Nestled along the sun-drenched shores of Destin, Florida, Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park stands as a premier destination for aquatic thrills and family escapades, conveniently located at 1007 US Highway 98 East. Since its opening in 1986, this iconic Emerald Coast landmark has drawn visitors with its sprawling 40-plus attractions, blending heart-pounding water slides with leisurely floats under swaying palms and cascading waterfalls. Whether you’re conquering the high-speed CannonBOWL or drifting along the massive 750,000-gallon Lazy River, the park captures the essence of Florida’s beachside bliss—just minutes from pristine white sands like those at Henderson Beach State Park.
Families flock here for its all-ages appeal: pint-sized explorers delight in four dedicated kids’ zones with gentle sprays and shallow play areas, while teens and adults chase adrenaline on multi-story speed slides, the roaring Surf’s Up wave pool, or the 100-foot-tall SkyCoaster that hurtles riders at 60 mph over the treetops. Beyond the waves, the Adventure Park adds tropical mini-golf courses amid lush landscaping and flowboarding half-pipes for surf-like spins without the ocean. Private cabanas offer shaded sanctuaries for picnics and relaxation, making it ideal for group outings or birthday bashes.
Big Kahuna’s isn’t just a park—it’s a slice of coastal magic where laughter echoes from dawn till dusk. Season passes unlock unlimited summer fun, including foam parties and mermaid meet-and-greets through September, fostering memories that linger long after the splash. As Destin’s largest water park, it embodies the unhurried joy of beach life, inviting locals and travelers alike to unplug, play, and embrace the salty air. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. during peak season (check for 2026 updates), it’s the ultimate complement to your Florida beach itinerary—pure, exhilarating aloha on the Gulf.
Thrilling Water Attractions
Big Kahuna’s boasts over 40 exhilarating water features designed for every thrill level, making it a standout in Florida’s coastal recreation scene. Towering multi-story slides like the twisting CannonBOWL and high-speed Body Blasters deliver stomach-dropping plunges into splash pools below, while the massive Surf’s Up wave pool simulates ocean swells up to 6 feet high for body-surfing excitement. Families can unwind on the expansive Lazy River, a 750,000-gallon loop perfect for tubing and people-watching amid tropical foliage. Kids’ areas shine with interactive zones like Coconut Cove, featuring mini slides, water cannons, and dumping buckets for safe, imaginative play. Unique additions include a surf simulator half-pipe for flowboarding lessons and private cabanas with misting fans for upscale lounging. Safety is paramount, with life jackets required for little ones under 48 inches in deeper waters. This diverse lineup ensures endless replay value, blending high-energy rushes with chill vibes to suit solo adventurers or multi-generational groups, all while overlooking Destin’s azure Gulf views.
