Itching to go to an island but can’t get away? Spend the weekend or a daycation at Island Waterpark at Showboat in Atlantic City, where the weather is always a balmy 84 degrees, the lush tropics look like an island paradise, and there’s no shortage of fun for kids and adults. This newly opened spot is more than just a waterpark—with a dazzling 11 waterslides and pools under a retractable roof, adventure courses, an exclusive adults-only section with bars, and the world’s largest arcade with a go-kart raceway, there’s something for everyone. Read on for all the details to escape to this island getaway down the shore, and check out our guide to indoor waterparks for more local water adventures. (Feature photo taken at Island Waterpark)
Island Waterpark is a playground for both kids and adults. Photo taken at Island Waterpark
Pick your adventure at Island Waterpark
Get ready for a day of action and adventure, with 11 waterslides, a dedicated kids section, and beautiful scenery and waterfalls all around. First stop is Slide Island, where you’ll find 5 exciting waterslides varying in skill set and thrills to satisfy the boldest adventure-seekers. Then, take a leisurely trip down the Island Drift Lazy River, which stretches almost the entire length of the waterpark. As you float along in your inner tube, relax and take in the tropical sites, including the Blue Cascade Waterfall, one of the largest custom aqua forms in the world. Sports fans will want to take a dip in the Adventure Pool to play wet and wild basketball and more water-based activities.
Hang ten all-year-round
Ready to hang ten? The Wild Wave Flowrider is the ultimate body surfing destination, where you can catch some epic waves and make unforgettable memories. And if you’ve got a budding board surfer in the family, it’s a great spot to master the art of stand-up surfing before they hit the real thing with a Flow Rider Experience. They can hop on board and enjoy a private one-hour lesson to learn the basics. Availability is limited to select times throughout the day, so be sure to plan ahead.
Island Waterpark has all the tropical feels any time of year. Photo taken at Island Waterpark
Get your thrills out
Thrill-seekers will want to seek out The Electric Eel, a wild slide with quick twists and turns that is darker inside with holes to let the light in until you hit the bottom and off into the water. Similarly, the Barracuda Blaster sends you shooting fast through the tube with g-forces, and with each turn, you’re pushed farther down into the tube. The Sonic Serpent focuses on speed and wraps around the building as well. Up for a race? Grab a mat and fly headfirst on Tidal Racers to compete side by side to see who’s the fastest down.
Let your kids go wild at Kids Cove
If you’ve got an under-5 crew, you’ll want to hang out at the Kids Cove, which is perfectly sized for littles and lets them feel comfortable in the water at their own separate retreat. You will find low-lying slides, splash pads, and interactive water activities for kids to make lasting memories. After they have jumped out all that excess energy, walk past the Blue Cascade Waterfall, where the water crashes down and provides thrills for littles to look at and touch.
The lazy river is a relaxing way to see the park. Photo taken at Island Waterpark
Boardwalk favorites in one spot
Hungry? Head to The Boardwalk, an indoor promenade featuring the most famous Jersey Shore food and beverages. Take your time strolling along the boards and grab a delicious bite, including burgers, nachos, fries, pizza, and ice cream. And for adult beverages, stop by the poolside Paradise Bar, which serves up your tropical favorites like Pina Coladas (and alcohol-free for the kids).
Spend some adult time
Sure, having lots of family time is fun, but if you get a chance to sneak away, head to the exclusive adults-only section at Island Waterpark at the Paradise Adult Island and Bliss Pool. Here, you can escape, relax, and enjoy a vacation-vibe oasis filled with luxurious lounge chairs, an extensive cocktail menu, a swim-up bar, and even a Peloton for a quick ride. Take a dip in the Bliss Pool, where you can float around and unwind, then hang out at one of the dry bars or sip on a specialty cocktail at the swim-up bar while a DJ spins tunes, and you feel like you’re in paradise.
The Lucky Snake arcade is a perfect place to visit after we dried off. Photo taken at Lucky Snake Arcade
Test your luck at the Lucky Snake Arcade
Enter the largest arcade in the world; yes, you read that right—Lucky Snake Arcade is open to all ages and features tons of interactive fun, including a go-kart speedway that’s sure to rev up the excitement. Choose games that range from Redemption types, where you get a prize, to video and competition games (hello, water guns). Kids will love kicking it back old-school style in the Pinball Galerie, then head over to bowling, indoor mini golf, whack-a-mole, and even a tiny kiddie ride. Older kids (and adults) will want to get their racing gear ready for the 7-lap speedway with state-of-the-art go-karts. Known as the fastest go-karts on the boardwalk—speeds go up to 25 mph—you can race seriously or cruise around if you need speed. Need a break? There are 5 bars and restaurants located within Lucky Snake, so you’re never too far from the games.
The cabanas are a great place to take a break and to keep all of your things. Photo taken at Island Waterpark
What to know before you go
Island Waterpark is open all year round with seasonal hours: Monday from 12 PM-6 PM, Friday from 12 PM-7 PM, Saturday from 11 AM-8 PM, and Sunday from 12 PM-7 PM. You can choose from day general admission for as low as $49 per ticket, twilight admission starting at 4 PM, or all-access 21+ VIP admission starting at $69 per ticket. All kids and under are free. There are lounge chairs throughout the park, but if you want space to spread out, book a cabana with premium service and plenty of comfy sofas and seats to keep your crew feeling at home. You can also book an adults-only cabana in the Paradise Island section. Island Waterpark does not provide towel service; bring your own or purchase them as souvenirs from the on-site shop. There are two different locker sizes available to rent within the park, with the larger ones by the entrance of the Island Bar. Coming with a group? Groups of 10 or more will enjoy $10 off per ticket.
For more information about Island Waterpark, check out their website, Facebook and Instagram.
Island Waterpark
801 Boardwalk
Atlantic City, NJ 08401
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