The Pocono Mountains used to be known for its honeymoon resorts. However, today this popular tourism area is renowned for its massive indoor water park hotels, particularly the Kalahari Resort.

The Poconos Kalahari boasts the same thrilling indoor water park experience as its other African-themed resorts located in Sandusky, Ohio, and Wisconsin Dells, with a new site opening in Round Rock, Texas, in 2020. As one of Kalahari locations, it features one of the largest indoor water parks in the U.S., offering a wide array of water activities alongside many attractions and amenities. Spanning an impressive 220,000 square feet, this Pennsylvania park rivals its sister properties in both size and offerings.

Moreover, the 150-acre resort caters to families, with plenty of options to engage everyone in wet and dry activities. This destination isn’t just for kids; it also has facilities for business and meeting planners, including a 205,000-square-foot convention and function complex, making it suitable for family vacations alongside trade shows and events.

Wild Indoor Water Park

The expansive indoor water park features virtually every type of slide and attraction you’d typically find at larger outdoor water parks, alongside unique offerings. Signature attractions include a water coaster and a Surfari FlowRider surfing ride. Visitors can also enjoy The Smoke that Thunders, a large funnel ride; the Tanzanian Twister bowl ride; the Sahara Sidewinders slide with a launch pod trap door; and the Barrelling Baboon slide featuring mini-funnels.

Additionally, traditional water park attractions such as a wave pool, lazy river, tube slides, body slides, mat-racing slides, kiddie slides, and both indoor and outdoor whirlpool spas are available. Children will be thrilled with the Splashdown Safari, a large, jungle-themed interactive play structure with a tipping bucket.

If you and your kids have ever dreamed of becoming mermaids, Kalahari even offers 60-minute lessons with sparkly costumes!

Lots of Other Things to Do

The Kalahari Resort provides many “dry” attractions as well. Among them is The Arena Ultimate VR Experience, featuring computer-generated multiplayer games. A large arcade with redemption and video games, mini-bowling lanes, escape rooms, a 7-D motion theater, the Gorilla Express train ride, and indoor and outdoor mini-golf are also available for guests.

For children, “Kamp Kalahari” offers supervised activities, including movies, crafts, and storytelling, ensuring that their time at the resort is both enjoyable and engaging. Furthermore, adults can take advantage of amenities like a full-featured spa, a fitness center, and various shops. When weather permits, guests can enjoy the resort’s large outdoor swimming pool as well.

What’s to Eat?

The extensive dining options at Kalahari Resort cater to various tastes. The resort’s signature restaurant, the Double Cut Charcoal Grill, serves as the primary chophouse. Other full-service dining options include Sortino’s Italian Kitchen and the Ivory Coast Restaurant. For buffet-style dining, the Great Karoo Marketplace Buffet, B-Lux Grill & Bar, and Felix’s Bar are available.

For lighter fare, guests can visit Java Manjaro coffee shop, grab snacks at Marrakesh Market, or enjoy pizzas at the Pizza Pub. Additionally, The Last Bite offers a delightful selection of baked goods and other treats.

Hotel Rooms, Admission Policy, and Location

The Kalahari Resort offers a variety of room configurations, with most being suites. Special options include a honeymoon suite featuring a heart-shaped whirlpool tub, traditional hotel rooms, children’s suites with bunk beds, and spacious 3-bedroom villas.

Admission to the indoor water park is included in the room rates for hotel guests. Moreover, day passes for the water park may be available to the general public, depending on capacity.

The resort is conveniently located at 250 Kalahari Boulevard, Pocono Manor, Pennsylvania, making it easily accessible for a delightful family getaway or business retreat.