During every hot summer holiday, what’s more refreshing and fun than to head for a waterpark with the whole family? Fun waterparks can be found across the globe, with some of the largest ones based in the US and China. We’re counting down the biggest water parks in the world.
The Global Attractions Attendance Report 2017 stated that the 20 most-visited waterparks in the world received over 30 million visitors that year, and the 8 most-visited parks made up for exactly half of that number.
This article will give an overview of the largest waterparks in the world and the age groups they’re suitable for. Some of the waterparks have action-packed features, requiring more experienced swimmers, while others have a more laidback vibe suited for the little travelers in your family.
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8. Aquaventure Atlantis, Dubai – 17 hectares
The Aquaventure Atlantis, Dubai is located on the outer circle of the famous The Palm Jumeirah, this breathtaking waterpark offers over 30 rides and an extensive private beach to soak up the sun. Some of the highlights conclude the translucent slide through the astonishing aquarium and the family tubes riding down extra wide slides. For the smallest travelers, the Splasher’s Children’s Play Area is excellent fun. From the littlest kids to adults, the entire family can amuse themselves at this park.
Recommended hotels:
C Central Resort The Palm – mid-range
This hotel is less than 10 minutes away from the waterpark by car. The main features are an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and splendid rooms with private beach access.
Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah – luxury
This iconic hotel enchants its guests with its chic interior, tastefully decorated family apartments, and selection of bars and restaurants.
Atlantis The Palm, Dubai – luxury
This neighboring resort is literally located beside Aquaventure Atlantis, making it a superb choice. Guests are even given a free ticket to the waterpark, which can save you quite a lot of money.
7. Siam Park, Tenerife, Spain – 18 hectares
Siam Park on the Spanish island of Tenerife in the Canary Islands took number 16 on the 2017 list of most visited waterparks worldwide, with an extraordinary 1,209,000 people joining in the fun. This exciting aquatic park, designed with a Thailand theme in mind, has been declared the most popular waterpark on the planet numerous times. Attractions here are listed in the categories ‘relax’, ‘family’, and ‘adrenalin’, making it an all-around waterpark for families with toddlers and adolescents alike.
Recommended hotels:
At 20 minutes of walking distance from Siam Park, this resort is close to the action. You’ll also have easy access to the sea and the hotel’s outdoor swimming pool.
Iberostar Bouganville Playa – mid-range
Compelling family rooms with epic views, plus a game room for children with arcade games and an air hockey table. A 2-minute drive or 20-minute walk brings you to Siam Park.
Hotel Jardin Tropical – luxury
Recommended for a comfortable holiday in a luxurious setting. Tastefully designed rooms, an outdoor lounge and bar with sea views, and a stunning outdoor pool complex make this resort a desirable spot.
6. Therme Erding, Germany – 19 hectares
Not only is Therme Erding the most significant waterpark in Germany, it’s also a massive spa complex. Delve into 27 slides in 3 difficulty categories, jump into the wave pool in a jungle setting, or feel rejuvenated at the Spa Area & Saunas, which is accessible from 16 years of age. Therme Erding even has a cool virtual reality slide, which catapults you to space and the tropical rainforest. It’s best to travel here with teenagers and young adults.
Recommended hotels:
Modern hotel with snuggly triple rooms, within 15 minutes walking distance from Therme Erding. Rooms have a flatscreen TV, an en-suite bathroom, and a desk.
Although located on the other side of Erding, this accommodation has several draws: a balcony, a cot (upon request), and a kitchen with a dishwasher.
Hotel Victory Therme Erding – luxury
This hotel is based within the waterpark and is the ideal pick if you wish for convenience and elegant rooms with pool views.
5. Thermas dos Laranjais, Brazil – 26 hectares
Thermas dos Laranjais is the largest and most impressive waterpark on the South American continent and the 3rd most visited waterpark worldwide, with 2,007,000 visitors in 2017. With over 50 attractions and slides up to 30 meters, this waterpark is genuinely impressive. The range from turbulent slides to calm playgrounds make this park suitable for kids of all ages.
Recommended hotels:
Less than a mile from Thermas dos Laranjais, this hotel is a compelling option if you’re traveling on a budget.
Celebration Resort Olimpia – mid-range
Indulge in the on-site restaurant and bar, benefit from free parking, and a nearly perfect location for visiting the park.
Opt for the full-board arrangement, and let your worries about food options be taken away.
4. Noah’s Ark Water Park, USA – 28 hectares
Noah’s Ark is the largest waterpark in the US and has more than 50 rides, slides, and other attractions for families to enjoy. Daredevils will happily ride the Scorpion’s Tale – a near-vertical drop – and the Black Anaconda slide in a boat. At the same time, the less adventurous souls can experience tubing on the relaxing Adventure River or Tadpole Bay. The different zones and rides cause this park to be appropriate for all family members.
Recommended hotels:
AmericInn By Wyndham Wisconsin Dells – budget
By car, this hotel is 8 minutes away from Noah’s Ark Water Park. Motel-style accommodation surrounded by greenery offers a breakfast included in the price and an on-site restaurant.
Hilton Garden Inn Wisconsin Dells – mid-range
Simple rooms for 4 with conveniences like a fridge, microwave, and tea and coffee making facilities. Unbeatable for its location, as it’s just a short walk away from Noah’s Ark Water Park.
Caribbean Club Resort – mid-range
Beautifully located on the shores of Lake Delton, this resort provides a fantastic tranquil environment.
3. Sunway Lagoon, Malaysia – 36 hectares
Sunway Lagoon – the largest waterpark in Southeast Asia – is based in Subang Jaya, a city just southwest of the capital Kuala Lumpur. In 2017, it was the 13th most visited waterpark globally, with 1,3 million people entering the gates. Sunway Lagoon has slides, water playgrounds, a surf beach with bodyboarding and beach volleyball, and even a 5D Cinema where you’ll even get wetter. This park is suitable for children of all ages, from preschoolers to teenagers.
Recommended hotels:
33 Boutique Hotel Bandar Sunway – budget
This hotel is a no-frills option, but it’s only 1 kilometer away from the park entrance and has family rooms. Fitted with airconditioning and a private bathroom with free toiletries.
Suite @ Sunway Pyramid Mall – budget
Neat family suites with space for 5 guests, including a balcony and TV with streaming services. The location right next to the Sunway Lagoon couldn’t be better.
Easy walk from this resort to the park’s gates. Enjoy the on-site restaurant, a complimentary breakfast, and the comfy lounge area in the family suites.
2. Aquaventure Atlantis, Bahamas – 57 hectares
This is the largest waterpark in the Caribbean, and it was the 5th most visited waterpark in the world in 2017. When it comes to slides, the Aquaventure Atlantis complex has some of the most spectacular attractions: the Mayan temple slide, the Abyss, and the Serpent Slide are truly hairraising. This park is a suitable pick if you’re traveling with teenagers, as most of the attractions are too intense for toddlers and younger kids.
Recommended hotels:
Simple but well-equipped apartments with kitchen, laundry facilities, airconditioning, and private bathroom. Dawson’s Hideaway is only a 15-minute drive away from Aquaventure Atlantis.
Comfort Suites Paradise Island – mid-range
Resort with outdoor pool and complimentary breakfast. Offers family rooms, making it a perfect place to book for your aquatic adventure.
The large suites have a balcony that overlooks the sea, a jacuzzi tub in the bathroom, and comfy bathrobes. The park’s entrance is just footsteps away from this hotel.
1. Chimelong Water Park, China – 182 hectares
This is by far the largest water park to date, and you can’t think of enough superlatives to describe this entertainment area. Chimelong Water Park has the largest wave pool and the longest lazy river. It may not be surprising that this waterpark was the most visited in the world during 2017 when 2,690,000 people entered the park. Don’t hesitate to bring the smallest children here, as there is an extensive kid’s playing area with shallow pools.
Recommended hotels:
Lavender Apartment Branch – mid-range
Spacious, well-furnished apartments with popping colors in the interior. The duplex suites sleep 6 people comfortably, and you’re within walking distance from the park entrance.
Guangzhou Mui Ne Art Apartment – luxury
These colorful and ritzy apartments can host up to 7 people, ideal if you’re going to the waterpark with a large group. If you can’t get enough of the water, this complex has its own outdoor pool.
The Garden Hotel Guangzhou – luxury
Large luxury hotel with easy access to Taojin metro station, seasonal swimming pool with a view, and nice Carousel restaurant on the 30th floor. Several other restaurants and cafes are on-site. Family rooms are available.
Needs to be updated, Calypso Park, near Ottawa, Ontario, Canada is 100 acres (40.5 hectares) make it the 3rd largest in the world