Knott's Soak City Buena Park
A premier water park in Buena Park, California, offering thrilling slides, a lazy river, and wave pool for a perfect summer escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more rides!
Knott's Soak City Buena Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more rides!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A premier water park in Buena Park, California, offering thrilling slides, a lazy river, and wave pool for a perfect summer escape. 
"It's the coolest spot in town for summer fun, with something for everyone!
👟 Water Shoes are a MUST
Protect your feet from rough surfaces. Essential for a comfortable day!
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast. Aim to arrive before opening to secure a spot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Family Raft Rides
Various locations
Experience thrilling multi-person raft slides for a splashy adventure with the whole family.
Lazy River
Sunset River
Float your cares away on this expansive lazy river, perfect for a relaxing break between slides.
Wave Pool
Tidal Wave Bay
Catch some waves in this massive 750,000-gallon wave pool, a classic water park thrill.
Kiddie Areas
Beach House & other zones
Little ones will love the dedicated splash zones and smaller slides designed just for them.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat & the Crowds
Foot Protection is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Water Shoes are a MUST
Protect your feet from rough surfaces. Essential for a comfortable day!
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast. Aim to arrive before opening to secure a spot.
💧 Bring Your Own Water
Save money and stay hydrated by bringing your own water bottles.
📱 Waterproof Phone Case
Keep your phone safe and dry for capturing memories.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Water Shoes are a MUST
Protect your feet from rough surfaces. Essential for a comfortable day!
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast. Aim to arrive before opening to secure a spot.
💧 Bring Your Own Water
Save money and stay hydrated by bringing your own water bottles.
📱 Waterproof Phone Case
Keep your phone safe and dry for capturing memories.
🛟 Float Tubes
Limited availability; grab one early if you want to relax on the lazy river.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Bringing your own food can save a lot on park prices.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find Knott's Soak City a fun place to cool off, especially families. While the slides and wave pool are highlights, be prepared for potential challenges with parking, rough flooring, and high food prices. Planning ahead with water shoes and packed snacks can significantly enhance the experience.
"We visited Knott’s Soak City on a Sunday with our three kids. Overall, it was fun — but there are a few things to know in advance if you want the best experience.
Parking was a challenge. It cost $35, which we expected, but by noon it was completely full. We spent nearly 20 minutes circling the lot, and the one-way parking lanes were poorly marked and confusing. Our kids got discouraged thinking we’d have to leave, but luckily we caught someone leaving and followed them to their spot.
The park itself is lively but packed, which is understandable for a hot summer weekend. We started with the Lazy River — unfortunately, it wasn’t very “lazy” without a float. Only about 20% of people had access to float tubes, and the rest were standing around or wading through. The real issue though was the flooring: the surface was extremely rough. My wife and I both got cuts on our toes, and all three of our kids had scrapes or cuts on their fingers. It felt like walking on coarse sandpaper — something we’ve never experienced at other water parks.
That said, there were still plenty of enjoyable areas. The slides were exciting, the wave pool was great for the kids, and the splash zones were well-designed and shaded. We noticed some families brought in their own food and drinks (smart move), but we didn’t — and paid high prices for basic snacks and drinks. If we return, we’ll bring water shoes and pack our own cooler without question.
Final verdict: There’s fun to be had here, but you have to plan ahead — especially for float access, food, and foot protection. The park needs to address the flooring issue seriously; safety shouldn’t be compromised. That said, our family made some great memories, and with better prep next time, we’d be more ready to enjoy it fully."
Larry Phong - PAS Architects
"We celebrated a birthday.
Food is $40-50 per person. Very few trees, and we had to sit in the sun all day. That's the only unpleasant thing. We waited for a few hours for a place under an umbrella to become free. A boy started drowning in the waves, and the rescuers saved him. They did a great job. You can trust children! Thanks to the rescuers."
Sirin M
"We visited Soak City on a weekday during the summer and it was very busy—seemed to be at full capacity. We arrived later in the day, so finding available seating was tough. I’d definitely recommend bringing your own chairs and an umbrella for the grassy areas.
Getting through security was a bit of a hassle—my keys, phone, and the zipper on my toiletries bag triggered the scanner and turned the process into a full 5-minute ordeal.
Once inside, the atmosphere was fun and family-friendly. We enjoyed the lazy river, and although there was about a 10-minute wait for floating tubes, it wasn’t bad. Food-wise, the pizza line was long, but the cafe with burgers and fries moved much quicker.
Unfortunately, my phone got ruined—next time I’d bring a better waterproof pouch or just leave it in the car.
Overall, we had a great time and I would definitely visit again!"
Chandalyn Jones
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Knott's Soak City is located at 8200 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90620, right across from Knott's Berry Farm.
Yes, parking can be a challenge, especially on busy summer weekends. It costs $30-$35 and the lot fills up quickly. Arriving early is highly recommended to secure a spot.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient option, especially if you want to avoid parking hassles. The drop-off point is usually near the park entrance.
Yes, Knott's Soak City is very close to Anaheim, just a short drive away, making it a popular destination for those staying in the Anaheim area.
Operating hours vary by season. Typically, the park opens around 10 AM and closes by 6 PM on weekdays, with extended hours on weekends. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date schedule.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices start around $53 and can vary depending on the day and any special promotions. It's recommended to purchase tickets online in advance for potential savings.
Look out for online deals and potential discounts through season passes or bundled tickets with Knott's Berry Farm. Sometimes, local resident discounts are also available.
Yes, you can bring your own food and water into the park, which is a great way to save money. Many visitors recommend packing a picnic.
Security involves a bag check. Be prepared for your belongings to be scanned. It's advisable to pack light and ensure no prohibited items are brought in.
While reservations are not typically required for general admission, it's always a good idea to check the official website for any updates or specific entry requirements, especially during peak season.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular slides include the multi-person raft rides and the thrilling body slides. The 'Malibu Run' is a fan favorite.
The Sunset River is a highlight for many, offering a relaxing float. However, be aware that float tubes can be limited, and the river can get crowded.
Yes, Soak City has dedicated kiddie areas like the Beach House, featuring smaller slides and splash zones perfect for toddlers and young children.
Lockers are available for rent to store your belongings. Cabana rentals are also an option for a more private and shaded experience, though they can be pricey.
Some visitors have noted that the park's flooring can be quite rough, leading to scrapes. Bringing water shoes is highly recommended for comfort and safety.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The park offers various dining options, including quick-service restaurants serving burgers, fries, pizza, and snacks.
Food prices can be high, with some reviews mentioning $40-50 per person for meals. Bringing your own food is a common strategy to save money.
Yes, food passes are sometimes available, offering a set amount of food and drinks for a fixed price, which can be cost-effective if you plan to eat multiple meals in the park.
Yes, bringing your own food and water is permitted and highly recommended by many visitors to manage costs and dietary needs.
While specific options can vary, most parks offer some standard choices like salads or fries. It's best to check the park's current menu or inquire upon arrival for the most accurate information.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture vibrant shots near the colorful slides, the wave pool action, and the general lively atmosphere of the park. The entrance area and themed zones also offer good photo opportunities.
It's advisable to use a waterproof phone case or a secure waterproof pouch to protect your device from water damage.
Generally, personal cameras are allowed, but check the park's specific policy on professional photography equipment, especially if it involves tripods or large lenses.
Drones are typically prohibited in amusement parks and water parks for safety and privacy reasons. Always adhere to park rules regarding aerial devices.
The golden hours, shortly after opening or before closing, can offer softer lighting. Midday provides bright, sunny conditions for vibrant water park shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Arriving early is crucial to secure a good spot and avoid the midday rush. Look for shaded areas or consider a cabana rental for a comfortable base. The park's emphasis on safety, with readily available life jackets and attentive lifeguards, provides peace of mind for parents.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting on a weekday to potentially experience slightly lower crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere. While parking has a fee, explore ride-sharing options if traveling in a small group, as it might be more economical.
🎢 Thrill Seekers
+1 Prioritize hitting the most intense slides early in the day to minimize wait times. While the park is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, the multi-person raft slides and some of the taller body slides provide a good thrill. Don't miss out on the wave pool for a dynamic water experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Knott's Soak City with Kids
When planning your visit with children, prioritize water shoes to protect their sensitive feet from the park's surfaces.
For a more comfortable experience, look into cabana rentals if your budget allows, offering a private shaded space for your family.
Remember to check the park's height requirements for slides beforehand to manage expectations and ensure everyone can enjoy the attractions. Making the Most of Your Soak City Visit
Consider purchasing a food pass if you plan on eating multiple meals within the park, as this can offer better value.
If you're visiting on a hot summer day, look for shaded areas or consider renting a cabana for a dedicated spot to relax.
Remember that the park is cashless, so be prepared to use cards or mobile payment options. Understanding Knott's Soak City's Amenities
For those seeking a more premium experience, cabana rentals offer a private, shaded retreat with dedicated service. The park features multiple dining locations serving a variety of snacks and meals.
While outside food is permitted, the onsite options provide convenience. Restrooms and changing rooms are readily accessible throughout the park. Life jackets are also provided free of charge, ensuring safety for all guests, especially in the wave pool. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit