- Island Waterpark at the Showboat Resort is one of the largest indoor beachfront waterparks in the world, spanning over 120,000 square feet.
- The waterpark features 11 slides, a surf simulator, a retractable glass-pane roof, shops, pools, lazy rivers, waterslides, and restaurants.
- Island Waterpark is accessible year-round.
I’ve been taking my kids to the Atlantic City Airshow for over a decade. Usually, we just get up early and go down for the day. It’s a long day trip for us, but definitely doable.
This year, since Atlantic City launched a new indoor waterpark, I decided to stay overnight and check it out.
A long time ago, when my kids were small, the first time we went to the air show, we were invited by a public relations group, or maybe the Chamber of Commerce.
At the time, AC was trying to reinvent itself or rebrand itself as Family Friendly Atlantic City. So, they invited bloggers like me down there to experience it and promote it.
Now, we go on our own, and it was our first time visiting overnight.
Atlantic City, known for its casinos and boardwalk, is now home to one of the largest indoor beachfront waterparks in the world. Island Waterpark at The Showboat Resort opened its doors in July 2023, offering visitors a unique experience with 11 slides, a surf simulator, and nightlife entertainment.
The waterpark spans over 120,000 square feet and features a retractable glass-pane roof, shops, pools, lazy rivers, waterslides, and restaurants.
The waterpark is designed to cater to families visiting Atlantic City and the boardwalk. With its wide range of attractions and amenities, Island Waterpark is a one-stop-shop for all-day fun. Visitors can enjoy the only swim-up bar in Atlantic City, the luxurious Paradise Adult Island, and the Bliss Pool.
The waterpark is open year-round, making it a perfect destination for both summer and winter vacations.
Atlantic City Waterpark
The Island Waterpark at Showboat was built by Philadelphia developer Bart Blatstein, who broke ground on the project in 2021. The $100 million indoor waterpark was designed to attract families to Atlantic City and provide a new attraction for visitors to enjoy.
The Island Waterpark at Showboat features a variety of water attractions, including a lazy river, wave pool, and several water slides. The waterpark also includes a food court, arcade, and retail shops.
The opening of the Island Waterpark at Showboat is part of Atlantic City’s push to become more family-friendly and less reliant on casinos. The waterpark is expected to attract visitors from all over the region, providing a new source of revenue for the city.
Overall, the history of waterparks in Atlantic City has been one of ups and downs. While previous attempts to build a waterpark have failed, the Island Waterpark at Showboat is a promising new addition to the city’s attractions.
Features of Atlantic City Waterpark
Slides and Attractions
The Atlantic City Waterpark offers a variety of thrilling slides and attractions for all ages. Guests can enjoy the “Surf Shack,” a surf simulator that allows visitors to catch a wave without leaving the park.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, there are 11 different slides to choose from, including the “Tidal Wave,” a high-speed slide that drops riders into a giant funnel. The “Lazy River” is perfect for a relaxing float, while the “Hurricane Bay” wave pool provides a more intense water experience.
Pools and Relaxation Areas
The waterpark also features multiple pools and relaxation areas for guests to unwind and cool off. The “Splash Pad” is perfect for younger children, with shallow water and interactive features.
The “Adults Only” pool provides a serene atmosphere for those seeking a quieter experience, while the “Cabana Cove” offers private cabanas for rent, complete with comfortable seating and a personal attendant.
Kids’ Zone
The Atlantic City Waterpark has a dedicated area for children, with smaller slides and interactive water features. The “Kiddie Pool” is perfect for younger children, with shallow water and a variety of fun activities.
The “Kids’ Zone” also includes a “Rain Fortress,” a multi-level water play structure that offers endless entertainment.
Location and Accessibility
The Island Waterpark, the largest oceanfront water park in the world, is located in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The waterpark is situated on the boardwalk, providing easy access to the beach, restaurants, and other attractions.
For those driving, the waterpark offers ample parking space. There are also several public parking lots nearby, making it easy for visitors to find a spot to park their car. Please know that day parking will cost anywhere from $10-$30 for the day.
In addition, visitors can take advantage of the many public transportation options available in Atlantic City. The NJ Transit bus and train stations are located just a few blocks from the waterpark, making it easy for visitors to get to and from the park.
Atlantic City has a boardwalk tram that is $10 for unlimited rides for a day. If you are staying in a hotel on the boardwalk, that might be a good option.
Showboat and the water park are at the northern end of the Atlantic City boardwalk, near the inlet.
When we stayed at Showboat to attend the airshow, we drove the 1.5 miles down toward Boardwalk Hall, because that is one of the best places to watch the Atlantic City Airshow.
Admission and Ticket Information
Visitors to the Atlantic City Waterpark have several ticket options available to them. General admission tickets start at $89 for daytime access, while twilight admission begins at $69 for entry from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
All-access VIP admission starts at $119, which includes a private, dedicated VIP check-in area, the Day General Admission ticket, plus entrance to the exclusive and luxurious Paradise Adult Island, Bliss Pool, and the only swim-up bar in Atlantic City.
Groups of ten or more can receive a discount of $10 off per ticket. Tickets can be purchased online or at the park’s ticket booth. The park also offers season passes for frequent visitors, which include unlimited access to the park for the entire season.
It’s important to note that tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. Visitors should also check the park’s website for any updates or changes to ticket prices and availability.
For those looking to host a special event at the waterpark, the park offers private cabanas and party packages. Cabanas include a private seating area, a safe, and a mini-fridge, while party packages include admission tickets, food, and beverage options.
If you want to access the adults-only section, it is $30 extra. And, you have to pay that before you get there. I asked about it as I poked my head in and was told that I’d have to go all the way back through security, back to the lobby area where I bought the waterpark tickets, to buy a ticket for this.
Had they been able to take my $30 right then and there, I probably would have done it, but I did not want to get dressed again and go through all that. But, you can sit and view the beach there, which you cannot do anywhere else in the park.
Kalahari Water Park in the Poconos also has a swim up bar, which we visited a few years ago. But honestly, they creep me out. I really feel like people probably sit there and pee.
Showboat Indoor Waterpark
Island Water Park in Atlantic City has received mixed reviews and ratings from visitors. Some visitors have praised the park for its variety of attractions, cleanliness, and friendly staff, while others have criticized it for its high prices and long lines.
On TripAdvisor, Island Water Park has an overall rating of 3 out of 5 stars, based on 1 review. The park is ranked #38 of 57 things to do in Atlantic City but at the time of this article, it has only been open for 6 weeks.
Visitors have praised the park for its fun water rides, including the lazy river and wave pool. However, some visitors have complained about the high prices for food and drinks and the long lines for attractions.
On Yelp, Island Water Park has an overall rating of 3.4 out of 5 stars, based on 9 reviews. Visitors have praised the park for its clean facilities and friendly staff, but some have criticized it for its limited attractions and high prices.
I too, would give it a mixed review. It’s a lovely waterpark and the boys had fun. But, it was over $300 just to get in, before we had anything to eat or drink. I had two Kind bars in my bag, and during the bag check at the entrance, I was forced to toss them.
Disability Accessibility at Island Indoor Waterpark
Ok, the big question for families like ours is: is it accessible?
No, not entirely. I did not see any ramps or lifts to help people to the top of the rides. My son could absolutely ride a waterslide. He cannot walk up all those stairs. He also could not wait in line in the sun, which was required some of the time.
To be fair, I did not inquire about this.
I saw lifts to assist people in getting into the lazy river.
There are also several family restrooms and family changing rooms.
I saw several food items advertised as “gluten free.” But not any other allergens. Again, I did not inquire about this. Also, yes, it is very noisy there and quite a sensory experience. At Sesame Place, we can rent cabanas to have a chill room. But Island Waterpark Cabanas are in the middle of everything, for the most part.
They have many lifejackets in all sizes for use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Having already been to Kalahari in the Poconos, I saw many similarities.
Kalahari includes the waterpark admission with the room, but the rooms are more expensive. I liked the atmosphere at Island Waterpark better, I guess because it’s beachfront.
The slides, in my opinion, are better at Kalahari. Especially for older kids and thrill seekers.
Is there a water park in Atlantic City?
Yes, there is a water park in Atlantic City.
The Island Waterpark at Showboat is a beachfront water park located in Atlantic City.
What is the name of the beachfront indoor waterpark opening in Atlantic City?
The name of the beachfront indoor waterpark in Atlantic City is Island Waterpark.
When will the Island Waterpark in Atlantic City open?
It opened in July of 2023.
What are the hours of operation for the Showboat Water Park?
For summer, it’s 10 am until 8 pm. That’s what was posted at the hotel when we stayed there, though there was different information online.
Online, it says that hotel guests can enter the park at 9 a.m. for a special hour before it is open to the public. When I asked about this, I was told, “Oh yeah, they’re not doing that.” That was disappointing because the lines were long.
Can I purchase Showboat Water Park tickets online?
Yes, Showboat Water Park tickets can be purchased online. The official website of the Island Waterpark at Showboat offers online ticket sales.
Is the Island Waterpark at Showboat open to the public?
Yes, the Island Waterpark at Showboat is open to the public. Anyone can purchase tickets and enjoy the water park’s attractions. You do not have to be staying at the Showboat to go to the waterpark.
*Note: All pricing was accurate at time of publication. Your mileage may vary.
