The Best Southern California Water Parks

Summer for many Americans means higher temperatures and finding methods to try to keep cool. That is where the world of water parks comes in. Water parks takes the swimming pool one-step further, combines multiple pools and water-inspired rides and activities, and puts it into one place. With Southern California being one of the top vacation spots for families, it is a good thing to be able to have access to list of the top water parks in Southern California.

DryTown Water Park - Palmdale, CA

One of the most affordable locations on the list is the DryTown Water Park located in Palmdale. This water park is a part of the City of Palmdale's Parks and Recreation department. It is not only one of the nicest, but it is very affordable, which is one of the problems that many larger families are faced. The Devil's Punch Bowl is a favorite of visitors here. You are blasted from a tube and in a punch bowl to circle around until you finally reach the spout out. Non-resident pricing is $15 for those 9 years old and older, $10 for those 3 - 8 years old, under 2 is free, Senior (62 and older) and Active Military (with ID) are $10. For more information on this park such as admission prices, hours of operation, etc., please visit http://www.cityofpalmdale.org/drytown/ or call 661.267.6161.

Island Water Park - Fresno, CA

Island Water Park located in Fresno has many different things for the whole family. This park features the giant Copacabana Cove, which is the water park's huge wave pool, which is a favorite of park goers. There is also an entire area within the bar set aside just for those who are kids at heart, but are over 21 in age. This area includes Shipwreck Island. On the other end, there is Key Largo Lagoon just for the kiddies. Admission is 48 inches and taller is $24.99, under 48 inches, $16.99, Seniors (55 years or older) is $16.99, ages 2 and younger are free. For more information, visit http://www.islandwaterpark.com/islandwaterpark.html or call 559.277.6800.

Knott's Soak City - Orange County, CA - Palm Springs, CA - San Diego, CA

The name Knott's is synonymous with one of the most well known amusement parks in the state, Knott's Berry Farm. So why not add a water park to the mix. They did just that. The Knott's Soak City Water Parks are some of the largest water parks in the country. The parks feature cabanas that are available for rent, if you prefer to enjoy your day at the park in a more secluded area. The Pacific Spin is the most popular of the attractions at Soak City. The ride uses are cloverleaf shaped float that takes you through a tunnel then dispenses you into a funnel. Admission is $28.99 for adults, $17.99 for children 3-11 and seniors. Children 2 and under are free. There is also a discount available for Southern California residents ($23.99). Parking prices vary by location and type of vehicle. Hours vary but or normally 10am - 6pm. For exact hours and more information, please visit http://www.knotts.com/soakcity/index.shtml

Raging Waters - San Dimas, CA

Raging Waters' claims of them having the largest water parks may or may not be true, but the truth is that you can have a ton of fun at these water parks. There are two additional locations in Northern California, but the San Dimas location give Knott's Soak City a good run for its money. The most popular ride is the Flowrider. The Flowrider allows riders to ride the surf of a surfboard or body board and attempt to "hang 10". This works out much better than the traditional wave pools could ever do, if you have the nerve to try it. Another hit is the Dark Hole, which is a water slide that allows two riders to participate in a slide that takes them through complete darkness. Pricing for those 48 inches and over is $34.99 at the gate or $29.99 online, Under 48 inches $19.99, Seniors 55 and over with ID are $22.99, and children two and under are free. Weekend hours are 10am - 8pm, weekday hours are 10am - 7pm. For more information visit http://www.ragingwaters.com/indexmain.html or call 909.802.2200.