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Top 10 Water Parks Near Los Angeles (Summer 2024)

May 23, 2024

Los Angeles is a hotspot for fun and sun, and there's no better way to beat the heat than by visiting a water park. Cool off and amp up the excitement at these top 10 water parks near Los Angeles! From LA to its surrounding areas, there are a solid variety of parks that promise heart-racing slides, wave pools for the whole family, and tranquil retreats for kids. Whether you're seeking a thrilling adventure or a relaxing day by the water, this guide will help you discover your perfect water park destination near Los Angeles.

And if you're looking for a more private experience away from the crowds, consider using Swimply to rent a local private pool by the hour. Swimply offers a unique and convenient way to enjoy a personalized splash zone right in your neighborhood, ensuring you can soak up the sun and fun in a space of your own. Dive into these top water park picks to find the ideal water retreat for your next adventure!

1. Knott's Soak City

Splash into the endless summer vibes at Knott’s Soak City, where classic waterpark adventure awaits. With 22 diverse water slides, Tidal Wave Bay’s wave pool, and the tranquil journey along Sunset River, this park is a treasure trove of aquatic delights. For those seeking interactive enjoyment, The Beach House’s three-story water play structure stands as a bastion of wild aquatic entertainment. The adrenaline junkies among us will find their sanctuary in Knott’s Soak City’s thrill rides. Some of the thrilling rides include:

  • Shore Break, which sends its brave riders on an electrifying drop from a seven-story height
  • The Wedge, which offers a rafting adventure that the whole family can enjoy
  • Shore Break’s dueling tube slides, full of exhilarating twists and turns under the sun

Gremmie Lagoon is a delightful water playground designed especially for young children. This whimsical area is adorned with playful features like an octopus and a submarine, sparking kids' imaginations as they splash and play. The shallow waters ensure a safe environment for the littlest swimmers, while height restrictions help maintain a secure and enjoyable space. 

  • Address: 8200 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90620
  • Operating Hours: Vary by season; typically 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Ticket Information: General admission starts around $50

2. Great Wolf Lodge Garden Grove

Nestled just a stone’s throw away from Disneyland in Anaheim, Great Wolf Lodge Garden Grove offers a magical escape where the water fun doesn’t depend on the weather. With its impressive selection of 14 slides, 4 pools, and a FlowRider surf simulator, this indoor waterpark is a year-round playground for families. Operating from dawn till dusk, the waterpark promises a full day of water-based fun, and with a range of accommodations from cozy suites to luxury lodgings, comfort goes beyond the aquatic realm.

Great Wolf Lodge is a mosaic of signature attractions designed to make every family’s stay unforgettable. From the four-story Fort Mackenzie to the wave-filled Slap Tail Pond, there’s an adventure in store for every age. Whether you’re racing down Mountain Edge Raceway, navigating through Big Foot Pass, or tackling the Wolf Rider Wipeout surf simulator, each attraction is a chapter in your family’s storybook of memories.

The magic of Great Wolf Lodge extends beyond water slides and lazy rivers. Venture into an imaginative world with MagiQuest, aim for a strike at Ten Paw Alley, or craft a new cuddly companion at Build-A-Bear Workshop. The resort’s mobile app puts planning, dining, and entertainment at your fingertips, ensuring that every moment of your stay is seamless and packed with fun.

  • Address: 12681 Harbor Blvd, Garden Grove, CA 92840
  • Operating Hours: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM for resort guests
  • Ticket Information: Access included with resort stay; day passes available starting at $50

3. LEGOLAND California Water Park

Carlsbad’s LEGOLAND California Water Park invites you to a brick-tacular splash zone where LEGO creativity meets aquatic excitement. With seven unique water slides, such as the swashbuckling Pirate Reef and the Orange Rush raft slide, this park turns water play into an interactive masterpiece. Immerse yourself in the LEGO wave pool, design your own raft on the Build-A-Raft river, and enjoy DUPLO Safari - this park offers a paradise for builders with a splash of adventure.

Getting ready for your LEGOLAND Water Park journey? Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Access requires a resort hopper ticket
  • The park operates on a seasonal basis from March to October
  • Rent a locker for peace of mind
  • Consider a cabana for added luxury
  • Outside food and drink are limited to bottled water and dietary necessities.

Imagination Station and Cragger’s Swamp are just the beginning of the unique LEGO experiences awaiting at LEGOLAND Water Park. Here, children can build and test LEGO creations in the water, embark on a Crooler’s Twist adventure, and even design their own LEGO boats. Surfers’ Cove adds to the excitement with racing slides, while the smaller slides with DUPLO characters offer pint-sized fun in the sun. With life jackets for the little ones and heated water, comfort and safety are top priorities here.

  • Address: One Legoland Dr, Carlsbad, CA 92008
  • Operating Hours: Vary by season; typically 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Ticket Information: Combined ticket with LEGOLAND California starting around $90

4. Raging Waters San Dimas

Located in San Dimas, Raging Waters San Dimas is the largest water park in California. With over 50 acres of rides, slides, and attractions, there's something for everyone. Highlights include the Aqua Rocket, a hydromagnetic water coaster, and the FlowRider, a wave simulator for aspiring surfers. This water park has a ride or activity to satiate every level of thrill, while also offering more subdued enjoyment.

If seeking an adrenaline fix is your game, then Raging Waters’ has the rides for you:

  • Speed Slides and High Extreme: catapulting you down eight stories at speeds that’ll make your heart race
  • Bombs Away: this ride has both a straight plunge and looping thrills
  • Ragin’ Racer: adding competitive zest with its head-first racing slide
  • Dark Hole: a tandem journey through darkness

Raging Waters San Dimas is not just for the thrill-seekers, as it caters to the entire family with a water playground where kids can frolic under the sunshine. The lazy river offers a serene escape for parents to unwind as their little ones create waves of joy in the gentle currents.

  • Address: 111 Raging Waters Dr, San Dimas, CA 91773
  • Operating Hours: Vary by season; typically 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Ticket Information: General admission starts around $45; discounts available online

5. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor

Adjacent to Magic Mountain in Valencia, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor boasts some of the most exhilarating water rides in the region. Don’t miss the Bonzai Pipelines, where you’ll experience a vertical drop through a trapdoor, and the Tornado, a funnel slide that will have your heart racing. This water park has something for every type of visitor – from the thrill-seeker to the sunbather.

At Hurricane Harbor, the slides are legendary, with must-tries like Tornado’s expansive funnel, Black Snake Summit’s serpentine descents, and Taboo Tower’s variety of plummeting drops. Each ride is a must for those who dare to defy gravity and embrace the thrill.

Elevate your Hurricane Harbor experience with a private cabana, complete with plush amenities for those moments of needed respite from the excitement. And when hunger strikes, a diverse selection of dining options awaits, from sweet treats to savory delights. Don’t forget to stop by the shopping venues for souvenirs that capture the memories of your aquatic adventure.

  • Address: 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia, CA 91355
  • Operating Hours: Vary by season; typically 10:30 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Ticket Information: General admission starts around $50; discounts available online

6. DryTown Water Park Palmdale

Located in Palmdale, DryTown Water Park offers a fun and affordable option for families. The park features slides, a lazy river, and a kids’ play area. It’s smaller than some of the other parks, but perfect for a laid-back day in the sun. This water park transports you to a splashin’ good time in the Wild West. Dusty’s Mineshaft Racer has you racing down a high-speed slide, culminating in a thrilling 40-foot drop, while Big Rock River’s lazy current offers a chance to kick back like a cowboy at sunset. The Wildcatter’s 360-degree turns add just the right amount of twist to the conventional flume experience, and the Devil’s Punch Bowl delivers a swirling adventure that’ll have you hollerin’ for more.

DryTown's Little Miner’s Camp offers endless fun for young adventurers with a variety of water features designed just for them. This kiddie wonderland provides a safe and engaging environment where children can splash and play under careful supervision, ensuring worry-free playtime for parents and kids alike. Be sure to explore Gold Rush Sluice, a unique attraction where the whole family can pan for treasures together, adding an extra layer of adventure and excitement to your visit.

  • Address: 3850-B E. Avenue S, Palmdale, CA 93550
  • Operating Hours: Vary by season; typically open from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM during the summer months. Check the official website for specific dates and hours.
  • Ticket Information:
    • General admission: Around $20-$25
    • Children (under 48”): Around $15-$20
    • Discounts available for Palmdale residents, seniors, and military personnel
    • Season passes and group rates also available

7. Splash! La Mirada Regional Aquatics Center

Splash! water park in La Mirada features Buccaneer Bay, a pirate-themed water play area with water slides, a lazy river, and water cannons. Combining adventure with themed fun, Splash! is a hit with families seeking a memorable day out.  

Buccaneer Bay at Splash! La Mirada immerses guests in a unique pirate-themed experience. Pirate’s Plunge delivers a thrilling slide adventure, while the Buccaneer Bay Wave Pool creates the perfect waves for splashing around. The Lil’ Squirts Splash Pad provides a safe and fun environment for younger children to enjoy water play. This park combines adventure with themed fun, making it a hit with families. Guests can relax in the lazy river or explore the interactive water play areas. Buccaneer Bay’s pirate theme adds an extra layer of excitement to the attractions, ensuring a memorable day for all visitors. The park’s design and careful monitoring ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

  • Address: 13806 La Mirada Blvd, La Mirada, CA 90638
  • Operating Hours: Vary by season; typically 10:30 AM - 5:30 PM
  • Ticket Information: General admission around $20; discounts for La Mirada residents

8. The Wave Waterpark

Located in Vista, The Wave Waterpark is a smaller, community-oriented park that caters to families seeking a day of aquatic fun. With attractions like the FlowRider, a competition pool, and thrilling water slides, The Wave offers a range of activities for all ages to enjoy. The park's friendly and relaxed atmosphere, combined with its community-oriented approach, makes it a favorite among locals looking for a laid-back day out.

The Wave pool provides fun for all ages, while Riptide Slide is a must-try for thrill seekers. Plus, their FlowRider gives visitors a chance to practice their surfing skills in a controlled environment. This park’s community-oriented approach ensures a welcoming and enjoyable experience for families. Then there's the Splash Pad, which is designed for younger children, and the Lazy River, perfect for a leisurely float.

  • Address: 101 Wave Dr, Vista, CA 92083
  • Operating Hours: Vary by season; typically 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Ticket Information: General admission around $20; discounts for Vista residents

9. Santa Clarita Aquatic Center

The Santa Clarita Aquatic Center, located in Santa Clarita, offers a comprehensive water experience for families and individuals seeking aquatic adventures near Los Angeles. Boasting a fun water playground, a competition pool, and an exciting waterslide, this community aquatic center is a local gem perfect for cooling off and enjoying water-based activities.

Designed with families in mind, the Santa Clarita Aquatic Center provides a welcoming environment for visitors of all ages. The Water Playground features interactive elements that are not only entertaining but also safe for children, while the Competition Pool caters to those looking to swim laps or participate in aquatic sports. Adding an extra element of thrill, the Waterslide at the Santa Clarita Aquatic Center is a favorite among visitors seeking a bit of excitement. The center's shaded picnic areas offer a relaxing retreat for families to unwind and enjoy a meal together.

Moreover, the Santa Clarita Aquatic Center hosts various programs and events, adding to its community-focused approach. Whether you're looking to participate in a swim lesson, join a water aerobics class, or simply spend a day splashing around with the family, this aquatic center has something for everyone. Overall, the Santa Clarita Aquatic Center's commitment to providing a range of activities in a welcoming environment makes it a top choice for families seeking a fun and engaging day out.

  • Address: 20850 Centre Pointe Pkwy, Santa Clarita, CA 91350
  • Operating Hours: Vary by season; typically 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Ticket Information: General admission around $10; discounts for Santa Clarita residents

10. The Cove Waterpark

Located in Riverside, The Cove Waterpark offers a range of attractions that cater to all ages. This community-focused park is perfect for families seeking a fun and affordable day out near Los Angeles. 

With thrilling slides like the Crow’s Nest and the Riptide Reef FlowRider, as well as relaxing options such as the Ne’er Ending River, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The park also features dedicated areas for younger children, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for the whole family. Amenities like private cabanas and a variety of dining options add to the park's appeal, making it a great destination for a day of fun in the sun. The park’s community-oriented approach ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors, making it an ideal destination for family fun.

The Cove Waterpark provides a welcoming atmosphere with attractions designed for both excitement and relaxation. Ne’er Ending River offers a leisurely float, while Riptide Reef FlowRider gives visitors a chance to try surfing. The Crow’s Nest Slides offer thrilling twists and turns that will delight adrenaline seekers. Families can enjoy the Adventure Pool, a shallow pool with interactive water features, or the Splash Pad, perfect for younger children. 

  • Address: 4310 Camino Real, Riverside, CA 92509
  • Operating Hours: Vary by season; typically 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Ticket Information: General admission around $20; discounts for Riverside residents

Private Water Park Alternatives on Swimply

Paradise Lagoon Resort Pool + Tiki Lounge (La Mesa, CA)

In search of a more intimate splash experience? Swimply offers a unique alternative to crowded water parks by allowing you to book private pools in and around Los Angeles - complete with water slides and other fun amenities. Say goodbye to long lines and overpriced snacks, and hello to a personalized aquatic retreat that could be more affordable and enjoyable for your family.

How to book a Swimply

Finding the perfect personal water park has never been easier with Swimply. Begin your search by entering your desired dates and location to see all available pools in your area. Use the app's search filters to narrow down your options based on criteria such as size, amenities, and price range. Swimply Hosts determine the booking size for their pool and whether or not it’s party or pet friendly, so be sure to check the pool description for any specific rules or restrictions. 

To find a pool that is perfect for family fun, filter your search for amenities like water slides, games and toys, basketball or volleyball nets, and more! This will show you pools that are specifically equipped for you and your kids. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect Swimply pool:

  • Search Filters: Use filters to narrow down pools by location, size, price, and available dates.
  • Capacity: Make sure the pool’s guest limit meets your needs, as hosts determine how many people can attend their pool. Respect the pool’s maximum capacity for safety and comfort.
  • Amenities: Look for pools with amenities that suit your needs, such as BBQs, hot tubs, fire pits, lounge chairs, and shaded areas.
  • Reviews and Ratings: Read reviews from previous renters to get an idea of the pool’s condition and the host’s responsiveness. High ratings and positive feedback are good indicators of a great rental experience.
  • Photos and Descriptions: Carefully examine photos and read descriptions to ensure the pool matches your expectations. Pay attention to details like the size of the pool area, depth of the pool, and any additional features.

Why choose Swimply over a water park?

  • Privacy: Enjoy a private pool experience without the crowds and long lines of a traditional water park.
  • Variety: Choose from a diverse range of pools, from family-friendly to luxurious, to suit your preferences and group size.
  • Exclusivity: Have a pool all to yourself or your group, creating a more intimate and personalized experience.
  • Convenience: Easily find and book a pool that fits your schedule and budget with just a few clicks.
  • Safety: Swimply ensures that all hosts comply with local regulations and safety standards, providing a clean and safe environment for guests.
  • Personalized Experience: Customize your pool day to your liking, whether it's a relaxing retreat or a fun gathering with friends.
  • Cost-Effective: Depending on the pool you choose, Swimply can offer a more affordable option compared to traditional water parks, especially for larger groups.

Finding the perfect private pool for water park fun is easier than ever with Swimply. Book a private pool today here!