Hideaway Beach: Is the adults-only beach at CocoCay worth it?

In:
02 Feb 2024

Ready for a no kids allowed beach day? Royal Caribbean has one entire area on its private island for adults only!

Hideaway Beach

This adults-only beach is called Hideaway Beach, and it's located on Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. If your Royal Caribbean cruise ship visits the island, you have the choice to book a pass here, but everyone needs to be at least 18 years old to enter.

This is more than just a section of beach without kids.  It has impressive offerings in a rather large area that includes a heated pool too.

Here's what to expect if you try Hideaway Beach, and if it's worth the cost.

Hideaway Beach overview

It's a short walk or tram ride to Hideaway Beach, and you can see it from your where your cruise ship docks.

The walk is a mere five minutes, but I'd recommend taking the complimentary tram that departs near the waterpark.

Hideaway Beach has a limited capacity of around 1,800 guests and it's made up of three areas:

  • Beach
  • Infinity pool
  • Cabanas
Hideaway Beach

One thing that you will notice upon entering is how large the area is.  The beach is cove shaped and runs the width of the entire section.  It's certainly among the largest beaches you'll find at Royal Caribbean's private island.

Hideaway Beach palapas
Palapa
Beach swing

There are chairs and umbrellas throughout the beach, and if you venture to the far end of the beach, there are even in-water palapas, hammocks, and swings.

Hideaway Beach pool

The pool area includes a swim-up bar with DJ that plays party music throughout the day. Royal Caribbean wants this area to be fun and lively, and you'll find the party atmosphere in the pool throughout the day.

Swim up bar with DJ

One key difference between the pool at Hideaway compared to Oasis Lagoon is this pool is heated.

Loungers in the pool

There are day beds in the pool, which are available to whoever claims them first.

Admission to Hideaway Beach includes:

  • Access to the beach and pool
  • Complimentary in-water hammocks, resort-style loungers, and umbrellas
  • Food from Hideaway Hut and Slice of Paradise
Hideaway cabana

There are two types of cabanas you can rent for the day, which includes admission for up to six guests.  The Hideaway cabanas are located closer to the pool, while the Hideout cabanas are more of a VIP cabana with private pool.

Hideout Cabanas
Hideaway Hideout cabanas
Hideout cabanas

Hideout cabanas cost more, but offer more exclusivity.

How much does a pass to Hideaway Beach cost?

Hideaway Beach

Royal Caribbean uses variable pricing for admission, but you could pay as much as $99 per person if you wait to buy it onboard your cruise.

The good news is you will almost certainly pay less if you pre-purchase a pass before your cruise begins on the Royal Caribbean website or app. Without a doubt, you should pre-purchase admission to lock in a better price and guard against passes selling out.

Hideout Cabanas

Prices for a cabana will vary just as much, but here is a general ballpark of pricing:

  • Hideaway cabana: $899 - $1,699
  • Hideout cabana: $1,899 - $2,699

To purchase a day pass or cabana, you can do so via Royal Caribbean's website before the cruise.  While you could but it onboard the ship, the price will almost certainly be higher and there's a good chance it will sell out before the cruise even begins.

Remember that you can cancel and rebook prior to your cruise if the price drops.

Dining and food at Hideaway Beach

Slice of Paradise

Admission to Hideaway Beach includes food at two complimentary restaurants.

Hideaway Hut is essentially a plussed version of the Snack Shack found elsewhere on CocoCay. Royal Caribbean took the base menu there, and added more options to provide added value.

In addition to the favorites from the Snack Shack, you'll find coconut shrimp basket, fish sandwich, and ceviche.

The other restaurant you can dine at is Slice of Paradise, which offers pizza and empanadas.

Slice of Paradise menu

While there's pizza on your cruise ship, there's no pizza elsewhere on the island, so this is a new option.

Slice of Paradise pizza
Shrimp pizza
Empanadas

There are a few varieties of pizza to try, and it's available by the slice.  Fresh made empanadas are also available.

The food in Hideaway is very tasty and also very quick. I think the idea is being in Hideaway means enjoying a fun day in the beach and pool, and Royal Caribbean wants to enable guests to be able to get something to eat and return to the fun quicker.

Slice of Paradise cabana menu
Cabana menu

If you have a cabana booked, food can be delivered to your cabana from the same restaurants you can walk to in Hideaway. Every cabana has a cabana attendant that visits your cabana regularly to bring food or drink you might want.

The food is included, but drinks cost extra. If you have a Royal Caribbean drink package, your benefits work in Hideaway Beach and you'll be able to enjoy those benefits in the cabana too. Ditto for Diamond Drink vouchers.

Hideout cabanas can also enjoy bottle service.

Is Hideaway Beach worth it?

Hideaway Beach pool

Hideaway Beach is much more than just another beach on Perfect Day at CocoCay that caters to just adults.  It encapsulates arguably the best island experience to date.

At its heart, Hideaway Beach is about picking a place just for adults. While Royal Caribbean cruise ships are family-friendly ships, getting a break from the kids might be a nice change of pace for a segment of the population.  I think there's other people that would prefer the amenities offered at Hideaway Beach regardless of the fact there's kids or not.

Look at Hideaway Beach pool

In spending the day at Hideaway Beach, it's clear that Royal Caribbean has cherry picked the best things from around Perfect Day and incorporated them into Hideaway. It has the infinity pool from Coco Beach Club, the DJ and swim-up bar from Oasis Lagoon, the Snack Shack, and of course a beautiful cove.

Speaking of the DJ, there's a lot of music in the Hideaway. You can expect a live band performing at On The Rocks bar, DJ music at the pool, and piped in music around the beach. If you're looking for a quiet beach day, the Coco Beach Club might be a better fit for you.

Hideout cabana

If a cabana is in your budget, they are a wonderful way to enhance your day. The added service, reserved seating, and shade provided is a nice upgrade.  

The upgraded food choices is also a nice touch. While you wont confuse the food here to the Coco Beach Club, you're also paying significantly less.

As a parent of school-aged kids, an adults-only area was never high on my wish list.  But I have to admit the amenities in Hideaway Beach are so compelling, I'm contemplating how I can take my wife and leave the kids with someone else because the experience is so fun.

Hideaway Beach

I love the heated pool, swim-up bar, and beautiful beach cove. There's less seaweed at Hideaway than at other beaches too.

If there's one thing I don't care for that much, it's the DJ and the loud party music that is played throughout the day. Based on how many people were in the pool and dancing along to the music, I recognize this is a "me problem" and I'm probably in the minority.  Nonetheless, I had a great time because of the upgraded nature of this area.

If you can book admission for under $50 per person, I think Hideaway Beach is worth booking. Royal Caribbean has hit a home run with combining some of their best ideas in one area. The fact it's adults-only is secondary, that's how good the area feels.

MrBeast, World's biggest YouTuber, visits Perfect Day at CocoCay

In:
29 Jan 2024

Can you imagine spending an entire day at Perfect Day at CocoCay by yourself?

mr-beast-cococay-hero

MrBeast, YouTube's most acclaimed entertainment star, visited CocoCay with three of his friends to experience everything the $250 million island has to offer.  

Jimmy Donaldson, who is known by his alias MrBeast, has over 230 million subscribers. Since joining YouTube in 2012, he has amassed over 42 billion views! He was also the second YouTube creator to surpass 100 million subscribers. 

In a recent video, he spent the afternoon at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's private island in The Bahamas, to compare it to other private islands around the world. Since published, the video has received over 62 million views. 

mr-beast-cococay-4

"Literally anything you could ever want is on this private island," he said.

MrBeast isn't just a content creator

Mr-Beast-Kids-Choice-Awards-Stock

In addition to being a popular content creator and social media star, he's also a philanthropist who has founded and co-founded different organizations and fundraisers, including Team Trees, which raised 20 million dollars before the start of 2020 to plant 20 million trees. 

He has a second YouTube channel called "Beast Philanthropy," in which he states that 100% of the profits from ads, merch sales, and sponsorships will go towards making the world a better place. 

While not as popular as his primary account, it still has over 20 million subscribers! 

A glimpse at private islands around the world

mr-beast-private-island-1

After purchasing a small island for $1, MrBeast proceeded to blow it up since "...there was nothing [there]." He and his crew then made their way to Monkey Island, a $1 million island that's swarming with literal monkeys. 

The next island on their list was pretty different from CocoCay, so they had to trade in their swim trunks and flip-flops for parkas and beanies. To reach the island, they had to ride in hovercrafts since the lake was frozen solid!

mr-beast-private-island-2

While not an adventure on one of the world's largest cruise ships, it certainly was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

Activities here included hanging out with sled dogs and getting some pretty amazing views of the Northern Lights! 

Necker Island, the $150 million island, was nothing short of luxurious. It took over four decades to build and is owned by Richard Branson. 

mr-beast-necker-island-bvi

MrBeast said that for every person in your travel party, there are ten staff members to wait on your every need, even if it's just cheering you on during a solo game of pool. 

One of the buildings has a golfing range on the roof with balls made of fish food, so they're safe to be hit into the sea! 

The last (and most expensive) island that he visited was CocoCay

mr-beast-cococay-1

Located roughly 140 miles off the coast of Miami is Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's private island that underwent an extensive $250 million renovation in 2019. This renovation added tons of new activities, as well as a colorful pier, so guests do not have to board a tender to get ashore. 

"This extraordinary island has an entire amusement park with over a dozen water slides," he said referring to Thrill Waterpark

Admission to the water park isn't included in the cost of your cruise; the price usually ranges from $89 to $169 per person. 

mr-beast-cococay-2

"In the middle of the island is a massive water slide. Even though literal 8-year-olds ride that water slide, I might still chicken out because I'm afraid of heights," joked MrBeast. 

Recently, Royal Caribbean added the Tailspain, a family flume-style ride that's located at the Splash Summit Tower. 

While MrBeast and his posse ended up trying out the new slide for themselves, they first sent all the lifeguards down! They figured that, with only four guests on the island, they didn't need 100+ lifeguards at work. 

mr-beast-cococay-3

The other tower in the park, Daredevil's Tower, is home to the tallest water slide in North America: Daredevil's Peak. 

"Daredevil's Peak, what a soothing name," said MrBeast before he began the climb up. 

After losing "nose goes," his friend Nolan was the first to ride the slide. He remarked that he felt like he was hit by a truck! MrBeast claimed that he felt as though he was drowning the entire time. 

Read more: I went to CocoCay for the first time, and here's what I'd do differently

mr-beast-cococay-5

Earlier in the day, the friends spent time trying out other activities, including the 1,600-foot zip line. Like Thrill Waterpark, the zip line costs extra. For my upcoming cruise onboard Celebrity Reflection in April, it's currently available for $92 per person. 

In addition to the obvious beaches, CocoCay has numerous offerings for those who don't want to spend any additional money, such as basketball, corn hole, ping-pong, and even an enlarged soccer ball pool.

Perfect Day at CocoCay is also home to the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean: Oasis Lagoon. 

mr-beast-cococay-6

Something that he didn't touch on was the brand-new Hideaway Beach, the extra cost adults-only retreat for guests 18+. For those who splurge on admission, they'll find a private beach, two pools, 20 cabanas, seven open-air bars, dining options, and more. 

They also didn't venture to Coco Beach Club, the island's exclusive enclave for those who value a more elevated experience. In addition to a private beach, Coco Beach Club guests have an upscale restaurant included in the cost where they can order things like filet mignon, lobster, etc. 

From Thrill Waterpark to simply enjoying each other's company over a friendly game of basketball and making new animal friends while walking from one activity to the next, it was impossible to fully experience everything in such a short period, even though they had the island to themselves. 

"This island has things that I didn't even know existed," MrBeast said. 

Read more: Video shows look around Royal Caribbean's new adults-only beach

5 best reasons to stay onboard the ship while in Perfect Day at CocoCay

In:
04 Jan 2024

Perfect Day at CocoCay is a popular port of call on Royal Caribbean cruises to The Bahamas and Caribbean. As such, it's not uncommon to find yourself repeatedly visiting the private island if you frequently seek warm-weather itineraries on some of the largest ships at sea. 

When Royal Caribbean completed renovating the island in 2019, it became more than just your average beach day. Now, you can splurge on activities like riding the tallest water slide in North America, an upscale beach club, zip line, overwater cabana, and more. 

While there's no denying it's easy to have a great ashore no matter how many times you've visited, you should not always feel like you have to get off the ship. 

Sometimes, the perfect day at CocoCay isn't actually ON CocoCay. 

Here are the 5 best reasons to stay onboard the ship while in Perfect Day at CocoCay. 

You won't have to deal with chair hogs

If you awaken too late on a sea day, it's likely that when you head up to the pool deck, you'll see a sea (no pun intended) of chairs reserved with towels and personal belongings. 

Chair hogs are individuals who reserve chairs for the entire day, even if they are not planning on staying nearby. 

And while there should technically be pool attendants on the lookout, it's difficult for them to keep a watch on the entire pool deck. 

If you want to enjoy the pool with minimal people around, consider staying onboard when your ship docks at Perfect Day at CocoCay

Rather than rushing off the ship to claim the perfect beach chairs, you can sleep in, have a late breakfast, and enjoy the top deck like it's your own chartered yacht! 

RelatedHow to beat the chair hogs on your cruise ship

The lines for onboard thrills will be shorter

Zip line ride

Simiarly, the lines for onboard attractions can get rather long on sea days.

One of the best ways to ensure that you won't have a long wait for anything that's on your must-do list on days when everyone is onboard is to get to whatever you are hoping to do as soon as it opens. 

If you're someone who wants to ride the water slides more than once or become a Flowrider surf pro, you'll have more opportunities to do so while the ship is docked, as there will be fewer people in line. 

FlowRider

Plus, if you're short on time (i.e., on a 3- or 4-night cruise onboard Utopia of the Seas), you won't have as many chances to experience everything that's onboard. You may find it a more valuable use of time to stay on the ship, rather than spending the day on the beach. 

Additionally, if you are on a Quantum Class ship, you'll be able to ride the North Star for free while docked, whereas sea day rides are not included in the cost of your cruise fare. 

You'll be able to soar high above Perfect Day at CocoCay and look out over neighboring Bahamian islands, including Norwegian Cruise Line's Great Stirrup Cay. 

RelatedTop 30 extra cruise costs that are not included

You might be able to save money on a spa treatment

Massage at the spa

Spa treatments onboard cruise ships are costly. Massages often start around $150 for 50 minutes, while a 75-minute deep tissue couples massage can be upwards of $390. 

If you want to save money while treating yourself to a much-needed day at the spa, head there on embarkation day to see if any deals are being offered. Plus, you can get a tour of the spa to get a glimpse of the treatment facilities. 

Usually, they will have something available on port days to entice people to stay onboard. You can also check the night before your ship is scheduled to arrive in CocoCay, as well as the morning of. 

There won't be as many people at the buffet for lunch

Windjammer table

You won't have to worry about being patient while waiting in line for lunch if you stay on the cruise ship while it's docked at CocoCay.

It's not uncommon to see long lines for various eateries at peak times on sea days. Something as simple as lunch could take longer than anticipated if you show up to the Windjammer around 12:30pm. 

When your Royal Caribbean ship is relatively empty with the majority of passengers ashore, it will be easy to grab a quick bite to eat and return to the more pressing matters, such as ensuring you have an even tan, playing a round of mini-golf, or soaring high above the Boardwalk on the zip line. 

RelatedGuide to Royal Caribbean's Windjammer Cafe buffet

You won't feel the need to spend money on an excursion

Yes, it's true. The price of a Royal Caribbean cruise has increased. If you're planning on sailing onboard one of their newest ships, like Icon of the Seas, you can expect to spend around $1,500 per person for an interior room. 

Since there's so much to do onboard, these ships are a destination in and of themselves. On Icon, for instance, you can spend the day at the Category 6 Water Park or in the brand-new Surfside Neighborhood with activities for the whole family to enjoy. 

If you've visited Perfect Day at CocoCay before, you may not be willing to spend money on an excursion after splurging on one of these mega-ships. Even though the beach is complimentary, there are more active activities that can be found on the ship that you already paid for! 

Related10 genius things cruise ship passengers brought to Royal Caribbean's private island to make it even better

Royal Caribbean opens new slide at Perfect Day at CocoCay's Thrill Waterpark

In:
08 Dec 2023

Royal Caribbean opened their brand-new water slide at Perfect Day at CocoCay's Thrill Waterpark ahead of schedule. 

cococay slide

Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley turned to Facebook to announce its opening: "We opened a new slide at Perfect Day Coco Cay today to enhance the Thrill and keep the kids busy and happy while the Moms and Dads Chill with a Pina Colada."

Read more: 41 Perfect Day at CocoCay tips & tricks

In late October, Neva Heaston, Director of Private Destinations for Royal Caribbean International, said, "Look out for announcements from marketing, we are set to announce the name and open the ride in Q1 2024."

new-slide-2

Located at the Splash Summit Tower, which is where you can also find the Sling Shot family raft slide, Splash Speedway mat slide, and Twister tube ride, the Tailspin is a family flume-style ride that uses the exact same rafts as the Sling Shot. 

Parties of 2-4 guests are sent into the bright green slide before shortly entering a dark tube that's illuminated with colorful lights. 

new cococay slide

The entirety of the slide isn't enclosed, though. And as the name suggests, there are sharp turns that are sure to get everyone a little wet! 

Related41 Perfect Day at CocoCay tips, tricks and secrets

What is Thrill Waterpark?

cococay-aerial

Located on Royal Caribbean's private island in The Bahamas, Thrill Waterpark opened in 2019 as part of the cruise line's $250 million renovation. 

Admission usually ranges from $89 to $169 per person, depending on what ship you're sailing on and when your cruise is set to take place. There are even cabanas located within the waterpark that include the cost of admission for up to six guests. 

You can also expect a cabana attendant, sectional sofa, two resort-style chairs, power outlets, towels, and complimentary water bottles.

new-slide-4

Note that children under the age of 14 are required to be accompanied by a ticketed guest who is 14 years old or older. Otherwise, they will be denied admission. 

With the opening of Tailspin, there are now nine slides for guests to enjoy. Additionally, there's a wave pool and obstacle course named "Adventure Pool," where you'll find a rope swing, rock wall, lily pads, and more. 

Going down the slides

Five slides are located within Daredevil's Tower, including the tallest waterslide in North America: Daredevil's Peak. The remaining four slides can be found at Splash Summit. 

15+ ways to slide

Category 6 water park

If you're cruising on Icon of the Seas, with the addition of the brand-new slide at Thrill Waterpark, you're able to try out over fifteen different water slides, both at sea and on land. 

Simiarily, Utopia of the Seas will have the longest dry slide at sea, so whether you're a fan of water slides or not, you have yet another way to get your adrenaline pumping. 

"We are very excited to add another amazing addition to Thrill Waterpark for families and friends to enjoy together," said Heaston. 

Are annual passes to Thrill Waterpark on the horizon?

While nothing's been confirmed, Royal Caribbean President and CEO Michael Bayley responded to a comment written by Christopher Birdsong on his Facebook account asking if they've ever thought about selling annual passes to Thrill Waterpark for those who frequently visit Perfect Day at CocoCay. 

Bayley said, "Great idea. We will look into this." 

fb-comment

If annual passes were offered, how much would you be willing to pay? And, if offered, would they entice you to visit CocoCay even more, since you would be guaranteed to always have an extra-cost activity reserved? 

Video shows look around Royal Caribbean's new adults-only beach

In:
04 Dec 2023

Royal Caribbean's new adults-only beach expansion at its private island is still under construction, but a new video from inside the park has our first look at how it's progressing.

Hideaway Beach construction update

Hideaway Beach is the adults-only beach Royal Caribbean is adding to Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas that is still being finished.

The new area will be open to guests 18-years-old or older and feature an infinity pool with swim-up bar and DJ music.  There will also be a sports bar, cabanas to rent, and dining venues.

Read more41 Perfect Day at CocoCay tips, tricks and secrets

Hideaway Beach Club render

The new area will open in January 2024 in time for Icon of the Seas to start sailing.

Royal Caribbean Director of Design Marissa Abreu posted a video update showing off how much has been done already.

The first video shows the pool area at the cabanas, known as The Hideout.

Hideaway Beach construction

The Hideout is an exclusive area you can get access to if you rent a cabana here. This is where you'll find poolside cabana with in-water loungers, outdoor shower access, Bluetooth speaker, floating beach mats, resort-style seating, a cooler, sink, mini fridge, charging outlets, ceiling fans, and private lockable storage space.

The video then pans to the right and shows more of the Hideout pool, along with a view in the background of the cove that will become the beach.

Hideaway Beach construction

The beach area is more than acre in size and has loungers and umbrellas, and there will be in-the-water hammocks and swings in the water.

The entire Hideaway Beach area will be over eight acres in size, bringing the total size of Perfect Day at CocoCay to 65 acres.

Hideaway Beach construction

As the video continues to pan to the right, you can see more of The Hideout and more of the cabanas being worked on.

It appears each cabana will have a heated plunge pool at the front of each cabana, with deeper water that connects all the cabanas running in front.

The cabana attendants will not only bring you food and drinks, but Royal Caribbean is working on bottle service.

Hideaway Beach construction

A still photo shows some of the work being done in the main pool, showing one of the dining venues in the background.

Hideaway Pool will have a swim-up bar that has an infinity edge facing the beach. 

Hideaway Beach construction

Another look at the pool shows the infinity edge facing the ocean, and an island in the middle of the pool.

This could be where the DJ will be located, as Royal Caribbean said the DJ will play music from an island in the middle of the pool to keep the party atmosphere going.

The Hideaway pool will be the massive freshwater pool where you'll find the DJ located near a swim-up bar.

Hideaway Beach construction

The final still photo shows a sunset view of the pool with the pool's lights on.

It's a pretty photo of the pool glowing at dusk, and it also shows the beach area that is still being worked on.

Throughout all the photos you can see plenty of palm trees that have been added.

A new kind of experience

Hideaway Beach Club render

Hideaway Beach will offer an extra-cost add-on to consider for adults who want to enjoy a lively atmosphere and no kids, and it's gotten a lot of interest from cruisers who are looking for something more than CocoCay had in the past.

While the Coco Beach Club is a high end experience and the rest of the island caters to families, Hideaway Beach is meant to be an enclave for adults seeking something else.

Based on guest feedback, Royal Caribbean came up with a place to have a drink in hand, to listen, to live music and to have incredible views. Think Las Vegas pool party vibes, DJ dancing, drinks, grab and go food options, and adults only.

Hideaway Beach Club render

The beach is located on the northwest part of the island, and Royal Caribbean purposefully wanted it away from everything else happening on the island to give it a sense of seclusion.

The new area has a capacity of around 1500 to 2000 guests. The Hideaway pool will be heated to 82 degrees year round for guest comfort.

Photos: Royal Caribbean Hideaway Beach construction update & changes to Coco Beach Club

In:
07 Nov 2023

Work continues on the new adults-only area at Royal Caribbean's private island in The Bahamas.

Perfect Day at CocoCay on November 5

After visiting Perfect Day at CocoCay on November 5th, I was able to get photos of the progress being made on the new expansion that will add an a haven for adults.

Read more41 Perfect Day at CocoCay tips and secrets

Hideaway Beach will open in late January 2024 and will be open to only cruise ship passengers that are 18 years old or older.

Hideaway Beach Club render

This area is not included, and the exact cost to enter is priced dynamically based on your sailing and what time of year you're going. 

Here's a look at the changes and updates I saw while visiting this weekend.

Construction photo update

Hideaway Beach construction

Hideaway Beach will be located on the western side of the island, essentially "behind" Thrill waterpark.

Access on foot is closed off to passengers, but we were able to get photos from the back of Allure of the Seas.

On the rocks construction

The most visible building under construction is On The Rocks, which is the first sports bar to be added to CocoCay.

Location of the bar

Located on the rocky shore, it will be where to go to watch live sports and play games, such as pool and shuffleboard.

Hideaway Beach construction
Hideaway Beach construction

Looking further back, I can see the pool for The Hideout is starting to take shape. This is where you'll find poolside cabana with in-water loungers, outdoor shower access, Bluetooth speaker, floating beach mats, resort-style seating, a cooler, sink, mini fridge, charging outlets, ceiling fans, and private lockable storage space.

Hideaway Beach construction

At the end of CocoCay is more construction work, that looks to be primarily staging for Hideaway Beach construction, along with new buildings going up.

New tram station added

Tram station construction

When you walk down the pier, it's apparent they are adding a tram station near the current tram station to take guests to Hideaway Beach.

Tram station construction
Tram station construction

Royal Caribbean provides tram service around the island at no additional cost so that guests can easily get from point A to point B.

Currently, the new station is hidden behind planters to prevent guests from accessing the area.

Coco Beach Club cabana policy changes

I was also made aware of two changes to the Coco Beach Club cabanas during my visit to the island.

Cabana wristband

First, is cabana guests must wear wristbands, even when not leaving the cabana. 

The other policy change is for additional guests at a Coco Beach Club Cabana. 

Floating cabana

If you want to add more than the 8 people included with a single cabana purchase, there is a charge of $50 per person, plus the purchase of a Coco Beach Club Day Pass per guest, for a maximum of 2 additional people.

Previously, only a Coco Beach Club Day Pass was necessary.

Royal Caribbean's new adults-only beach is seeing "gangbuster" demand

In:
30 Oct 2023

The demand for an adults-only beach has blown away Royal Caribbean's wildest expectations.

Hideaway Beach Club render

Within three weeks of bookings opening, the company has already increased the price for this brand-new experience that's set to open in January 2024. 

"Hideaway Beach is our newest adult-only ultimate beachfront paradise at Perfect Day at CocoCay. Pre-cruise sales for Hideaway Beach and premium offerings are exceeding our expectations," said Jason Liberty, CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, on October 26 during the company's third quarter earnings call. 

Perfect Day at CocoCay as seen from cruise ship at pier

If there was any doubt there was demand for an adults-only area, the sales thus far even before it has opened says everything we need to know.

Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley told investors, "we opened for sale for this one product about three weeks ago, and it's going gangbusters. I mean, we're delighted with the product."

Royal Caribbean was so delighted they've already started to increase the price due to demand, "We've already started pushing up the pricing for that experience."

He believes the new beach will make a huge difference, "It's going to be really a game changer, and the demand has been exceptional."

In addition, Royal Caribbean is seeing an elevated demand for ships sailing to CocoCay, meaning that this may result in a price increase for sailings with the private island on their itineraries. 

3 million guests are expected to visit the island in 2024, which is up from 2.5 million in 2023. 

RelatedRoyal Caribbean reveals adults-only beach expansion in The Bahamas featuring in-water hammocks, cabanas and more

What is Hideaway Beach?

Hideaway Beach Club render

Hideaway Beach was first announced back in September 2021 by Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley. 

Located at Perfect Day at CocoCay, this adults-only escape will be accessible to those who are 18 and older. 

This experience is not included, and the exact cost to enter is priced dynamically based on your sailing and what time of year you're going. 

hideaway-beach-pricing-celebrity-reflection

Pricing for Hideaway Beach during a Celebrity Reflection cruise departing on April 21, 2024 currently costs $52.99 per person on the Cruise Planner, while the price on Icon of the Seas' inaugural voyage slated for January 27, 2024 is $88.99. 

In addition to a private beach, the adults-only area includes two pools, 20 extra-cost cabanas, seven open-air bars, places to eat, and more. 

Hideaway Beach Club render

One of the pools will feature a DJ and swim-up bar. There are also in-water seating and loungers, as well as poolside loungers for those who don't want to be in the water all day. 

Note that if you purchase a cabana, it includes eight passes to Hideaway Beach. You're able to add up to two more people for $50 extra, plus the cost of a Hideaway Beach Full Day Pass. 

Related10 things you didn't know about Perfect Day at CocoCay

Why does Hideaway Beach matter?

Hideaway Beach Club render

While you can go ahead and make your booking, Hideaway Beach officially opens for guests at the same time Icon of the Seas launches in January.

Just seven months later, Utopia of the Seas sets sail, too. Both ships, which will be the two largest in the world, are set to visit Perfect Day at CocoCay during every sailing, with Utopia visiting twice per week on her 3- and 4-night short cruises. 

Whether you're a devoted Royal Caribbean fan who is looking forward to the launch of Icon or someone who is new to cruising and doesn't want to commit to a longer sailing but wants to experience the best of the best, you'll get the chance to visit Perfect Day at CocoCay on a one-of-a-kind ship and visit the brand-new Hideaway Beach. 

Icon of the Seas rendering at CocoCay

"...strength in volume allows us to continue to improve on the rate side, and you combine all that with incredible hardware coming into place next year, especially Icon of the Seas, as well as more volume on to places like Perfect Day because of Hideaway, we feel very good about our yield projections for next year," remarked Liberty during the earnings call. 

"...Hideaway, which delivers incredible margins, which will improve our yield profile, but also has costs with no APCDs, So all in all, we feel very good.”

Mr. Bayley talked about the opening of Hideaway Beach coinciding with the launch of Icon of the Seas is going to be a great fit, "all of that comes online with Icon of the Seas, which is by far the best-selling product we've ever launched in the history of our business, and it continues to perform at an exceptionally high level."

"So, the combo of Icon with Hideaway is really for us exceptionally exciting. And then, of course, we've got Utopia going straight into the shorts market, to Perfect Day in the summer."

RelatedRoyal Caribbean has a plan to dominate short cruises with a new ship and private destinations

Other changes coming to Perfect Day at CocoCay

Waterslide construction

Thrill Waterpark at CocoCay will see a new addition in 2024, too, as a new water slide is going to be joining the Splash Summit tower, which is currently home to the Sling Shot family raft slide, Splash Speedway mat slide, and Twister tube ride.

The new Family Flume Water Slide will be able to accommodate groups of 2-4 people and will use the same rafts as the Sling Shot. 

Like Hideaway Beach, Thrill Waterpark costs extra, with the average admission price ranging from $89 to $169 per person. Note that if you purchase a pass to Hideaway Beach, you will not be able to access Thrill Waterpark. 

New water slide coming to Thrill Waterpark at Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay

In:
25 Oct 2023

A brand-new water slide is set to open at Perfect Day at CocoCay's Thrill Waterpark in 2024. 

new-waterslide-hero-cococay

The Family Flume Water Slide will be able to accommodate groups of 2-4 people at a time and will be part of the Splash Summit Tower, where you can currently find the Sling Shot family raft slide, Splash Speedway mat slide, and Twister tube ride.

Royal Caribbean Blog reader Bobby Southard visited Thrill Waterpark last weekend and noticed a new pole. While initially a new ride was just speculation, the addition of the new water slide has been confirmed by Royal Caribbean International.  

Waterslide construction

"We are very excited to add another amazing addition to Thrill Waterpark for families and friends to enjoy together," said Neva Heaston, Director of Private Destinations for Royal Caribbean International.

The ride, whose name has not been announced yet, will use the same raft as the Sling Shot.  

Waterslide construction

Royal Caribbean is also working on adding a new staircase for the Splash Speedway, which will provide direct access to the mat races, improving the flow and convenience of Thrill Waterpark since mat riders won't have to mix with raft riders. 

Related10 things you didn't know about Perfect Day at CocoCay

What is Thrill Waterpark?

Thrill Waterpark opened as part of Royal Caribbean's $250 million renovation of the island in 2019. It's an extra-cost activity, meaning that it's not included in the cost of your cruise fare. 

You're still able to enjoy the island without purchasing admission to the waterpark, which usually ranges from $89 to $169 per person. It does not include admission to other areas like Coco Beach Club and the adults-only Hideaway Beach

If you want, you can splurge on a cabana rental inside of Thrill Waterpark. Included in the cost is admission for up to six guests, as well as a cabana attendant, a lush sectional sofa, two resort-style chairs, power outlets, towels, and complimentary water bottles. 

Going down the slides

The price of admission varies depending on what ship you are sailing on, as well as when your cruise is set to commence. Like other add-ons, Royal Caribbean uses dynamic pricing to determine the cost. 

Currently, there are eight different slides for guests to enjoy. There's also a wave pool, which is the largest one in the Caribbean, and an obstacle course pool named Adventure Pool that has lily pads, a rope swing, a rock wall, and more

Wave pool

Daredevil’s Tower is one of the two different towers that's home to five different slides, including  Daredevil’s Peak. This is currently the tallest waterslide in North America at 135 feet high! 

Splash Summit is the other tower where the new ride is being constructed. It will live alongside of the mat racer slides, family raft ride, and tube slide. 

If you do decide to visit Thrill Waterpark, you'll want to try and ride the slides before 11:00am or after 3:00pm for the shortest wait times. You're free to come and go as you please, so you can spend the early morning and later afternoon in the park while still having time to explore the rest of the island and grab a bite to eat at the Chill Grill for lunch. 

Spotted: Is Royal Caribbean adding new waterslides to its private island?

In:
23 Oct 2023

It looks like a new water slide might be coming to Royal Caribbean's private island in The Bahamas.

New waterslide construction

Inside Royal Caribbean's waterpark at Perfect Day at CocoCay, new construction has appeared recently that looks like a waterslide support tower.

Royal Caribbean Blog reader Bobby Southard visited Thrill Waterpark over the weekend and noticed the new pole.

Waterslide construction

The new pole is located near the family tower of water slides, which already has three slides: Sling Shot family raft slide, Splash Speedway mat slide, and Twister tube ride.

Royal Caribbean has not announced any new slides being added to its waterpark yet.

Waterslide construction

The new pole and its arms look identical to the existing slide support poles.

Waterslide construction
Waterslide construction

"None of the new slide has actually been installed yet, just a pole with arms and you can see piping going up the structure," Mr. Southard described of the work being done.

Waterslide construction

There is also more of the unassembled slide support structure visible from the waterslides when looking towards the backstage area.

About Thrill waterpark

Going down the slides

Thrill Waterpark is an extra-cost option for guests that visit Perfect Day at CocoCay. Only those that buy a ticket can get into this area and enjoy the slides.

Read more41 Perfect Day at CocoCay tips

As of today, there are 8 slides across to towers, along with a wave pool and obstacle course pool.

Thrill waterpark was added when Perfect Day at CocoCay opened in 2019.

The price of admission into the waterpark varies considerably depending on which ship and sail date you are on. Royal Caribbean uses dynamic pricing to set the cost.

Across a few cruises booked in 2024, the cost ranges between $89 - $169 per person.

Thrill Waterpark there are four main areas within the park itself.

Daredevil’s Tower is the signature waterslide tower that has five different slides, including Daredevil’s Peak, which is the tallest waterslide in North America at 135 feet high.

Splash Summit is the other waterslide tower where the new slide construction has been spotted. Splash Summit has mat racer slides, a two-person tube slide, and a family raft slide.

Adventure pool

Adventure Pool is an obstacle course pool designed for kids that has lillypads, a rope swing, rock wall and more.

Wave pool

The wave pool generates waves that are intense in the deep end, and gentle in the shallow end.

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast Episode - Hideaway Beach

In:
20 Sep 2023

Listen to the Show

Matt shares his thoughts on Royal Caribbean's Hideaway Beach adults-only area reveal.

Share with me your thoughts, questions and comments via...

On this episode:
Running time:
Subscribe to Perfect Day at CocoCay