Since my son has an annual pass to Castle Park, we decided to go to the new water park that was recently added to this kid’s fun paradise that’s been in business since 1976. Located at 3500 Polk Street in Riverside, CA, the park is easily reached via the 91 freeway, which runs right next to it. If you’re looking to cool off during the hot summer months, a visit to Buccaneer Cove can surely do the trick. Here’s what you can expect.
Admission
Although Castle Park offers miniature golf, arcade games and rides, access to the water park costs $12.99 per person. If you purchase your ticket online, you get a $3 discount. If you also want to enjoy the other park features, you can purchase the slightly more expensive tickets, which range from 19.99 to 29.99. Buccaneer Cove is open from Mon – Fri from noon to 6 pm, and Saturday and Sunday until 7 pm.
Buccaneer Cove
The water park has many interactive water elements that young and old can enjoy. To my surprise, there were many adults splashing around in the water. There are five slides, some of which are for the younger kids, and some which are for the daredevils among us. The aqua dome, for instance, is a blue, fully covered slide that ends up in a pool of water. There are many spray cannons and fountains and a large splash bucket that fills up and turns over. Kids can’t get enough of the water fun, and tend to go in circles, going up and down the entire slide. Luckily, there is plenty supervision of the park’s staff to ensure everyone’s safety.
Restrictions
Buccaneer Cove has a dress code. I learned the hard way that you can’t go down the slide wearing a cotton shirt, because the fabric might get stuck in the water filters. Also, baggy clothes, belts and eye and footwear are off limits on the slides. Board shorts and bathing suits are allowed. Kids who are less than 36 inches tall can go down the slides as long as they’re supervised by an adult.
Extras
Although Buccaneer Cover has lounge chairs for guests to relax on, they also have cabanas for those preferring some shade. A cabana for the entire day can be rented for $50. Food is allowed near the water facilities, so you can easily order a pizza or burger and fries to enjoy in the cabana. For $5 you can also rent a nearby locker to keep you valuable in while you explore the water park. Judging from the smile on my little ones face, I could tell that Buccaneer Cove was a good choice for a fun, family outing.
References
Castle Park
