Summers in the West are known for their dry heat, making it essential to find refreshing ways to cool down. If you’re in Los Angeles, you’re in luck! This guide highlights seven fantastic water spots where you and your family can beat the heat and enjoy a fun-filled day.
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Los Angeles
Address: 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia, CA 91355
Daily Hours: 10:30 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Southern California’s most thrilling waterpark, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, is a water park in Valencia located adjacent to Six Flags Magic Mountain. This 14-acre water park features water slides, wave pools, tube rides, a lazy river, and luxury cabanas. The daily ticket costs $49 while the season pass starts at $140.
Tips for visitors: It’s best to visit early in the day to avoid crowds. Proper swimwear such as bathing suits or board shorts are required in Waterpark attractions. Follow safety guidelines and lifeguard instructions.
Malibu Creek Rock Pool
Address: Agoura Hills, CA 91301
Malibu Creek Rock Pool is about 36 miles from downtown Los Angeles. This natural swimming hole is nestled within Malibu Creek State Park. The rock pool offers a serene spot for swimming and relaxing. The park also features hiking trails and picnic areas.
Tips for visitors: Plan your visit by checking the weather and bringing appropriate gear. Ensure you have enough water, snacks, and sunscreen. Swimming is allowed, but visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks and varying water depths.
Super Silly Fun Land
Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91602
Park Hours: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Super Silly Fun Land is located in Universal City within Universal Studios Hollywood. This water play area features more than 80 different water play features, various splash zones, and water play structures inspired by the Minions from the movie "Despicable Me." The area is designed for young children but enjoyable for all ages.
Tips for visitors: Plan your visit by checking park hours and purchasing tickets in advance. Essentials to pack include towels, sunscreen, and a change of clothes. Supervise children closely and follow posted safety guidelines.
Knott’s Soak City Waterpark
Address: 8200 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90620
Hours: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (open on select days from May 18 to September 8)
Knott’s Soak City Waterpark is a separately gated 15-acre water adventure park. It features 23 speed, tube and body slides, a huge wavepool, a one-third-mile Sunset River, a family raft ride, and a three-story Beach House with 200 water guns, sprayers, nozzles, and other interactive water plays.
Tips for visitors: Separate admission is required for Soak City. Daily tickets start from $49.99. To participate in waterpark attractions, appropriate swimwear is required.
City Terrace Park Splash Pad
Address: 1126 N Hazard Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90063
Daily Hours: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
City Terrace Park offers a wide variety of activities for all ages. This park is especially popular during warm months of summer as kids can cool off in the splash pad and those who can swim can use the pool. The park also features baseball fields, basketball courts, children’s play areas, picnic tables, restrooms, and fitness zones.
Tips for visitors: The Splash Pad operates seasonally, from May 1st to September 30th. Parents should supervise children at all times and follow posted safety guidelines. Visiting during off-peak hours can provide a better experience.
Splash! La Mirada Regional Aquatic Center – Buccaneer Bay
Address: 13806 La Mirada Blvd, La Mirada, CA 90638
Waterpark Hours: 10:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Located 20 miles south of downtown L.A., Splash! La Mirada Regional Aquatics Center is an 18-acre aquatic park. Its Buccaneer Bay features three water slides that enter into a catch pool, two body slides, two spray pad areas, zero-depth beach entry, a six-lane mat racer, a children’s interactive play structure, a flowing river channel, and decorative pirate-themed features. A day pass costs $22-$70 while a season pass costs $60-70.
Tips for visitors: Pricing for admission is based on height rather than age. Admission includes free parking, use of inner tubes and mats, and use of life jackets.
Castaic Lake
Castaic Lake is located in northern Los Angeles County, just 45 miles north of downtown L.A. The lake offers swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities. The surrounding area features picnic spots, hiking trails, and campgrounds.
Swimming is only allowed during the summer season at the Lower Lake Lagoon, and life jackets are recommended for boaters. Family camping in an RV’ or tent is available on the east side of the lower lake lagoon. Click here for lake hours, fees, and annual passes.
Tips for visitors: Plan your visit by checking the weather and bringing the necessary gear. Ensure you have the required permits for fishing and follow local regulations. Safety tips include staying aware of currents and respecting wildlife habitats.
Los Angeles offers various water areas to help residents and visitors beat the summer heat. From water parks and splash pads to serene lakes and rock pools, there’s something for everyone. Just remember to pack essentials, follow safety guidelines, and enjoy the refreshing water activities these locations offer.
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