Free Beach, Paid Thrills
Nolan O'Connor
| 19-01-2026

· Travel team
Hey Lykkers! Alright, let’s get real for a second. When you think of a perfect Caribbean island, what comes to mind? Powder-soft sand, water in shades of blue you thought only existed in filters, and maybe a fruity drink with a tiny umbrella? Well, picture that… and then multiply the fun by a thousand.
That’s Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas. But here’s the twist: this isn't just any island; it’s a private paradise owned by Royal Caribbean, designed for one thing only: pure, unadulterated joy. Think of it as your favorite theme park and the world’s best beach had a baby. Ready to explore?
Your Perfect Day Playbook: 7 Must-Visit Spots
CocoCay is split into chill zones and thrill zones, so you can go from adrenaline-pumping to nap-inducing in minutes. A huge heads up: Most activities cost extra. Prices below are estimated in USD per person. Costs vary wildly based on whether you buy packages in advance (DO THIS!) or on the ship.
1. Thrill Waterpark & Daredevil’s Peak
The Vibe: Adrenaline HQ. Home to the tallest waterslide in North America, Daredevil’s Peak. This is for the thrill-seekers who want to scream their lungs out while plummeting down towering slides like the Dueling Demons.
The Experience: A full day of sliding, racing, and splashing. Lines can get long, so hit the biggest slides first.
Estimated Cost: $80 - $150+ for a full-day pass. Cost may vary; this is the premium add-on. Book it months before your cruise for the best price.
2. Chill Island
The Vibe: The postcard-perfect, classic Bahamian beach. This is your serene escape—miles of pristine white sand, calm turquoise water for swimming, and plenty of complimentary loungers.
The Experience: Pure relaxation. Wade in the warm water, read a book, and soak up the sun. It’s free, beautiful, and often less crowded than other areas.
Estimated Cost: $0 for beach access & loungers. Cost may vary for rented cabanas or floating mats.
3. Up, Up & Away Helium Balloon
The Vibe: Breathtaking, peaceful elevation. This tethered balloon takes you 450 feet up for a stunning 360-degree view of the entire island and the endless blue ocean.
The Experience: A 10-15 minute flight that’s surprisingly serene. Perfect for amazing photos and getting your bearings.
Estimated Cost: $30 - $50 per person. Cost may vary; it’s weather-dependent and can sell out fast.
4. Oasis Lagoon (The Largest Freshwater Pool in the Caribbean)
The Vibe: The ultimate pool party. A massive, sprawling pool with a swim-up bar, submerged loungers, and a vibrant, social atmosphere. The music is pumping, the drinks are flowing.
The Experience: Socializing, swimming, and claiming a spot in the water with a Coco Loco in hand. The centerpiece of the island’s lively side.
Estimated Cost: $0 for pool access. Cost may vary for drinks, cabanas, or reserved loungers.
5. Captain Jill’s Galleon (Splashaway Bay & The Wave Pool)
The Vibe: Family-friendly splash central. A giant water playground for kids with slides, climbers, and dump buckets, right next to a huge wave pool. Pure, squealing fun for the younger crowd.
The Experience: Let the kids run wild while you relax nearby or join in the wave pool fun.
Estimated Cost: $0 for access. Your kids might never want to leave.
6. Coco Beach Club
The Vibe: Upscale, exclusive luxury. This is the island’s premium experience, featuring an infinity-edge pool overlooking the ocean, private beach cabanas, and the only restaurant serving a fancy lobster lunch.
The Experience: For those wanting a more refined, quieter, and pampered day. It feels like a separate, elite resort.
Estimated Cost: $200 - $400+ per person for day passes. Cost may vary; this is the ultimate splurge and includes the iconic floating cabanas over the water.
7. South Beach
The Vibe: Active and energetic. This beach is home to many included activities like volleyball, a giant game of Jenga, and plenty of space for games. It’s also where you’ll find the huge, inflatable obstacle course in the ocean, Splash Pad.
The Experience: Playful competition and active fun right on the sand and in the calm sea.
Estimated Cost: $0 for beach access & games. Cost may vary for the Splash Pad aquatic obstacle course ($20-40).
The Lykker's Bottom Line
CocoCay is a choose-your-own-adventure island. You can have an incredible day for $0 by sticking to the beautiful free beaches and pools. Or, you can invest in the Thrill Waterpark or Coco Beach Club for a next-level experience.
Crucial Tip: Book EVERY paid activity online before your cruise. Prices at the island are significantly higher. Wear water shoes, the sand gets hot! Bring a waterproof pouch for your phone and cruise card.
Now, go design your perfect day. Whether it’s heart-pounding slides or hammock-swaying serenity, this island is built to deliver. See you on the beach.