The hottest months of the year are now upon us and there truly is no better place to cool off than in one of Orlando’s world-famous water parks.
Yes, a visit to the Sunshine State might mean it surpasses 90 degrees on the shaded sidewalks of Main Street U.S.A. But we’re not talking about theme parks today, we’re talking about water parks and more specifically, wave pools.
Often serving as the centrepiece of any water park, a wave pool is the perfect way to add a little bit of excitement to your standard midday toe-dip. So, let’s take a look at the seven different wave pools of Orlando and dive into everything they have to offer.
1. Surf Pool – Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon
Let’s start with a dip into the largest wave pool in North America and the pièce de résistance of Disney’s beloved Typhoon Lagoon water park.
Featuring 6-feet tall waves that swell every 90 seconds, a dip in this pool means you’ll quickly get swept away – so you best start swimming! Get right in the action and body-surf with the rising tides, or relax on the shore and let the waves lap up around your feet.
2. Melt-Away Bay – Disney’s Blizzard Beach
Crystal-clear waters that bring a constant flow of low-tide waves, Melt-Away Bay is Disney’s calmer answer to the wave pool. Paddle freely or snag yourself an inner tube to experience the rhythmic push of this peaceful wave pool experience.
Unfortunately, Disney’s Blizzard Beach remains closed but we are hoping it to reopen at some point during the summer months. We will keep you updated on our news page regarding this.
3. & 4. Cutback Cove and Big Surf Shores – Aquatica
Hang ten or take five? Your choice. Aquatica’s two wave pools, Cutback Cove and Big Surf Shores allow you to choose your own aquatic adventure depending on the type of wave you want to experience.
Cutback Cove offers a choppy, action-packed experience, while Big Surf Shores features sporadic rolling waves.
(Please note that Aquatica’s wave pools are known to sometimes operate on a seasonal basis although, as a general rule, there is always one wave pool open.)
5. Waturi Beach – Universal’s Volcano Bay
You’ve no doubt seen Volcano Bay’s stunning centrepiece, Krakatau volcano, but have you ever relaxed in its surrounding waters?
At the base of Volcano Bay’s Krakatau volcano sits a peaceful lagoon that will have you bobbing along to the distant sound of drumming. There are no towering waves in sight here, so rest easy as you take in the wonderous scenery of Universal’s world-class water park and float in these calming waters.
6. Live! Lagoon – Island H20!
The newest water park on this list, Island H20, boasts a wave pool that stands out from the crowd with its party-like atmosphere.
Leaning into the park’s unique social media-inspired theming, Live! Lagoon features rolling, choppy waves – an experience that is elevated by the lively music that plays as you float.
7. LEGO Wave Pool – Legoland
Foam LEGO blocks float in the calm waters of this wave pool, which stands as one of the more family-friendly options on this list.
Gentle waves offer a peaceful floating experience for everyone, plus, it also serves as the perfect introduction to any little ones looking to get their surf on.
Have you visited any of these 7 wave pools? Which of these Orlando staples is your favourite?