Aquatica encompasses 59 acres of land. It is located on the east side of International Drive, just south of Sea Harbor Drive where SeaWorld park is located in Orlando, Fla. It is 15 minutes from the Orlando International Airport and 10 minutes south of downtown Orlando. The park is landscaped reminiscent of the South Sea Islands of New Guinea, Australia and New Zealand with exotic flora and fauna. The park is open year-round, but check its Website for varying opening and closing times.
The address is: 5800 Water Play Way, Orlando, FL 32821
The most talked about feature of the park is the Commerson dolphins, brought from San Diego's SeaWorld, which resemble baby killer whales. The Dolphin Plunge is a clear tube that whisks you down a 42-foot drop into a lagoon holding these incredible baby Shamus. There are more than 80,000 square feet of white sand beaches to enjoy as well as 36 water slides and dual wave pools. There is a lazy river which provides a relaxing float through tropical fish and waterfalls. For the more intrepid there are white water rapids and an eight-lane racing slide. There also is a great area for toddlers, including their very own pool.
There is a lively, upbeat atmosphere at the park and the staff is very friendly and helpful. There are numerous dining options available such as an all-you-can-eat buffet at The Beach Coconut Cookout for $19.95 or you can opt to grab a burger at Mango Market or a wood-fired pizza at the WaterStone Grill.
If you want to rent a private cabana for the day, you must arrive early; it is yours for the entire day for $150. Cabanas come with a refrigerator stocked with soda, juice and water and you receive free use of towels and lockers.
The park has gift shops, changing areas, showers, locker rental, towel rental and free life vests to be checked out.
Some of the rides have height requirements and require life vests, so be sure to check the signs before allowing your children access to Roa's Rapids (riders under 51 inches must wear a life vest); Loggerhead Lane (those under 48 inches must wear a life vest); Kata's Kookaburra Cove (must be no taller than 48 inches); Taumata Racer (must be at least 42 inches tall while those under 48 inches must wear a life vest); Walhalla Wave & HooRoo Run (must be at least 42 inches tall while those under 48 inches must wear a life vest); and Dolphin Plunge (must be at least 48 inches tall).
