With its sunny weather and family-friendly atmosphere, Jacksonville is the perfect destination for water-filled adventures. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor looking for fun, the water parks in Jacksonville offer something for everyone. From thrilling slides and lazy rivers to splash pads and relaxing pool areas, these parks provide endless entertainment for families seeking to cool off and enjoy the outdoors.
10 Jacksonville Water Parks You Need to Explore
1. Adventure Landing and Shipwreck Island Water Park
- Location: 1944 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
- Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
- Ticket Price: $34.99 for adults, $29.99 for children
Adventure Landing’s Shipwreck Island is one of the top water parks in Jacksonville, offering something for everyone. From the exhilarating Hydro Half Pipe to the relaxing Lazy River, this park caters to thrill-seekers and families alike. The giant wave pool provides fun for all ages, while the younger kids can enjoy the Tadpole Hole kiddie area. With a range of water slides, splash zones, and cabanas for relaxation, it’s an ideal destination for a full day of fun. Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping rides or a calm float in the water, Shipwreck Island has it all.
2. Splash Water Park at Nocatee
- Location: 245 Nocatee Center Way, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
- Opening Hours: 11am – 7pm
- Ticket Price: Free for Nocatee residents
Just a short drive from Jacksonville, St. Marys Aquatic Center is a hidden gem among Jacksonville water parks. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, the park features a 6-lane lap pool, a splash pad, and a lazy river. The water playground is perfect for young children, while older kids and adults can race down the giant water slides. Affordable pricing and plenty of shaded areas make it an excellent choice for a laid-back family fun day. With a focus on safety and cleanliness, this park is perfect for families seeking budget-friendly water activities near Jacksonville.
3. Hanna Park Splash Park
- Location: 500 Wonderwood Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32233
- Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
- Ticket Price: $5 per car (park entrance)
Although not in Jacksonville, Daytona Lagoon is worth the drive for anyone looking to experience one of the best water parks near Jacksonville. This park features a variety of thrilling water slides, such as Kraken’s Revenge and Blackbeard’s Revenge, as well as a giant wave pool and a lazy river. Daytona Lagoon is perfect for families looking for high-energy water activities, with attractions for all ages. The water park also has food options and plenty of seating, making it an excellent destination for a day trip from Jacksonville.
4. Cecil Aquatic Center
- Location: 13611 Normandy Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32221
- Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm
- Ticket Price: $3 for residents, $4 for non-residents
Located just outside Jacksonville, Splash Island is part of the Wild Adventures Theme Park and offers an exciting blend of water and amusement park fun. Splash Island provides entertainment for the entire family with multiple water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. This park is ideal for those who want to combine water activities with roller coasters and other rides. The tropical theme and various attractions make it one of the most popular water parks in Jacksonville’s surrounding areas.
5. Julington Creek Plantation Park
- Location: 350 Plantation Club Pkwy, St Johns, FL 32259
- Opening Hours: 10am – 7pm
- Ticket Price: Free for residents, $10 for non-residents
Adventure Island is a top-rated water park in Florida and a must-visit for Jacksonville residents looking for an adventurous day out. The park boasts some of the most significant water slides in the region, such as the Colossal Curl and the Caribbean Corkscrew. Families can enjoy the lazy river, wave pool, and numerous splash zones for younger kids. With its variety of slides, pools, and water attractions, Adventure Island is an excellent place to cool off and enjoy water activities in the Florida heat.
6. St. Johns County Ocean Pier Splash Park
- Location: 350 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080
- Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm
- Ticket Price: $3 for adults, $2 for children
Nocatee Spray Park is a private community water park known for its modern water features and beautifully maintained grounds. With multiple splash zones, small slides for children, and plenty of shaded seating, Nocatee is an excellent choice for those who can access the park. Although it’s not open to the general public, it remains a local favorite. If you’re lucky enough to visit, this park offers a quiet, serene escape with water activities perfect for younger children.
7. Mandarin Aquatic Center
- Location: 11950 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223
- Opening Hours: 9am – 6pm
- Ticket Price: $5 for residents, $6 for non-residents
Kids Splash Park is a small but fun-filled park designed for younger children with plenty of splash zones and interactive water play. This park offers simple, low-maintenance water features, perfect for families with toddlers and young children. It’s a safe environment where parents can relax while their kids enjoy the water. While not as significant as other water parks in Jacksonville, Kids Splash Park is a fantastic option for an afternoon of easy, splashy fun.
8. Blue Cypress Park Splash Pad
- Location: 4012 University Blvd N, Jacksonville, FL 32277
- Opening Hours: 10am – 7pm
- Ticket Price: Free
One of the premier water parks in Jacksonville, Shipwreck Island offers an action-packed day of fun. With a pirate-themed adventure that includes towering water slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones, it’s a must-visit for families looking for excitement. The park also provides plenty of seating areas and food stalls, making spending a whole day enjoying the attractions easy. Whether you’re looking for thrilling water slides or a relaxing float down the river, Shipwreck Island has everything you need for a fun-filled day.
9. Boone Park Splash Pad
- Location: 3700 Park St, Jacksonville, FL 32205
- Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm
- Ticket Price: Free
Abess Park is a local favorite, offering water features, playgrounds, and plenty of open space. While smaller than other water parks in Jacksonville, it’s ideal for families looking for a quieter, more relaxed environment. The park features a splash pad and small water play areas perfect for young children. Abess Park is an excellent option for families who want to stay local and enjoy water fun without venturing too far from home.
10. Ed Austin Regional Park Splash Pad
- Location: 11751 McCormick Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32225
- Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
- Ticket Price: Free
Though primarily known for its indoor trampoline activities, Urban Air also offers a small splash zone, making it an exciting option for families looking for a mix of indoor and water-based entertainment. The water area is perfect for cooling off between jumping sessions, offering a variety of interactive water features. For families seeking a combination of wet and dry adventures, Urban Air delivers a unique experience not found at traditional water parks in Jacksonville.
A Splashing Good Time in Jacksonville
Jacksonville has water parks catering to families looking for adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re after adrenaline-pumping water slides, relaxing lazy rivers, or splash pads for the little ones, Jacksonville’s water parks offer it all. With plenty of options that suit different budgets and preferences, you can be sure to find the perfect spot to beat the heat and have a fun-filled day. So pack your sunscreen, grab your towels, and get ready to make a splash at one of these incredible water parks in Jacksonville!
Whether you’re looking for thrilling slides, splash zones for the little ones, or a relaxing day floating on a lazy river, Jacksonville’s water parks offer something for every type of family fun. From the heart-pounding excitement of Adventure Landing to the serene atmosphere of Nocatee Spray Park, Jacksonville has no shortage of places to cool off and make memories.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What should I bring to a water park in Jacksonville?
It’s recommended to bring essentials like sunscreen, towels, swimsuits, water shoes, and a change of clothes. Many parks also allow you to bring your own water bottles, but check the specific park’s policies regarding outside food and drinks.
Q2. Are there any age or height restrictions for the rides at Jacksonville water parks?
Yes, many of the water parks in Jacksonville have height or age restrictions for specific rides, especially the more thrilling slides. It's a good idea to check the park’s website or contact them in advance to ensure your child can participate in all activities.
Q3. Can I buy tickets in advance or do I have to purchase them at the park?
Most water parks offer the option to purchase tickets online in advance, which can help you avoid long lines at the entrance. Some parks may also offer discounts for online purchases or group bookings, so it's worth checking their websites before your visit.