Best Family Resorts In Florida With Water Park

Florida, the Sunshine State, is renowned for its beautiful beaches, thrilling theme parks, and of course, its abundance of family-friendly resorts. But if you’re looking to combine the relaxation of a resort with the excitement of a water park, you’re in for a treat! This guide will explore some of the best family resorts in Florida that feature amazing water parks, ensuring an unforgettable vacation for everyone.

Why Choose a Resort with a Water Park?

When planning a family vacation, convenience and entertainment are key. Staying at a resort with a water park offers several advantages:

On-site Fun: No need to travel to a separate water park. The fun is right at your doorstep.
Variety of Activities: Water parks offer a range of attractions, from thrilling slides to relaxing lazy rivers.
Kid-Friendly: Resorts are designed with families in mind, offering amenities and activities for all ages.
Relaxation for Parents: While the kids are having a blast, parents can relax by the pool or enjoy other resort amenities.
Cost-Effective: Often, the cost of the water park is included in your resort stay, saving you money on admission fees.

Top Family Resorts with Water Parks in Florida

Here’s a curated list of some of the best family resorts in Florida that boast impressive water parks:

1. LEGOLAND Beach Retreat

While technically not *inside* LEGOLAND Florida, LEGOLAND Beach Retreat offers complimentary transportation and early access to the park, and it boasts its own impressive pool area designed for families. It’s less of a full-blown water park and more of a themed splash zone, but it’s perfect for younger children who enjoy LEGO-themed fun. The resort features colorful LEGO-themed bungalows, a themed pool area, and a sandy play area.

Highlights:

LEGO Theme: Immersive LEGO experience throughout the resort.
Themed Bungalows: Bright and cheerful accommodations designed for families.
Pool Area: A fun and safe pool area for kids to splash and play.
Sandy Play Area: A great place for kids to build sandcastles and play in the sand.
Proximity to LEGOLAND: Easy access to the LEGOLAND theme park.

LEGOLAND Beach Retreat is ideal for families with younger children who are big fans of LEGOs. The resort provides a comfortable and convenient base for exploring LEGOLAND and enjoying a relaxing family vacation.

2. CoCo Key Hotel and Water Resort – Orlando

Located in the heart of Orlando’s attractions, CoCo Key Hotel and Water Resort offers a fantastic water park experience without breaking the bank. It is unfortunately now permanently closed. The information below is retained for archive purposes only.

Highlights:

Affordable Option: Provides a budget-friendly option for families.
Variety of Slides: Features several water slides for different thrill levels.
Kids’ Area: Offers a dedicated area for younger children to play safely.
Arcade: Includes an arcade for additional entertainment.
Convenient Location: Close to major Orlando attractions like Universal Studios and SeaWorld.

CoCo Key Hotel and Water Resort was a great choice for families looking for a fun and affordable water park vacation in Orlando. Its convenient location and variety of activities made it a popular choice. Note: This property is PERMANENTLY CLOSED.

3. Reunion Resort – Orlando

Reunion Resort is a luxurious resort offering a variety of accommodations, including villas and vacation homes, and boasts its own on-site water park. It’s a great option for families who want a more spacious and private vacation experience. The water park at Reunion Resort features a lazy river, water slides, and a splash zone for younger children. In addition to the water park, the resort also offers multiple pools, golf courses, tennis courts, and a variety of dining options.

Highlights:

Spacious Accommodations: Offers villas and vacation homes for larger families.
Water Park: Features a lazy river, water slides, and a splash zone.
Multiple Pools: Provides several pool options for different preferences.
Golf Courses: Boasts world-class golf courses for golf enthusiasts.
Variety of Dining Options: Offers a range of restaurants and dining experiences.

Reunion Resort is perfect for families who want a luxurious and spacious vacation experience with a variety of activities and amenities. The on-site water park is a great addition for families with children, and the resort’s other amenities cater to a wide range of interests.

4. Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center – Orlando

While not strictly a “water park,” Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center boasts an incredible Cypress Springs Water Park. It features a zero-entry pool, multi-level water playground, and thrilling water slides. The resort also offers a variety of other amenities, including themed atriums, restaurants, and shops. Gaylord Palms is known for its stunning architecture and immersive experiences, making it a unique and memorable vacation destination.

Highlights:

Cypress Springs Water Park: Features a zero-entry pool, water playground, and water slides.
Themed Atriums: Offers stunning and immersive themed environments.
Variety of Restaurants: Provides a range of dining options to suit different tastes.
Shops: Features a variety of shops for souvenirs and essentials.
Unique Atmosphere: Known for its stunning architecture and immersive experiences.

Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center is ideal for families who want a unique and memorable vacation experience with a great water park and a variety of other activities and amenities. The themed atriums and stunning architecture make it a truly special destination.

5. Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort

For a truly luxurious and unforgettable family vacation, consider the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort. This resort offers a variety of luxurious accommodations, world-class dining, and a stunning water park called Explorer Island. Explorer Island features a lazy river, water slides, a splash zone, and a family pool. The resort also offers complimentary transportation to the Disney parks, making it a convenient base for exploring the magic of Disney.

Highlights:

Luxury Accommodations: Offers luxurious and spacious accommodations.
Explorer Island Water Park: Features a lazy river, water slides, and a splash zone.
World-Class Dining: Provides a variety of exceptional dining experiences.
Complimentary Disney Transportation: Offers convenient transportation to the Disney parks.
Exceptional Service: Known for its impeccable service and attention to detail.

The Four Seasons Resort Orlando is perfect for families who want a luxurious and unforgettable vacation experience with a great water park and easy access to the Disney parks. The exceptional service and world-class amenities make it a truly special destination.

6. JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa

The JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa offers luxurious accommodations and a fantastic water park experience. Its water park features a lazy river, several pools, and a splash zone for children. The resort also boasts a variety of dining options, a spa, and a fitness center. Located near Walt Disney World, it provides convenient access to the parks while offering a relaxing retreat away from the crowds.

Highlights:

Water Park: Features a lazy river, pools, and a splash zone.
Luxurious Accommodations: Offers comfortable and stylish rooms and suites.
Dining Options: A variety of restaurants and bars to choose from.
Spa and Fitness Center: For relaxation and wellness.
Proximity to Disney: Convenient access to Walt Disney World theme parks.

This resort is a great choice for families seeking a luxurious and relaxing vacation with easy access to Disney World. The water park provides fun for kids, while adults can enjoy the spa and other amenities.

7. Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa – Orlando

Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa is a sprawling resort offering a wide range of accommodations, from studios to multi-bedroom villas, making it suitable for families of all sizes. The resort boasts seven swimming pools, a miniature golf course, and a variety of recreational activities. While not a full-blown water park, the Treasure Cove Water Park provides a fun and refreshing experience with slides and a splash pad.

Highlights:

Variety of Accommodations: From studios to villas, catering to different family sizes.
Multiple Pools: Seven swimming pools to choose from.
Treasure Cove Water Park: Features slides and a splash pad for kids.
Miniature Golf: Fun for the whole family.
Recreational Activities: A wide range of activities to keep everyone entertained.

Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa is a great option for families looking for a resort with plenty of activities and a variety of accommodation options. The Treasure Cove Water Park is a nice addition, and the resort’s other amenities ensure a fun and memorable vacation.

8. Grove Resort & Water Park Orlando

The Grove Resort & Water Park Orlando offers spacious suite-style accommodations and a fantastic water park experience. Surfari Water Park features dual water slides, a lazy river, and a FlowRider surf simulator. The resort also offers multiple pools, a spa, and a variety of dining options. It’s a great option for families who want a spacious and comfortable vacation with plenty of water park fun.

Highlights:

Suite-Style Accommodations: Spacious and comfortable suites.
Surfari Water Park: Features dual water slides, a lazy river, and a FlowRider.
Multiple Pools: Several pool options for different preferences.
Spa: A relaxing spa for adults.
Variety of Dining Options: Offers a range of restaurants and dining experiences.

The Grove Resort & Water Park Orlando is perfect for families who want spacious accommodations and a thrilling water park experience. The Surfari Water Park is a highlight, and the resort’s other amenities provide a well-rounded vacation experience.

9. Holiday Inn Resort Orlando Suites Waterpark

The Holiday Inn Resort Orlando Suites Waterpark, formerly known as Nickelodeon Suites Resort, maintains the family-friendly appeal with a focus on water-based fun. This resort offers spacious suites designed for families, and its water park features multiple pools, water slides, and a splash zone. The resort also offers a variety of dining options and activities for kids of all ages.

Highlights:

Spacious Suites: Comfortable and well-equipped suites for families.
Water Park: Features multiple pools, water slides, and a splash zone.
Kids’ Activities: A variety of activities to keep kids entertained.
Dining Options: Several restaurants and dining choices.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: A welcoming and fun environment for families.

The Holiday Inn Resort Orlando Suites Waterpark is a great choice for families looking for a fun and affordable vacation with a focus on water park fun. The spacious suites and variety of activities make it a comfortable and enjoyable destination.

10. Cabana Bay Beach Resort – Universal Orlando Resort

While not a *massive* water park, Cabana Bay Beach Resort at Universal Orlando Resort provides fantastic family fun with two large pools, a lazy river, and a retro vibe that sets it apart. It’s a great option for families who want to combine the excitement of Universal Studios with a relaxing resort experience. Guests also enjoy early park admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ and Universal’s Volcano Bay.

Highlights:

Retro Theme: A fun and nostalgic 1950s and 60s theme.
Two Large Pools: Plenty of space to swim and relax.
Lazy River: A relaxing lazy river for floating and enjoying the sun.
Early Park Admission: Early access to Universal Studios and Volcano Bay.
Proximity to Universal Studios: Convenient access to Universal Studios theme parks.

Cabana Bay Beach Resort is ideal for families who want to combine a theme park vacation with a relaxing resort experience. The retro theme, large pools, and lazy river make it a fun and memorable destination.

11. Margaritaville Resort Orlando

Margaritaville Resort Orlando offers a laid-back and tropical vibe with a fantastic water park called Island H2O Live! This water park features thrilling water slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and a kids’ area. The resort also offers a variety of dining options, a spa, and a fitness center. It’s a great option for families who want a relaxing and fun vacation with plenty of water park action. Island H2O Live! is technologically advanced, allowing guests to earn points and control aspects of their ride experience.

Highlights:

Island H2O Live! Water Park: Features thrilling water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool.
Tropical Vibe: A laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.
Variety of Dining Options: Offers a range of restaurants and dining experiences.
Spa and Fitness Center: For relaxation and wellness.
Technologically Advanced Water Park: Interactive and engaging water park experience.

Margaritaville Resort Orlando is perfect for families who want a relaxing and fun vacation with a great water park and a tropical vibe. The Island H2O Live! water park is a highlight, and the resort’s other amenities provide a well-rounded vacation experience.

Tips for Planning Your Water Park Resort Vacation

To make the most of your family vacation at a water park resort, consider these tips:

Book in Advance: Especially during peak season, book your resort stay well in advance to secure the best rates and availability.
Check the Water Park Hours: Water park hours can vary depending on the season, so check the schedule before you go.
Pack Appropriately: Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, swimsuits, hats, and sunglasses.
Bring Water Shoes: Water shoes can protect your feet from hot surfaces and provide better traction.
Review Height and Weight Restrictions: Familiarize yourself with the height and weight restrictions for the water slides and attractions.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated, especially in the Florida heat.
Arrive Early: Get to the water park early to avoid long lines and secure a good spot.
Consider a Cabana: Renting a cabana can provide shade, privacy, and extra amenities.
Take Breaks: Don’t try to do everything at once. Take breaks to relax and recharge.
Read Reviews: Check online reviews to get insights from other travelers and choose the best resort for your family.

Choosing the Right Resort for Your Family

With so many great options to choose from, selecting the perfect family resort with a water park can seem daunting. Here are some factors to consider:

Budget: Determine your budget and look for resorts that offer the best value for your money.
Age of Children: Consider the age of your children and choose a resort with age-appropriate activities and attractions.
Location: Decide whether you want to be close to other attractions or prefer a more secluded resort experience.
Amenities: Think about the amenities that are important to your family, such as multiple pools, dining options, and kids’ clubs.
Room Size and Type: Choose accommodations that will comfortably fit your family, whether it’s a standard hotel room, a suite, or a villa.
Water Park Features: Consider the types of water slides, pools, and other attractions offered at the water park.
Reviews and Ratings: Read reviews and ratings from other families to get an idea of their experiences.
Package Deals: Look for package deals that include accommodations, water park admission, and other perks.
Transportation: Check if the resort offers complimentary transportation to nearby attractions.
Special Needs: If you have any special needs or requirements, make sure the resort can accommodate them.

Additional Florida Family Vacation Ideas

While water park resorts offer plenty of fun, Florida has much more to offer for family vacations. Here are some additional ideas:

Theme Parks: Visit world-famous theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld.
Beaches: Relax on Florida’s beautiful beaches, such as Clearwater Beach, Siesta Key Beach, and South Beach.
Natural Attractions: Explore Florida’s natural attractions, such as Everglades National Park, Crystal River, and Weeki Wachee Springs.
Kennedy Space Center: Learn about space exploration at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
Museums: Visit museums like the Museum of Science and Industry in Tampa and the Orlando Science Center.
Shopping: Shop at outlet malls, upscale boutiques, and unique local shops.
Dining: Sample Florida’s diverse culinary scene, from fresh seafood to international cuisine.
Water Sports: Enjoy water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing.
Wildlife Encounters: Visit zoos and wildlife sanctuaries to see Florida’s native animals.
Road Trips: Take a scenic road trip along Florida’s coastline or through its interior.

Conclusion

A family vacation to a water park resort in Florida is an excellent way to create lasting memories. With so many great resorts to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect one for your family’s needs and preferences. Remember to plan ahead, pack appropriately, and most importantly, have fun! Whether you’re looking for thrilling water slides, relaxing lazy rivers, or simply a fun and refreshing escape, Florida’s water park resorts offer something for everyone.

From the LEGO-themed fun of LEGOLAND Beach Retreat to the luxurious experience of the Four Seasons Resort Orlando, there’s a water park resort in Florida to suit every taste and budget. So, start planning your family vacation today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Sunshine State!

Remember to consider your family’s needs and preferences when choosing a resort, and don’t hesitate to read reviews and ask for recommendations. With a little planning, you can create a vacation that your family will cherish for years to come.

So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to experience the best family resorts in Florida with amazing water parks!