Portugal has some of Europe’s largest and most exciting water parks. Most are based in the Algarve and with average summer temperatures reaching 29ºC (84ºF) you can get your adrenalin fix without getting a chill! Parks are designed with both families and thrill seekers in mind so many have rides that are suitable for the little ones as well as the dizzying, high speed heart-in-the-mouthers.

 

The parks are generally refurbished every winter and regularly launch new rides incorporating the latest ideas and technology. Some parks also offer attractions such as playgrounds, mini-zoos or child friendly museums so you can easily spent a whole day there.

 

In fact these parks have to be one of the coolest ways to spend a hot summer’s day and you may have difficulty dragging yourself away!

Vistors to the Algarve are spoilt for choice with several waterparks just off the main N125 road between Quarteira and Portimão. You can often buy discounted tickets and tickets with bus travel included from booking offices in the main tourist towns.

The three largest water parks in the Algarve are

• AquaShow near Quarteira which is open all year around except between April and June.

As well as the slides and rides, AquaShow water park has other attractions such as an aviary of exotic birds and a small museum. During the winter only some attractions might be open.

• Slide and Splash near Lagoa which is open from 2nd April to 31st October.
• Aqualand, near Alcantarilha which is open from 28th May to 14th September.

If you’re in the Algarve and the water parks are closed for the winter why not head to Zoomarine, near Albufeira – another big favorite with kids. This park has a large aquarium and exhibitions, birds of prey, tame sea lions and dolphins, fair ground rides, a rehabilitation centre for injured sea creatures and much more.