California has an average of 284 sunny days each year.
Because of this, the “Golden State” is the perfect place for fun summer days at water parks.
Families, friends, and couples on dates will all find fun destinations to cool off at the water parks spread throughout California.
What’s more, California’s water parks are varied, with attractions that range from classic slides and pools to obstacle courses and watersports.
Whatever type of experience you may be looking for, you will find plenty of options, so to help you choose, you’ll find a list below of the best water parks in California.
1. DryTown Water Park
@DryTown Water Park
Rating: 4.5★
Entry ticket: Adults: $$28.00, Children and Seniors: $23.00, Ages 2 and Under: Free
Address: 3850-B Avenue S, Palmdale, CA 93550
- Opening May 26th
- Night events
- All access and weekday season passes available
Why you should go: DryTown Water Park offers something for everyone with thrills, a 6,000-square-foot children’s water playground, and numerous amenity options.
What’s more, adults can relax and laze the day away while the kids have a blast on unique rides.
Amenities and things to do: Start your visit to the park with thrilling slides like Rattler’s Revenge.
During the ride, you’ll speed through a dark and enclosed tunnel, only to end up in the sunshine after a 360-degree turn.
Afterward, race your friends and family on Dusty’s Mineshaft Racer.
The ride boasts a 40-foot drop and an exciting last-minute finish.
Once you’re ready for a break, head to Big Rock River, where you can float gently along its 925-foot tranquil path.
While you’re enjoying the sun and unwinding, your kids can spend time at Little Miner’s Camp.
During their time there, they will have fun in the splash area as they play with a giant tipping water bucket and spray cannons.
For lunch, head to Dusty’s Grill.
The restaurant has casual fare everyone will love, with a variety of juicy burgers, wings, Mexican food, and Japanese dishes.
When everyone is fueled up, lounge in your private cabana with a drink from Wilbur’s Snack Shack, go for a swim in the Oasis Pool, or peruse the General Store.
- Website: https://www.drytownwaterpark.com
2. South Bay Shores
@Trip Savvy
Rating: 4.5★
Entry Ticket: Starting at $49.99
Address: 4701 Great America Parkway, Santa Clara, CA 95054
- Opening May 27th
- Military discounts
- Season pass packages
Why you should go: Covering 11 acres, South Bay Shores provides endless entertainment on hot summer days.
Enjoy a multitude of attractions, slides, food, and services while having a fun time with your family.
Amenities and things to do: Rent a cabana and grab a drink to relax in the shade while your kids play at Otter Trotter.
Once your children have enjoyed the water jets and other features, head to Pup’s Pier.
While at the attraction, you and the little ones can have a blast with the water guns, jet sprays, and net bridges.
Your whole family will love the thrills on the Coastal Cruz ride, which boasts a 54-foot platform, 4-person rafts, and surprise splashes.
Even more thrilling, Mission Falls will send you down a dark chute, only to be rocketed up a vertical wall.
When you’re ready for a break, head to Aunt Annie’s or Churro Factory for a snack.
Alternatively, you can get lunch at American Café or Food Festival and stop by the sports bar for a cold drink.
3. Raging Waters Los Angeles
@Raging Waters
Rating: 4.1★
Entry Ticket: $69.99, Ages 2 and Under: Free
Address: 111 Raging Waters Drive, San Dimas, CA 91773
- Opening May 20th
- Cabana rentals
- Complimentary mats and tubes
Why you should go: During your summer vacation to L.A., you’ll want to cool off at Raging Waters Los Angeles.
Not only is the park one of the largest in California, but also offers a variety of attractions, great food, and shopping.
Amenities and things to do: Unwind and relax on the Amazon Adventure ¼-mile-long lazy river.
Afterward, explore Volcano Fantasea with your kids and discover a tropical environment with numerous slides.
Looking for the best thrill rides at California water parks?
At Raging Waters Los Angeles, your adrenaline will be pumping after plunging rides like Bombs Away, which will plummet you from 300 feet in the air, Aqua Rocket, which combines the speed of a roller coaster with the splashes of a slide, and the Dark Hole, a ride with 500-foot-long glass flumes and a drop of 52 feet.
Once you’re ready to dry off, browse the shops at the waterpark.
Browse Turtle’s Landing for souvenirs, head to Longboards for some aqua socks, and find some trendy clothes at Finz Surfin’ Club.
Grab some lunch at Pipeline Pizza Express or a snack and drink at one of the many eateries on offer.
Before leaving, be sure to check out any special events happening at the park.
Offered throughout the season, you’ll find holiday celebrations as well as fun festivities for you and the kids.
- Website: https://www.ragingwaters.com
4. Mustang Waterpark
@Mustang Waterpark
Rating: 4.4★
Entry Ticket: Adults: $29.00, Children: $25.00, Seniors, $22.00
Address: 6840 Lopez Drive, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
- Opening May 27th
- Cabana rentals
- Complimentary life vests
- Parking fee of $10.00
Why you should go: Mustang Waterpark has a laid-back atmosphere combined with amenities that will ensure you and your family have a great time at the park.
Moreover, it’s a fantastic option for anyone seeking affordable water parks in California, with reasonable prices and season passes that offer a complimentary one-time visit to the neighboring Vista Lago Adventure Park.
Amenities and things to do: Cool off with a trip down one of the two 600-foot-long waterslides or splash with your little ones at the Kiddie Pool.
You’ll also find thrills as you speed your way on a tube at the Stampede ride.
Take a break from the thrills and refuel at the waterpark’s snack bar with ice cream and other snacks, as well as beer and wine.
Also available at the snack bar are a variety of meals that include salads, burgers, hot dogs, and fries.
- Website: https://www.mustangwaterpark.com
5. DropZone Waterpark
@Riverside Transit Agency
Rating: 4.1★
Entry Ticket: Adults: $25.00, Children and Seniors: $20.00, Toddlers: $15.00
Address: 2165 Trumble Road, Perris, CA 92570
- Opening May 24th
- Party packages available
- Fee for coolers
Why you should go: DropZone Waterpark is the perfect place for a family day of fun with attractions for all ages.
What’s more, DropZone is a leader among California water parks for treating safety as a number one priority.
In particular, the park requires a 30-minute break each day, provides complimentary life vests, and encourages the use of water shoes to ensure the safety of the guests.
Along with safety measures, the park offers a day of endless entertainment with children’s programs, event packages, and numerous amenities.
Amenities and things do: Rent a cabana and enjoy the shade when you’re not seeking thrills on the rides.
Test your surfing skills on the FlowRider, get some speed on the Terminal Velocity Slides, and challenge your kids on the Mat Racer Slides.
Your little ones will love the Lil’ Jumper’s Landing Attraction, as well as the Launch Pad Geysers.
Go for a swim in the Meridian Spring Pool before floating down the Jet Stream River.
When you’re ready for a break from the water, challenge your family to a game of beach volleyball.
Fuel up on a picnic lunch brought from home, or grab something to eat at the Fill Station.
Afterward, browse the park’s retail shop and pick up any necessities or a souvenir.
6. Knott’s Soak City
@Knott’s Soak City Water Park
Rating: 4.5★
Entry Ticket: Starting at $49.99
Address: 8200 Beach Boulevard, Buena Park, CA 90620
- Opening May 20th
- Tube rentals
- Parking fee of $25.00
Why you should go: Adjacent to the famous Knott’s Berry Farm, Knott’s Soak City is a superb option for cooling off this summer.
During your time at the waterpark, you and your family will find 6 distinct waterslide experiences on 15 acres of property.
In addition to the 23 slides at the park, you’ll also enjoy a variety of other water features and services.
Amenities and things to do: Rent a cabana and lounge in the shade as you sip cold drinks and have a few snacks.
While you’re relaxing, your kids can have a fun-filled time on the Beach House Slides.
Afterward, meet up to race on the Banzai Falls, play together at Gremmie Lagoon, or speed down Old Man Falls.
Try out the twists and turns on Laguna Storm Watch before taking a break.
Looking for California water parks with great food?
At Knott’s Soak City, you’ll discover not only a variety of dining options but also unique experiences at eateries like Calico Saloon that immerses you in an Old West-style saloon atmosphere, as well as charming spots like Cave Inn Snacks, Cable Car Kitchen, and Ghost Town Grub, plus mouthwatering food at the Farm Bakery, Fireman’s BBQ, and Casa California Restaurant.
End your day with a float down the lazy river or browse the Wipeout Surf Shop.
- Website: https://www.knotts.com/soak-city
7. Great Wolf Lodge Water Park – Southern California
@Great Wolf
Rating: 4.5★
Entry Ticket: Starting at $60.00
Address: 12681 Harbor Boulevard, Garden Grove, CA 92840
- Open year-round
- Cabana rentals
- Complimentary lifejackets and towels
Why you should go: During a day with your family at Great Wolf Lodge Water Park, you will find endless entertainment at the 105,000-square-foot facility.
Cool off at the indoor water features, visit attractions, go shopping, and sample delicious food.
Amenities and things to do: Take a trip on the rapids of River Canyon Run before finding adrenaline-pumping speed on the Howlin’ Tornado or Mountain Edge Raceway.
Moreover, there are if you’re looking for best water parks in southern California with attractions for little kids, Great Wolf Lodge Water Park offers the Cub Paw Pool, Fort Mackenzie, and the Totem Towers, plus much more.
Get your heart racing with a plunge on the Wolf Tail before drying off and trying out some of the other attractions at the park.
In particular, you can go bowling, play miniature golf, or visit Build-A-Bear.
Also provided by the park are plenty of special events to attend.
Attend a yoga session with the whole family, go to a dance party, and get creative with arts and crafts.
Unwind with a sweet treat or some casual fare at one of the restaurants on hand before browsing the many shops available.
8. Wild Water Adventure Park
@Theme Park HD
Rating: 4.2★
Entry Ticket: Starting at $49.99, Ages 3 and Under: Free
Address: 11413 E Shaw Avenue, Clovis, California 93619
- Opening May 2nd
- Tube and cabana rentals
- Complimentary life jackets
Why you should go: Opened in 1974, the 52-acre Wild Water Adventure Park is a family-owned and operated destination.
Furthermore, the park offers unique and family-fun experiences, such as boasting the biggest children’s pool of all water parks in California.
Amenities and things to do: Get your heart pumping on rides like The Rampage and Thunder Falls before lounging on the beach area by the Blue Wave Pool.
Recharge in a private cabana while your kids enjoy some time at the Orca Lagoon kiddie pool.
In addition to being only 4 feet deep at the most, the massive kiddie pool also offers fun attractions.
‘Once you’re ready for more thrills, head to Kings River Waterworks.
While there, you can challenge your family to a race on the 4 mat slides.
Take a break and refuel at the Blue Wave Café or Cantina, as well as snack spots.
What’s more, you can stop by Tiki Bar and sip a cold beer or tropical cocktail.
Alternatively, grill up a family picnic at one of the barbecues available.
Are you looking for a California waterpark with some land activities?
In addition to numerous water attractions, Wild Water Adventure Park in Clovis offers entertainment like fishing at 3 lakes, where you can try your hand at catching species like bluegill, catfish, bass, and crappie, or play some games with your family like sand volleyball or horseshoes.
- Website: https://wildwater.net
9. LEGOLAND California Water Park
@Undercover Tourist
Rating: 4.2★
Entry Ticket: Starting at $89.00, Ages 2 and Under: Free
Address: 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92008
- Opening March 20th
- Coolers allowed
- Bundle tickets available with LEGOLAND amusement park
Why you should go: You and your kids will have a memorable and unique experience at LEGOLAND California Water Park.
In addition to exclusive attractions, the park provides 3 distinct areas that everyone in your family will love.
Amenities and things to do: Build your own LEGO raft before floating down the lazy river with your kids.
Afterward, take a thrilling ride on the Orange Rush raft slide or visit the Pirate Reef.
While at the Pirate Reef, you can speed down a flume between pirate ships and shoot water cannons.
Explore the Soak-N-Sail attraction, where you’ll be splashed with more than 300 gallons of water without warning.
Younger kids will enjoy time at the DUPLO Splash Pad or Imagination Station.
Visit the CHIMA Water Park area and try out Build-A-Boat and the fun slides at Crug’s Run, in addition to Cragger’s Swamp.
Once you’re ready for a break from the water, head to your private cabana.
During your time lounging, you can enjoy drinks and snacks or head over to LEGOLAND to grab some food.
10. WaterWorks Park
@WaterWorks Park
Rating: 4.2★
Entry Ticket: Adults: $25.95, Children: $21.95, Ages 2 and Under: Free
Address: 151 N Boulder Drive, Redding, CA 96003
- Opening May 29th
- Complimentary life jackets
- Cabanas
Why you should go: WaterWorks Park is a smaller, budget-friendly park with a lot to offer.
Not only does the park offer affordable rates, but also a variety of convenient amenities and attractions.
Amenities and things to do: Rent a tube and ride The Cyclne, where you will be thrilled as you drop 5 stories, spin around a 40-foot bowl, and fly through a tube before splashing down from a waterfall.
Experience the speed of the Raging River and the Avalanche, as well as the 3 Flumes.
Also, you can head to the tropical atmosphere of the Lazy Lagoon for a relaxing float.
Before having lunch at the Beach Club Café, take your children to the Kiddy Playground or catch a wave at the Cowabunga Beach Wave Pool.
- Website: https://www.waterworkspark.com
11. The Adventure Lagoon
@The Adventure Lagoon
Rating: 4.2★
Entry Ticket: Ages 6+: $35.00, Ages 3-5: $5.00, Seniors, Ages 2 and Under: Free
Address: 3255 E Miraloma Avenue, Anaheim, CA 92806
- Opening May 13th
- Complimentary life jackets
- Must be 6 or older for obstacle courses
Why you should go: The Adventure Lagoon is a water park with something for everyone.
Whether you are looking for thrills, children’s activities, or challenges, the park has it all.
What’s more, the park offers both water and land activities that are family-friendly and entertaining.
Amenities and things to do: Smaller children will have a blast on the lagoon with a bumper or pedal boat.
Take your family out to do some kayaking or paddleboarding before trying out the floating obstacle course.
Challenge your group to a family of water volleyball and get your adrenaline going on the Freefall Extreme slide that features a climbing wall.
Also available are challenges like the climbing tower of Jungle Joe 2 and the Freefall Supreme.
Play giant Jenga or cornhole before exploring the adventure playground with your kids.
Once you’re ready to refuel, sample food from the variety of food trucks on hand.
In particular, you can try casual fare like burgers, tacos, and churros, plus sweet treats.
Planning a birthday party at a California waterpark?
The Adventure Lagoon offers fantastic birthday party packages that include picnic areas, pizza, refreshments, and photo sessions, as well as add-ons like character meet-and-greets, kayaking, additional obstacle courses, and a floating cabana, plus catering.
- Website: https://www.theadventurelagoon.com
12. Island Waterpark
@Island Waterpark
Rating: 4.4★
Entry Ticket: $44.99, Seniors and Military: $34.99, Ages 2 and Under: Free
Address: 6099 W Barstow Avenue, Fresno, CA 93723
- Opening May 29th
- Tube rentals
- Parking fee of $5.00
Why you should go: With numerous amenities, fun rides, and attractions for both kids and adults, Island Waterpark has become one of the most popular water parks in California.
Additionally, you’ll find plenty of pools for a relaxing swim and safety measures, such as complimentary life jackets.
Amenities and things to do: Unwind with a trip down the Waimea River or sip a cold drink in your private cabana.
If you’re looking for thrills, speed down the Nature’s Furies tube slide or Bora Bora Racers, as well as the adrenaline-pumping Tsunami.
Head to the ‘Ohana Bay slide with your kids for a more laid-back experience before grabbing some lunch.
You’ll find plenty of food options at the park with eateries like The Sandbar, Sharky’s, and Aloha Café.
Also available is the park’s new bar, Waikiki Willies, where you can sip a beer or cocktail.
- Website: https://www.islandwaterpark.com
13. Wake Island Waterpark
@Wake Island Waterpark
Rating: 4.5★
Entry Ticket: Varies depending on activity
Address: 7633 Locust Road, Pleasant Grove, CA 95668
- Opening April 18th
- Complimentary life jackets
- Children’s swim areas
Why you should go: Find adventure and a lifetime of memories at Wake Island Waterpark.
The largest waterpark on the west coast, the destination is also unique in its multitude of diverse attractions.
Both adults and kids will find challenges and fun at the park, as well as convenient amenities and services.
Amenities and things to do: Begin your visit to the park with a thrilling time as your zipline over the water and enjoy amazing views.
Afterward, visit Aqua Park, where you will find a floating playground with obstacles like ramps, ladders, swings, jumps, and a trampoline, plus much more.
Do some cable wakeboarding on a course that is perfect for both beginners and experts.
Have a blast on the human-sized Hamster Wheels before testing your skills on the Ninja Race Course.
Unwind and kick back in a cabana rental, with options ranging from floating to large cabanas, all granting access to the park’s VIP beach area.
Once you get hungry, grab a snack or casual meal from the Island Grill.
- Website: https://wakeislandwaterpark.com
14. Wild Rivers
@Wild Rivers
Rating: 4★
Entry Ticket: Adults: $75.00, Children: $50.00, Ages 2 and Under: Free
Address: 10000 Great Park Boulevard, Irvine, CA 92618
- Opening May 6th
- Complimentary life jackets for children
- RV parking available
Why you should go: Wild Rivers is a newly-redesigned destination that prides itself on giving each guest a fun-filled experience.
Particularly, you’ll find great rides and thoughtful services throughout the facility.
Amenities and things to do: Your younger children will have a fantastic time on the slides of Kontiki Cove or splashing in Shaka Bay Wavepool.
Discover heart-pounding action on the Pelican Plunge or Bora Bora Bomerango before unwinding on the lazy river.
Take a break and have a drink at Mustang Bar, a treat at Island Sweets, or lunch at Pacific Grille.
Afterward, lounge in your private cabana or head to Cook’s Cove to explore the area that boasts 77 activities for your kids to discover.
- Website: https://wildrivers.com
15. Buccaneer Cove at Castle Park
@Castle Park
Rating: 4.3★
Entry Ticket: $39.99
Address: 3500 Polk Street, Riverside, CA 92505
- Opening May 22nd
- Parking fee of $15.00
Why you should go: Enjoy a relaxing and fun day with your family at Buccaneer Cove at Castle Park.
During your time there, you’ll be able to explore the numerous attractions when not unwinding with the help of convenient services.
Amenities and things to do: You and your kids will love the fun-filled slides at the park, as well as features that include spray cannons, fountains, and aqua domes.
Browse Duke’s Boardwalk Shop before sitting back in the shade of a private cabana.
Have a family meal at one of the on-site restaurants or sample a variety of snacks from vendors.
Once you’re ready to dry off, consider exploring Castle Park’s other attractions, like miniature golf and the arcade.
Note: It is advised that you find the nearest water park staff member as soon as you become hurt and ask for rapid medical attention. It is advised to seek the services of a head injury attorneys who could be able to help you if you feel that their response was insufficient or that the water park was to blame for the occurrence.