To say there’s a lot to do at this private island in The Bahamas is just tapping the surface: Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay raises the bar for what’s possible in a single day on vacation with near-endless thrills and ways to chill. Think: 13 waterslides, including the tallest waterslide in North America, beaches where the sand is white and the water is crystal clear, and drinks and bites are at your fingertips. With all there is to do, everyone—whether you’re traveling as a family with young kids or a couple—can make their time on the island their own.

Now, how do you make the most of your day at this one-of-a-kind spot?

Here’s your guide to doing Perfect Day at CocoCay your way: 

With a waterpark, kayaking, beaches, pools, cabanas and more, Perfect Day at CocoCay can be your ultimate beach day.

Credit: Royal Caribbean

Q: What is Perfect Day at CocoCay?

A: It’s Royal Caribbean International’s private island destination in The Bahamas. After a $250 million transformation in 2019, Perfect Day at CocoCay features more than 120 acres of pure thrill and ways to chill. From kids racing down all kinds of waterslides to adults who want to relax by the water, there are experiences for all ages. Can’t-miss highlights include Daredevil’s Peak, the tallest waterslide in North America; Up, Up & Away, a helium balloon that soars up to 450 feet in the air; and Oasis Lagoon, the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean, which has a swim-up bar and in-water loungers. You can also splurge on an overwater cabana at Coco Beach Club, where you’ll have a dedicated cabana attendant, too.

Q: How much time will I have to explore it all?

A: You’ll have around 8-10 hours. The best part? You have the freedom to do as much or as little as you’d like. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, there is something extra special about getting to create memories together and on your own adventures. Put simply, Perfect Day at CocoCay offers the same freedom and range of experiences that every one of our ships does.

Prepare to spiral down a 135-foot plunge on Daredevil’s Peak, the tallest waterslide in North America and one of 13 slides on the island.

Credit: Royal Caribbean

Q: What are the biggest thrills and ways to chill on the island?

A: The best part of Perfect Day at CocoCay is that your experiences can vary depending on your vibe. For daredevils, Thrill Waterpark tops the list, with 13 jaw-dropping waterslides across two towers—including Splash Summit, where you’ll find the four-person Slingshot.  And be sure to check the height requirements listed on the park map!

Looking to cool off? You can dive in and explore beyond the shore and book shore excursions like kayaking, snorkeling and more at Chill Island. For a premium-yet-casual experience, Coco Beach Club has dreamy overwater cabanas, an oceanside infinity pool, a clubhouse and a restaurant.

Pro tip: You’ll need tickets for some of the popular things to do on the island, like Thrill Waterpark and the 1,600-foot-long zip line. Use the mobile app (for iOS or Android) to book ahead of time. 

There are all kinds of flavors on Perfect Day at CocoCay, including wings, fries and tacos to upscale dishes like Bahamian lobster.

Credit: Royal Caribbean

Q: What can I eat?

A: From classic summer barbecue to fresh salads and sandwiches, there are seven spots where you can get a bite to eat. Definitely try out the Snack Shack’s Shack Burger, which is on the menu at multiple locations and best enjoyed with a side of fries or a Greek salad—and it’s free! If you want more of a sit-down meal, head over to Chill Grill or Skipper’s Grill for a variety of complimentary favorites like sandwiches, burgers, tacos and salads. The wings at Captain Jack’s—with four different sauces like Caribbean jerk and bourbon barbecue—are also a popular choice. Conveniently near the Arrivals Plaza, it’s a great spot for a quick snack before getting back on board.

Coco Beach Club’s overwater cabanas come with floating mats and snorkeling gear.

Credit: Royal Caribbean

Q: What should I bring to the island?

A: While you can find or buy some things on the island; it’s always good to have these essentials handy:

• SeaPass: This card is your ID, room key and “credit card.” You’ll need it to buy your drinks and some food at spots like Captain Jack’s.
• Perfect Day map: This is available in your room, at the Shore Excursions desk and on the mobile app. It’s also available digitally on Royal Caribbean’s website!
• Beach towels: There’s no shortage of beach towels on board your ship—be sure to stow some in a beach bag to take advantage of all the pools, beaches, waterslides and more.
• Sunscreen: Bring along your sunscreen—and hats and rash guards. The Bahamian sun can be strong all year long!
• Closed-toe shoes: These are a necessity if you want to hit the 1,600-foot-long zip line.
• Wallet: You can shop for crafts, clothing and more made by local artisans at the island straw market.

The ship is just a short walk or tram ride away if you leave anything behind—just remember your SeaPass card to get back on board!

Q: What types of complimentary experiences and amenities can I find?

A: There are many complimentary places and experiences on Perfect Day at CocoCay, like beaches and pools—plus beach chairs and umbrellas—available all around the island! You’ll also have necessities like lockers, where you can store your things.

And there’s the tram that comes by every 15 minutes and makes five stops at the Arrivals Plaza, South Beach, Coco Beach Club, Up, Up & Away, Chill Island and Oasis Lagoon to get you from A to B in no time, so you can enjoy every minute of your day.

Pro tip: Wi-Fi packages also work here, meaning you can post all the bucket-list experiences you’re having right away. 

Q: Can I use a beverage package on the island?

A: Yes! Whether you want a beer from Skipper’s Grill or a cocktail at the swim-up bar in Oasis Lagoon, the same beverage package you have on board can be used on the island. Hydration is key though, and complimentary water and juice are around at all the dining spots.

Pro tip: Try out the Coco Loco, the island’s signature drink made with coconut rum, coconut milk, guava syrup and lime juice. 

Whether you’re looking for a three-night getaway or even a vacation as long as 15 nights, take your pick from all kinds of ships that will take you to this slice of paradise and more destinations like Cozumel, Mexico and Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas. These cruises leave from convenient cities like Fort Lauderdale, Miami and Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida and Cape Liberty (Bayonne), New Jersey, on ships like Wonder, Utopia and Icon of the Seas.

With so many activities to choose from, a day on Royal Caribbean’s private island is a day unlike any other. Start planning your vacation to paradise here.