When it comes to cruise line private islands, it’s Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay that stands above everywhere else. That’s not to put down other cruise line destinations. Instead, it’s simply that CocoCay has built a place that’s unlike anywhere else.
Whether you want to hang out on white sand beaches, have an upscale experience in the Coco Beach Club, swim in the massive freshwater pool, or spend the day at the Thrill Waterpark, there is simply something for everyone.
Now, the cruise line just unveiled its latest addition… Hideaway Beach.
Royal Caribbean has worked on the new spot on CocoCay for some time, however, until now there was limited information about the project. All we knew is that it was set to open in early 2024 and it would be adults only.
With an announcement today, the public is getting a full reveal. Set to open in January, we think Hideaway Beach can most easily be thought of as a “destination within a destination.” It’s an entirely self-contained portion of the island that will offer up anything you could want for a great day, all available only to adults.
The new spot is tucked away apart from all the other parts of CocoCay. As you look at the island from the ship, it will be on your right, beyond the waterpark. Pay the admission fee ($39-89 per adult, depending on time of year) and you’ll get access, which comes complete with a private beach, two pools, 20 cabanas (for an additional fee), and seven bars and restaurants.
Of course, the big draw to Hideaway Beach is… well, the beach. Royal Caribbean says the curving beach measures over an acre from end to end. Renderings show it built behind a protective bank of rocks along the shore, meaning that it should be nice and calm even if the ocean is choppy during your day at CocoCay.
In addition there is Hideaway Pool that overlooks the beach. This pool (which is heated, unlike Oasis Lagoon) also offers a shaded swim-up bar and infinity edge. It also has in-pool seating and loungers for guests to enjoy.
Want something even more exclusive? There are 20 cabanas available. This includes 10 Hideaway Cabanas offering your own private space with everything from a fridge, couch, charging outlets, wet bar and an attendant to bring food and drinks.
The even more high-end Hideout Cabanas offer similar items but also features access to an infinity pool that’s available only to guests renting these spaces.
If you’re wanting to spend the entire day at Hideaway Beach, then you can. In addition to amenities like pools, cabanas, and entertainment, there are also dining and drinks available without leaving.
A new concept called On the Rocks is an open-air spot with live music, TVs, pool tables, shuffleboard and of course, plenty of drinks.
There are beach bars also available, as well as what will likely be one of the favorite spots — the Hideaway Bar. Sitting with a large shaded overhang in the middle of Hideaway Pool, the swim-up bar offers not only something to drink, but also a spot to stay in the pool and not be in the sun.
As for eats, Royal Caribbean says that Hideaway Beach will include its own Snack Shack, which is an included quick-serve restaurant offering up chicken sandwiches, mozzarella sticks, salads, and desserts.
There will also be a new concept called Slice of Paradise. It is described as a “rustic pizza haven” that’s free with admission.
Hideaway Beach isn’t ready just yet. Royal Caribbean plans to open the gates to passengers starting January 2024 — alongside the debut of Icon of the Seas. You can see more about the island in the promo video released by the cruise line below:
More on Visiting CocoCay:
- What I Wish I Knew Before Visiting CocoCay (Royal Caribbean’s Private Island)
- CocoCay: 21+ Tips & Things to Know (Prices, What to Do, And More)
- Thrill Waterpark on CocoCay: 20+ Tips, Secrets, and Things to Know