Rapids Water Park in Riviera Beach
Rapids Water Park, located in Riviera Beach, Florida, just north of West Palm Beach, is the largest water park in South Florida, offering over 30 acres of water-based attractions for thrill-seekers, families, and visitors of all ages. Established in 1979, the park has grown into a top destination for those looking to beat the Florida heat and enjoy a day of fun with exciting water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and kiddie play areas.
Rapids Water Park features more than 40 slides and attractions, making it a favorite for both locals and tourists. Whether you’re in the mood for high-speed thrills or prefer relaxing in the sun, the park provides a wide range of experiences, from adrenaline-pumping rides to more relaxed, family-friendly activities.
Thrill Rides and Major Attractions
1. Brain Drain: One of the park’s most intense attractions, Brain Drain features two 70-foot high vertical trapdoor slides. Riders stand inside an enclosed tube before the floor drops out beneath them, sending them plummeting straight down at heart-pounding speeds. This high-thrill ride is perfect for adrenaline junkies looking for a fast and furious water slide experience.
2. Big Thunder Big Thunder is a four-person raft ride that takes guests on a wild journey down a 60-foot funnel slide. Riders are dropped into a massive funnel, where their raft swirls around the edges before plunging into the pool below. The steep drops and fast spins create an exhilarating experience for groups of friends and families to share.
3. Riptide Raftin’: This multi-person raft ride offers a thrilling combination of twists, turns, and drops. Riptide Raftin’ sends riders through dark tunnels and open-air sections as they speed through the winding course. The raft holds up to four riders, making it a great option for families and groups looking for an exciting yet fun-filled ride.
4. Black Thunder: One of the park’s most popular attractions, Black Thunder takes riders on a dark, high-speed adventure. The fully enclosed slide twists and turns as it plunges through the pitch-black tube, with unexpected drops and sharp turns creating an intense and unpredictable experience.
5. Pirates Plunge Pirates Plunge offers a pair of open-air and enclosed slides that send riders plummeting from six stories high into a splashdown pool. With fast drops and a mix of open and enclosed sections, this slide provides a thrilling free-fall experience.
Family-Friendly Rides and Attractions
1. Lazy River: The Lazy River offers a relaxing escape from the park’s high-energy attractions. Guests can float along a meandering river on inner tubes, enjoying the scenic surroundings and occasional splashes of water. The gentle current provides a peaceful break, perfect for cooling off and unwinding after enjoying the park’s more intense rides.
2. Splash Lagoon Splash Lagoon is a family-friendly water play area featuring interactive water elements, such as spray fountains, tipping buckets, and small slides for younger children. This colorful and exciting area is designed for younger guests who want to splash around in a safe, fun environment.
3. Big Surf Wave Pool: The Big Surf Wave Pool is one of the park’s most popular attractions, offering large rolling waves that simulate the feeling of being in the ocean. Guests can wade in the shallow end or venture out to ride the waves as they build in size. This attraction provides fun for all ages, and the waves are generated on a schedule, allowing time for swimming and playing in between the waves.
4. Barefootin’ Bay Barefootin’ Bay is a water play area designed specifically for young children and toddlers. It features shallow water, small slides, and gentle water features that allow little ones to splash and play in a safe and interactive environment. Parents can relax nearby while watching their kids enjoy the fun.
Kiddie Play Areas
1. Alligator Alley: Aimed at younger children, Alligator Alley offers a playful, themed water area with smaller slides, interactive water toys, and shallow splash pools. The area is designed to resemble a swamp, complete with alligator-themed slides and fun water sprayers.
2. Tadpool Tadpool is a shallow wading pool designed for toddlers and preschool-aged children. The area includes gentle fountains, water sprayers, and tiny slides, ensuring that even the park’s smallest visitors can enjoy a safe and fun day in the water.
Dining and Refreshments
Rapids Water Park offers a variety of dining options throughout the park, ensuring guests have plenty of choices for snacks, meals, and refreshing drinks.
- Subway: A familiar quick-service option offering fresh sandwiches, salads, and healthy snacks.
- Papa John’s Pizza: Guests can grab a slice of freshly made pizza or a whole pie to share with family and friends.
- Bahama Mama’s: A tropical-themed restaurant offering a variety of burgers, chicken tenders, fries, and other American fare, perfect for a casual bite between rides.
- Snack Stands: Throughout the park, there are various snack carts offering ice cream, churros, funnel cakes, soft drinks, and other refreshing treats to keep guests cool and energized throughout the day.
Vicinity of Rapids Water Park
Cabanas and VIP Experience
For guests looking for a more exclusive and relaxing experience, Rapids Water Park offers private cabana rentals. These cabanas provide a shaded, private area for families and groups to unwind, complete with lounge chairs, a dining table, and food and beverage service. Cabanas also offer priority seating for the park’s wave pool and lazy river, making them a great option for those seeking a little extra comfort during their visit.
Special Events and Group Packages
Rapids Water Park hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including seasonal celebrations, live entertainment, and special promotions. The park also offers group rates and packages for birthday parties, corporate outings, and school trips, providing a fun and unique way to celebrate special occasions or organize team-building activities.
Additional Details
- Location: Rapids Water Park is located at 6566 North Military Trail, Riviera Beach, Florida. It is easily accessible from nearby areas, including West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, and Fort Lauderdale.
- Ticket Options: Rapids Water Park offers a variety of ticket options, including single-day admission, season passes, and discounted rates for groups, military personnel, and Florida residents. Tickets can be purchased online or at the park’s entrance.
- Park Hours: Rapids Water Park operates seasonally, typically from March through October. Hours vary based on the time of year and day of the week, so it’s recommended to check the official website for the latest information.
- Accessibility: Rapids Water Park is fully accessible for guests with disabilities. The park provides accessible restrooms, pathways, and seating areas, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a fun day at the park.
- Safety Measures: The park is committed to guest safety, with certified lifeguards stationed throughout the park and strict water quality monitoring procedures in place. Life jackets are available for use at no additional charge, and guests are encouraged to follow all safety guidelines posted throughout the park.
For more information visit: https://rapidswaterpark.com/
