Have you heard the big news this summer in San Antonio?
It’s all about SeaWorld’s new waterpark, Aquatica. SeaWorld San Antonio’s latest endeavor that’s on a much grander scale than even I expected.
Who among you wouldn’t want to join me in heading down there for a little fun in the sun or R&R? After all, the summer isn’t over yet.
Here are my Top 5 Reasons for heading to Aquatica ASAP:
1. Cool off from this Texas Heat
Let’s face it…..Texas is H.O.T. during the summer. After a few 100+ degree days in a row, I’m ready to pack up and head north.
Now I’ve actually got a reason to head south…..to Aquatica.
Doesn’t the air seem a bit cooler as you hear that Aquatica is like a “South Seas oasis with all the luxury and amenities of a beach-side resort, including terraced pools, expansive sandy beaches, and private cabanas”? Yes, I do believe I’m already feeling the cool breeze? 🙂
2. Ride the One-of-a-Kind Stingray Falls
Let’s forget the oasis and sandy beaches just for a minute and head over to Stingray Falls. This is Aquatica’s signature attraction AND it’s the only of its kind in the entire world.
This is one thing I can’t wait to try out. You take 4-seat rafts down twists and turns until you reach an underwater grotto, where you’ll meet stingrays and tropical fish.
Underwater Grotto – that sounds utterly wonderful.
Inside Scoop: Riders must be 36 inches to ride (which even my 5 yr old qualifies for) BUT, if they sense a child is in any way frightened or reluctant, you might be turned back.
3. Wade with the Stingrays
You might think that Aquatica is all about rides, but you’d be mistaken. SeaWorld never forgets about the animals, and that’s what sets this waterpark apart from the rest.
While not on an official schedule, you’ll find animals moving around Aquatica. Animals like the macaw, spoonbill, lizard, and other exotic animals. You might even see a sea lion appear once per day! Keep an eye out.
As Aquatica’s signature animal is the stingray, I’m looking forward to being in the water with them. I might be a tad nervous, as I’ve heard they kind of “slurp” your toes. Agh!!!
Interesting Fact: SeaWorld actually removes the stingers or barbs from the stingrays, which are kind of like fingernails (no feeling in them).
4. Enjoy some Rest & Relaxation with my husband (and without my 4 yr old)
Don’t get me wrong……my daughter will be going to Aquatica before too long. After all, they have so many things just for young children.
Aquatica knows just what young children and parents want…….shallow pools, small slides, and whimsical sea creatures. They even provide life jackets!
BUT, there are just some things my daughter can’t (or wouldn’t) do. From WooHoo Falls (where one tube is completely dark) to Walhalla Wave (we’re talking riding a wave to the top of a zero gravity wall), only my husband and I can act like the big kids we are.
Plus, it just sounds lovely to close my eyes on some small part of the 42,000 square feet of beach and relax. No worrying about keeping an eye on a 4 yr old who doesn’t really know how to swim. No quick potty breaks. No dealing with whining or someone getting too tired. Just hubby and I.
5. Because I missed the chance to hang out at Aquatica last month!!!
Yes, I want to head back to San Antonio so quickly because last month we enjoyed a full-day of family fun at SeaWorld, but this entrance was all I saw of Aquatica…..on the way out of the park. In the dark. *sniff* *sniff*
AND, while we absolutely had a blast meeting Sesame Street characters, watching Shamu Rocks, feeding the dolphins, and going on our scavenger hunt, a little part of me wanted to head over to Aquatica.
After all I’ve told you, can you blame me? 🙂
Be sure to Like Aquatica on Facebook for more details and scoop! Maybe I’ll see you there!
(I am a SeaWorld Wildside Blog Ambassador and have been provided annual park passes for myself and my family in addition to other perks throughout the year. I was not asked to write this post. All opinions are my own.)