Volcano Bay is a stunning water theme park located at Universal Orlando Resort in Florida, offering an immersive, tropical getaway filled with thrills, relaxation, and innovation. Opened in 2017, the park is themed around a massive, towering volcano known as Krakatau, which serves as the focal point of the entire park. The park is designed to blend the beauty and serenity of a tropical island with the excitement and adventure of a water park.
Layout and Theming
The centerpiece of Volcano Bay is Krakatau, a 200-foot-tall volcano that erupts periodically, adding to the dramatic atmosphere. Surrounding it is lush tropical landscaping, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters, all of which create the illusion of a paradise island. The park is divided into different “islands” or themed areas, each with its own distinct vibe.
- Krakatau: This area includes some of the park’s most iconic attractions, including the daring “Ko’okiri Body Plunge” — a nearly vertical drop water slide that plummets from the top of the volcano — and the “Kala & Tai Nui Serpentine Body Slides,” which spiral down through the volcano itself.
- Waturi Beach: This area features the park’s large wave pool, where guests can enjoy both calm waters and exciting waves that vary in intensity. It’s a great spot for relaxing or getting into the action.
- Riverrapids: The park has an intricate system of winding rivers, including the “Waturi River,” a relaxing lazy river that encircles the park, and “Punga Racers,” where guests race through water slides on mats.
- Rainforest Village: This lush area is home to several attractions for families and those seeking a more leisurely experience, including the “Tot Tiki Reef” for younger kids, as well as calm, shallow pools and water features designed for all ages.
Attractions and Rides
Volcano Bay is home to a variety of water rides, ranging from high-speed thrill slides to more relaxed, family-friendly experiences.
- The Ko’okiri Body Plunge: The signature ride in Volcano Bay, this attraction features a near-vertical drop and speeds of up to 70 miles per hour. It’s a heart-pounding experience that plunges riders straight through the center of the Krakatau volcano.
- Kala and Tai Nui Serpentine Body Slides: These two thrilling water slides twist and turn as they wind their way down from the top of Krakatau, offering a fun and high-speed descent.
- Maku Puihi Round Raft Slide: This ride combines excitement with group fun. Riders are sent down an enclosed tube slide with an exhilarating spinning motion.
- Taniwha Tubes: These are family-friendly tube slides that provide fun for all ages, offering twists and turns as you navigate through the volcano-themed environment.
- Punga Racers: For a more competitive experience, guests can race down these water slides on mats to see who reaches the bottom first.
- The Reef: A gentle family-friendly attraction where guests can enjoy water features, shallow pools, and an overall relaxing vibe.
TapuTapu Technology
One of the standout features of Volcano Bay is its innovative TapuTapu wearable technology. Every guest receives a waterproof wristband that allows for a more streamlined experience. The TapuTapu wristband lets guests virtually wait in line for rides, so they don’t have to physically stand in queues. When it’s time for them to ride, the wristband vibrates, alerting them that it’s their turn. The wristbands also allow for cashless purchases, photo opportunities, and the ability to activate certain interactive water features throughout the park.
Dining and Shopping
Volcano Bay offers a wide variety of dining options, from quick-service eateries to more sit-down options that align with the tropical, island theme. Guests can enjoy anything from beachside snacks to more substantial meals, including Hawaiian-inspired dishes, tropical fruit, and refreshing drinks. There are also several bars around the park serving cocktails, beer, and other refreshing beverages.
For shopping, Volcano Bay features several retail locations where guests can purchase park-specific merchandise like apparel, towels, and accessories. You can also find essentials such as sunscreen and swimwear.
Relaxation Areas
While Volcano Bay is packed with adrenaline-pumping slides and rides, it also provides plenty of areas to relax. Guests can rent cabanas or premium seating for a more luxurious and private experience. These premium spaces come with additional perks like a dedicated server, towels, and comfortable seating, perfect for those looking for a more laid-back experience.
Overall Experience
Volcano Bay offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a high-energy adventure, a family-friendly experience, or just a day of lounging by the water. The park’s design focuses on combining relaxation with excitement, and its innovative technology enhances convenience, making it a more enjoyable experience overall. Whether you’re feeling daring enough to ride the thrilling slides or prefer to unwind on the beach, Volcano Bay is a beautifully immersive and fun-filled water park.