Plan your visit to Aquatica Orlando

How to visit Aquatica in Orlando

Entrance

The primary guest entrance on International Drive opens directly into the central plaza. This is where tickets, cabanas, and guest services are located.

Zone navigation

  • Thrill zone: Start with high-intensity slides like Ihu’s Breakaway Falls and Ray Rush early to avoid peak wait times.
  • Family & kids zone: Move to Walkabout Waters, Turi’s Kid Cove, and Loggerhead Lane after morning thrills, giving younger visitors time to explore safely.
  • Relaxation zone: End your visit with Cutback Cove, Big Surf Shores, and private cabanas for lounging between rides.

Optional add-ons

  • Commerson’s Close-Up: Schedule this behind-the-scenes dolphin tour for a unique interactive experience.
  • Dining & cabanas: Reserve ahead for the All-Day Dining Deal and private shaded seating.

Tools

Use the official Aquatica Orlando map and app to check live wait times, locate rides, and plan your walking route.

How to make the most of your time

Visit typeDurationRouteWhat you get

Quick splash

2 hours

Ihu’s Breakaway Falls → Ray Rush → Loggerhead Lane

Experience the park’s adrenaline highlights and relax on the lazy river without feeling rushed.

Half-day adventure

4 hours

KareKare Curl → Reef Plunge → Walkabout Waters → Cutback Cove

Balanced mix of high-speed slides, family-friendly play areas, and wave pool fun.

Full-day explorer

6–7 hours

Ihu’s Breakaway Falls → Ray Rush → Loggerhead Lane → Big Surf Shores → Commerson’s Dolphin Encounter

Covers all must-do thrills, relaxation zones, and the exclusive dolphin experience; maximised park coverage.

Family & toddler-friendly

3–4 hours

Turi’s Kid Cove → Walkabout Waters → Loggerhead Lane → Cutback Cove

Designed for young children, this itinerary blends gentle slides, splash zones, and calm river floats.

Handy tips

  • Reserve & arrive ahead: Book your tickets online, at least 1 week in advance. Arrive 30–60 minutes before opening time, especially during peak season.
  • Be choosy with your slot: Weekday visits, especially Tuesday–Thursday, between 10am–noon and 3–5pm, to enjoy shorter lines.
  • Timing matters: Arrive early for Ihu’s Breakaway Falls and  Reef Plunge; lines grow rapidly after 11am.
  • Rental cabanas: If you’re with family, this is a great investment–shade, lockers, and drink services, depending on the type you rent.

Explore Aquatica Orlando

Ihu’s Breakaway Falls

Towering multi-drop slide offering steep plunges and adrenaline-packed thrills for adventurous visitors.

  • Thrill level: Extreme, with high-speed drops and near-vertical trapdoor chutes.
  • Restrictions: Minimum height 48"; not suitable for guests with heart, neck, or back issues.

Reed Plunge

Twisting, translucent slide with underwater views of dolphins, sharks, and fish for a unique aquatic experience.

  • Thrill level: Moderate to High, with fast turns through underwater tubes.
  • Restrictions: Minimum height 42"; must be able to swim.

KareKare Curl

High-speed raft slide with “zero-gravity” moments on a curved wave wall, ideal for pairs and families.

  • Thrill level: High, with weightless surges and rapid twists.
  • Restrictions: Minimum height 42"; max 2–3 riders per raft.

Ray Rush

Family-friendly raft ride with enclosed tunnels, water jets, and a spinning open bowl for all ages.

  • Thrill level: Moderate, with a spinning bowl that adds excitement without extreme drops.
  • Restrictions: Minimum height 42"; children must ride with an adult.

Cutback Cove and Big Surf Shores

Two large wave pools with varied wave patterns, perfect for swimming, lounging, or taking a break from slides.

  • Thrill level: Low, with gentle to moderate waves.
  • Restrictions: Life jackets recommended for non-swimmers; supervision required for children.

Loggerhead Lane

Relaxing lazy river that winds through underwater viewing areas and colorful scenery for all ages.

  • Thrill level: Low, with gentle flowing water.
  • Restrictions: Children under 48" must use life jackets; tubes optional.

Roa’s Rapids

Fast-moving action river with strong currents for visitors seeking energetic, bouncy rides without tubes.

  • Thrill level: Moderate to High, with strong currents and fast sections.
  • Restrictions: Minimum height 42"; life vest required; not recommended for non-swimmers.

Walkabout Waters

Multi-level water play structure with tipping buckets, slides, and splash zones; perfect for young kids.

  • Thrill level: Low to Moderate, with gentle slides and tipping buckets.
  • Restrictions: Recommended for children 48" and below; adult supervision advised.

Turi’s Kid Cove

Toddler-friendly splash zone with gentle slides, water sprayers, and shallow pools with nearby parent seating.

  • Thrill level: Very low, with safe, shallow water for toddlers.
  • Restrictions: Ages 2–5 recommended; life jackets available.

Cabanas and beach areas

Private shaded cabanas with lockers and drink service, offering a comfortable home base for families or groups.

  • Thrill level: None; it’s for relaxation and comfort.
  • Restrictions: Reservation recommended; max occupancy per cabana.

Book Aquatica Orlando tickets

  • Choosing the right Aquatica Orlando ticket depends on how much time you have to spend in Orlando.
    • A single-day admission ticket gives you full-day access to all slides, pools, and kid-zones.
    • A two-day, two park ticket grants you a full-day access each at Aquatica Orlando and SeaWorld Orlando; located 10-minutes apart.
    • A three-day, three park ticket gives you full day access to Aquatica and two additional Orlando parks (choose from SeaWorld, Adventure Island Tampa Bay, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay).
    • A four-park ticket gives you unlimited access to all four parks over a 2-week period. This means unlimited visits to any and all parks with free parking included.
  • Upgrade your ticket (any) to include an All-Day Dining Deal, which includes one entreé and one side, or one dessert and one non-alcoholic beverage, redeemable once every hour across participating restaurants.
  • Cabana rentals and the Commerson’s Dolphin Encounter can be purchased on-site.

Aquatica Orlando hours and best time to visit

  • The park is open daily from 10:30am–5pm.
  • Hours vary by season and special events.
  • Loggerhead Lane is temporarily closed for maintenance.

Best time to visit

Weekday vs weekend

Weekdays, especially Tuesday through Thursday, tend to be quieter, with shorter lines and easier access to slides and wave pools. Weekend afternoons, especially between noon–3pm, often see high crowd buildup and longer waits.

Peak season vs low season

Summer months (June–August) and school holiday periods are peak seasons: expect larger crowds, possible full occupancy, and typical waits of 30–60+ minutes for popular slides. Off-peak months like early Spring (March–April) or late Fall (September–October) usually offer lighter crowds and fewer weather delays.

Note: Park hours may change due to seasonality; check in advance before planning your visit.

Where is Aquatica Orlando located?

Aquatica Orlando is located on International Drive in Orlando, right beside SeaWorld Orlando, making it easy to spot within the resort corridor.

Address: 5800 Water Play Way, Orlando, FL 32821 | Find on Maps
Closest landmark: SeaWorld Orlando, 300 m away

How to get there

  • By bus: Route 8 or 350 to International Drive/SeaWorld stops; 5–10-minute walk to the entrance.
  • By I-Ride Trolley: Red and Green Lines to SeaWorld stop; 7–10-minute walk to the entrance.
  • By rideshare/taxi: Book at your convenience and get dropped-off at the entrance. Travel time can vary; expect 15-20 minutes from downtown.

Take I-4 (Exit 71) toward SeaWorld/Aquatica, then follow signs for Aquatica Parking. On-site parking is available directly outside the entrance. From Orlando International Airport, the drive via FL-528 West takes 15–20 minutes.

Facilities

  • Restrooms: Located throughout the park, including family facilities and accessible toilets.
  • Baby care centers: Changing stations, nursing areas, and essentials available near main plazas.
  • Lockers: Multiple locker zones offer all-day rentals for valuables and personal items.
  • Life vests: Complimentary vests for all ages; compulsorily required on select attractions.
  • Gift shops: Sell swimwear, sunscreen, souvenirs, and last-minute essentials.
  • Dining areas: Restaurants and snack stands across the park offering meals, drinks, and treats.
  • Cabanas & loungers: Reserved cabanas and free loungers for relaxing between rides.

Accessibility

General facilities

Aquatica offers priority parking, ramp-equipped entrances, and companion admission policies for qualifying guests. Most walkways are wide, paved, and designed for easy movement around the park. Accessibility assistance is available at Guest Services near the entrance, where visitors can request guidance, policies, and attraction information tailored to their needs.

Physical disabilities

The park provides complimentary wheelchairs on a first-come basis, accessible restrooms, and zero-entry pools at several attractions. Many slides have specific transfer or mobility requirements; Guest Services offers a detailed accessibility guide outlining which rides require stepping, transferring, or climbing stairs. Shaded areas and rest zones are located throughout the park.

Visual impairments

Guests may request guided orientation support at Guest Services. Pathways are wide with clear tactile differences between walking areas and pools. Safety signage is available in large print at major attractions, and staff are trained to explain ride procedures verbally. Service animals are permitted in designated non-water areas of the park.

Hearing impairments

Video screens at key attractions include captioning, and safety briefings are available in written formats upon request. Staff at Guest Services can provide printed ride instructions and policies. Visual safety signals are present at several attractions to indicate dispatch, height limits, and operational changes.

Visiting with family

  • Baby changing stations are available at all the main restrooms across the park.
  • Stroller rentals and stroller parking spots are available near the main entrance.
  • Family-friendly dining spots offer kids’ menus and shaded seating areas.
  • Kid-specific splash zones and interactive play areas suitable for toddlers and young children.

Seasonal events

ALL-NEW ILLUMINATE

Dates: November 8, 2025–January 31, 2026, on select nights

Step into a nighttime festival of lights, lanterns, and wonder, transforming Aquatica into a luminous world of wonder. Explore five immersive realms with glowing lanterns, dynamic sounds, captivating scents, and a lavish food & drinks spread.Note: Slides and pools remain closed during this experience.

Rules and regulations

  • All guests and bags are subject to security screening.
  • Outside food, beverages, and coolers are strictly prohibited. Exceptions are bottled/refillable water.
  • Glass containers, alcoholic beverages, and large, hard-sided coolers are not permitted.
  • Proper swimwear is mandatory on water rides; no street clothes allowed in slides and pools.
  • No weapons, firearms, self-defence devices, glass bottles, sharp objects, or hazardous materials are allowed inside.
  • Guests under 15 years of age must be accompanied by a chaperone who is at least 21 years of age.
  • Only USCG-approved Type II or III life vests are allowed; personal floats, noodles, and boogie boards are prohibited.
  • Loose items are not allowed on slides; they can be left in the lockers.
  • All guests should comply with rider-specific safety, as instructed by park members.

Where to shop

  • Adaptations: Swimwear, beachwear, apparel, accessories, and water-park essentials like towels, hats, and sunscreen.
  • Kiwi Traders: Souvenirs, toys, plush items, water-park gear, and essentials like hats and sunglasses.

Where to eat

Loggerhead Lane Café

Quick-service meals including burgers, sandwiches, and salads, convenient for families on the go.

Water’s Edge Snack Bar

Grab soft drinks, frozen treats, and light snacks without leaving your fun zone.

Island Market & Deli

Pre-packed meals, wraps, and drinks—perfect for a quick bite before hitting the slides.

Mango Market

Quick‑service wraps, sandwiches, salads and snacks — a handy grab‑and‑go spot mid‑day.

Waterstone Grill

Burgers, salads, wraps, kids’ meals and desserts — a good sit-down or casual meal depending on timing.

Banana Beach Cookout

BBQ plates, pizza, sides and family‑style meals — works well for groups or big appetites.

Motu's Beach Bar

Beach‑side bar serving beverages and light snacks — useful for refreshments while lounging near the sand.

Walkabout Pizza (seasonal)

Fresh flatbread‑style pizzas, ideal for a quick and filling meal between rides.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Aquatica in Orlando

Can I buy Aquatica Orlando tickets on-site?

Yes, tickets can be bought on-site but, prepare to lose 20–60 minutes of waiting, depending on the crowd. Avoid waiting at the ticketing office with pre-purchased online tickets.

How long does it take to visit Aquatica in Orlando?

A full experience typically lasts 5–7 hours, including rides, rivers, and breaks. A shorter visit of 2–3 hours covers the major slides and lazy rivers.

What are Aquatica Orlando opening hours?

The park generally opens 10 am–5 pm, with extended hours during special events like the ILLUMINATE Festival. Hours may vary seasonally, so check the schedule before visiting.

What should I carry on my visit to Aquatica Orlando?

Bring a small backpack or waterproof pouch, sunscreen, water shoes, and a towel. Large bags must be stored in lockers, and outside food and drinks are not permitted.

Can I visit Aquatica Orlando without kids?

Yes. Adults-only groups or couples enjoy thrill rides, relaxing rivers, and seasonal nighttime events like ILLUMINATE, without needing children to join the fun.

Which is the fastest way to reach Aquatica Orlando from downtown?

By car: Take I‑Drive/FL‑482 toward International Drive, ~25–30 minutes depending on traffic; and by bus: Lynx Bus Route 8 to the main stop near the park, ~45–60 minutes, then a 5‑minute walk.

Are strollers allowed inside Aquatica Orlando?

Yes. Stroller rental is available near the main entrance, and pathways are wide enough for easy navigation. Slides and water attractions are, of course, not stroller-accessible.

Is there a dress code at Aquatica Orlando?

Yes. Swimwear is required for all water attractions. Shirts must be worn in dining areas. Footwear like flip-flops or water shoes is recommended for safety on wet surfaces.

More reads

Timings

Getting there

About