Save cash or splash out with these water parks for every kind of family holiday, writes Lina Molloholli
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With a host of new openings and additions across the world of water parks, there’s never been a better time to book clients in for a week splashing around in the sun.
And whether they see themselves careering down a waterslide, floating down a winding lazy river or relaxing on a sunlounger while watching the kids’ faces light up as they make a mighty splash in the wave pool – there’s as much for adults to enjoy as there is for little ones.
Water-based theme parks come in all shapes and sizes, many with accommodation on-site or close by. So whether clients are looking for a budget-friendly escape or are happy to splash out on splashing around, there’s a water park resort out there to suit everyone.
With a range of accommodation types, dining options and amenities to choose from, here’s our pick of water park resorts to suggest to your clients this summer.
1. Tenerife
Since opening in 2008, Siam Park has become a go-to destination for family-friendly holidays in the Canary Islands, and it’s easy to see why. Set on the vibrant island of Tenerife, this aquatic wonderland is open all year round and comes without the hefty price tag of some of the big-brand theme parks, making it a top choice for budget-conscious thrill-seekers.
The park is home to Mai Thai River, the world’s longest lazy river, and more than 30 slides and rides. For adrenaline junkies, there’s the Tower of Power slide, with a near-vertical drop through an enclosed tube surrounded by an aquarium with a resident shark, or the recently added Saifa water coaster for a twisting journey through dark tunnels and heart-thumping drops.
For younger guests, the Lost City provides a fun aquatic playground with water cannons, slides and shallow pools. And for those seeking relaxation there’s Siam Beach, a tranquil artificial beach where clients can soak up the sun on soft sands or take a refreshing dip.
Book it: Jet2holidays offers five nights at Costa Adeje hotel GF Isabel from £872 per person based on two adults and a child sharing a one-bedroom bungalow on a B&B basis. The price includes unlimited access to Siam Park, coach transfers, luggage and return flights from Stansted departing on August 20.
jet2holidays.com
Tower of Power waterslide
2. Egypt
Pickalbatros Water Valley Resort – Neverland Hurghada opened its doors on Egypt’s Red Sea coast last summer, offering a well-priced getaway for all seasons. Officially the largest water park in Egypt, it boasts a whopping 42 swimming pools and 85 slides, with two more arriving this summer.
Guests can dive into a world of thrills as they conquer the Dragero and Looping Rocket, where they’ll twist and turn through a massive funnel before splashing into the pool below.
Or they can jump on the Big Rafting Slide, an adrenaline-fuelled raft ride down dipping, bending curves, and race friends and family to the bottom. For those seeking a more laid-back experience, the Rafting Lazy River offers a relaxing float through the park, while the on-site spa is an adult-only escape to unwind in after those high-octane thrills.
For little ones, there are 18 mini slides to choose from, plus a mini wave pool and splash areas where they can catch a wave. But the excitement doesn’t end at the water park – from interactive games and arcades to live shows and character appearances at the resort, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Book it: easyJet holidays offers a five-night stay at Pickalbatros Water Valley Resort from £1,527 per person based on two adults and a child sharing a two-bedroom apartment on full board. It includes coach transfers, luggage and flights from Gatwick departing on August 7.
easyjet.com
The Snick Lounge at Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana
3. Dominican Republic
For clients who can afford to splurge, suggest Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. The park features a plethora of splash pads and water cannons, plus winding slides that cater to the young and the young at heart.
Dive into the Sliming Pool for a playful encounter with Nickelodeon’s famous green slime, or brave the towering slides at Aqua Nick, where adrenaline-pumping rides await around every corner.
The resort has also unveiled some exciting additions that are launching this year. The water park will feature a new main entrance, two pools with a slide tower, more splash games and sun beds with large umbrellas for when clients just need to kick back.
Also coming this year will be additions to the resort’s live entertainment, bringing even more opportunities for guests to interact with some of their favourite Nickelodeon characters – we’re talking SpongeBob, Dora the Explorer, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and plenty more.
On the resort front, the recently added Snick Lounge offers an upscale 1990s-inspired space with a dynamic arcade game room, sports lounge and live music venue, featuring elements from the brand’s biggest hits from that decade.
Book it: Tui offers a five-night stay at Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana from £3,633 per person based on two adults and a child sharing a Nest Suite with balcony on a full-board basis. The price covers coach transfers, luggage and Air Canada flights from Heathrow departing on December 20.
tui.co.uk
Best of the rest
Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa, Saint Lucia
This resort offers the island’s largest water park, with both family-friendly and adult-only accommodation. New trade booking incentives for 2024 include a reward bonus worth up to £60, and one free night for agents booking clients for seven nights or more.
Aquatica Orlando, Florida
As well as 50 slides, rivers and lagoons and 7,803sq m of sparkling white, sandy beaches, this Orlando escape is adding a new slide this spring – and it’s called Tassie’s Underwater Twist. It features a water bowl section, where guests will circle around in a digital underwater world – surrounded by seagrass meadows, colourful fish and even the occasional shark.
Liberty Signa, Turkey
Set to open its doors on May 15, Liberty Signa is only a 10-minute walk from the popular Calis Beach in Fethiye. The resort offers an impressive 16 pools ranging from action-packed water parks with rides and slides to chilled-out adult spaces and kids’ pools.
PICTURE: Shutterstock/Serenity-H
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