Carnival's Celebration Key: Complete Guide and Is It Worth It?
Quick answer: Celebration Key is Carnival's private destination on Grand Bahama. Entry, the two huge freshwater lagoons, the beach, loungers and lunch are included in your cruise fare. Extras like Pearl Cove Beach Club, cabanas, the racing waterslides and alcohol cost more. For most families, it is one of the best beach days in cruising without spending a dollar more.
Celebration Key opened on July 19, 2025, and Carnival is sending most of its fleet there. If your Carnival cruise includes a stop, here is how to plan the perfect day.
Getting there and getting around
Ships dock right at Celebration Key's own pier, which expanded from two to four berths in June 2026. No tender boats needed. You walk or take a tram from the ship to Paradise Plaza, and trams loop around the destination all day.
The five portals
Portal | Who it's for | What's there |
|---|---|---|
Paradise Plaza | Everyone | Welcome area with live music, shops and ice cream |
Starfish Lagoon | Families | Huge freshwater lagoon, kids' splash areas, beach, sports courts |
Calypso Lagoon | Teens and adults | Freshwater lagoon with a swim-up bar; now open to guests 13+ |
Lokono Cove | Everyone | Bahamian market with local crafts and food |
Pearl Cove Beach Club | Adults 18+ | Paid, adults-only club with an infinity pool and upscale dining |
Each lagoon covers about 275,000 square feet, which makes them some of the largest freshwater lagoons in the region.
What's free
Entry to Celebration Key
Starfish Lagoon and Calypso Lagoon
The beach, loungers and umbrellas (first come, first served)
Kids' splash areas
Trams around the destination
Included lunch spots
What costs extra
Extra | Approximate price |
|---|---|
Suncastle racing waterslides | About $15 per person |
Daybeds | About $150 ($350 for Pearl Cove luxury daybeds) |
Pearl Cove Beach Club day pass | About $60 to $180 per adult, depending on tier and sailing |
Lagoon cabanas | About $420 to $900 per cabana |
Super Villas | About $1,200 to $2,800 |
Alcohol, snorkel and kayak rentals | Varies |
Prices change by sailing, so check the Carnival HUB app or ask your advisor before you go. Ask whether your drink package applies ashore before you count on it.
Is Pearl Cove Beach Club worth it?
If you are a couple who wants a quieter, adults-only beach day with better food and drinks, yes. Calypso Lagoon used to be adults-only but now welcomes teens, so Pearl Cove is the true grown-up escape. If you are happy with a lively lagoon and a free lounger, skip it and save the money for a nice dinner onboard.
Is a cabana worth it?
For families or groups of six to eight, a cabana can be a great value once you split the cost. You get guaranteed shade, a home base and fewer trips hunting for chairs. For a couple, a daybed is usually enough.
Tips for the best day
Get off the ship early. Loungers near the lagoons fill up fast.
Book extras before you sail. Cabanas and Pearl Cove passes often sell out.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen and water shoes.
Bring a little cash for crafts at Lokono Cove.
Watch the all-aboard time. Head back at least 30 minutes early.
Celebration Key vs. Royal Caribbean's private destinations
Celebration Key is focused on beaches and lagoons. Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay leans into thrill rides and waterparks. Both are great. The right one depends on your crew.
Frequently asked questions
Is Celebration Key free? Yes, entry, the lagoons, beach and lunch are included in your Carnival fare.
Do I need a passport for Celebration Key? It is in the Bahamas. On a closed-loop cruise, U.S. citizens can usually use a birth certificate and photo ID.
Is Celebration Key an island? No. It is on the south side of Grand Bahama Island.
Which ships go to Celebration Key? Most Carnival ships sailing from Florida, Galveston, New Orleans and Baltimore include it on select itineraries.
Want a Carnival cruise with a Celebration Key stop? I'll find the right ship and sailing for your crew and help you book the extras before they sell out. Get your free quote or call or text (618) 772-9206.
Glenn Sunnquist
Owner, SIX18 Travel LLC
Certified Travel Advisor
CLIA Member
Cruise & Resort Vacation Specialist
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