Florida’s Treasure Coast begins about two hours north of Miami along the Atlantic ocean. Towns include Stuart, Port Saint Lucie, Jensen Beach, Fort Pierce, Vero Beach and Sebastian. It is hot and humid year round, but especially during the long summers. I grew up in the area -without air conditioning or access to a swimming pool! I’m now raising my family in a neighboring town and am thrilled that many options to get wet and stay cool have opened up since I was a kid.
The Treasure Coast has two water parks.
North County Aquatic Center:
This facility is located on the north end of the Treasure Coast in Sebastian. It has two water slides that perfect for racing down with a partner. It also has a smaller slide attached to a children’s play structure that sits in shallow water and features water cannons and tunnels. Two pools are on the premises – a zero entry activity pool and a lap pool. Diving boards, a splash pad and concession stands add to hours of fun.
Sailfish Splash Water Park:
Opened in 2012, hundreds of Treasure Coast residents flock to this Stuart park every weekend. This is way more than a community pool! It has four water slides that are each four foot tall. It also features a lazy river, competition pool, zero entry pool and huge water playground. Pack lunch to enjoy in the shaded picnic area or purchase a hot dog or burger from the cafe.
Several other water parks are within easy driving distance.
Rapids Water Park:
This giant water park is located just south of the Treasure Coast in West Palm Beach. It features more than thirty slides. There are giant thrill rides, as well as gentle slopes designed specifically for small children. Big Thunder sends sliders racing at 20 miles per hour before they experience a 45 degree drop. A lazy river, large children’s area and a wave pool are also available.
Brevard Zoo:
Brevard county is located on the Space Coast, the Treasure Coast’s neighbor to the north. The Brevard zoo features a unique interactive children’s area, in addition to the animal exhibits. The area is called Paw’s On and the Indian River Lagoon area features a shallow pool perfect for splashing or sitting. A dump tank is available for kids who really want to get soaked!
Orlando Water Parks:
Orlando is a two hour drive northwest of the Treasure Coast. Water Parks abound in Orlando! Disney operates two: Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach Both are themed in elaborate Disney-style. Visit with a variety of wildlife at Sea World’s Aquatica. Wet-N-Wild boasts the most multi-person slides around and has a huge family play area called Blastaway Beach. Make a weekend out of it by staying at a resort with it’s own water park, such as Coco Key Water Resort.
There are also several smaller community pools located on the Treasure Coast to keep you cool. And, of course, the ocean is minutes away!
