Volcano Bay is Universal Orlando Resort’s premier water theme park located in Orlando, Florida.
Inspired by the tranquil Polynesian islands, this water park has exhilarating slides, lazy rivers, and immersive experiences that transport visitors into a tropical paradise.
Volcano Bay combines thrilling water rides with innovative TapuTapu wearable technology, allowing guests to enjoy a virtual queue system and more interactive elements throughout the park.
If you’re visiting for the first time, this guide will help you understand everything you need to know, from attractions and slides to dining, tickets, and the best time to visit.
Universal Volcano Bay tickets
Universal Volcano Bay offers two amazing ticket options to suit different visitor preferences.
Whether you’re looking for single-day access, express passes to skip the lines or multi-day park-hopping options, there’s a ticket to match your plans.
Standard Park-to-Park Tickets
2-Park 2-Day Park-to-Park Ticket
From
$189.42
- Offers 2-day access to both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure
- Upgrade to a 3-park pass for entry to Universal’s Volcano Bay water theme park.
Exclusive Packages
Universal Orlando Resort Park Tickets with Epic Universe
From
$468.83
- Valid for 2 to 7 days, covering all four Universal Orlando parks
- 1 Day Entry at Universal Epic Universe (opening in 2025)
Overview of Volcano Bay
- Opening Date: May 25, 2017
- Size: 27 acres
- Location: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, United States. Get directions.
- Opening Time: 9 am
- Closing Time: 7 pm (varies seasonally)
- Visitors per Year: Approximately 2 million (2023 data)
- Theme: Polynesian tropical paradise
- Total Attractions: Over 19 slides and pools. Explore more.
- Live Entertainment: Island music, water shows, and interactive experiences
- Dining & Shopping: Themed restaurants, snack bars, and souvenir shops
Opening hours
Volcano Bay’s tropical escape opens at 10 am, but its closing time shifts with the seasons.
On regular days, it runs until 6 pm, while busy periods stretch to 7 pm.
During peak season (summer and holidays), expect extended hours till 9 pm, but in off-peak times, the park may wind down as early as 5 pm.
Early birds staying at Universal hotels get a one-hour head start, perfect for grabbing a prime spot or hitting top rides first.
Since hours change with weather and events, always check the timings before your visit!
Themed areas
Volcano Bay is divided into several immersive areas, each inspired by Polynesian culture and mythology.
Download Volcano Bay Map (Pdf, 359KB)
Krakatau Volcano
At the heart of Volcano Bay stands Krakatau, a 200-foot artificial volcano that serves as the park’s central icon. This towering structure houses some of the most thrilling water attractions, including the Ko’okiri Body Plunge, a jaw-dropping 125-foot drop slide with a near-vertical descent. Visitors can also enjoy the Kala & Tai Nui Serpentine Body Slides, which send riders on a twisting, high-speed journey through enclosed tubes. At night, Krakatau lights up, adding a mesmerizing glow to the park’s skyline.
Wave Village
For those seeking relaxation, Wave Village offers a perfect escape with stunning beach areas and tranquil waters. The highlight of this area is Waturi Beach, a breathtaking wave pool where guests can float or swim while enjoying a picturesque view of Krakatau. The Reef, a calmer leisure pool, provides an alternative for visitors who prefer gentle waves and underwater seating. With its sandy shores and scenic ambiance, Wave Village is ideal for sunbathing and unwinding between rides.
River Village
River Village is a family-friendly zone filled with attractions designed for guests of all ages. It features Honu ika Moana, a thrilling multi-person raft ride that mimics the movements of a sea turtle as it glides over high walls and swirling currents. Younger visitors can enjoy Tot Tiki Reef, a playful water playground featuring gentle slides, splash areas, and water jets. The winding Kopiko Wai Winding River offers a relaxing float through lush landscapes, including caves that glow with bioluminescent effects.
Rainforest Village
Rainforest Village is home to some of the park’s most intense and adventurous water rides. The Ohyah & Ohno Drop Slides challenge thrill-seekers with high-speed plunges that launch them into a refreshing pool below. TeAwa The Fearless River offers a whitewater rapid-style experience, propelling riders through powerful currents and unexpected waves. This area also includes Punga Racers, a four-lane racing slide that lets guests compete against each other in a fun and fast-paced descent.
Popular rides & attractions in Volcano Bay
Here are the must-do attractions at Volcano Bay:
| Ride | Type | Thrill Level |
| Ko’okiri Body Plunge | Drop Slide | 🎢🎢🎢 (Extreme) |
| Krakatau Aqua Coaster | Water Coaster | 🎢🎢🎢 (High) |
| Kala & Tai Nui Serpentine Body Slides | Body Slide | 🎢🎢 (Medium) |
| Honu ika Moana | Raft Slide | 🎢🎢 (Medium) |
| TeAwa The Fearless River | Rapid River | 🎢🎢 (Mild) |
| Waturi Beach | Wave Pool | 🎢 (Relaxing) |
Must read: Rides in Volcano Bay theme park
Tips for navigating Volcano Bay
Navigating Volcano Bay is easy if you understand the layout before arriving.
The park is centered around Krakatau Volcano, a great landmark that helps you stay oriented.
Download the Universal Orlando app for an interactive map, ride wait times, and TapuTapu reservation details.
At the entrance, grab a physical map as a backup and locate key areas like Waturi Beach, Rainforest Village, and River Village.
Follow signage around the park, and use bridges and pathways to cut across areas quickly.
If visiting in a group, set a meeting point near lockers or dining areas to avoid getting separated
Special events at Volcano Bay
Volcano Bay hosts various special events throughout the year, making every visit unique and exciting.
During Summer Splash Nights, the park extends its hours, offering exclusive nighttime access, live music, and vibrant island-themed entertainment.
Holidays at Volcano Bay transform the park into a Polynesian Christmas paradise with special decor, themed activities, and holiday-inspired treats.
Exclusive VIP Experiences offer guests private cabanas, guided tours, and premium seating for those looking to enhance their visit.
These events provide visitors with exciting seasonal entertainment and unforgettable moments, so be sure to check the schedule and book your tickets in advance.
Food & dining
Volcano Bay offers a diverse range of dining options catering to all tastes.
Best quick-service restaurants
- Bambu Jungle Kitchen – Tropical-inspired burgers and wraps.
- Whakawaiwai Eats – Hawaiian pizza and refreshing smoothies.
Best sit-down restaurants
- Kohola Reef Restaurant & Social Club – Specializes in seafood platters and tropical drinks.
Best snacks
- Waturi Fusion Ice Cream – Multi-flavored soft serve.
- Dancing Dragons Boat Bar – Signature tiki cocktails and refreshing beverages.
