Splash Pads in Tampa Bay to Keep Your Cool
There’s no better way to keep your cool than a skip through a splash pad or spray ground!
We know that several splash pads have been closed due to COVID-19, but many are beginning to welcome back guests again. We’re sharing some of our favorites here on our list of splash pads and water parks in Tampa Bay!
First–because we have to say it–if you are sick or are considered high risk of getting sick, skip the water park. You don’t want to get others sick and you certainly don’t want to put your health in danger. It’s just not worth it.
Second–if you go to a splash pad or water park, be sure to pack a face mask as they may be required in some areas, but not while playing the water for obvious reasons. And, remind the kids about the two words that have become a part of our regular vocabulary: social distancing. Stay at least 6 feet away from others. You’ll see plenty of reminders at every park you attend.
Now, let’s get to it! Here are some splash pads and water parks open as of right now!
(Be sure to check each location’s social media pages and websites as things may change. Some local splash pads may still be closed, so be sure to double check before you leave. Hillsborough County Splash Pads are now back open as are many Splash Pads in Pinellas County. The City of Tampa reopens its splash pads on Monday, September 14, 2020.)
The Splash Pad at the Florida Aquarium in Tampa:
The popular splash pad has finally reopened, but at very limited capacity. First, you’ll need to make an online reservation to go to the Aquarium. This includes members too. Once you get to the Aquarium, you can go to the kiosk by the 4-D Theatre to book your window to play in the Splash Pad. Only 15 kids will be allowed to play at a time for 30 minutes. Adults must wear a mask while in the Splash Pad area, but kids playing in the water will not be required to wear one. They will need to put their face mask back on when they leave the Splash Pad area. flaquarium.org
Adventure Island in Tampa:
(Featured photo provided by our friends at Adventure Island.)
Tampa’s most beloved splash pad and water park is back open, but with major changes in place. You MUST make an online reservation to go and keep in mind there are limited hours and days open this summer. The park is currently slated to close Mondays-Wednesdays. You will need to bring a face mask for all guests in your party ages 2 and older. You will not have to wear it while in the water like the lazy river or water slides, but you will have to wear it at the park entrance, stores and other designated areas. While you’re here, be sure to take a ride down the NEW Solar Vortex water slide! It’s America’s first dual tail spin water slide and it’s AMAZING! adventureisland.com
LEGOLAND Florida Resort:
Head over to LEGOLAND and check out their epic splash pad and water park after exploring the theme park! There are several water slides, a wave pool, and lazy river! Masks are encouraged if you are not in the water. You can make it a high seas adventure and book a stay in the NEW Pirate Island Hotel for a swashbuckling great time! legoland.com
Splash Pad at the new St. Pete Pier:
Spend the morning riding bikes or strolling along the St. Pete Pier and then cool off for a bit at the splash pad! Just a few steps away is a great spot to buy some ice cream and snow cones! It’s best to arrive early before it gets too crowded. The playground is also pretty awesome! stpetepier.org
Highland Family Aquatic Center in Largo:
The community center reopened on June 15 to the public. The Aquatic Center’s water park is a crowd pleaser featuring water slides, a zero depth play area with spray structures, and water basketball and volleyball! The current hours are Monday-Friday: 11am-1pm, 1:30-3:30 pm, 4:00-6:00 pm and Saturday-Sunday: 10am-2pm. playlargo.com
Crystal Lagoon at Epperson in Wesley Chapel:
The 7 acre manmade lagoon’s crystal clear water is a perfect place to swim and play, try out the obstacle course or go for ride on a paddle board or kayak. There is a fee to enter and you’ll have to pay extra for the extra add ons like the obstacle course. The water park’s lagoon is open everyday from 10am-9pm. Adult admission is $24.99 and kids are $22.95. Learn more here.
Kiwanis Sprayground in Dunedin:
This super kid-friendly sprayground splash pad reopened on June 5 to limited capacity and they’re requiring online reservations to attend. You can also expect limited hours if this is a park you’ve been to in the past. The 3,000 square foot spray park features several fun spray structures, a pirate ship slide, tumble buckets and more! Expect to have your temperature taken here too! Dunedingov.com
Splash Harbour in Indian Rocks Beach:
The waterpark attached to a hotel features water slides, lazy river, extra large pool deck, splash zone, and more. They have reopened to limited capacity and like everywhere else, you will have your temperature taken before you get in. splashharbourwaterpark.com
Sims Park in New Port Richey
The city of New Port Richey reopened its parks, playgrounds and splash pads on June 15. The water is drained and tested three times per day, according to the city. You can learn more by visiting here.
More on the water FAMILY FUN in Tampa Bay:
Our Favorite Family-Friendly Beaches in Tampa Bay
8 Outdoor Adventures to Explore in Tampa Bay by the Outdoorsy Diva!
