Orlando may be best known for its world-famous theme parks, but when the Florida sun heats up, there’s no better way to cool off than by diving into one of the city’s many refreshing water activities. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or just looking to relax, Orlando offers something for everyone to cool off and enjoy the water.
Top Water Activities in Orlando, Florida
One of the best ways to escape the heat is by reserving one of our Orlando vacation rentals with a private pool. Having access to your own pool while on vacation is a wonderful amenity, allowing your group to use the pool in total privacy at any time of the day. This is a feature that everyone will enjoy, especially during the hot summer months in Orlando.
Orlando is home to some of the best water parks in the country. Aquatica, voted the #1 Outdoor Water Park by USA Today, has several waterslides, pools, kid-friendly beaches and play areas, and a lazy river! Race against friends or family at the 68-foot-tall Riptide Racer, the world’s tallest dueling racer, or float down Loggerhead Lane, a gentle lazy river where you’ll come face-to-fin with Commerson’s dolphins, leopard sharks, and cold-water fish in a unique underwater viewing experience.
Island H2O Water Park is Orlando’s newest water park with 20+ attractions, unique events, and more! Pelican’s Paradise is made for the kiddos, while those seeking the ultimate thrill will have a blast on rides like Hashtag Heights and Drop Down. Dining and shopping are available onsite, and be sure to check out their events, which include movie nights, foam parties, and more!
Orlando Watersports Complex is one of the largest cable wakeboard parks in the U.S. and the most recognized parks in the world. Here you’ll find an array of thrilling water activities, including wakeboarding, a wave rider, and a massive inflatable water park course.
Located approximately 30 minutes outside of Orlando, Wekiwa Springs State Park boasts 13 miles of trails for walking, hiking, and bicycling, as well as 60 campsites, including ones specifically designated for those traveling with kids. The clear, natural spring water stays a cool 72 degrees year-round, making it ideal for activities like canoeing, kayaking, and swimming. The park is open from 8 am to sundown throughout the year, and fees to enter the State Park are also minimal at just $6 per vehicle. From March 12, 2025, to Sept. 1, 2025, all visitors must have a reservation to enter the park.
Experience Florida’s wild side with an exciting airboat tour through the Everglades or nearby swamps. With Wild Florida Adventure Park, you’ll breeze across the water at thrilling speeds while catching glimpses of gators, birds, and lush landscapes. It’s part sightseeing, part adrenaline rush, and a great way to enjoy the water in a different way. And when you book an airboat tour through Wild Florida, you receive admission into the Gator Park as well! Explore exhibits, get up close to wildlife like gators and bobcats, and enjoy live shows.
Whether you’re vacationing with kids, traveling with friends, or planning a romantic getaway, Orlando’s wide range of water activities is sure to help you stay cool and create unforgettable moments. So grab your swimsuit, some sunscreen, and jump into the fun—Orlando is waiting to make a splash!
