This was my fourth cruise (2 on Royal Caribbean, 1 on Princess), and my fiance's first.
We chose a cove balcony. It was very private, very close to the water, and mostly protected from the sun. I could hear the water (and, on the day it rained, get splashed by larger waves). I would definitely get this type of room again.
The first sea day we went to the Tides pool around 9:30 am. It was mostly deserted, and we had a hot tub to ourselves. I went back to the Tides pool several times (usually in the morning or around 3 pm), and there were always empty chairs. The Serenity area seemed to remain more full, but there were usually seats available on the deck overlooking the pool, and there were loungers available at the Beach pool at almost all times (unless there was some kind of contest/activity at the pool).
Balcony was very private. No lifeboat above this balcony, so it seemed more open and got a bit more sun during the day (but was still mostly shaded).
Was a connecting room, so could hear some noise from the cabin next door. Otherwise was very quiet.