Now that summer is officially upon us the hunt for great things to do to fill all this time is also here. We love to swim and to hike but a real treat is getting to spend time at one or more of the various water parks throughout the world.
As we have traveled around we have been fortunate enough to get to experience water parks in places like Hawaii, Singapore, and Malaysia. They are always great fun but we do find some to be better than others. We did the legwork in helping to discover some of the water parks that we enjoyed most over the years. Warning: You may have to travel to some amazing exotic locations to enjoy them.
Wet and Wild, Oahu, Hawaii
We lived in Hawaii for 3 years and enjoyed Oahu for 8 months of that time. You may think in Hawaii the beaches are plenty to keep you busy in the water but when a wet and wild opens up you've just got to check it out.
The park is located in Kapolei on the West side of the island. It is loaded with fun slides, cabanas to rent and relax in, kiddie pools, a wave pool, and so much more. We went with a bunch of kids varying in ages from 4-18 and everyone had a great time.
If you live in the area there are season passes that make it a great deal and opens you up to being able to visit often. We went about 8 times during our 8 months there and definitely got great use out of the passes.
The beaches in Hawaii are amazing and we spent most of our water time there but for a change of pace and some adventure filled slides Wet N Wild Oahu is a great stop!
Lost World of Tambun, Malaysia
What a treasure of a find this water park was. Malaysia is inherently hot and finding a good water source while visiting is imperative in our opinion, especially when traveling with children. In all of our time in Malaysia I think Lost World was probably the best option for water fun that we found.
It is far more than just a water park. There is also a hot springs area complete with a state of the art spa, a small amusement park, an adventure park, small animal reserve with petting zoo, tiger area where you can watch daily feedings, and a tin valley where you learn and observe all about tin mining.
Lost World near Ipoh, Malaysia is a teat for the whole family. It is open late into the night and even has a hotel attached making your stay easy. My boys enjoyed every aspect of the park and I am sure yours will as well. The best part was how full of activities it was but at the same time it had a small feel so you didn't get overwhelmed with it all as I usually do at the large amusement park type places.
Wild Waves, Washington State
A little bit closer to home for many of you is a cute little water park called Wild Waves. There is an attached amusement park, Enchanted Village, but we'll skip that part for another article. Fun that they have both in the same spot though. Located just outside Seattle it could make a really fun weekend getaway.
We recently took a trip out to Wild Waves and had a blast. Now keep in mind it is a bit chilly so I would first and foremost recommend waiting until the end of summer and definitely on a nice sunny day. The water was chilly...BRRR!
The park is really manageable which is something I enjoy, just makes for a more relaxing day. The park has something for everyone from thrill rides like the Riptide or Raging river to the mild ride good for any age like the lazy river and Hooks Lagoon. There is plenty to explore, nice bathrooms and changing rooms, and plenty of spots to have a picnic lunch. We spent the entire day there hitting up our favorite rides multiple times. If you are in the area I highly suggest it but again wait until its a lovely warm day!
So there you have it, 3 of the best water parks you may not have ever heard of. What has been your favorite water park? Tell us about it in the comments below!
As we have traveled around we have been fortunate enough to get to experience water parks in places like Hawaii, Singapore, and Malaysia. They are always great fun but we do find some to be better than others. We did the legwork in helping to discover some of the water parks that we enjoyed most over the years. Warning: You may have to travel to some amazing exotic locations to enjoy them.
Wet and Wild, Oahu, Hawaii
We lived in Hawaii for 3 years and enjoyed Oahu for 8 months of that time. You may think in Hawaii the beaches are plenty to keep you busy in the water but when a wet and wild opens up you've just got to check it out.
The park is located in Kapolei on the West side of the island. It is loaded with fun slides, cabanas to rent and relax in, kiddie pools, a wave pool, and so much more. We went with a bunch of kids varying in ages from 4-18 and everyone had a great time.
If you live in the area there are season passes that make it a great deal and opens you up to being able to visit often. We went about 8 times during our 8 months there and definitely got great use out of the passes.
The beaches in Hawaii are amazing and we spent most of our water time there but for a change of pace and some adventure filled slides Wet N Wild Oahu is a great stop!
Lost World of Tambun, Malaysia
What a treasure of a find this water park was. Malaysia is inherently hot and finding a good water source while visiting is imperative in our opinion, especially when traveling with children. In all of our time in Malaysia I think Lost World was probably the best option for water fun that we found.
It is far more than just a water park. There is also a hot springs area complete with a state of the art spa, a small amusement park, an adventure park, small animal reserve with petting zoo, tiger area where you can watch daily feedings, and a tin valley where you learn and observe all about tin mining.
Lost World near Ipoh, Malaysia is a teat for the whole family. It is open late into the night and even has a hotel attached making your stay easy. My boys enjoyed every aspect of the park and I am sure yours will as well. The best part was how full of activities it was but at the same time it had a small feel so you didn't get overwhelmed with it all as I usually do at the large amusement park type places.
Wild Waves, Washington State
A little bit closer to home for many of you is a cute little water park called Wild Waves. There is an attached amusement park, Enchanted Village, but we'll skip that part for another article. Fun that they have both in the same spot though. Located just outside Seattle it could make a really fun weekend getaway.
We recently took a trip out to Wild Waves and had a blast. Now keep in mind it is a bit chilly so I would first and foremost recommend waiting until the end of summer and definitely on a nice sunny day. The water was chilly...BRRR!
The park is really manageable which is something I enjoy, just makes for a more relaxing day. The park has something for everyone from thrill rides like the Riptide or Raging river to the mild ride good for any age like the lazy river and Hooks Lagoon. There is plenty to explore, nice bathrooms and changing rooms, and plenty of spots to have a picnic lunch. We spent the entire day there hitting up our favorite rides multiple times. If you are in the area I highly suggest it but again wait until its a lovely warm day!
So there you have it, 3 of the best water parks you may not have ever heard of. What has been your favorite water park? Tell us about it in the comments below!
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When you think of Hawaii what do you picture? Fluted mountains? Waikiki beach with Diamondhead peering out in the distance? What about snow? Mars like terrain? Secluded beaches?
Hawaii is everything people dream it to be. There are stunning beaches, rainbows, great food, a fascinating culture and amazing underwater life. But Hawaii is also so much more than all that. After living here now for over 2 years we have explored quite a bit of the state and are often asked what is the best area to come when visiting.
With 4 main islands, 3 smaller ones, and literally hundreds of tiny uninhabited islands this is a harder question to answer than some might think. Really in an ideal world you would be able to do a multi center island hopping adventure around the state. If you have the time and energy for that then you can hit all these spots.
For many though in a weeks time that is simply not doable and then the question remains; Which Hawaiian island should I visit?
Big Island
The Big Island, also known as simply Hawaii, is a great island for families. The diversity in the landscape and opportunities for learning experiences are endless and make a great spot to take people of different generations and with different preferences.
There are incredible opportunities to learn about astronomy at Mauna Kea, geology at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and all things ocean just about every turn you make. There are also incredible cultural and language opportunities, hiking adventures, unique and difficult to get to beaches, and on the Kona side even chances to swim with wild dolphins. Pretty much something for everyone! You can even ski on the island if the timing is right.
Bottom line: If you love volcanoes or are just interested in seeing one of the most accessible active volcanoes in the world head to the Big Island, just be sure you are OK with driving a bit as all the amazing things on offer are spaced farther apart than you might think! For families this island is a home run!
Oahu
City lovers will find everything they need on Oahu, the most popular of all the islands. Those that are looking to shop will find Waikiki to be an amazing spot, as long as the pockets are deep. The city is a really fun place to be but what I always tell people is to get out of the city because Oahu is so much more than the overcrowded beaches and sidewalks of Waikiki and Honolulu.
We spent 8 months living on Oahu and did not visit the city much at all, in fact there are so many beautiful beaches that we didn't even get a chance to see them all in all the months we were there. Oahu is also an amazing spot for ridge hikes, waterfalls, shrimp truck treats, and incredible underwater life. We swam with dolphins, did a shark cage adventure, and even played at a Wet N Wild, the kind of spot you won't find on the other islands.
Bottom line: If you want a mix of nature at its most beautiful, great beaches, and that dab of city life than Oahu is the only way to go! Families won't be bored on this island either!
Maui
Maui is a wonderful in between of the busy city life and tourism on Oahu and the laid back, slowed down country vibe of the Big Island. If being a beach bum and simply relaxing to the sound of waves crashing on shore is what you are seeking then this is the island for you. There are stretches of powdery white sand that go on for mile upon mile so you could spend weeks visiting a new spot every day. There is also just enough touch of tourism to leave you with cute little towns and many great restaurants to enjoy.
Maui is also known for its beautiful sunrise at the peak of Haleakala's summit, lavender fields, whales in the winter months, and ease of access to 2 other beautiful Hawaiian islands; Molokai and Lanai.
Bottom line: Beaches, beaches, beaches are what it's all about on this island. If you just need to be in or near the water every moment than this is the spot for you. If you are going in the winter and whales are a must see then Maui is your spot as well. We see whales on all the islands but the warm channel between the smaller islands and Maui make it the perfect spot for them and where we always see the most each year.
Kauai
Kauai is the smallest of the main islands and its beauty is really unmatched anywhere else in the island chain. Everything from stunning calm beaches to wicked waves on the North shore and deep valleys in the interior canyon to the rugged and stunning coastline is what you can experience on this small island.
Bottom line: If you love adventure, challenging hikes, crazy kayaking experiences, and wicked North shore surf then this is the spot for you! Of course all the islands offer these things but Kauai is a whole other level of adventure!
I know some will argue that all the islands are great for nearly all these things. I actually quite agree. As a family we've loved each island, as hikers we've loved each island, and as beach goers we've also loved all the islands but each island has a distinct feel so although you can really have it all on any island and I know you won't be disappointed by a stay however short in paradise we feel each island has it's strong points. I'd love to hear your feedback!
Hawaii is everything people dream it to be. There are stunning beaches, rainbows, great food, a fascinating culture and amazing underwater life. But Hawaii is also so much more than all that. After living here now for over 2 years we have explored quite a bit of the state and are often asked what is the best area to come when visiting.
With 4 main islands, 3 smaller ones, and literally hundreds of tiny uninhabited islands this is a harder question to answer than some might think. Really in an ideal world you would be able to do a multi center island hopping adventure around the state. If you have the time and energy for that then you can hit all these spots.
For many though in a weeks time that is simply not doable and then the question remains; Which Hawaiian island should I visit?
Big Island
 |
| A different side to Hawaii can be found on the Big Island |
There are incredible opportunities to learn about astronomy at Mauna Kea, geology at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and all things ocean just about every turn you make. There are also incredible cultural and language opportunities, hiking adventures, unique and difficult to get to beaches, and on the Kona side even chances to swim with wild dolphins. Pretty much something for everyone! You can even ski on the island if the timing is right.
Bottom line: If you love volcanoes or are just interested in seeing one of the most accessible active volcanoes in the world head to the Big Island, just be sure you are OK with driving a bit as all the amazing things on offer are spaced farther apart than you might think! For families this island is a home run!
Oahu
City lovers will find everything they need on Oahu, the most popular of all the islands. Those that are looking to shop will find Waikiki to be an amazing spot, as long as the pockets are deep. The city is a really fun place to be but what I always tell people is to get out of the city because Oahu is so much more than the overcrowded beaches and sidewalks of Waikiki and Honolulu.
We spent 8 months living on Oahu and did not visit the city much at all, in fact there are so many beautiful beaches that we didn't even get a chance to see them all in all the months we were there. Oahu is also an amazing spot for ridge hikes, waterfalls, shrimp truck treats, and incredible underwater life. We swam with dolphins, did a shark cage adventure, and even played at a Wet N Wild, the kind of spot you won't find on the other islands.
Bottom line: If you want a mix of nature at its most beautiful, great beaches, and that dab of city life than Oahu is the only way to go! Families won't be bored on this island either!
Maui
Maui is a wonderful in between of the busy city life and tourism on Oahu and the laid back, slowed down country vibe of the Big Island. If being a beach bum and simply relaxing to the sound of waves crashing on shore is what you are seeking then this is the island for you. There are stretches of powdery white sand that go on for mile upon mile so you could spend weeks visiting a new spot every day. There is also just enough touch of tourism to leave you with cute little towns and many great restaurants to enjoy.
Maui is also known for its beautiful sunrise at the peak of Haleakala's summit, lavender fields, whales in the winter months, and ease of access to 2 other beautiful Hawaiian islands; Molokai and Lanai.
Bottom line: Beaches, beaches, beaches are what it's all about on this island. If you just need to be in or near the water every moment than this is the spot for you. If you are going in the winter and whales are a must see then Maui is your spot as well. We see whales on all the islands but the warm channel between the smaller islands and Maui make it the perfect spot for them and where we always see the most each year.
Kauai
Kauai is the smallest of the main islands and its beauty is really unmatched anywhere else in the island chain. Everything from stunning calm beaches to wicked waves on the North shore and deep valleys in the interior canyon to the rugged and stunning coastline is what you can experience on this small island.
Bottom line: If you love adventure, challenging hikes, crazy kayaking experiences, and wicked North shore surf then this is the spot for you! Of course all the islands offer these things but Kauai is a whole other level of adventure!
I know some will argue that all the islands are great for nearly all these things. I actually quite agree. As a family we've loved each island, as hikers we've loved each island, and as beach goers we've also loved all the islands but each island has a distinct feel so although you can really have it all on any island and I know you won't be disappointed by a stay however short in paradise we feel each island has it's strong points. I'd love to hear your feedback!
Which island did you choose? Do you think it was the right fit? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments below!
Hawaii is famous for its sandy beaches and lavish resorts, but it is also home to a completely isolated ecosystem. Most of Hawaii's animals can be found in the sea rather than on land but there are some places you can go to check out a more diversified animal population.
This unique natural ecosystem coupled with the imported animal populations makes Hawaii a terrific destination for both the casual tourist and nature lover alike. Here are six top Oahu animal attractions.
Honolulu Zoo
Of course, getting out into nature is the best way to enjoy the island but aside from a mongoose, wild boar, or some excellent birds, there aren't many animals to be found on land.
The Honolulu Zoo is a modern zoo with numerous exhibits that are designed with the well being of animals in mind. The zoo is located in Kapi'olani Park on the east end of Waikiki, and it's the largest zoo around. The location places it with the backdrop of the beautiful Waikiki beach. The zoo also has a wide range of tours that allow you to get the most out of your visit, but in my opinion just taking your time in the perfect Hawaii climate is best.
Planning a trip to Hawaii with your furry friend? Here are some things to consider beforehand.
Horseback Riding at Happy Trails Ranch
There is no better way to experience all the natural beauty Hawaii has to offer than by taking a leisurely horseback ride through the rugged countryside. Happy Trails Ranch offers small riding groups on the North Shore, an hour and a half drive from Waikiki. The ride traverses through lush green land, tropical orchards, and sunny forests. It is an amazingly beautiful area of the island!
Waikiki Aquarium
The Waikiki Aquarium is itself a living, breathing ecosystem, with over 3,000 living beings and more than 500 species. The aquarium also has a fitting location, right along the coast and the living reef on the Waikiki beach. The aquarium features mostly native fish, coral, and other sea creatures.
Paiko Lagoon Wildlife Sanctuary
Oahu is home to wetlands, from Mauka to Makai. The Paiko Lagoon Wildlife Sanctuary is home to many native wetland bird species that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. This sanctuary is home to the Hawaiian Stilt, Hawaiian Loon, Hawaiian Gallinule (Moorhen), as well as dozens of other bird species.
Submarine Tour with Atlantis
A submarine tour is one of the most relaxing ways to come face-to-face with underwater sea life, and the technology is constantly improving. Atlantis offers a state-of-the-art submarine that takes visitors outside of the classroom and into the deep blue sea. It's a great alternative to scuba diving! It's not exactly the same but I know scuba is not for everyone.
With Atlantis, you will witness a myriad of sea creatures, from sharks to starfish, all from the comfort of an air-conditioned submarine. This is a major attraction in Hawaii, and as so many of the great opportunities for tours are in Waikiki finding a place to stay nearby is important. I find it is much easier using a site like Gogobot to find hotels in the area. Search engines always make the task easier!
Shark Adventure Oahu North Shore
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Shark Adventure is the safest way to get up close and personal with these ancient predators of the deep. This isn't like watching Shark Week at home. Instead, you will be just inches away from the Galapagos sharks. I used to fear sharks especially since I spend so much time in the warm water. These sharks were so calm and almost peaceful though so it really helped to alleviate my fears all around.
This is a thrilling experience located three miles off of Oahu's North Shore. You are guaranteed to encounter a shark or your money back. This is truly a magnificent experience that will give you a new appreciation and respect for the vicious denizens of the deep. But a quick tip: be sure to take something for sea sickness if you are prone to it as the waters can be pretty choppy!
Any of these six choices is a surefire way to make the most of your time in Hawaii. Whether you are an animal lover, or just want to experience Hawaii to the fullest, these excursions are a great choice for you.
This unique natural ecosystem coupled with the imported animal populations makes Hawaii a terrific destination for both the casual tourist and nature lover alike. Here are six top Oahu animal attractions.
Honolulu Zoo
 |
| Image via Flickr by A Swell Buddy |
The Honolulu Zoo is a modern zoo with numerous exhibits that are designed with the well being of animals in mind. The zoo is located in Kapi'olani Park on the east end of Waikiki, and it's the largest zoo around. The location places it with the backdrop of the beautiful Waikiki beach. The zoo also has a wide range of tours that allow you to get the most out of your visit, but in my opinion just taking your time in the perfect Hawaii climate is best.
Planning a trip to Hawaii with your furry friend? Here are some things to consider beforehand.
Horseback Riding at Happy Trails Ranch
There is no better way to experience all the natural beauty Hawaii has to offer than by taking a leisurely horseback ride through the rugged countryside. Happy Trails Ranch offers small riding groups on the North Shore, an hour and a half drive from Waikiki. The ride traverses through lush green land, tropical orchards, and sunny forests. It is an amazingly beautiful area of the island!
Waikiki Aquarium
The Waikiki Aquarium is itself a living, breathing ecosystem, with over 3,000 living beings and more than 500 species. The aquarium also has a fitting location, right along the coast and the living reef on the Waikiki beach. The aquarium features mostly native fish, coral, and other sea creatures.
Paiko Lagoon Wildlife Sanctuary
 |
| Image via Flickr by sonstroem |
Submarine Tour with Atlantis
A submarine tour is one of the most relaxing ways to come face-to-face with underwater sea life, and the technology is constantly improving. Atlantis offers a state-of-the-art submarine that takes visitors outside of the classroom and into the deep blue sea. It's a great alternative to scuba diving! It's not exactly the same but I know scuba is not for everyone.
With Atlantis, you will witness a myriad of sea creatures, from sharks to starfish, all from the comfort of an air-conditioned submarine. This is a major attraction in Hawaii, and as so many of the great opportunities for tours are in Waikiki finding a place to stay nearby is important. I find it is much easier using a site like Gogobot to find hotels in the area. Search engines always make the task easier!
Shark Adventure Oahu North Shore
Shark Adventure is the safest way to get up close and personal with these ancient predators of the deep. This isn't like watching Shark Week at home. Instead, you will be just inches away from the Galapagos sharks. I used to fear sharks especially since I spend so much time in the warm water. These sharks were so calm and almost peaceful though so it really helped to alleviate my fears all around.
This is a thrilling experience located three miles off of Oahu's North Shore. You are guaranteed to encounter a shark or your money back. This is truly a magnificent experience that will give you a new appreciation and respect for the vicious denizens of the deep. But a quick tip: be sure to take something for sea sickness if you are prone to it as the waters can be pretty choppy!
Any of these six choices is a surefire way to make the most of your time in Hawaii. Whether you are an animal lover, or just want to experience Hawaii to the fullest, these excursions are a great choice for you.
We had a slow travel year in 2014 but as a avid photographer I still took over 3000 pictures. I showed you the first half of the year in photos the other day so now, without further wait, here is the second half of the year in photos.
July
August
September
October
November
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December
July
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| Rainbow Falls, Hilo, Hawaii |
August
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| Hurricane Iselle cometh |
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| The aftermath was quite devastating! Our first hurricane. |
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| Waikiki "Duke" |
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| Diamondhead |
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| Jack Johnson weekend with Dylan |
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| Live at the Waikiki Shell |
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| Hanauma Bay, Oahu |
September
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| Best experience of the year |
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| Face of Pele! |
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| 2 different types of lava |
November
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| Manta dive in Kona |
December
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| Hilton Luau |
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| Understatement of the year! |
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| Offering to the Goddess Pele |
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| Merry Christmas! |
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| Green sand beach |