Stay Cool at Big Surf Waterpark in Tempe

Summer is coming once again, which means the intense desert heat is about to start rolling in. It’s also a time when kids can spend hours holding a video game controller or playing on the internet. If you’re looking for ways to cool off and get everyone out of the house, a trip to Big Surf Waterpark is a great way to beat the summer heat and get the whole family out for a day of fun festivities.

swimming pool slide

Since first opening its doors in 1969, Big Surf has been home to the world’s first wave pool that is still the third-largest in the world, holding 2.5 million gallons of water. Created by Phil Dexter in the late 60s, the wave pool still uses the same design that Dexter created in his backyard! Big Surf has also been a venue for several concerts, including Pink Floyd, Sir Elton John, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, the Beach Boys and many more. Big Surf was also featured in two motion pictures: Just One of the Guys (1985) and Storm of the Century (1999).

On top of the wave pool, Big Surf is home to several other rides, including:

  • Otter Slides
  • Hurricane Slides
  • The Black Hole
  • Tornado Twisters
  • White Serpentine Slide
  • Kilauea Cove Slides
  • Cyclone & Tsunami Slides
  • Mauna Kea Zip Line

Big Surf opens for another fun-filled season on May 2nd with the following hours of operation::

  • Monday – Saturdays: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
  • Sundays: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
  • Sunset Fridays in June & July – Park will remain open until 9 p.m.

Also, if you go at these special times, you’ll get discounted admission:

  • 4 for $48 – Monday-Thursday, 2-6 p.m. (4) four admissions for $48. Additional admissions just $12 each.
  • Twilight admission – every day from 3 – 6 p.m. – all ages: $15.95

The park is located at 1500 N McClintock Drive in Tempe, and for more info on rates and special events, check out bigsurffun.com.