Disney's Typhoon Lagoon551

A tropical paradise in the land of Mickey Mouse, Typhoon Lagoon is one of the area's best water parks - with something for every member of the family.

Known world-wide for its gigantic wave and surf pool, a distinctive "fur-thump" and shrieks of delight are a sure sign that larges waves are working their way through the (usually very big) crowd in the water. Keep younger kids - and weaker swimmers - near the entrance to the pool. The rush of water is very powerful.

Families can also enjoy Castaway Creek, a lazy river encircling the park. The water temperature always seems to be a little colder in the river than on the rides, so place kids on the top of the inner tubes - instead of dangling their bodies through the middle - if they get cold easily. The gang can also ride Gang Plank Falls, a family raft ride, together.

Ketchakiddie Creek is a special area for kids under four feet tall, with smaller water slides, squirting water, and bubbling jets and provides a safe place for toddlers to play while older kids enjoy the speed slides. This area gets very, very busy and finding a place to camp out can be difficult, so arrive early.

Kids who aren't quite daring enough for the main slides can also head to the Bay Slides, near the wave pool, for sized-down body slides.

Teens are the main audience for the Crush 'n' Gusher (the Banana Blaster has the most thrills of the three courses), a fast uphill water coaster, and the Humunga Kowabunga, steep decent speed slides almost guaranteed to leave bathing suits headed north while the body goes south (hence, bikini tops can become "misplaced" on this ride).

Interested in swimming with the sharks - literally? Head to Shark Reef, a large salt water aquarium stocked with small sharks, manta rays, colorful fish, and a floating lifeguard. Equipment - including a wet suit vest, snorkel, and mask - is provided for the rather short swim (sometimes the wait to get in the pool is actually longer than the swim itself, so try to stop by early or late in the day). This is a great time to use an underwater camera - many of the fish travel closely with the swimmers.

Food is available to purchase at the park, including standards like burgers, sandwiches, salads, ice cream, drinks, and more. Or, bring your cooler, but leave the alcoholic beverages and glass bottles at home.

Restrooms, changing areas, locker rentals, and complimentary life jacket rentals are available immediately to the right at Singapore Sal's upon entering the main park area. This is also a great place to designate as a meeting point, should your party get separated.

Tips for the park:
1. Absolutely use sunscreen. Even with the shade provided by the palms and other trees, most of the seating and all of the rides are in direct sun.
2. One-piece swimsuits really are the best idea, both for sun protection and for staying put on the fast water rides!
3. Arrive early, especially on hot days, or after 3pm, when afternoon storms have typically passed.
4. Purchase a refillable mug for one low price for free refillable drinks all day long.
5. Kids ages eight and up can learn to surf at Typhoon Lagoon. Two-and-a-half hour lessons are offered on Tue, Wed, and Fri mornings.
6. Bring your own towels - and not white, if you can help it. Towels are available to rent ($1 per towel), but there is no refund.
7. Go toward the back of the changing rooms for entirely quiet and secluded showers and changing areas (most people don't venture past the first set of stalls)!
8. The park is typically closed for an entire month in the winter for refurbishment, but Blizzard Beach is open.