Posted on Monday, 30 September 2019

Many reluctant adults have been bamboozled by their offspring into visiting a waterpark. In most cases, adults end up having almost as much fun as their youngsters. If you're planning a water park adventure on your next family holiday, consider these five world-class venues.

Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark in Dubai, U.A.E.

The ethos of Dubai could easily be "build it and they will come" - and they definitely have. Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark, located on the outer ring of the famous man-made Palm Islands, is bigger than any waterpark in the Middle East or even Europe. Among the many adrenaline-pumping slides on offer, Poseidon's Revenge is probably the best known - and the scariest. A trapdoor opens and you plummet 75 feet before you're sent through a dizzying double-loop. For something (slightly) less insane, ascend the Tower of Neptune and drop 90 feet into the ominously-named Shark Lagoon. Even the most demanding waterpark fan cannot help but be astonished by the variety of mega slides on offer.

Siam Park in Tenerife

This vast waterpark was opened by Princess of Thailand Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, emphasizing its Siamese/Thai credentials. But while evocatively designed, people don't primarily come here for the East Asian charm - they come here for what are probably the best waterslides in Europe. Try the Dragon - a ProSlide Tornado featuring a 20m-wide funnel and an immense dragon sculpture overlooking the drop. Or if you fancy something a little drier, opt for Naga Racer - inspired by the famous mythical serpent of Mekong River fame: a six-lane ProSlide ProRacer mat racing slide that combines gravity-based thrills and some skill. The park also features the world's longest lazy river (Mai Thai River) and a wave pool that boasts the highest artificial waves of anywhere in the world. And there are dozens of other slides, rides and game areas for all ages.

WetSide Water Park in Fraser Coast, Australia

Arguably the best publicly-owned waterpark in the world, WetSide combines education (of course) and some superb waterslides. The truth is, however, that few visitors come to be educated. Alongside a number of fun water slides, the FlipSide Board Rider offers the chance to try your hand at surfing - without having to wait for the next big wave as you would in the ocean. The park is a big hit among families, with an emphasis on younger kids. Entry is free but you have to pay for the slides and the very popular Board Rider. Put it on your bucket list for any trip the Queensland.

Aquatica in Orlando, Florida

In the US they like to do things big - and Aquatica is no exception. The park has not just one but two huge wave pools, while the Dolphin Plunge delivers white-knuckle thrills as it weaves through a dolphin-filled aquarium. If you're seeking flumes and tunnels, don't miss the heart-stopping Omaka Rocka. If the fun gets a little too much you can chill on the manmade sandy beach, comprising 1,360 tons of squeaky white sand. More relaxing still are the vast gardens, inspired by the South Seas and home to more than 60,000 plant species.

Area 47 in Innsbruck, Austria

Closer to home is Area 47, set by a stunning Alpine lake and open from April to the end of September (well, this is Europe, after all). Expect high-octane fun in the form of water slides, a hydro-speed slide and a diving tower. If you get sick of being wet, try the on-land activities: a bridge swing, climbing wall and high ropes course will challenge even the most nimble and adventurous among you!

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