Posted on June 11th, 2010
By Heather Reneau
10. Good for EVERY age group. (My 52- and 59-year-old parents had just as much fun as my 5-year-old son. Possibly more.)- 9. Capacity is limited so there are never too many people.
- 8. It’s really hot out and really refreshing there.
- 7. The safety precautions the people at the park extend are great for younger kids.
- 6. It’s still new and a lot closer than Atlantis.
- 5. You get to see dolphins that look like mini killer whales (weird).
- 4. They have, not one, but two lazy river-type rides. YES!
- 3. You can squirt annoying tweens in the face (that should be on the bigger slides instead of knocking my preschooler down) with water guns. :)
- 2. You can debut your new summer abs that you starved yourself for.
- 1. Because these are the types of memories that your children will remember for their lifetime.
PLAYGROUND TIPS:
- Bring water shoes. Aquatica does a great job of keeping the cement walkways wet but there are still some sizzling areas that make it difficult to go barefoot while hitting all the activities.
- All You Can Eat? This was an area of debate for our family. Here’s my opinion: If your kids are going to want some ice cream (which they will) and you’re going to get a beer or two (which you are) then the all-you-can-eat buffet isn’t the best value, as the aforementioned items are not included. If loading on three main courses in one sitting is your style, then this deal is perfect for you.
VIP Options:
Cabana — Reserve a cabana and enjoy VIP only access to the cabana areas along with towels, a fridge with assorted non-alcoholic beverages, and lockers for $199. There’s also an “ultimate” cabana option with 2-tents, much more seating on a private island between the two wave pools for $599.
Umbrella and loungers — Reserve an umbrella and two chairs on your own private beach island (with the other renters) in the middle of the park. You’re very secluded so it’s not like you have a great view of the wave pool but you do get some peace and quiet if that’s what you’re interested in (for nap time maybe?). $49.99 includes chairs, umbrella, 1 locker and 2 towels.
SAFETY FIRST:
Not only was I surprised and impressed with Aquatica’s meticulous attention to safety - I just found out that they are offering swim lessons. HOW COOL IS THAT? Here are the details:
Aquatica now offers American Red Cross certified swim lessons for children six months of age and older. The cost is $199 for eight classes. Platinum, 2 Year and 1 Year Aquatica Passport members save $100 off the regular price. Enrollment ends 48 hours before first class. Level one classes begin June 14th, Level 2 classes begin June 28th. An Aquatica pass for a parent or guardian of a child enrolled in swimming lessonssells for $49.99 -but the ticket must be scanned by 9 a.m. and can be used only on days the swimming lessons take place. For more info, go to www.aquaticabyseaworld.com or call 1-888-800-5447.
MY FAVE DEAL:
For CFL parents, Aquatica’s “After 2 p.m. Pass” is a great deal. Enjoy unlimited admission after 2 p.m. through December 31, 2010 with no blackout dates. Only $49.95 adult or child.
