Water Country USA
About
Water Country USA is Virginia's largest water park, offering over 40 acres of aquatic fun perfect for cooling off on hot summer days. From thrilling high-speed slides for brave tweens to gentle splash zones for toddlers, this Williamsburg gem delivers something for every family member, all set in a tropical island-themed atmosphere that makes it easy to spend an entire day.
Highlights
- ✓Vanish Point - a heart-pounding free-fall slide that drops riders down 75 feet
- ✓Hubba Hubba Highway - a four-person raft ride perfect for families riding together
- ✓Big Daddy Falls - Virginia's tallest mat-racing slide for competitive siblings
- ✓Cow-A-Bunga - interactive play area with 200+ water features for younger children
- ✓Surfs Up wave pool - great for all ages to enjoy together
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive at opening (typically 10am) to claim premium cabana or lounge chair spots near your kids' favorite areas before crowds arrive
- 2.Rent a cabana or locker early in the season for best rates - it's worth it for a home base and secure storage for phones and valuables
- 3.Bring reef-safe sunscreen and reapply frequently; much of the park has limited shade, especially in queue areas
- 4.Pack water shoes for the whole family - pavement gets scorching hot by midday and they're allowed on most rides
- 5.Hit the most popular slides (Vanish Point, Aquazoid) first thing in the morning or during the 2-3pm lull when families take snack breaks
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekdays in June or late August for the smallest crowds and shortest lines. Arrive right at opening for the best chair selection and cooler temperatures. Mid-September offers warm weather with significantly reduced crowds as school is back in session.
What to Know
Parking is $20-25, and outside food is not permitted (except for dietary restrictions). The park offers dining passes for multiple visits, and life jackets are provided free of charge. Season passes often pay for themselves after just two visits.
Seasonal Notes
Open late May through early September with limited weekend hours in May and September. Park hours extend during peak summer months (late June through mid-August). Water temperatures are warmest in July and August. Check the website for specific operating calendar as days vary by year.
Nearby Eats
Chick-fil-A (5 minutes away) is a reliable post-park stop for tired families. For a sit-down meal, try Five Forks Cafe in Williamsburg for hearty American fare that welcomes exhausted, hungry kids with quick service.
More Activities Near Virginia Beach
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center (Marsh Pavilion)
The Virginia Aquarium's Marsh Pavilion offers an exciting hands-on marine adventure where kids can touch stingrays and horseshoe crabs, marvel at graceful sea turtles gliding overhead, and watch mesmerizing jellyfish displays. With daily animal encounters, feeding demonstrations, and knowledgeable educators stationed throughout, children get up-close experiences that spark curiosity about ocean life in ways books simply can't match.
Military Aviation Museum
The Military Aviation Museum houses one of the world's largest private collections of historic military aircraft, with many planes still in flying condition. Kids will be mesmerized by the massive warbirds spanning WWI through WWII, and on select days, they can actually watch these vintage aircraft take to the skies during thrilling flight demonstrations.
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge offers families an incredible opportunity to explore over 9,000 acres of pristine coastal habitat along Virginia Beach's southern shoreline. Kids can spot dolphins, sea turtles, and hundreds of bird species while hiking easy trails through maritime forests, dunes, and freshwater marshes. The visitor center features interactive exhibits and touch tanks that bring local ecosystems to life for young naturalists.
First Landing State Park
First Landing State Park offers families 500 acres of coastal adventure where kids can explore maritime forests, play on sandy beaches, and spot wildlife in their natural habitats. With easy hiking trails winding through cypress swamps and dunes, plus nature centers packed with educational exhibits, this park combines outdoor fun with learning opportunities that keep children engaged for hours.