More slides
1 / 10

Gulf Islands Waterpark

4.3
·3k reviews·Gulfport, United States

Gulf Islands Waterpark offers a splash-tastic summer escape with thrilling rides, a lazy river, and a wave pool, all with free drinks and parking.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
More slides

Gulf Islands Waterpark

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Gulf Islands Waterpark offers a splash-tastic summer escape with thrilling rides, a lazy river, and a wave pool, all with free drinks and parking.

4.3
(3k reviews)

"Great experience, kids and adults loved it! Plenty of lifeguards and free drinks."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for Shade

Snag a prime umbrella spot or cabana early, especially on hot days. It's worth it!

🥤 Free Drinks are a Plus!

Enjoy complimentary soft drinks throughout the park. A great way to stay hydrated.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Wave Pool

The Wave Pool

Center of the park

Experience thrilling waves every 20 minutes in this central attraction. Perfect for all ages!

Lazy River

Lazy River

Circumferential

Float your cares away on this relaxing river with multiple entry points. Rafts are free!

Water Rollercoaster

Water Rollercoaster

Main ride area

The Gulf Coast's ONLY water rollercoaster offers a unique thrill for adrenaline seekers.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Heat and the Crowds

Gulf Islands Waterpark is a seasonal gem, so plan your visit during peak summer for the full experience. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure prime spots like shaded umbrella areas or cabanas, as they fill up fast. Free drinks and parking are a major plus, but outside food isn't allowed, so budget for park fare.

Maximize Your Fun

This waterpark offers a mix of thrills and relaxation, from the wave pool to the lazy river. Consider renting a sun deck or cabana for a guaranteed shaded spot, which many reviewers find worth the cost on hot days. The park is well-maintained and staffed by attentive lifeguards, ensuring a safe and enjoyable day for all ages.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer families, more space
Crowd
Low
When
Wave pool activation
Why
Experience the main event
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Comment down below: Lazy river or wave pool? 🌊👙 📍Gulf Islands Waterpark, MS #gulfport #mississippi #travel #mobile #hattiesburg #neworleans #waterpark #waterslides #water
gulf.islands.waterpark
4.4K likes • 99.5K views

🎯 Arrive Early for Shade

Snag a prime umbrella spot or cabana early, especially on hot days. It's worth it! Reddit

🥤 Free Drinks are a Plus!

Enjoy complimentary soft drinks throughout the park. A great way to stay hydrated. Reddit+1

A huge thank you to Gulf Islands for featuring our students on your social media and special THANKS the Callaway High School Band staff, Band Booster Club, students, and parents for making our trip to Gulf Islands Water Park such a fun and safe experience! 🍊⚡️🎶#601 #ChargerFunk #GulfIslandsWaterPark
callawayband601
73 likes • 3K views
Gulf Islands Waterpark in Gulfport, Mississippi, is celebrating 20 years in operation. Take a look behind the scenes. To read more, check out sunherald.com. #waterpark #waterslide #summer #entertainment #news #mscoast #mississippi #thingstodo #water #gulfport
sunheraldbiloxi
90 likes • 3.8K views

💰 Cabanas for Comfort

Rent a sun deck or cabana for guaranteed shade and a comfortable base. Reddit

🌊 Wave Pool Fun

Don't miss the wave pool, which activates every 20 minutes for exciting aquatic fun. Reddit

Gulf Islands Waterpark fun in the sun!! First day of our end of summer trip 2022. Cliffy’s Birthday 🎉. #MeleineGroup Gulf Islands Waterpark #GulfIslandsWaterpark #Gulfport #Mississippi #Florida #Pensacola #FamilyFun #WaterSlide #WaterPark #WavePool #LazyRiver #SummerFun #SummerTrip #GulfCoast
cliff_melerine
235 likes • 5.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for Shade

Snag a prime umbrella spot or cabana early, especially on hot days. It's worth it! Reddit

🥤 Free Drinks are a Plus!

Enjoy complimentary soft drinks throughout the park. A great way to stay hydrated. Reddit+1

💰 Cabanas for Comfort

Rent a sun deck or cabana for guaranteed shade and a comfortable base. Reddit

🌊 Wave Pool Fun

Don't miss the wave pool, which activates every 20 minutes for exciting aquatic fun. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Fun

Great for kids and adults alike, with plenty of rides and a safe atmosphere. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Free drinks are available, but remember to drink plenty of water, especially during summer. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.3
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally have a great experience at Gulf Islands Waterpark, praising its cleanliness, friendly staff, and the fun atmosphere for both kids and adults. The free drinks and parking are significant advantages. Some find the food to be typical waterpark fare, and securing shaded areas early is recommended.

"Had great experience. Kids and adults loved it. Circular Lazy River (you can stand in) has multiple entrances and exits. Use rafts for free. In the center wavepool comes on every 20 minutes. Plenty of life guards. Lockers for valuables. Small restaurant for burgers etc... Free drinks!Looks like you can rent a cabana or get there early to snag an umbrella area with chase lounge chairs. Dressing rooms to change. Everything you need for a fun day. Very clean. Will return."

Richie Ladner

"The staff was friendly and helpful. It's a nice size waterpark with decent food options. The free drinks and parking is a plus. I recommend getting there early to get a space with an umbrella. The claim shells aren't really work it. Only 1/2 is shaded."

Caramel Swirl

"Rent the sun deck or cabana early. It’s hot. It’s worth it! Facilities are well maintained. Will run out of ice at peak time, but it fills back up. The staff, particularly at the top of the kiddie slides, are attentive.

While the food options at the park are typical water park fare, they are adequate. Outside food and drinks are not permitted."

Damian Davenport

What People Like

Clean and well-maintained
Friendly and helpful staff
Free drinks and parking

What People Dislike

Food is typical fare
Shaded spots fill fast

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Gulf Islands Waterpark is located in Gulfport, Mississippi. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors travel from nearby cities like Mobile, Alabama, and New Orleans, Louisiana. TikTokInstagram

Public transportation options directly to the waterpark may be limited. It's generally recommended to drive or arrange for private transport. Check local Gulfport transit schedules for any relevant routes. Instagram

Parking at Gulf Islands Waterpark is free for all visitors, which is a significant perk mentioned by many guests. Reddit+1

Yes, you can arrange for drop-off at the main entrance. This is a convenient option if you're using ride-sharing services or being dropped off by a friend. Instagram

The drive from New Orleans to Gulf Islands Waterpark is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Taking I-10 East is the most direct route. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices can vary, and it's best to check the official Gulf Islands Waterpark website for the most current pricing. Look out for potential discounts or special offers. Instagram

While not always advertised, keep an eye on their social media or website for potential promotions. Group rates might also be available. Instagram+1

No, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside Gulf Islands Waterpark. However, they do offer free soft drinks within the park. Reddit

Gulf Islands Waterpark is a seasonal attraction, typically open during the summer months. Operating hours can vary daily, so it's essential to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date schedule before your visit. Instagram

Booking tickets in advance is often recommended, especially during peak season or on weekends, to ensure entry and potentially save time at the ticket window. Instagram

🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience

Highlights include the wave pool, the lazy river with free rafts, and the unique water rollercoaster. Many visitors also enjoy the various slides and pools suitable for different age groups. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, the park is very family-friendly, with areas and rides suitable for younger children. The staff is attentive, especially at the kiddie slides. Reddit+1

Yes, lockers are available for rent to store your valuables securely during your visit. Reddit

The park offers free drinks, rental cabanas, dressing rooms, and a small restaurant. Life guards are plentiful. Reddit+1

Reviewers consistently mention that the facilities are well-maintained and very clean, contributing to a positive experience. Reddit+1

🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining

The park offers typical waterpark fare, including burgers and other quick bites. While the options are adequate, they are not a highlight for most visitors. Reddit

Specific vegetarian or vegan options are not widely detailed in reviews. It's advisable to inquire at the food stands upon arrival or pack snacks if you have strict dietary needs (though outside food is not permitted). Reddit

While outside food and drinks are not allowed, the park offers free soft drinks, so bringing a reusable cup might be a good idea to refill. InstagramReddit

Yes, there is a small restaurant that serves food, and likely other concession stands for snacks. Ice may run out at peak times but is refilled. Reddit+1

The food is described as typical waterpark fare, which is generally considered adequate but not exceptional. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture fun moments at the wave pool, lazy river, and near the colorful slides. The island theme provides a vibrant backdrop for family photos. Instagram+1

It's generally not recommended to bring phones or cameras on most water slides for safety reasons. Use waterproof pouches if you plan to capture moments near water. Instagram

There are no specific restrictions mentioned regarding general photography within the park, as long as it doesn't interfere with operations or other guests' privacy. Instagram

Morning light offers softer, more flattering light for photos. Late afternoon can also be beautiful as the sun begins to set. Instagram

While you can't take photos during the ride, you can capture them before they go down or as they exit. Ensure you have a secure way to hold your device. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Gulf Islands Waterpark is a fantastic choice for families. The park offers a safe and clean environment with plenty of rides suitable for younger children, including dedicated kiddie slide areas. Lifeguards are attentive, ensuring a secure experience. Reddit+1

To make your family's day even better, consider arriving early to secure a shaded spot or renting a cabana for guaranteed comfort. The free drinks are a huge plus for keeping everyone hydrated. Don't miss the wave pool and lazy river, which are always hits with kids. Reddit+1

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Gulf Islands Waterpark offers significant value. Free parking and free soft drinks are major cost-savers that reviewers consistently praise. Reddit+2

While outside food isn't permitted, the inclusion of free drinks helps offset the cost of park food. Consider packing your own snacks if allowed in a small bag, or focus on enjoying the rides and free amenities to maximize your budget. Arriving early can help you snag free shaded spots, saving on potential cabana rental costs. Reddit

☀️ Summer Fun Seekers

If you're looking for the quintessential summer waterpark experience, Gulf Islands Waterpark delivers. The park is open seasonally, offering a refreshing escape from the heat with its array of slides, pools, and the exciting wave pool. Instagram+1

To make the most of your summer visit, plan for a weekday if possible to avoid the largest crowds. Renting a cabana or arriving early for a shaded spot is highly recommended to stay comfortable throughout the day. Embrace the fun and soak up the sun! Reddit+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Rides and Attractions

Gulf Islands Waterpark boasts a variety of attractions catering to all thrill levels. The wave pool is a central hub of excitement, erupting with waves every 20 minutes, offering a taste of the ocean. For a more relaxed experience, the lazy river provides a gentle float, with free rafts available and multiple access points for convenience. InstagramReddit

Thrill-seekers will appreciate the water rollercoaster, the only one of its kind on the Gulf Coast, promising an exhilarating ride. Beyond these signature attractions, the park features numerous waterslides of varying heights and speeds, ensuring there's something for everyone. Lifeguards are stationed throughout the park, particularly at the kiddie slides, to ensure a safe environment for all guests. InstagramReddit

When planning your day, consider which rides are most important to your group. The park's layout is designed for easy navigation, allowing you to move between the high-energy rides and the more tranquil areas like the lazy river. Remember to check the height requirements for certain slides if you're visiting with younger children. TikTok

Maximizing Your Comfort: Cabanas and Shaded Areas

On hot Mississippi days, securing a shaded spot is crucial for a comfortable waterpark experience. Gulf Islands Waterpark offers options ranging from umbrella areas with lounge chairs to more private cabanas and sun decks available for rent. Many visitors strongly recommend renting one of these, especially during peak season, to escape the sun and have a dedicated space for your belongings and relaxation. Reddit+1

While the 'claim shells' (likely referring to basic seating areas) are only partially shaded, the dedicated rental options provide full coverage and often come with additional amenities. Booking these in advance is highly advised, as they are popular and can be reserved quickly. This investment can significantly enhance your enjoyment, allowing you to stay longer and more comfortably. Reddit

Even if you don't rent a cabana, arriving early is key to snagging one of the limited umbrella-covered spots. These offer a good balance of shade and proximity to the main attractions, making them a popular choice for families and groups. Reddit

A Family-Friendly Oasis

Gulf Islands Waterpark is consistently praised as a family-friendly destination. The park's atmosphere is described as safe, clean, and welcoming, with attentive staff readily available to assist guests. This makes it an ideal spot for a day out with children of all ages. Reddit

From the wave pool that delights younger visitors to the thrilling slides for older kids and adults, there's a good mix of attractions to keep everyone entertained. The presence of numerous lifeguards, particularly in areas designed for children, provides peace of mind for parents. Reddit

Many reviewers highlight the positive experiences their children had, emphasizing the fun and memorable moments created at the park. The free drinks and ample space also contribute to a stress-free outing for families. Reddit+1