zones sparkle: Splashaway’s five slides and fountains thrill ages 2-10.  Our kids under 10 will stay here for hours.  It is enclosed with trees to prevent littles from walking away.Waterslides at CocoCay.

Galleon’s cannons let siblings ambush parents. Never crowded mid-morning—pure giggles without waterpark waits.  We often hit this on our way back to the ship as well for a last minute energy burn.  The kids love both of these free options!

Be sure to grab a waterproof phone case for when you do get splashed and to get some good pics while snorkeling later https://amzn.to/3Nx6fgr.

Oasis Lagoon: Family Pool Paradise

Caribbean’s largest freshwater pool splits into vibes: deep swim-up bar (mocktails for kids), shallow family cove (1-3ft entry). Free floats/life jackets everywhere; underwater speakers pump beach beats. This is a true party in the sun.  The music is fun the water is crystal clear- your kids will love it.  There are zero entry points so even the little ones can have a fun time.  Though there are usually 2 ships docked per day we have never had trouble getting chairs.Oasis Lagoon Pool.

Beaches Breakdown

  • Chill Island: Snorkeling wreck, volleyball, Chill Grill eats—most chairs, calm waves.​

  • Harbor Beach: Shallow, central fountain for sandcastles; quick ship access for naps/diapers.  The water here is really calm and warm.​

  • South Beach: Breezy, sports courts—less crowded for older kids.

Beach Must Haves:

Sand Toys: https://amzn.to/4sNVUf3

Mom and kids swimming at CocoCay.

Floaties: https://amzn.to/3Ph6JYK (only for beach they aren’t allowed in the pool)

Snorkeling Gear: https://amzn.to/4bjX7VO

Active Play Zones

Sports pavilions offer hoops, cornhole, volleyball—no fee, shaded. Breeze Bay’s open fields suit tag or frisbee. The island is pretty big but the walking paths throughout make getting places pretty easy.  There is also complimentary transportation to the various areas along the island.

Be sure to watch out for the many forms of wild life you might find.  We have had roosters come really close to us and saw some really cool iguana sightings on our journeys.

Dining on the Island

Child enjoying burger at CocoCay.All of the fun and sunshine will work up your appetite.  There is no shortage of food on this island.

Here is what is included for free:

  • Skipper’s/Chill Grills: Build-your-own tacos, jerk chicken, fries, salads, ice cream(11AM-2:30PM).

  • Snack Shack: Hot dogs, burgers, mozzarella sticks, funnel cakes, fruit

  • El Margaritaville: Burgers, salads (longer lines).

Tip: Grab a funnel cake at the snack shack and then go and put some soft serve on top- so yummy!!!

 

Your CocoCay day awaits—pure relaxation, zero regrets!  For more family travel tips and ideas including plenty about Royal Caribbean cruises be sure to check out our other posts at Blog – Together We Can Travel,

 

Related Posts