Florida’s Best Resort and Water Park Experiences: Top Picks for Fun and Relaxation

Florida’s warm climate and endless sunshine make it the perfect destination for water-filled fun. Whether you’re looking for a luxury resort with poolside relaxation or an action-packed water park for the whole family, Florida has it all. This guide covers some of Florida’s best resorts and water parks, complete with amenities, top attractions, and insider tips for an unforgettable experience.

1. Luxury Resorts with Water Features

Florida is home to many luxury resorts that offer beautiful pools, lazy rivers, and family-friendly water features. From high-end hotels in Orlando to beachfront resorts on the Gulf Coast, these properties provide the perfect combination of relaxation and fun for travelers of all ages.

Top Luxury Resorts:

  • Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort: This five-star resort features a lazy river, family pool, and adults-only pool, making it a great option for both families and couples.

  • The Breakers Palm Beach: A historic resort with multiple pools, including an oceanfront pool, The Breakers also offers private beach access and cabanas for the ultimate luxury experience.

  • JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa: Known for its Tidal Cove water park, this resort features a FlowRider surf simulator, a lazy river, and several thrilling slides, perfect for families looking for a mix of luxury and excitement.

2. Family-Friendly Resorts with Water Parks

Some of Florida’s best family resorts include their own water parks, providing easy access to water slides, splash zones, and wave pools. These all-in-one destinations are ideal for families who want to keep kids entertained without leaving the resort.

Best Family Resorts with Water Parks:

  • Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center (Orlando): Featuring Cypress Springs Water Park with multi-level slides, a surf simulator, and splash areas, Gaylord Palms is a top choice for families visiting Orlando.

  • LEGOLAND Florida Resort: With a LEGO-themed water park that includes a wave pool, lazy river, and interactive splash areas, LEGOLAND is perfect for families with young kids.

  • Holiday Inn Resort Orlando Suites – Waterpark: This family-friendly hotel includes a large water park with slides, splash zones, and even a 4D theater, providing plenty of activities for young adventurers.

3. Action-Packed Water Parks for Thrill-Seekers

Florida is home to some of the country’s best water parks, with thrilling rides and slides designed for adrenaline junkies. From multi-story drop slides to surf simulators and rapid rivers, these parks offer excitement and variety for visitors looking for an action-packed day.

Top Water Parks for Thrills:

  • Volcano Bay (Universal Orlando Resort): With the towering Krakatau Volcano and thrilling rides like the Ko’okiri Body Plunge, this water park offers unique features and a “TapuTapu” wearable for virtual queues.

  • Aquatica Orlando: Known for its high-speed slides and a dolphin plunge ride, Aquatica is packed with excitement and includes unique attractions like the Reef Plunge, which takes riders through a tank filled with marine life.

  • Adventure Island (Tampa): Located near Busch Gardens, Adventure Island features water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river, catering to both thrill-seekers and those looking to relax.

4. Unique Water Park Experiences

For those looking for something different, Florida offers water parks with unique themes and experiences. These parks combine aquatic fun with creative design, making them memorable destinations for visitors of all ages.

Unique Water Park Spots:

  • Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon: With a tropical storm-themed setting, Typhoon Lagoon includes a giant wave pool, a lazy river, and family-friendly raft rides. Surfing lessons are also available early in the morning.

  • Disney’s Blizzard Beach: This ski resort-themed water park features snowy mountain slides and rides, including Summit Plummet, one of the tallest and fastest free-fall slides in the world.

  • Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park (Destin): Located in the Florida Panhandle, Big Kahuna’s combines water slides, a wave pool, and mini-golf for a fun day of adventure.

5. Relaxing Pool Experiences and Lazy Rivers

For those who prefer a slower pace, many resorts and water parks offer lazy rivers and relaxing pool areas. These attractions provide the perfect setting to unwind, float along the water, and soak up Florida’s sunshine.

Top Lazy Rivers and Pools:

  • Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate: This resort’s lazy river winds through tropical landscaping, and guests can also enjoy cabanas and a zero-entry family pool.

  • Margaritaville Resort Orlando: With its laid-back atmosphere, Margaritaville features a beach-style pool, lazy river, and live music, perfect for guests looking to relax in paradise.

  • Reunion Resort & Golf Club (Orlando): This resort offers multiple pools, including a rooftop pool with scenic views, as well as a lazy river and splash pad for kids.

6. Tips for Making the Most of Your Resort and Water Park Visit

To get the most out of your day at a resort or water park, planning ahead can make a big difference. These tips help ensure that your experience is comfortable, safe, and enjoyable.

Essential Tips:

  • Arrive Early: Water parks and resort pools tend to get busy, so arriving early allows you to find a good spot and enjoy popular attractions before crowds arrive.

  • Stay Hydrated and Sun-Protected: Florida’s sun can be intense, so bring water, sunscreen, and UV-protective clothing.

  • Rent a Cabana: If you plan to stay for the day, renting a cabana can provide shade, seating, and a private space to relax, especially in larger parks.