News Summary
Charleston County waterparks are preparing to welcome families and visitors for the summer season, with weekend operations starting on May 17 and daily operations beginning on May 30. Three major waterparks, Whirlin’ Waters, Splash Island, and Splash Zone, will offer various attractions and activities. Guests can enjoy thrilling water rides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, along with discounted admission on weekdays. Safety measures and special events are planned to ensure a fun-filled summer experience for all.
Charleston – Charleston County waterparks are gearing up to open their gates for the summer season, with weekend operations starting on May 17, 2025. Daily operations are set to begin shortly thereafter on May 30, 2025.
This summer, families and visitors to Charleston can enjoy a variety of water activities spread across three major waterparks: Splash Island, Splash Zone, and Whirlin’ Waters. Each waterpark offers a unique set of attractions designed to provide a refreshing retreat from the heat for all ages.
Waterpark Operations and Features
Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark
Located in Wannamaker County Park in North Charleston, Whirlin’ Waters features several thrilling rides, including the 65-foot tall Washout slides and a massive 27,000-square-foot Big Kahuna wave pool. Visitors can also drift along the Rollin’ River lazy river. This waterpark will operate daily from May 30 to August 10, with an admission fee of $24.99 per person.
Splash Island Waterpark
Splash Island is found in Palmetto Islands County Park in Mount Pleasant. This facility boasts rides like a 200-foot body flume and a 16-foot otter slide. Splash Island will be open until August 3, with an admission cost of $9.99 per person, plus a $2 entry fee to the county park.
Splash Zone Waterpark
Located in James Island County Park, Splash Zone offers a 200-foot tube slide and a rainforest-themed play structure. This park also operates daily until August 3, with admission priced at $15.99 per person, along with the standard $2 entry fee for the county park.
West County Aquatic Center
The West County Aquatic Center pool in Hollywood provides a 6,000-square-foot outdoor pool, available throughout the week. Admission requires just a $2 entry fee with specific time slots designated for swim team meets and lessons.
Discounts and Amenities
All parks will offer reduced admission on weekdays after 3 p.m., making them more accessible for families looking to enjoy a fun day out without breaking the bank. Each waterpark is equipped with essential amenities, including concession stands, lockers, lounge chairs, showers, and restrooms to ensure a comfortable visit.
Safety and Special Events
For visitor safety, all waterparks employ certified lifeguards, providing peace of mind while families enjoy their time in and around the water. Throughout the summer, special events and activities are planned to entertain families and children.
Background Context
As record crowds flock to local beaches earlier in the season, the demand for alternative water-based recreational options has seen an uptick. In addition to the county waterparks, many families have been visiting the Charleston Aqua Park on Johns Island, which features an inflatable obstacle course and ropes course at Trophy Lakes. Notable splash pads in the area, including Central Creek Park’s Splash Creek and the updated Memorial Waterfront Park in Mount Pleasant, which showcases a splash pad themed after the Arthur J. Ravenel Bridge, have also become popular choices for families seeking cooling summer fun.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Charleston Waterparks
- Count on 2: Charleston County Waterparks Opening
- Count on 2: 3 Charleston County Waterparks Opening This Weekend
- ABC News 4: Charleston Waterparks Ready to Beat the Heat
- CHS Today: Charleston County Water Parks
- Wikipedia: Water Parks
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
