Volcano Bay Highlights
Along with Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida, Universal Orlando is billing Volcano Bay as its third theme park. It is actually a water park. However, it is among the industry’s best water parks, boasting many unique features. If you’re planning a visit to Florida, discover the reasons why you should include Volcano Bay in your itinerary.
You’ll Love the Ambiance
Every water park allows you to cool down on sweltering days and have some fun while you get wet. Moreover, many of the slides and attractions at Volcano Bay can be found at other water parks. Yet, what distinguishes Universal’s park is its rich theming and overall ambiance.
For instance, the centerpiece Krakatau Volcano is an impressive 200-foot-tall feature with cascading waterfalls by day and vibrant evening special effects that simulate volcanic eruptions and flowing lava.
While casual visitors may not grasp the intricate backstory involving a fictional tribe of South Pacific islanders known as the Waturi, all guests will appreciate the park’s exquisite design and landscaping.
You’ll Be Extremely Thrilled
Inside the volcano are three of the world’s most extreme water slides, all featuring launch capsules. Riders step into the capsules, stand nearly upright, await a countdown, and plunge feet first as the trap doors open beneath them.
Many water parks have similar launch capsule rides, but at 125 feet tall, Volcano Bay’s slides were the tallest in the world when it opened in 2017. One of the slides, the Ko’okiri Body Plunge, is notably the tallest speed slide in the U.S., sending riders racing straight down the mountain. The other two slides take a more winding route and are not for the faint-hearted.
It’s a Water Park, But You’ll Want to Ride the Coaster
Another exciting attraction is the Krakatau Aqua Coaster. While many parks feature uphill water coasters that utilize powerful jets, this ride employs magnetic propulsion to propel its four-passenger rafts uphill, providing a thrilling sensation.
You Can Skip the Lines
One standout feature of Volcano Bay is its innovative TapuTapu system. All visitors receive a waterproof electronic bracelet that enables them to virtually hold their places in line for attractions. While entertaining, guests can enjoy amenities like a lazy river or the Waturi Beach wave pool until it’s their time to ride.
Although it was not without initial hiccups when the park first opened, adjustments have been made for smoother operation. Visitors can now reserve only one attraction at a time.
You Won’t Have to Shlep Tubes
A common downside of water parks is the need for riders to carry their own rafts. Fortunately, at Volcano Bay, all slides utilizing rafts have conveyor belts, eliminating this burden. However, guests still need to navigate a series of stairs to reach the loading platforms.
You’ll Enjoy the Food
In addendum to typical fast food offerings, Volcano Bay serves a diverse selection of culinary delights. Sampling options include Szechuan-glazed pork belly burgers, jerk mahi sandwiches, Hawaiian-style flatbread, and tropical fruit salad. Furthermore, dessert options like pineapple upside-down cake are equally enticing.
…and the Drinks
For beverage enthusiasts, the park offers an excellent range of drinks, with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options available. Two “boat bars” serve signature cocktails featuring tropical fruits, along with milkshakes and frozen beverages.
You’ll Appreciate the Little Things
Guests are likely to appreciate some of Volcano Bay’s lesser-known features. For example, the TapuTapu bands allow guests to activate sprayers and other interactive elements. Additionally, they enable users to store credit card information for seamless purchases around the park.
