Your ultimate guide to experiencing Universal’s Volcano Bay water park awaits!

Typically, exploring the depths of a volcano on vacation isn’t advisable, but Krakatau is truly unique. And no, we’re not referring to the caldera found in Indonesia.

Standing tall at 200 feet, Krakatau is the striking centerpiece of Universal's Volcano Bay, located at the Universal Orlando Resort. When Central Florida's heat rises, the exhilarating waterslides wrapping around this volcano provide a refreshing escape. Or, for a more laid-back experience, unwind at Waturi Beach, located at the volcano’s base. This enchanting site is also said to be home to an ancient fiery spirit known as Vol.

While Krakatau is the highlight of Volcano Bay, there's a wealth of attractions waiting to be explored. This guide will showcase the top rides, ticket purchasing tips, delicious food options, and our best advice for making the most of your Volcano Bay adventure. Let’s jump in!

What exactly is Volcano Bay?

Universal's Volcano Bay is one of three (soon to be four) theme parks that make up Universal Orlando Resort. The other two parks are Universal Studios Florida and Universal's Islands of Adventure.

When it comes to water parks, Volcano Bay is widely regarded as one of the top destinations in the nation, thanks to its immersive theming, diverse attractions, interactive elements, delicious dining options, and the convenience of skipping long lines (while in your swimsuit and managing a large tube).

The design and theming of Volcano Bay draw inspiration from the rich cultures of the South Pacific. Expect to see lush tropical landscapes, airy architecture constructed from natural materials, and vibrant colors and patterns throughout the park.

Volcano Bay even boasts its own fascinating lore. According to legend, a fiery god named Krakatau banished his daughter to the sky upon discovering her love affair with a local boy, leading her to become the moon.

Realizing he had robbed his daughter of her happiness, Krakatau formed a volcano reaching from the earth to the heavens in an effort to reunite the star-crossed lovers. He imprisoned his wrath within the volcano, taking the shape of a fire spirit named Vol. If you venture deep into the volcano during your visit, you might even have a chance to converse with him.

Volcano Bay features a total of 21 attractions, catering to all ages. From fun slides and splash zones for young children to a heart-pounding 125-foot slide with a 70-degree drop, along with a high-speed white-water ride that will completely redefine your idea of a 'lazy river.'

The park is divided into three distinct areas: Rainforest Village, River Village, and Wave Village, all centered around the volcano. Despite its expansive layout, the park is designed so you won’t easily get lost, as the pathways form a complete circle around its perimeter. Alternatively, if you know your destination, you can take a shortcut through the volcano to reach it faster.

Where can you find Volcano Bay?

Universal Orlando Resort is located approximately 20 minutes (16 miles) from Orlando International Airport (MCO).

Volcano Bay is situated near Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort and Universal's Aventura Resort. These resorts feature a short walking path that leads directly to a special Volcano Bay entrance for hotel guests. If you’re staying at a different Universal on-site hotel, you can take advantage of the bus transportation provided to Volcano Bay.

If you choose to drive to Volcano Bay, it shares a parking garage with Universal's other two theme parks and CityWalk, located at 6000 Universal Blvd. Since there’s no parking available directly at the water park, be sure to follow the signs to Universal's parking garage upon arrival. After parking, simply follow the signs directing you to the buses that will take you to Volcano Bay.

Is Volcano Bay open throughout the year?

All three theme parks at Universal Orlando Resort, including Volcano Bay, are open every day of the year, weather permitting. The hours for Volcano Bay can vary, so it’s wise to check the schedule prior to your visit. Typically, the park opens at 9 a.m. and closes between 5 and 7 p.m. Guests staying at on-site hotels can enjoy early entry to the park, usually between 30 and 60 minutes before the official opening on select days, thanks to Universal's early park admission benefit.

Summer is the peak season for visiting Volcano Bay, coinciding with the time when visitors to Central Florida are most eager to cool off. However, be prepared for sudden afternoon thunderstorms, so it's best to arrive early to maximize your day, especially if rides are temporarily closed due to lightning. Spring break and the holiday season also attract larger crowds, provided the temperatures remain mild.

In January, the average temperature drops into the high 50s, which can make for a rather brisk day at the water park, although the water itself is heated.

Tickets for Volcano Bay

Multiple ticket options for Universal Orlando include admission to Volcano Bay. The best choice for you will depend on the number of days you intend to spend at Universal.

• Single-day ticket: Single-day tickets for Universal's Volcano Bay start at $80 (plus tax) for adults and $75 (plus tax) for children aged 3 to 9. Florida residents can save up to $10 off the standard price.
• Multipark, multiday tickets: If you plan to visit several Universal Orlando parks, you’ll find greater value. For instance, adding Volcano Bay to a two-park, two-day ticket increases the total ticket cost by just $40 (plus tax) per person.
• Universal annual pass: For families planning to visit Volcano Bay multiple times a year as part of broader Universal vacations, a three-park annual pass could be a smart investment.
• Bilt travel portal: With Bilt Rewards and the Bilt Mastercard® (see rates and fees), you can accumulate points redeemable for Universal tickets directly within the activities section of the Bilt travel portal at a rate of 1.25 cents per point.
• Chase Travel℠: You can redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points for Universal Orlando tickets, including Volcano Bay admission, at a rate of 1.25 cents each with a Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or 1.5 cents each with a Chase Sapphire Reserve®.
• Costco Travel: If you're seeking budget-friendly travel packages to Universal that include access to Volcano Bay, consider checking Costco Travel.

Visiting tips for Volcano Bay

Ways to save money

To save on additional park expenses, consider bringing your own towels, sunscreen, snacks, and water in a small soft-sided cooler, and leave your valuables at the hotel. Otherwise, you will need to rent towels and a locker, which incurs extra costs.

Volcano Bay provides free lounge chairs along the banks of Waturi Beach, available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Tips for minimizing wait times in line

Volcano Bay's skip-the-line service is among the best we've encountered at any theme park. Upon arrival, each guest is given a complimentary wearable band known as a TapuTapu. Most attractions in Volcano Bay feature a totem at the entrance where you can scan your TapuTapu to join a virtual line. Remember, you can only enter one virtual line at a time, and we recommend starting with the Krakatau Aqua Coaster.

Your TapuTapu band provides an estimated return time, enabling you to explore different areas of the park while waiting for your turn to ride. If you see a totem indicating "Ride now," you can jump into line immediately with just a short wait ahead.

TapuTapu can also trigger interactive elements throughout the park, allowing you to activate everything from selfie spots to splashing water on unsuspecting guests. If you link a payment method in the Universal Orlando app, you can use your TapuTapu to make purchases during your visit as well.

To maximize your time and minimize waits, make sure to arrive early before the crowds. Aim to be at the gates when they open (or 30 minutes earlier if you're staying at a Universal hotel that offers early theme park admission on the day of your visit).

Additional Options

If you'd like to minimize your wait times or prefer a comfortable base during your visit, Volcano Bay offers various add-on services to enhance your ticket experience.

Alongside complimentary lounge chairs, you can opt for premium seating on Waturi Beach. This option includes two lounge chairs, a shade cover, and a small lockbox for your belongings. You can even have food and drinks delivered right to your seats.

Prices for premium seating range from approximately $50 to $150 per day. To reserve your premium seating, call 1-877-489-8068. While same-day availability may be possible, making a reservation is strongly advised.

For a touch of luxury during your Volcano Bay experience, consider renting a private cabana. Single cabanas accommodate up to six guests, while family cabanas can host up to 16 people. Both options include comfortable seating, a minifridge filled with bottled water, a complimentary fruit and snack basket upon arrival, a lockbox, concierge service for food and beverage delivery, and a private virtual line totem to reserve ride times with your TapuTapu.

Cabana rentals begin at approximately $160 per day. To reserve a cabana, call 1-877-801-9720. Same-day cabanas may be available, but it's advisable to make a reservation.

You can rent towels and lockers during your visit. There are five locker stations spread throughout the park, each equipped with a payment kiosk. You can use your TapuTapu to access your locker anytime during the day. Additionally, several locations in the park offer towel rentals if you forget to bring one. Alternatively, you can purchase a towel as a keepsake to take home.

Dining Options at Volcano Bay

While many water parks may not be famous for their food, Volcano Bay stands out with its exceptional offerings. Each of the park's four themed villages features its own restaurant, serving up unique island-inspired dishes.

Some of our top picks include the Coconut Crusted Fried Chicken Platter from Kohola Reef Restaurant & Social Club in Wave Village, the Hawaiian Pizza (or the Island BBQ Chicken Pizza for those who prefer no pineapple) from Whakawaiwai Eats in River Village, the Poke Poke Bowl from The Feasting Frog in Rainforest Village, and the Blackened Mahi available through the cabana menu.

Volcano Bay features two full-service bars where you can enjoy beer and cocktails: Kunuku Boat Bar located in the Rainforest Village and Dancing Dragons Boat Bar in the Wave Village. Don't miss trying the Kalarita (Universal's twist on a margarita) or the refreshing Strawberry Ginger Lift, a fruity Moscow mule made with vodka, ginger beer, and strawberry puree.

One of our favorite (and most Instagram-worthy) desserts at Universal is the Waturi Fusion, an eye-catching soft serve made from a blend of orange, blue raspberry, strawberry, and banana swirls. You can find this treat at the Koka Poroka Ice Cream Kona stand—just remember to take a photo before it melts away!

Discovering the volcano

One of the highlights of Volcano Bay is wandering along the winding paths that traverse the Krakatau volcano. There are numerous hidden surprises to uncover, many of which can be activated with your TapuTapu band. You can drench unsuspecting visitors with water, conjure enchanting lights, and even chat with Vol, the fire spirit dwelling within the volcano. While the volcano serves as a convenient shortcut through the park, we suggest taking some time to explore its wonders as well.

Top attractions at Volcano Bay

Volcano Bay caters to all preferences, whether you're looking for family-friendly attractions or exhilarating slides that will get your adrenaline pumping. Here are the must-try rides at Volcano Bay.

Krakatau Aqua Coaster

• Height requirement: Riders must be at least 42 inches tall. Guests shorter than 48 inches need to be accompanied by a supervising adult.

The Krakatau Aqua Coaster stands out as the top attraction at Volcano Bay, and for good reason—it combines elements of a traditional waterslide and a roller coaster. Using hidden magnets, it propels your four-person raft up lifts before sending you down thrilling drops. The ride twists and turns through the volcano, giving you spectacular views of the park, although you might be too busy screaming to appreciate them!

To minimize your wait time, make your way to the Krakatau Aqua Coaster as soon as the park opens. Use your TapuTapu band at one of the totems at the entrance to reserve a return time. While you wait, feel free to explore other attractions in the park. Your band will notify you when it's your turn to ride.

Runamukka Reef and Tot Tiki Reef

• Height requirement: There is no minimum height requirement for either area, but children under 48 inches must wear life jackets in Runamukka Reef.

Runamukka Reef and Tot Tiki Reef are the family-friendly water play zones at Volcano Bay. Tot Tiki Reef is tailored for toddlers, while Runamukka Reef caters to older kids. Both areas feature mini waterslides and a plethora of interactive water spray elements. Parents can find seating nearby, but why not join in on the excitement instead?

TeAwa the Fearless River

• Height Requirement: To ride, you need to be at least 42 inches tall. Guests who are under 48 inches must be accompanied by an adult.

Unlike most lazy rivers, TeAwa the Fearless River offers a thrilling experience similar to navigating white water rapids. All riders must don a life vest as they glide through the waves on this rapid river. Along your journey, enjoy stunning views of the park’s waterslides and pass through the Krakatau volcano.

Waturi Beach

• Height requirement: There is no minimum height requirement, but life jackets are mandatory for children under 48 inches.

Waturi Beach offers a variety of activities. You can relax on a lounge chair on the sandy beach, wade into the shallow waters, or swim further into the surf. Listen for the tribal gong, which signals when the waves are about to start rolling in.

Honu of the Honu ika Moana

• Height requirement: To ride, you must be at least 48 inches tall.

This five-person raft slide mimics the feeling of surfing ocean waves. As you twist and turn down the slide, you'll encounter two giant walls of water that send you soaring as if you’re riding a swell. While Honu of the Honu ika Moana isn’t the most extreme slide, it may be a bit too thrilling for younger kids who prefer gentler rides.

Ko'okiri Body Plunge

• Height requirement: Riders must be at least 48 inches tall.

The Ko'okiri Body Plunge offers the ultimate adrenaline rush at Volcano Bay. Once a team member secures you inside the transparent tube, the floor suddenly disappears, launching you down a staggering 125-foot drop at astonishing speeds. If you’d rather not take the plunge, you can watch the action from the Reef pool, where there's an underwater viewing area to see riders zoom past.

Kopiko Wai Winding River

• Height requirement: There is no minimum height requirement, but guests under 48 inches must wear a life jacket.

For a more relaxed experience, check out the Kopiko Wai Winding River. This gentle, meandering river flows around much of the park, including through the Krakatau volcano. Rafts are available at the entrances, or you can choose to float without one. Keep an eye out for guests on the bridges overhead; they can use their TapuTapu on totems near the river to spray you while you drift along.

Hotels near Volcano Bay

Staying at one of Universal Orlando Resort's on-site hotels grants you early park admission to Volcano Bay on select dates, along with complimentary transportation to the park.

The nearest hotels include Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort, Universal's Aventura Hotel, and Loews Sapphire Falls Resort. All offer access to a walking path and a private entrance to Volcano Bay. If you have The Platinum Card® from American Express, you can book a stay at Sapphire Falls Resort through the American Express Travel portal, enjoying a $100 food and beverage credit and a room upgrade upon arrival, subject to availability.

Guests at other Universal hotels can take a direct bus from their hotel to Volcano Bay. To continue the South Seas vibe, consider staying at Loews Royal Pacific Resort. Alternatively, if you hold the Amex Platinum, you can book a room at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando through the American Express Fine Hotel + Resorts program, which offers benefits like late checkout, complimentary breakfast, and a food and beverage credit. Additionally, you might apply the Amex Platinum's up to $200 annual statement credit toward your stay.

Final Thoughts

When you plan your next trip to Universal Orlando, we highly recommend dedicating a day to exploring Universal's Volcano Bay water park beneath the majestic Krakatau. Beyond the numerous thrilling rides and slides, there are countless hidden gems waiting to be uncovered—such as a chatty spirit within the volcano and the most Instagram-worthy soft serve ice cream we've ever had.