If you’re looking for a little excitement during the hot weather, slip and slide your way through the rides and attractions of Shipwreck Island Waterpark. From heart-pumping slides and chutes, to a lazy river and shallow pools, there is plenty of aquatic fun for all ages.
For those who like their water rides on the wilder side, head for the Tree Top Drop, which includes a rapid drop slide and an enclosed twisting tube slide. Then challenge other riders on the Pirates Plunge before navigating the Raging Rapids, a thrilling whitewater inner tube ride.
Enjoy the swells of the Ocean Motion Wave Pool that create 3-feet (0.9-metre) high waves every 10 minutes. Career down the Zoom Flume, three lanes that weave around a hill. Go to the Great Shipwreck, a replica of a sunken 17th-century ship. Swing out from the vessel on a cable that passes over a deep water blue lagoon pool. On the White Knuckle River, hurtle down the 660-feet (201-metre) twisting tube while sitting inside a large inner tube. For something a little gentler, meander down the slow moving Lazy River.
If there are very young children in your party, take them over to Tadpole Hole. There are activity pools featuring a variety of animal-shaped slides, a yellow submarine and a rope climb. Skull Island is another toddler-friendly area, with a kiddy slide, a family racing slide and a large tipping bucket.
Shipwreck Island Waterpark is a short walk from Panama City Beach’s principle coastal road. If you are driving, park on-site for free. The attraction is open from spring until late summer, but the hours and operating schedule vary and tend to be correlated with the school calendar. For up-to-date details, visit the park's official website. Admission fees are based on height and guests under 35 inches (88.9 centimetres) get in for free. Senior citizens aged 62 years and older receive discounted admission.
