Read more: Perfect Day at CocoCay vs. Celebration Key
I spent the day at both cruise lines’ adults-only areas to see what makes them similar and different from each other.
Similarities and Differences
On the surface, these two adults-only areas share many similarities. They are reserved for guests 18 years and older, come with an extra charge, and offer a pool, beach, swim-up bar, and dining options.
Yet during my visits to Hideaway Beach and Pearl Cove Beach Club, I realized that each cruise line had a different approach. Royal Caribbean’s beach club offered a bigger party vibe, whereas Carnival’s focused more on tranquility and relaxation.
Here’s what I thought of each adults-only beach club, and how the two destinations compare.
Royal Caribbean's Hideaway Beach
Royal Caribbean offers a dynamic pricing model to enter Hideaway Beach. Like all cruise add-ons offered by Royal Caribbean, a day pass to enter Hideaway Beach can fluctuate depending on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay between $40 and $100 per person for entry to Hideaway Beach.
Read more: Is Hideaway Beach worth the cost?
After visiting Hideaway Beach, I would definitely pay $40 or $50 for entry, but I’d question the value of entry if the price got above $60.
Carnival's Pearl Cove Beach Club
Carnival, however, has three separate entry options for Pearl Cove Beach Club. Unlike with Royal Caribbean, you can expect predictable prices for admission to Pearl Cove Beach Club at Celebration Key.
Pearl Cove Beach Club: All-Inclusive - $180 Pearl Cove Beach Club: Open Bar - $140 Pearl Cove Beach Club Access - $100I paid $100 for the most basic access to Pearl Cove Beach Club on my visit. Later, however, I realized the open bar admission offered a much better value.
Capacity and Atmosphere
Hideaway Beach has a higher capacity and bigger party vibe than Pearl Cove Beach Club. Hideaway Beach can accommodate 1,800 guests, providing a louder, more energetic atmosphere.
I found Pearl Cove Beach Club to be quieter and more tranquil. If you’re looking for a party vibe, head to Calypso Lagoon instead.
Infinity Pools and Beaches
Both beach clubs feature infinity pools and a beach. The infinity pool at Hideaway Beach is 18,000 square feet, whereas the one found at Pearl Cove Beach Club is 11,000 square feet. The beach at Hideaway Beach is calm with soft sand, while the beach at Pearl Cove Beach Club is more rocky.
Food and Drink Options
At Hideaway Beach, food is included in the entry fee, and drink packages work ashore. The adults-only club features two complimentary restaurant options, Hideaway Hut and Slice of Paradise. Guests with drink packages can enjoy unlimited drinks while ashore.
At Pearl Cove Beach Club, food and drinks come with an extra cost. The on-site restaurant offers full-service meals, and only guests with the all-inclusive or open bar tickets receive included drinks.
Cabanas
Both destinations offer cabanas, but I preferred those at Hideaway Beach. The Hideout Cabanas at Hideaway Beach offer a unique cabana experience.
Conclusion
Overall, Pearl Cove Beach Club offers a more luxurious experience, while Hideaway Beach offers more activities and dining options.
Regardless, both destinations provide a great adults-only getaway experience, and I would gladly visit both again.