Looking to cool off? While we have been given plenty of details about the reopening of the four Walt Disney World theme parks, there has been little information offered about the reopening of the two water parks. Both Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon have hours listed starting on July 11 (the day that the Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom reopen), but that doesn’t mean anything. I’m going under the assumption that they will not reopen for a while, and I will continue to assume that until Disney says something publicly.
If you’re going to be in the Orlando area and want to include a water park day in your plans, there are other options. The closest non-Disney water park to Walt Disney World is probably Island H2O Live!. It’s the water park that is associated with Margaritaville Resort, and it’s an affordable choice. You do not need to be staying at the resort in order to visit the water park.
Another option that is close is Aquatica Orlando. Aquatica is owned by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, and it is across the street from SeaWorld Orlando. Aquatica is a good sized park, with plenty to do. Reservations are currently required, so make them online before you head out. Both Aquatica and Island H2O Live! are operating on a limited schedule.
The Orlando water parks are doing all that they can to keep people safe in these uncertain times. Face masks are not to be worn while in the water. At Aquatica, they are required in some non-water areas, at Island H2O Live! they are strongly suggested. Tables in the eating areas are staggered for distance. Lounge chairs are spaced apart. Lines are marked off so that people will not be too close to each other. Temperatures are checked upon entry.
On a personal note, I am in no hurry to return to a water park. While I don’t doubt that the parks are doing all that they can to keep people safe, I worry about the guests’ actions. In the past few weeks I’ve seen too many people try to get past rules that are in place to keep people safe. Coronavirus cases are on the rise in Florida, including the Orlando area. For me, the water parks can wait.