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Pirates Cove Water Park water park in Centennial, CO
Photo: Ivan Barbo
View of Pirates Cove Water Park in Centennial, CO
Photo: Krissa Burdan
View of Pirates Cove Water Park in Centennial, CO
Photo: Shannon Harrah

Pirates Cove Water Park

4.4(1,844 reviews)$$Water Park
🕑 3-4 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers love the zero-depth entry pool and gentle splash features, while elementary-aged kids thrive on the water slides and lazy river. Teens may find it less exciting than larger waterparks, but younger siblings will be in their element.

About

Pirates Cove Water Park is a beloved seasonal splash destination in the South Denver metro area that delivers big fun without the mega-park crowds. With its swashbuckling pirate theme, multiple water slides, a relaxing lazy river, and a zero-depth entry pool perfect for tentative swimmers, this community water park offers the ideal mix of thrills and chill for families with young children.

Highlights

  • Zero-depth entry pool perfect for babies and toddlers learning to love the water
  • Multiple water slides ranging from gentle to more thrilling for different age levels
  • Lazy river that's perfect for family float time and taking breaks from active play
  • Pirate-themed play structures with dumping buckets and spray features
  • Reasonably priced admission compared to larger commercial waterparks

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive right when the park opens (typically 10am or 11am) to claim shaded seating areas and cabanas before they fill up,shade is limited on hot afternoons
  2. 2.Bring water shoes for the whole family as the concrete deck gets extremely hot during peak summer days
  3. 3.Pack your own snacks and drinks in a cooler,outside food is typically allowed and helps keep costs down for families
  4. 4.Consider visiting on weekday mornings for significantly smaller crowds and shorter lines for slides
  5. 5.Apply and reapply sunscreen generously,the Colorado sun at this elevation is intense and reflection off water increases exposure

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings from late May through early August offer the best experience with manageable crowds and full operations. Avoid weekend afternoons in July when the park reaches capacity. The first and last weeks of the season tend to be quieter but may have cooler water temperatures.

What to Know

This is a seasonal facility typically open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Daily admission runs around $10-15 per person with season passes available. Parking is free, and outside food is generally permitted. Life jackets are provided free of charge for young swimmers.

Seasonal Notes

Open seasonally from late May through early Labor Day weekend, weather permitting. The park may close during thunderstorms for safety. Water temperatures are warmest in July and August. No special holiday events, but the park offers swim lessons and birthday party packages during the season.

Nearby Eats

Beau Jo's Pizza (about 2 miles away) is a Colorado favorite with mountain pies that kids love and a casual atmosphere perfect for wet-haired, tired swimmers. Chick-fil-A and Chipotle are also nearby on Belleview for quick, kid-friendly meals on the way home.

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