Throughout my blog, I use affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of my links or discount codes, I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Los Angeles, known for its sunny skies and warm climate, is the perfect backdrop for some of the most thrilling and family-friendly water parks in Southern California. When the sun shines bright and the heat waves hit, Los Angeles families flock to the city’s coolest spots – water parks!
From the heart-pumping rides of Six Flags Hurricane Harbor to the child-friendly splash zones of Buccaneer Cove, there’s no shortage of aquatic adventures to be had.
Family Fun Water Parks in Los Angeles California
Here’s a guide to the 10 most amazing water parks in Los Angeles California, where water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools promise endless fun in the sun for the entire family.
1. Water Parks in Los Angeles California – Great Wolf Lodge
Opening Season: Year-round
Height Requirements: Varies by slide; some as low as 42 inches
Great Wolf Lodge in Garden Grove is an unparalleled indoor water park experience that guarantees water fun regardless of the season. This family haven features a massive 105,000-square-foot water playground with attractions suitable for every member of the family. From thrilling water slides for the adrenaline junkies to gentler options for little ones, there’s something for everyone.
Visitor favorites include the Howlin’ Tornado for a thrilling ride and the Cub Paw Pool for toddlers. The best thing about Great Wolf Lodge? Its indoor setting means year-round fun, rain or shine. Plan your visit and learn more at Great Wolf Lodge.
2. Water Parks in Los Angeles California – DryTown Water Park
Opening Season: May through September
Height Requirements: Varies; some slides have a minimum of 48 inches
Located in Palmdale, DryTown Water Park is the Antelope Valley’s treasure, featuring a range of attractions like the thrilling Dusty’s Mineshaft Racer that pits visitors against each other in a high-speed slide race.
Enjoy Big Rock River for a more relaxed experience. It’s an outdoor oasis designed to beat the heat with something fun for every age group. Visiting in early summer is ideal, just as the season starts to heat up. For more, visit DryTown Water Park.
3. Water Parks in Los Angeles California – Buccaneer Bay
Opening Season: May through September
Height Requirements: Varies; some attractions suitable for all heights
Buccaneer Bay at La Mirada Regional Aquatics Center combines the excitement of water slides with the charm of a lazy river and the playfulness of an interactive pirate-themed water park. It’s a smaller, more manageable spot for families with younger kids, complete with spray pad areas and mini slides.
Highlights include a marooned ship, complete with water cannons and mini slides for the little ones. The lazy river is a popular choice for family relaxation. The best part? It’s affordability and the convenience of being closer to the city. Check it out at Buccaneer Bay.
4. Water Parks in Los Angeles California – Cove Waterpark
Opening Season: June through August
Height Requirements: Varies; some attractions have a minimum of 42 inches
Cove Waterpark, located in Riverside, offers Southern California families a delightful escape with its variety of water rides, including the thrilling Crow’s Nest Slides and the Ne’er Endin’ River perfect for a leisurely float. Its unique attractions, like the Riptide Reef wave pool cater to thrill-seekers. The Lil’ Mates’ Lagoon is a favorite for little adventurers alike. Visiting on weekdays can often mean fewer crowds. Learn more at Cove Waterpark.
5. Water Parks in Los Angeles California – Six Flags Hurricane Harbor
Opening Season: May through October
Height Requirements: Varies; some slides require a minimum of 48 inches
Adjacent to Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor promises a day filled with excitement and fun. From the high-speed slides of Tornado to the family-friendly Castaway Cove, it’s a staple for water park enthusiasts.
Bamboo Racer is a visitor favorite for competitive families. The park’s highlight? The massive family-friendly Forgotten Sea Wave Pool is designed to simulate the high seas. An early arrival ensures you beat the crowds to the best rides. Details at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor.
6. Water Parks in Los Angeles California – Knott’s Soak City Waterpark
Opening Season: May through September
Height Requirements: Varies; some attractions have a minimum of 42 inches
Knott’s Soak City Waterpark, located next to Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park, is a summer must-do with its 13 acres of water rides and attractions. From the relaxing Sunset River lazy river to the high-intensity Banzai Falls, there’s plenty to keep the whole family cool and entertained.
The Gremmie Lagoon is perfect for the little ones. For the thrill seekers be sure to check out Shore Break. The best thing about Soak City? The variety of both high-thrill and relaxing attractions. Visit Knott’s Soak City Waterpark for more information.
7. Water Parks in Los Angeles California – Raging Waters
Opening Season: May through September
Height Requirements: Varies; some slides require a minimum of 42 inches
Situated in San Dimas, Raging Waters is renowned as California’s largest water park. With over 50 beautifully landscaped acres, it offers a massive wave pool, a relaxing Amazon Adventure lazy river, and slides like the Aqua Rocket hydro-magnetic coaster.
For families, the Kid’s Kingdom and Splash Island Adventure offer safer, yet still exciting, fun for younger children. The best time to visit is mid-week to enjoy shorter lines. Explore more at Raging Waters.
8. Water Parks in Los Angeles California – DropZone Waterpark
Opening Season: May through September
Height Requirements: Varies; some attractions require a minimum of 42 inches
DropZone Waterpark in Perris caters to families with its array of attractions tailored to all ages, from the high adrenaline-pumping Terminal Velocity slides to the family-friendly gentler activities like the Lil’ Jumpers Landing. The Jet Stream River is a hit for those looking to chill. Insider tip: The park often hosts family-friendly events throughout the summer, making any visit a special one. Plan your trip at DropZone Waterpark.
9. Water Parks in Los Angeles California – Wild Rivers
Opening Season: May through September
Height Requirements: Varies; some attractions require a minimum of 48 inches
Wild Rivers in Irvine is making a splashy comeback with its 20 acres of family-fun water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. There’s something here for everyone, from the thrilling Bora Bora Boomerang for adventure seekers to taking it easy in the relaxing Shaka Bay Wave Pool.
Engage the younger kids at Cook Cove’s for hours of fun in the sun. This beloved Orange County staple combines nostalgic family favorites with new, modern attractions, ensuring fun for the entire family. Insider tip: The park offers private cabanas to escape and relax with guaranteed seating. Visit Wild Rivers for information.
10. Water Parks in Los Angeles California – LEGOLAND Water Park
Opening Season: March through October
Height Requirements: Varies; some attractions require a minimum of 36 inches
Part of the larger LEGOLAND California Resort in Carlsbad, this water park is a LEGO lover’s dream come true. It’s a drive from Los Angeles but if you are looking for somewhere new to venture to, its definitely a unique waterpark.
With a wave pool, unique lazy river experience where you can build your own LEGO raft and float down Build-A-Raft River, and several water slides, it’s a hit for families with younger children. The DUPLO Splash Safari is perfect for toddlers. For those with a competitive side check out Riptide Racers slide race. Insider tip: Spring and fall offer smaller crowds and enjoyable weather. More information is available at LEGOLAND Water Park.
Making a Splash in Los Angeles: Your Guide to Family Fun at Water Parks in Los Angeles California
Los Angeles’ outdoor water parks are a testament to the city’s love for sun, fun, and family adventures. Each park offers a unique set of attractions designed to entertain visitors of all ages, from the heart-racing slides for thrill-seekers to gentle play areas for the youngest guests. Remember to check each park’s website for the latest information on opening dates, height requirements, and visitor favorites to plan the perfect family outing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which water park in Los Angeles is best for young children?
Buccaneer Bay is a fantastic choice for families with younger children, and offers numerous attractions suitable for toddlers, including shallow pools and gentle slides.
Do I need to bring my own tube to the water parks?
Most water parks in Los Angeles California provide tubes for their rides, but check individual park policies as some might offer them for rental.
Can I find locker rentals at Los Angeles water parks?
Yes, locker rentals are available at most water parks for securing personal belongings while you enjoy the attractions.
Are there water parks open year-round in Los Angeles?
Great Wolf Lodge offers an indoor water park experience that’s open year-round, perfect for any season.
What should I bring to a water park?
Essential items include sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, water shoes, and a change of clothes. Some parks allow coolers with food and drinks, so check beforehand.
Los Angeles’ water parks are the perfect oasis destination for families looking to dive into fun, seek excitement, relaxation, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re sliding down a thrilling water slide, floating along a lazy river, or splashing around with the little ones, these parks offer the best in aquatic entertainment.
With a variety of parks catering to all ages and thrill levels, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your next family adventure. So, grab your swimsuit, slather on the sunscreen, and get ready to make a splash this summer in the refreshing waters of LA’s best water parks.
If you have any more questions about water parks in Los Angeles California, California travel recommendations, or all things travel, please reach out via Instagram or my contact page. I would love to help you out!
