These relaxing waterways will please the whole family.
1. Introduction to Lazy Rivers
It would be easy to assume that lazy rivers are for kids. However, many adults eagerly seek to chill out in a meandering, human-made waterway. Even my rather apathetic husband lights up at the idea of one. There’s just something captivating about floating and being buoyed along with no effort of your own. Put a drink in my hand, and I’m mellow and light, too.
2. The Appeal of Lazy Rivers
This is all to say that a resort with a lazy river can benefit both adults and children alike. Therefore, with summer approaching and rising temperatures on the horizon, we’ve rounded up 14 fabulous hotels with lazy rivers to consider for your next vacation. You can thank us later when you’re vibing in an inner tube under baby blue skies.
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Marriott Marquis Houston, Texas
A lazy river shaped like its home state? Only in Texas. This rooftop waterway is a fantastic escape and will keep you cool during those hot summer months. The hotel’s rooftop deck features an infinity pool, an adults-only hot tub, and a bar called High Dive, which serves up excellent cocktails with a view.
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The Grove Resort & Water Park, Orlando, Florida
Access to Surfari Water Park is included with a stay at The Grove Resort, located about 10 minutes from Walt Disney World Resort. Among the many attractions here is a 695-foot lazy river with water cannons and overhead bridges for floating beneath. Waterslides and a FlowRider surf simulator add to the fun, and guests can reserve private cabanas or poolside seating in advance.
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Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa, Rancho Mirage, California
Confession: Before any of us ever had kids, a group of my grad school friends and I enjoyed this Greater Palm Springs resort, splashing around in Splashtopia, the on-site water park with dual waterslides and a relaxing lazy river. If you’re in this California desert region during the sweltering summer months, a lazy river is a must. Umbrella-clad tropical drinks can be procured at the poolside Splash Grill.
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Sesame Place San Diego, California
I brought my toddler to this Sesame Street-themed water park and quickly noticed how suitable it was for tweens, teens, and adventurous adults. Big Bird’s Rambling River is one of the various water features here; it’s a lazy river that exceeds 1,000 feet long and wraps around other park attractions. Complimentary life vests are available at entry points, ensuring safety and comfort for all. Don’t miss Big Bird’s Beach, located nearby, boasting an impressive replica of a giant sandy shore, minus the kelp. Note that park hours change with the seasons.
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Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa, Hawaii
World of Hyatt
Sign us up for a lazy river with breathtaking views of Poipu Beach, one of America’s finest stretches of sand. If you’re not enjoying the gorgeous blue waters of the Pacific, you can float past lava rocks and waterfalls in the resort’s saltwater lagoon and river. Swaying palm trees provide shade as you relax.
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Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
By our calculations, a full day at a theme park can be perfectly balanced by lounging for the same amount of time at the Four Seasons. This luxurious location boasts a five-acre water park known as Explorer Island. Here, you can enjoy a lazy river featuring a waterfall, two slides, a spacious pool with a sandy beach, and a splash pad with dancing fountains.
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MGM Grand, Las Vegas, Nevada
The Grand Pool Complex at MGM Grand is practically a vibrant club during a hot Vegas weekend—covering an impressive 6.5 acres. Grab a drink from one of five bars on the pool deck, then hop on a neon inner tube and enjoy a leisurely float. Note that this hotel is also home to Nevada’s only Topgolf, where you can release your inner child with additional outdoor fun.
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Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa, San Antonio, Texas
Surrounded by oak trees and designed with a dark bottom, the lazy river in this oasis replicates a typical float experience on a real Texas waterway. While you won’t have the fish or a natural current, there is a two-story waterslide in this five-acre park, along with multiple heated pools and a FlowRider surf simulator.
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The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, Scottsdale, Arizona
The Sonoran Desert is a geographical wonder, dotted with mighty saguaro cacti. However, if you’re here in the hotter months, you might greatly benefit from the lazy river (and gigantic waterslide) at The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa to cool down after a desert excursion. The on-site Adventure Water Park also features a reservable “private island” (the lazy river surrounds it), a surf simulator, and family cabana rentals. An adults-only pool is also available to provide a quieter experience.
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Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, Maui, Hawaii
All of the features in the lagoon at this popular Maui property are connected by a rocky lazy river. You can float from pool to pool (there are nine total), relax in the hot tub, or simply enjoy the gentle current. When you’re ready to get sand between your toes, simply ditch your float and walk directly to Wailea Beach.
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Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, Colorado
This Colorado resort is renowned for the world’s largest hot springs-fed pool, mineral-rich and open year-round for a relaxing experience. In the summer, the resort’s seasonal Sopris Splash Zone opens, featuring a not-so-lazy river known as Shoshone Chutes. You can enjoy this open-air attraction that mimics whitewater rafting or opt for something more leisurely in the splash area, complete with mini waterslides, fountains, and more.
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The Omni Homestead Resort, Hot Springs, Virginia
This resort’s two-acre waterpark, known as Allegheny Springs, is fed by natural spring waters and features a 400-foot lazy river along with dual 100-foot waterslides. Additionally, there’s a splash zone and a sandy beach at the pool. Should you need more reasons to visit, consider the historical significance that nearly two dozen U.S. presidents frequented this location to relieve their stresses.
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Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, Oahu, Hawaii
Disney excels at creating immersive environments, and Aulani is further evidence. Known as Waikolohe Stream (Hawaiian for “mischievous water”), this lazy river carries you past stunning faux rock formations, through lush tropical landscaping, and under enchanting waterfalls. Numerous swimmable grottos with ocean views are available, along with waterslides and splash zones for additional fun.
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Camelback Resort, Tannersville, Pennsylvania
This resort in the Pocono Mountains offers year-round fun. The on-site, indoor Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark features a lazy river known as Lost River, becoming an immersive experience with LED underwater lighting, sound effects, and arching sprays. Additional attractions include 13 waterslides, a toddler splash area, a surf simulator, and a swim-up bar.
