guides

The Best Local Splash Pads for Family Fun in North Orange County

By Dana Reich, Publisher and Editor, Macaroni KID Yorba Linda, Fullerton, Placentia & Anaheim Hills June 18, 2024

Summer is here, and what better way to beat the heat than by visiting one of the many fantastic splash pads in Northern Orange County? Splash pads are a great way for kids to cool off, play, and have fun while parents relax and enjoy the sunny weather. Here’s a list of some of the best local splash pads that are perfect for a family outing.





Adventure Park Splash Pad, Yorba Linda (Free)

 Adventure Playground in Yorba Linda offers a unique and exciting splash pad experience for kids. This splash pad is part of a larger playground area that includes various adventurous play structures, making it a hit among children of all ages. The splash pad itself features dynamic water elements like spraying fountains and misting arches that provide endless fun and cooling relief.  Please note reservations are required during the summer months - Visit https://www.yorbalindaca.gov/687/Adventure-Playground to learn more, and make a reservation.

Features:

  • Multiple water jets and sprinklers
  • Shaded picnic areas
  • Adjacent playground
  • Water slide
  • Zip line

Plan Your Visit:

  • Location: Adventure Playground, 4701 Casa Loma Avenue, Yorba Linda, CA
  • Operating Hours: Typically open during daylight hours; check the city’s website for specific times.




Adlena Park Splash Pad - Fullerton (Free)

Adlena Park in Fullerton is home to a delightful splash pad that offers a refreshing retreat for families during the hot summer months. This splash pad features an array of water jets and sprayers designed to keep kids entertained and cool. The surrounding park includes a playground, picnic areas, and plenty of open space for other recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for a family day out.

Features:

  • Variety of water jets and sprayers
  • Adjacent playground
  • Shaded picnic areas
  • Large open spaces for recreational activities
  • Convenient restroom facilities

Plan Your Visit:

  • Location: Adlena Park, 300 N. Adlena Drive, Fullerton, CA
  • Operating Hours: Typically open during daylight hours; check the city’s website for specific times.




Brio Park Splash Pad - La Habra (Free)

Brio Park in La Habra features a vibrant splash pad that provides a perfect escape from the summer heat for kids and families. The splash pad offers a variety of interactive water features, including jets, sprayers, and fountains, ensuring non-stop fun for children of all ages. The surrounding park includes additional amenities like playground equipment, shaded picnic areas, and plenty of green space for recreational activities.

Features:

  • Interactive water features including jets, sprayers, and fountains
  • Adjacent playground equipment
  • Shaded picnic areas
  • Expansive green spaces for other activities
  • Nearby restrooms

Plan Your Visit:

  • Location: Brio Park, 300 S. Euclid Street, La Habra, CA
  • Operating Hours: Typically open during daylight hours; check the city’s website for specific times.




Central Park Splash Pad - Brea (Free)

Central Park in Brea offers a delightful splash pad that is perfect for families seeking a refreshing and fun outdoor activity. The splash pad features a variety of water elements, including bubbling fountains and spraying jets, designed to entertain and cool off children on hot summer days. The park also includes a playground, picnic areas, and ample green space, making it an ideal location for a full day of family fun.

Features:

  • Bubbling fountains and spraying jets
  • Adjacent playground
  • Shaded picnic areas
  • Large green spaces for recreational activities
  • Convenient restroom facilities

Plan Your Visit:

  • Location: Central Park, 695 Madison Way, Brea, CA
  • Operating Hours: Typically open during daylight hours; check the city’s website for specific times.




Lemon Park Splash Pad - Fullerton (Free)

Lemon Park in Fullerton boasts a fantastic splash pad that is perfect for families looking to beat the summer heat. The splash pad features a variety of water play elements, including spraying jets and interactive fountains, ensuring hours of fun for kids of all ages. The park itself offers additional amenities such as a playground, picnic areas, and plenty of open space for other recreational activities, making it an ideal spot for a family day out.

Features:

  • Spraying jets and interactive fountains
  • Adjacent playground
  • Shaded picnic areas
  • Large open spaces for recreational activities
  • Convenient restroom facilities

Plan Your Visit:

  • Location: Lemon Park, 701 S. Lemon Street, Fullerton, CA
  • Operating Hours: Typically open during daylight hours; check the city’s website for specific times.




Oeste Park Splash Pad - La Habra (Free)

Oeste Park in La Habra features a wonderful splash pad that provides an excellent way for families to cool off and have fun during the warm summer months. The splash pad includes a variety of water features such as jets and sprayers that will keep kids entertained and refreshed. The park also offers a playground, shaded picnic areas, and plenty of green space, making it an ideal destination for a full day of family activities.

Features:

  • Variety of water jets and sprayers
  • Adjacent playground
  • Shaded picnic areas
  • Expansive green spaces for recreational activities
  • Convenient restroom facilities

Plan Your Visit:

  • Location: Oeste Park, 2300 W. Lambert Road, La Habra, CA
  • Operating Hours: Typically open during daylight hours; check the city’s website for specific times.




Ponderosa Park Splash Pad - Anaheim (Free)

Ponderosa Park in Anaheim offers a fantastic splash pad that provides a fun and refreshing escape for families during the summer. This splash pad features a variety of interactive water elements, including sprayers, fountains, and jets, that will keep children entertained for hours. The park also includes additional amenities such as a playground, picnic areas, and plenty of green space for other activities, making it a perfect spot for a family day out.

Features:

  • Interactive water elements like sprayers, fountains, and jets
  • Adjacent playground
  • Shaded picnic areas
  • Large green spaces for recreational activities
  • Convenient restroom facilities

Plan Your Visit:

  • Location: Ponderosa Park, 2100 S. Haster Street, Anaheim, CA
  • Operating Hours: Typically open during daylight hours; check the city’s website for specific times.




Valencia Park Splash Pad - Fullerton (Free)

Valencia Park in Fullerton offers a delightful splash pad that is perfect for families seeking a fun and refreshing way to spend a summer day. This splash pad features a variety of interactive water elements, including spraying jets and playful fountains, ensuring that children of all ages have a blast. The park also boasts a playground, shaded picnic areas, and expansive green spaces, making it an ideal location for a full day of family fun.

Features:

  • Interactive water elements like spraying jets and playful fountains
  • Adjacent playground
  • Shaded picnic areas
  • Expansive green spaces for recreational activities
  • Convenient restroom facilities

Plan Your Visit:

  • Location: Valencia Park, 2425 W. Valencia Drive, Fullerton, CA
  • Operating Hours: Typically open during daylight hours; check the city’s website for specific times.




Atlantis Play Center - Garden Grove

Atlantis Play Center in Garden Grove is a magical destination where children's imaginations come to life. This enchanting park features whimsical and colorful play structures inspired by the mythical lost city of Atlantis, making it a unique and exciting place for kids to explore and play.

Features:

  • Themed Play Structures: From towering castles to twisting slides, Atlantis Play Center offers a variety of imaginative play structures that will delight children of all ages.
  • Interactive Water Play: During the summer months, kids can cool off at the splash pad area, featuring water jets and fountains for refreshing fun.
  • Beautiful Gardens: Surrounding the play structures are lush gardens and winding pathways, providing a serene backdrop for families to enjoy.
  • Picnic Areas: Shaded picnic areas with tables and benches are available for families to relax and enjoy a snack or lunch.
  • Special Events: Atlantis Play Center hosts special events throughout the year, including holiday celebrations and family-friendly activities.

Plan Your Visit:

  • Location: Atlantis Play Center, 13630 Atlantis Way, Garden Grove, CA
  • Operating Hours: Open daily from [insert operating hours]; closed on Mondays for maintenance.
  • Admission: Admission fee required; discounts available for Garden Grove residents.

Tips for Visiting Splash Pads:

  • Supervise Young Children: Locations such as Adventure Playground has many different play structures, so keep a close eye on younger kids.
  • Pack a Picnic: Utilize the shaded picnic areas for a relaxing lunch or snack break.
  • Arrive Early: To secure a good spot, especially during peak times.
  • Bring Towels and Extra Clothes: Kids will likely want to change after playing.
  • Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water to drink, as playing in the sun can be dehydrating.
  • Pack Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential for a day in the sun.
  • Explore the Park: Take advantage of the nearby playgrounds and green spaces for additional fun.
  • Wear Water Shoes: Water shoes can provide extra grip and protect little feet from hot surfaces.
  • Check Hours: Splash pad operating hours can vary, so it's a good idea to check before you go.
  • Check Park Events: Locations such as Oeste Park often hosts community events, so look for any special activities during your visit.

North Orange County offers a variety of splash pads that provide endless fun for kids and a relaxing time for parents. So grab your swimsuits, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure, and head out to one of these fantastic local splash pads for a day of family-friendly fun in the sun!

Have any other nearby splash pads to add to this guide?  Email them to me at danar@macaronikid.com and we'll be sure to get them added in!