Summer is a time for cookouts, getaways, and as many outdoor activities as you can squeeze into the short season. However, it’s also a time when parents have to find ways to occupy their kids on school break that, for many, preferably don’t involve sitting in front of a screen. This could be tricky for those who don’t live near many kid-friendly attractions, which is all the more reason to book a vacation at one of these family resorts (they’re coming; keep reading!).
We previously shared a dozen water parks around the world for families to beat the heat during the hot summer months. Thanks to the Florida-based advertising company, The Zimmerman Agency, which comprised a list of international resorts offering thrilling waterslides, playful splash zones, and relaxing lazy rivers, we’re sharing these destinations that are perfect for families (or adults that are kids at heart).
So, if you’re racking your brain trying to figure out what to do with the kiddos when the school year ends or where to celebrate National Waterpark Day on July 28, let us guide you to seven waterparks domestically and internationally for your next family trip.
P.S. You might want to read our travel packing tips to prepare for longer flights. Trust us; you’ll be glad you thought ahead.
Atlantis, The Palm (Dubai, UAE)
One of the more enticing spots on this list is Atlantis, The Palm, a world-renowned Dubai beach hotel that’s home to the world’s largest waterpark, Aquaventure World. The park spans 22.5 hectares with 105+ thrilling slides and attractions the kids will be raving about all year long.
Their most buzzworthy attractions include the Tower of Poseidon, which is where record-breaking rides like Poseidon’s Revenge can be found, where the floor drops beneath you, plummeting you down a near-vertical chute. Odyssey of Terror is also a big hit with park-goers, being it’s the world’s tallest waterslide of its kind, taking riders through gravity-defying drops and high-speed twists.
Additionally, guests can get an epic cool-down on the Lazy River & Rapids ride, which floats along a 1.4-mile (2.3-km) river with tidal waves and, at some points, a calm experience. Little ones also adore the smaller slides, water buckets, and interactive features at Splashers Kids’ Play Area. Meanwhile, the adults can relax at the exclusive beachside cabanas and enjoy aquatic dining and refreshments. All of this and more are on the resort’s website.
Aurora Anguilla Resort and Golf Club (Anguilla)
If you’re thinking of a more tranquil getaway, The Zimmerman Agency highly recommends Aurora Anguilla Resort and Golf Club, which is nestled on the island of Anguilla. The waterpark, Aurora
Entertainment Park opened in January 2024 (via the resort’s Facebook post) and is the first of its kind in the Eastern Caribbean. The park encompasses 6.8 acres, with 600,000 gallons of water for relief from the hot temperatures.
Their lagoon-style pool is particularly popular among guests looking to wind down during their getaway. There are also multiple waterslides, a lazy river, a splash pad for the youngsters, cabana rentals, and a food truck and bar.
For a glimpse at what Aurora Anguilla has to offer, check out their Instagram page, where they recently shared a video highlighting their attractions for the whole family. You can also visit the resort’s website for booking information.
Jungala Aqua Experience at VidantaWorld Riviera Maya (Mexico)
If Mexico sounds more your speed, it’s the home of a premier boutique waterpark, VidantaWorld Riviera Maya, Jungala Aqua Experience, that would be right up your alley. Visitors of all ages are drawn to attractions like the Lazy Rio, their version of a lazy river that’s the longest in Latin America, stretching over 3,000 feet, and numerous state-of-the-art waterslides, such as the Aqua Drop, Aqua Loop, Flatline Loop, and Whizzard.
The park also features a wave pool, play structures for kids, private cabanas, and gourmet dining. Even better, you don’t have to drive home soaking wet to your hotel because the Jungala Park Hotel is just steps away from the waterpark.
According to the VidantaWorld website, the Jungala Park Hotel’s one-bedroom suite offers a king-size bed, jacuzzi tub, private balcony, luxury kitchenette, dining and living area, complimentary breakfast buffet, and transportation. The standard fee is $1,350 USD per night.
Princess Grand Jamaica (Green Island, Jamaica)
We imagine not many people could resist breathtaking oceanfront views and a private island (we know we couldn’t), and that’s exactly the experience visitors get at Princess Grand Jamaica on Green Island, Jamaica. Not only does the resort offer a chill vibe for adults, but it also has a kids’ club, immersive virtual reality entertainment zones, lavish pools, and an exciting waterpark.
Thrill seekers will love the waterpark’s four waterslides, while those looking for a serene escape can venture to the two expansive pools near the Wild Princess Water Park. There’s also a pool bar with Bob Marley-inspired cocktails, premium cabana rentals, food trucks, and shaded lounge areas. Already sold? Visit their website to reserve your spot!
Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa (Orlando, Florida)
Perhaps you’d prefer to stay stateside for your water adventure. Say no more because The Zimmerman Agency selected the perfect resort located right in Orlando, Florida. The Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa is the ideal option for those with little kids, as it’s just minutes away from Walt Disney World, without paying the hefty price tag of the Disney resorts (see their website for room rates).
In March 2021, the resort opened Treasure Cove Water Park (as per a Westgate Resorts press release), a pirate-themed park featuring 30-foot-high dual water slides, a lazy river, a giant wave pool, a splash pad, an aquatic jungle gym, and many more attractions. One of the major selling points for this resort is that it’s friendly for the entire family, including frozen cocktails and spas for the adults and fun rides and games for the youngsters. They even have bowling, mini golf, and boat rides on the premises.
Additionally, the park offers onsite dining and bars and a 35,000-square-foot sundeck to lounge with 600 cozy chairs to soak in the Florida sun. We couldn’t ask for anything more.
Westgate Town Center Resort + Westgate Vacation Villas Resort (Orlando, Florida)
Orlando, Florida, has so many amazing spots to beat the heat. Other great destinations in town for water activities are Westgate Town Center Resort and Westgate Vacation Villas Resort. These are also a short distance from Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort and a favorable option for those who want a break from the long lines and blazing sun in the theme parks.
Shipwreck Island Waterpark keeps the kids entertained with waterslides and over a dozen pools and hot tubs. Guests can also dine at Los Amigos Mexican Grill & Tequila Bar, which overlooks the waterpark, and enjoy amenities like mini golf, swan boat rentals, and an on-property Disney theater. Whether you’re adding this waterpark to your Disney vacation or solely visiting these resorts for their perks, you can book your stay on their websites.
Westgate Cocoa Beach Resort (Cocoa Beach, Florida)
Last on the list is another Florida hotspot, Westgate Cocoa Beach Resort in Cocoa Beach. The resort is in close proximity to Cape Canaveral and the Kennedy Space Center, which offers a close-up view of several rocket launches from the hotel’s new private beach deck.
Not only that, but the resort has one of Florida’s longest lazy rivers (335 feet), a waterslide, a children’s splash pad, and a massive family pool. There’s also a separate adult relaxation zone for parents to escape to, an Aloha Tiki Bar, and easy beach access. Can’t wait to jet off to this Westgate resort? Visit their website for more details.
Let us paint a picture for you: You’re lounging by the pool, watching your kids play in the splash zone or floating down the lazy river with nothing to focus on but where the waves take you, or perhaps you’re an adventure-seeker, riding the waterslides all day long. Your next family getaway could be one of these seven destinations, and based on our research, any of them would be a solid pick.