The Best Water Parks to Cool Off Near St. Petersburg, FL, This Summer

by Pablo Koch-Schick

Hooked on Fun? After Your Fishing Charter, Cool Off at These Splash-Tastic Water Parks Near St. Petersburg, FL!

St. Petersburg might be famous for its sun-soaked shores and epic fishing charters (hey there, Reel Coquina fans), but when you're ready to trade in your fishing pole for a pool noodle, we've got just the thing. Whether you're reeling in big memories on the water or looking for the perfect place to unwind with the family, these water parks offer the ultimate way to splash, relax, and enjoy a cool day under the Florida sun.

From Splash Harbor Water Park's exciting slides and splash zones to wave pools, lazy rivers, and beachside thrills, we've rounded up the best water parks to cool off near St. Petersburg, FL. Whether you’ve got toddlers who love to play or teens ready to test their water slide skills, there's an adventure for every age.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the top water attractions, share special offers, park news, and upcoming events so you can grab your tickets, plan your day, and dive into family fun- no sunscreen shortage or fishy excuses allowed!

The Best Water Parks to Cool Off Near St. Petersburg, FL, This Summer

Fishing with Reel Coquina is just the start of your ultimate Florida getaway. When you're ready to swap your fishing pole for a pool noodle, it's time to splash into some of the coolest water parks near St. Petersburg, FL! These parks are bursting with family fun, sun-soaked attractions, and plenty of places to unwind, play games, and explore. So grab your crew, slather on the sunscreen, and get ready to enjoy a day filled with water slides, lazy rivers, splash zones, and more!

Splash Harbour Water Park – Slides, Lazy River, & Pirate Playgrounds in Indian Rocks Beach

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Located just off Indian Rocks Beach, Splash Harbour Water Park is a hidden treasure for families looking to cool down with splashy fun! With thrilling slides, a relaxing lazy river, and interactive kid zones, this water park is packed with attractions for all ages.

Top attractions include:

  • The Smuggler's Run – Grab a tube and test your courage on this twisting, bowl-slide adventure

  • Pirate’s Plunge – A 42-foot body slide full of dark tunnels and splashy surprises

  • Cannonball Slide – A twisty, open-air thrill for brave solo riders

  • Great White Lazy River – Float your worries away in the warm Florida sun

  • Treasure Cove Splash Zone – Built for kids ages 2–5 with mini slides and water dumping buckets

  • Shipwreck Island – A Family water play zone with heated pools, spray cannons, and slides

  • Blue Lagoon Pool – A refreshing break to just relax and cool off

Special Offers: General admission starts at $15 for adults and $12 for kids (3–12); seniors and under-2s are free! Season passes are also available, which are perfect if you're planning multiple visits.

Open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with nearby beach activities like jet skiing, kayaking, and more. This spot is a must for any water-loving family!


Highland Recreation Complex – Where Slides, Splash, and Fitness Meet

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Looking to mix your water park day with a bit of indoor excitement? The Highland Family Aquatic Center is part of a sprawling 40,000-square-foot recreation complex that’s perfect for all ages.

What makes this park cool?

  • A massive zero-depth pool with the highest slide in Pinellas County

  • Water basketball, volleyball, diving boards, and floating toys

  • An indoor PlayWorld and Gaming Room, plus a top-tier fitness center

  • Even Fido gets in on the action; there’s a dog park on site, too!

Whether you're splashing around or staying dry, this spot is an all-in-one play paradise

 

Treasure Island Water Park – Sun, Sand, and Splash in a Beachfront Wonderland

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Tucked between St. Petersburg and the Gulf, Treasure Island Water Park is your go-to for sandcastles and splash zones with a view! It’s not your average water park, it’s a sun-drenched playground that stretches for three miles of white-sand beach.

Why families love it:

  • Access to parasailing, dolphin tours, and fishing excursions

  • Beautiful beach trails for rollerblading, jogging, or strolling

  • Water fun that’s perfect for younger kids and beach-loving adults

  • Close to top attractions like the Dali Museum and St. Pete Pier

Don’t forget to grab a boat rental and explore the turquoise coastline—this is where splash meets serenity.

 

Adventure Island – Tampa’s Premier Water Thrill Park

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Water temperatures at all times of the year are perfect at this Tampa resort! The lazy river and various water attractions provide great relaxation opportunities. The Adventure Island water park has a number of slides, such as a six-story Colossal Curl.

Just a short drive from St. Pete, Adventure Island is packed with adrenaline-pumping slides, laid-back lazy rivers, and everything in between.

Family favorites include:

  • Colossal Curl – A six-story beast of a ride for thrill seekers

  • Rambling Bayou – Chill vibes only on this relaxing river float

  • Wahoo Run & Calypso Coaster – Mid-level thrills with tons of splash

  • 17,000 sq ft wave pool – The Surf’s always up!

  • Cliff jumps into 9,000 square feet of pool space; test your skills if you dare!

With rides for all ages and adventure levels, this park is the perfect choice for families ready to beat the heat.

 

Kiwanis Sprayground – A Colorful Splash Playground for the Little Ones

The Kiwanis Sprayground is a spray playground for kids that comes with several water elements to keep them cool during the summer.

If you’re traveling with tiny splashers, the Kiwanis Sprayground is a hit! This 3,000-square-foot spray zone is designed for kids aged 2–12 with gentle water features that keep the fun flowing safely.

Highlights include:

  • Tunnels, tumble buckets, and pirate-themed slides

  • ADA-accessible design and a non-slip, no-standing-water layout

  • Covered seating and shady spots for parents to relax

  • Security features like a lightning detection system and water shutoff controls

It’s the perfect cool spot to unwind while the kids go wild!

 

Tampa Water Works Park – Free, Family-Friendly, and Full of Fun

Googling "free water parks near me"? Look no farther than Tampa's free Water Works Park, when you are visiting the city seeking for family-friendly and budget-friendly activities, to have a blast in the water. Tampa's downtown area, which was already a popular family destination, was revitalized with an attraction to entice local companies and tourism.

Searching for "free water parks near me"? Look no further than Tampa’s Water Works Park, a five-acre urban oasis with scenic views and splashy surprises.

Perks you’ll love:

  • Splash pad with a giant tipping water bucket, water guns, and slides

  • Dry play zones with rope climbs and ship-style features

  • Kayak and paddleboard ramps, picnic tables, and green space

  • On-site dining at Ulele, a waterfront Native American restaurant

  • Park news and upcoming events like movie nights, concerts, and more!

Whether you're cooling off or soaking in the vibes, this park is ideal for families who want a laid-back but eventful day out.

Walter Fuller Recreation Center

The Walter Fuller Recreation Center includes a swimming pool, picnic pavilions, baseball and soccer fields, tennis and basketball courts, a community pool with a surrounding nature trail, and an 18-hole disc golf course.

A 1.5-acre dog park is also available at this location. This park has a doggie water station, the ability to be without a leash, and large grassy areas for your furry friend to run around.

The recreation center has a full-size gymnasium, an aerobics room, an indoor walking/jogging track, and locker rooms with showers. The fairgrounds includes a softball complex with four baseball and soccer fields.

 

Tarpon Spring Splash Park

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Tarpon Springs Splash Park is a popular water play location for families. This free water feature is a fantastic way to cool off on those hot days for youngsters aged 2 to 12 and burn off even more energy.

There are plenty of slides, water attractions, and swimming lanes for the kids to enjoy. The water is crystal clear, and the slides are top notch quality. Why not turn it into a full day out and enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the many picnic tables the park provides?

There's also a pavilion with a splash park - a great place for a birthday party, group event or family reunion. It's just a few minutes from the city of Tarpon Springs, where you'll find a plethora of great Greek cuisine.

Ready to Splash, Relax, and Explore?

Whether you're kicking off the day with a Reel Coquina fishing charter or unwinding after a morning on the water, these water parks near St. Petersburg, FL, are bursting with sun, splash, and serious family fun.

So, choose your park, grab your tickets, and get ready to test your water slide bravery, relax in a lazy river, or just enjoy a fun-filled Florida day with the kids. Don’t forget to check for special offers, updates, and seasonal events before you go; there’s always something new to discover under the sun!

Water Park Tips: Stay Cool, Stay Safe & Have All the Fun Near St. Petersburg, FL

Planning to splash into fun with the kids or grandkids this summer? Whether you're floating down the lazy river at Splash Harbour Water Park or letting the little ones run wild at the Kiwanis Sprayground, make your trip smooth, safe, and full of sun-soaked smiles with these water park tips!

Water Park Must-Haves:

  • Pack Smart: Bring a change of clothes in a plastic bag, towels, and plenty of sunscreen (SPF 30+ is your best friend in the Florida sun; reapply often!).

  • Protect Your Tech: Grab a waterproof phone pouch or bracelet-style case from a souvenir shop or online before your visit. That way, you can snap pics of all the splashy action without the stress!

  • Pick a Meeting Spot: With all the slides, pools, and splash zones, it’s easy to get separated. Choose a landmark near a snack bar or attraction as your “just in case” meeting place.

  • Bring Your Own Snacks: Most Florida water parks near St. Petersburg allow coolers (just skip the glass and booze). Save money and time by packing water bottles, fruit, and other family favorites. Always check park rules online or give them a call before loading up the cooler.

  • Safety First for Little Swimmers: Bring your own life vests for small children; they may not be provided at every park. And don’t forget those sun hats!

  • Be Cool, Stay Cool: While Florida’s natural springs and beaches are a blast, water parks near St. Petersburg, FL, offer next-level attractions and chill zones to relax, play games, and explore without the sandy cleanup.

Hot tip: Buy your tickets in advance online for special offers and skip the lines. More time splashing, less time waiting!

More Than Just Beaches: Explore the Coolest Attractions Near St. Petersburg, FL

Sure, we’re all about reeling in the big one at Reel Coquina Fishing Charters, but there’s no shortage of cool things to do around St. Petersburg, FL, after your time on the water. Water parks are a great way to unwind, bond, and enjoy the best of Florida's sun and fun, from thrilling slides and splash pads to lazy rivers and family picnic spots.

So go ahead, grab your gear, gather the gang, and dive into a day full of family fun. Because in St. Pete, the splash never stops!

While Florida is well-known for its beaches and all natural springs near st petersburg fl, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the state's warm weather and natural beauty. Water parks offer a fun-filled day for the whole family!

Check out those other cool things to do around St Petersburg, Florida!

Read our blog for more useful tips!

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