Perfect Day at CocoCay has several beaches — each with its own unique atmosphere and experiences. There's a stretch of shoreline that's all about chill vibes for anyone looking to unwind as they enjoy the sunshine and blue skies above. There's another loaded with family-friendly water sports and activities for those who prefer to stay in motion or fuel their competitive fire. There's even a water park filled with adrenaline-amping slides and attractions sure to keep daredevils and thrill-seekers shrieking for hours.
From the island's signature Coco Loco drink to its elevated Coco Cuvée, Perfect Day at CocoCay offers a wide range of sips worth getting excited about onshore. As in the United States, the drinking age here is 21. If you and your travel companions have purchased Royal Caribbean drink packages, you'll be pleased to know that every sip is included in the price.
If drinking around the world on a private island is the toast of paradise for you, look no further. Here's a go-to guide on the must-try tipples at this Caribbean hideaway — and where to find them, of course.
The Beach Bum
On tropical getaways, many cruisers crave tropical drinks — and the Beach Bum at Perfect Day at CocoCay hits all the right notes. Made with two ounces of Tito's Vodka, this spirited sip will help you beat the Caribbean heat with refreshing pineapple juice and the tang of guava syrup. The bartenders top this one off with a grenadine float that makes me nostalgic for the Shirley Temples of my youth, and the cherry and pineapple garnish doubles as the perfect post-drink snack. You can order The Beach Bum at Captain Jack's®, a bar and restaurant that is home to live music and swing sets, and located adjacent to Skipper's Grill and Splashaway Bay℠
Mai Tai
If you're a rum drinker or like your drinks on the more spirited side, you've probably enjoyed a mai tai at some point. It's one of my top vacation libations, and I can say that the version at Captain Jack's® does not disappoint. Their riff spotlights Goslings Black Seal Rum, which is complemented by the sweet and nutty flavor of Disaronno. Splashes of orange and pineapple juice add tropical flavors, while a little grenadine keeps the cocktail fresh and playful.
Coco Cuvée
No private island vacation to Perfect Day at CocoCay is complete without a visit to the destination's beautiful and exclusive Coco Beach Club®. The club's coastal decor embodies laid-back luxury, while the talented mixologists behind the bar serve up some of the best cocktails on the island. Chief among them is the Coco Cuvée, an elegant, thirst-quenching sparkler made with Malibu coconut rum, refreshing coconut water and pineapple juice. It's topped off with Chandon Sweet Star sparkling wine and garnished with tropical fruit. I think of it as the island version of an Aperol spritz, another of my go-to summertime drinks. It brings the island vibes and plenty of bubbles to keep you feeling cool — and très chic. Keep in mind that you need reservations for Coco Beach Club®, so request a spot ahead of time on your cruise ship or first thing in the morning when you arrive onshore.
Goombay Smash
This one's a classic beachside favorite, and the version that the bartenders sling behind the bar at Coco Beach Club® does the iconic drink justice. Rum lovers will enjoy the cocktail's fusion of smooth Malibu coconut rum and rich Kraken Black Spiced Rum. This dynamic duo is softened by the additions of orange juice and pineapple juice, then garnished with a maraschino cherry and a fresh pineapple wedge. Enjoy your Goombay Smash while you soak up sea views from a table at Coco Beach Club®, or have it delivered to your private cabana if you were lucky enough to snag one.
Watermelon 'Rita
Who doesn't love a margarita — especially one that's fruit-forward and perfectly balanced? Served at both Coco Beach Club® and Captain Jack's®, the watermelon 'rita at Perfect Day at CocoCay is a sweet yet tangy cooler that hits the spot on especially warm spring or hot summer days. It's crafted with tequila, triple sec, watermelon syrup and a margarita mix I'd love the recipe for. I like mine with a salted rim, but you can forego that particular garnish if you prefer to keep your drink sweet and spirited instead.
Coco Loco
Of course, I saved the best for last. The Coco Loco is a tried and true classic among seasoned cruisers well-acquainted with this private island destination. It's been the signature drink at Perfect Day at CocoCay for years, and it never gets old. This iconic frozen drink is blend of dark house rum and tropical fruits that pairs beautifully with salty sea breezes, warm sunshine and Calypso rhythms. Just keep in mind that Coco Locos go down so smoothly that it's easy to lose track of how many you've had — especially if you have a beverage package and happen to be hanging out near the quick-slinging bartenders stationed at the Oasis Lagoon swim-up bar. Sip these slowly and savor the delicious tropical flavors because that rich house rum will sneak up on you.
Get ready to put your Royal Caribbean drink packages to good use and raise a few glasses to an amazing private island vacation. No matter your cocktail of choice, you're in for plenty of delicious options that raise the bar.