Cowabunga Bay Water Park

Cowabunga Bay is Henderson's ultimate desert oasis for families, offering over 25 acres of water-powered fun just minutes from the Las Vegas Strip. With attractions ranging from gentle kiddie splash zones to heart-pumping water slides, plus a relaxing lazy river and wave pool, there's something for every family member to enjoy while escaping Nevada's scorching summer heat.

• ✓Wild Surf wave pool with bodyboarding opportunities
• ✓Aloha River - dedicated kids' area with age-appropriate slides and splash features
• ✓Lazy river for relaxing family float time
• ✓Multiple high-speed water slides including the Surfin' USA mat racers
• ✓Shaka Waka wave pool for younger children

1. 1.Arrive at opening time (usually 10-11am) to claim a good cabana or shaded spot before the midday rush - shade is precious in the Nevada heat
2. 2.Rent a cabana early in the season for the best value; they include chairs, shade, and a locker, making it a comfortable home base for the whole day
3. 3.Bring reef-safe sunscreen and reapply frequently - the desert sun is intense and you'll be too distracted having fun to notice sunburn happening
4. 4.Water shoes are highly recommended as the concrete can get scorching hot between attractions
5. 5.Pack your own towels to save on rental fees, and consider bringing a waterproof phone pouch for photos

Visit on weekday mornings in May, early June, or September for smallest crowds and more manageable temperatures. Weekends and July/August get very busy and extremely hot (100°F+). If visiting mid-summer, arrive right at opening before temperatures peak.

Admission prices vary by date and season (typically $30-50 per person with discounts for kids under 48 inches). Parking is free. Outside food and drinks are allowed in soft-sided coolers, though glass containers are prohibited. Life jackets are provided free of charge.

Open seasonally from late April/early May through September, with exact dates varying by year. The park is closed during fall, winter, and early spring. Check the website for specific operating dates and hours, which often extend during summer break and holiday weekends.

The District at Green Valley Ranch (5 minutes away) offers family-friendly options like BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse with a great kids' menu, or Lucille's Smokehouse BBQ for hearty post-swim meals. In a pinch, In-N-Out Burger is just down Sunset Road for a quick California classic.