Gulf Islands Waterpark
4.3(2.7K)google
2.9(66)yelp
Family
Overview
Gulf Islands Waterpark in Gulfport is the ultimate family-friendly summer playground, packed with adrenaline-pumping water slides, relaxing lazy rivers, and interactive splash zones. Thrill-seekers can brave the towering speeds of the Horn Island Blaster coastal coaster, while families can lounge together in the expansive wave pool or cruise down the tranquil water tunnels. The park is masterfully themed around the local Gulf Coast islands, providing both high-energy entertainment and excellent amenities including private cabana rentals and diverse dining options. It stands out as a premier seasonal attraction where kids and adults can beat the southern heat and build unforgettable vacation memories.
Practical Info
Mon10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tue10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wed10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thu10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Fri10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sat10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sun10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Suggested Duration4-6 hours
Best TimeStrictly seasonal from late May to early September. Highly recommended on midweek mornings (Tuesday to Thursday); arrive at the gates by 9:45 AM to enter exactly at 10:00 AM opening. This gives you a massive advantage to ride the premier thrill slides before lines swell in the afternoon.
Getting ThereLocated in the north Gulfport sports complex at 17200 16th Street. From I-10, take Exit 34B for US-49 North, drive north for 4 miles, and turn left onto 16th Street where the brightly colored towering slides are visible. A massive on-site open-air parking field is available outside the main gate.
Travel Tips
- The park enforces an absolute ban on outside food and snacks; security conducts comprehensive bag checks at the gate. Only factory-sealed plain water bottles are permitted inside.
- Lockers and concession stands operate on a strictly cashless system; ensure you bring credit cards, active mobile wallets, or load cash onto a park-issued digital wristband at central guest services.
- All slides clear out instantly if lightning strikes within a 10-mile radius; if severe squalls shut the park within 2 hours of your arrival, present wristbands to claim a valid Rain Check.
Reviews
Positive
- Thrill water slides, wave pools, and a lazy river pair up in colorful landscapes; it lives up to the name as a summer water playground.
- Safety enforcement is excellent inside; every water ride and slide exit is staffed with highly responsible young lifeguards.
- The layout and routing are rational; changing rooms, showers, restrooms, and trash cans are abundant, with clear directional signs.
- Visiting on weekdays brings moderate crowds and fast water slide lines; overall management is orderly, yielding an elite summer experience.
Heads up
- Admission is pricey, and internal dining costs raise heavy 'ripoff' suspicions; water or burgers cost way more, and outside food is banned.
- Weekends bring exploding tourist density; it's packed, and popular slide queues take over an hour, severely draining the fun.
- Locker and private cabana rentals carry high extra costs; free umbrellas and benches in public rest zones run short.
- Accessible support stops at flat concrete grounds; for wheelchair users, most slide platforms lack accessible elevators or lifts.