I recently evaluated
Golfland SunSplash water park in Roseville, Calif. Water parks are geared for the younger crowd but offer some exciting fun for young and old.
My recommendation, especially on hot summer days, is to arrive at least a half hour before the park opens to get a locker for your gear. If you have a large group, consider reserving a cabana for the day. I took a break during the hottest park of the day. Like most water parks, outside food and beverages are not allowed but there are plenty of fast food options available.
The slides range from heart pounding drops to gentle rides in a single or double tube or a four-person raft. There are height and weight restrictions and you must be able to climb several flights of stairs to reach the slides. Nearly everyone I went on had at least a half hour wait, but I managed to get in 10 slides on a busy day. I went till I was exhausted — it was that fun.
I was 15 minutes into the wait line for the monster half-pipe “Stealth” before I realized it’s similar to one I rode during a different park evaluation and planned never to do again. I agonized over whether to chicken out or stick it out, grateful I had not eaten lunch yet. I worried about the harrowing drop and forceful lift that eventually lands you in pool of water. The lifeguard assured me I’d be fine but, with the first drop, the screaming began. I survived, but couldn’t get up the courage to try it again.
“Dark Holes” features a tube that immerses you in total darkness. The “Masterblaster” water roller coaster and body slides are thrilling and worth taking the time for a second run. I saved the tube ride on the lazy river that encircles the park for the end to relax and unwind.
There’s an area with smaller, shorter slides for young children. The 80-foot-wide wave pool is an amazing man-made feat, great for catching the perfect wave!
With plenty of life guards on duty to ensure everyone’s safety, water parks like this one are a great way to cool off and have fun! Night slides are unique for those warm summer evenings.
What are some of the best slides at your favorie water parks?
