Volcano Bay First Look
Universal Studios Orlando opens its third theme park tomorrow, but this one is a water theme park and its refreshing!
Volcano Bay is Universal Studios newest park, but it’s not a water park. It is indeed a water theme park.
Located on Universal property, you park at the CityWalk parking garage and you will be transported by bus to this creative and technologically innovative park.
The moment you step off the bus, you’re transported to a tropical island from the cute Polynesian type underground walkway to the entrance of this magical park, you can instantly tell you’re somewhere special.
As we journeyed through the front entrance, our tickets were scanned in and we were presented with our Tapu Tapu, Volcano Bay’s unique wristband that allows you to enjoy the park wallet and ticket free! Place it on, it’s linked to your account/ticket (register ahead of time if possible) and you’re on your way.
You know you’ve arrived when you turn the corner and feast your eyes on the amazing volcano with eater pouring over the edges. It’s a feast for the eyes and your day of tropical relaxation can begin.
We started with a locker. While towels are available, we chose to bring our own. Our sunglasses, phones, wallets, lotion, etc. went into a locker that was accessible from your Tapu Tapu! So easy. Scan your wrist and your locker POPS open.
Slides.
From there, we set out on our way. Now, let me summarize! There are slides and thrills for every age and every thrill level. My husband had a ball on more thrilled slides and the Aqua Coaster, which he gave an A+…his highest rating! I enjoyed more calming rides with less drops.
There are family slides, solo slides, and couples slides. Be sure to check out the amazing kids play area with slides that are just there slide and still thrilling for them. Jump in to two rivers…one for the lazy and one for the more adventurous! There are so many slides, we couldn’t get to them all.
And, what’s best. No lines! That’s right. Simply find the ride you want to enjoy, scan your Tapu Tapu and it will tell you if you can ride 
right away or it will give you the number of minutes to come back. That’s right. No waiting in a line…we chose to go enjoy the wonderful wave pool while waiting our turn. And, when that time came, your wristband alerts you. You can head straight back or continue your enjoyment and go back at anytime.
Food.
All this swimming and thrilling left us hungry. They food? Amazing. We dined on ribs, Jerk Shrimp Mac and Cheese and more. There were hot dogs and chicken fingers, of course, for the kiddos, but there was REAL food…not just theme park food for mom and dad. We also ordered some drinks while relaxing in our lounge chairs in front of the wave pool. Relaxation for mom and dad? Yes…it’s possible!
The staff was helpful and friendly. They were there to help and their enthusiasm was evident!
Overall, this was one of the most fun-tastic days I’ve enjoyed at a water park…no, a water theme park. From the variety of rides and thrills to keep the whole family happy to the number of attractions to not waiting in lines to scrumptious food, Volcano Bay is a sure bet for families that are looking for some water time fun in Central Florida.
2 or 3-Park Annual Passes are available. Single day passes are $67 each.
Disclaimer: This review was our first-hand experience on Volcano Bay. These are based on our opinions only.
