Maxing Out Your Royal Caribbean Cruise: 10 Tips for Perfect Day at CocoCay
If you are planning an Orlando vacation, your adventure doesn't have to end at the theme park gates. Many of the world’s largest cruise ships, including the new Star of the Seas, sail directly out of Port Canaveral. Since Port Canaveral is essentially Orlando’s "home port," a Royal Caribbean cruise is the perfect extension of your Florida getaway.
Hideaway Beach on Perfect Day at CocoCay
Most of these sailings feature a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas. While the island is stunning, it requires a solid strategy to ensure you aren't spending the whole day in lines or overpaying for excursions.
To help you out, I’ve put together my top 10 tips for tackling the island like a pro. Make sure to watch my full video tour here to see exactly where to go!
10. Pre-book Your Thrills (and Save)
The "perfect day" actually starts weeks earlier on the Royal Caribbean app. One of the biggest mistakes I see is waiting until you are onboard to book add-ons like Thrill Waterpark or jet ski tours.
Arriving at Perfect Day at CocoCay. Thrill Water Park off in the distance.
Prices almost always increase once you're on the ship, and inventory disappears fast. If you want to conquer Daredevil’s Peak, book it early.
9. Use the Free Island Tram
Don't just treat the tram like a shuttle bus; treat it like part of the experience. The free island tram loops around all day, stopping at every major beach and dining area. Even if you don't have a pass for the adults-only Hideaway Beach, take the tram route out there just to enjoy the incredible ocean views.
8. Eat Smart and Stay Hydrated
CocoCay can feel like the surface of the sun during the summer. Bring a refillable water bottle (your ship’s beverage package works on the island too!). To avoid the lunch rush, hit Chill Grill or Skipper’s Grill around 11:30 a.m. or after 1:30 p.m. If you want a quick bite without the trek, look for a Snack Shack—their mozzarella sticks and crispy chicken sandwiches are my best-kept secret.
7. Family Fun at Splashaway Bay
If you have younger kids, you don't need to pay for the waterpark for them to have a blast. Splashaway Bay and Captain Jill’s Galleon are completely free. With drench buckets, water cannons, and mini-slides, it’s the perfect spot for kids to burn off energy before dinner back on the ship.
Hideaway Beach infinity pool
6. Upgrade to Hideaway Beach
If you’re traveling as a couple or a group of friends, the adults-only Hideaway Beach is worth the price of admission. It features a stunning infinity-edge pool, live DJs, and "elevated" food that is included with your pass. Prices vary, so book this one as early as possible to secure the best rate.
Hideaway Beach cabanas
5. Relax at Harbor Beach
Traveling with toddlers or grandparents? Head to Harbor Beach. The water here is shallow, calm, and protected from strong waves. It’s easily one of the safest swimming areas on the island, allowing parents to actually relax instead of chasing currents.
4. Find Your Zen at Cove Beach
If your idea of a perfect day involves reading a book under a palm tree, Cove Beach is your lane. The vibe here is much softer and quieter than the rest of the island, offering scenic views that look like a boutique Caribbean hideaway.
3. Get Active at South Beach
For those who get bored sitting still, South Beach is where the energy picks up. This is the spot for beach games and sports courts. It’s less about lounging and more about doing, making it a favorite for teens and active groups.
2. Start Your Morning at Chill Island
Chill Island is the classic white-sand postcard beach. My secret? Go early. Before the crowds settle in, this beach feels incredibly peaceful and serene. You can even bring your own snorkel gear here to explore the crystal-clear waters on your own terms.
1. Beat the Crowds at Oasis Lagoon
The Oasis Lagoon is the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean and the heartbeat of the island. However, remember that you’ll often be sharing the island with another ship. To snag a chair in the shade, I recommend arriving at the gangway 20 minutes prior to the posted disembarkation time. Getting there first thing is the only way to enjoy the pool before it becomes shoulder-to-shoulder.
Planning your next Orlando vacation? Make sure to include a stop at Port Canaveral! You can check out my next video here to see exactly what it’s like to vacation on the mega-ship Star of the Seas.
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Many Royal Caribbean cruises departing Orlando (Port Canaveral) stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay, making it a true extension of the Orlando theme park experience. From "Secret Menu" hacks to the best time to snag a pool chair, here are 10 strategies to make your island day perfect without breaking the bank.