When the Provençal summer heat settles in, waterparks offer a refreshing alternative to the coast, combining family-friendly fun with exhilarating rides and peaceful pools. Doesn't it sound idyllic?
Provence’s waterparks cater to all ages, from toddlers splashing in shallow lagoons to adrenaline-seekers racing down towering slides. Here are five of the best waterparks in Provence, each offering a unique experience for cooling off under the summer sun.
Aqualand Fréjus | A Provençal classic for family fun
Located in Fréjus, Aqualand is one of Provence’s most popular waterparks, drawing visitors with its mix of high-speed slides and family-friendly attractions. The park is suitable for children aged four and above, with designated splash zones for younger visitors and more daring rides for teenagers and adults.
The park’s standout feature is the King Cobra, a steep, spiralling slide designed to give riders the sensation of weightlessness. For those seeking something more relaxed, the Lazy River offers a gentle float through tropical landscaping, while the wave pool mimics the motion of the sea without the saltwater. Smaller children can enjoy shallow play areas with mini slides and water jets.
Aqualand Fréjus offers free parking with shaded spaces, though arriving early is recommended during peak summer months. The park has several snack bars, shaded picnic spots, and lockers to store valuables. It can get crowded in the afternoons, so mornings are often the best time to enjoy shorter queues and cooler temperatures.
Wave Island | For surfing enthusiasts and thrill-seekers
Situated in Monteux, near Avignon, Wave Island is a waterpark with a unique focus on wave-based attractions. The park’s signature feature is Da Wave, Europe’s largest artificial standing wave, which attracts both seasoned surfers and curious beginners. Surf instructors are available for lessons, making it accessible even if you have never stepped on a board before.
Beyond surfing, Wave Island offers adrenaline-pumping rides like The Rocket, a vertical drop slide that delivers a sudden rush of speed. Families will appreciate the spacious wave pools and the more relaxed Lazy River, perfect for drifting under the Provençal sun. The park caters to children aged six and up, with shallow pools and interactive play areas for younger visitors.
Parking is available on-site for a small fee, with easy access to the entrance. The park includes shaded areas, sun loungers, and snack bars serving light refreshments. Mornings and late afternoons tend to be less crowded, especially in peak summer.
Aquasplash Antibes | Family-friendly fun with a coastal breeze
Located near Marineland in Antibes, Aquasplash is a vibrant waterpark designed for families. The park features a range of attractions suitable for children aged three and above, making it an ideal spot for multi-generational visits.
The Pirate Island play zone is a highlight for younger children, featuring small slides, fountains, and interactive water games. For older kids and adults, slides like Side Winder, a half-pipe ride with sharp drops, and Draguero, a multi-lane racing slide, offer fast-paced excitement. The large pool areas provide space to cool off without the need for adrenaline-fuelled rides.
Aquasplash offers paid parking with plenty of spaces, and the park’s layout makes it easy to navigate with strollers. Shaded picnic areas, family-friendly restaurants, and lockers are available throughout the park. Mornings are the best time to visit, as afternoons can get busy with families arriving after lunch.
Parc Spirou’s Splashworld | Cartoon-themed water adventures
Located in Monteux, Parc Spirou’s Splashworld offers a playful mix of water attractions inspired by the beloved Belgian comic series. The park is tailored to younger children, with colourful slides, interactive splash zones, and gentle water rides suitable for children as young as two.
Themed rides like Spirou Racer allow kids to race side by side on safe, gentle slides, while the Tornado Twister adds a bit more excitement for older children and parents. Shallow pools and shaded play areas make it easy for families to relax while keeping an eye on their little ones.
The park provides free parking, with easy access for families carrying bags or pushing prams. There are several cafés and snack stands offering kid-friendly meals and cold drinks. Visiting earlier in the day helps to avoid the afternoon rush, especially during school holidays.
O’Gliss Park | A quieter escape surrounded by nature
Located near La Londe-les-Maures, O’Gliss Park offers a more laid-back waterpark experience, blending water rides with natural surroundings. This park is ideal for families with children aged five and above, as well as couples looking for a quieter day out.
The park’s highlight is the Canyon Rapids, which mimics the feel of a wild river ride with twists, turns, and splashes. For thrill-seekers, the AquaLoop provides a vertical drop into a looping slide that challenges even the bravest visitors. If relaxation is your goal, the Lagoon Relaxation Areas offer calm pools surrounded by greenery, perfect for lounging in the shade.
O’Gliss Park has free parking and well-maintained facilities, including eco-friendly water systems and shaded picnic areas. The park tends to be less crowded than larger waterparks, making it a good choice for visitors seeking a more peaceful experience.
Whether you are chasing adrenaline rushes, planning a family day out, or simply looking to cool down, Provence’s waterparks offer something for everyone. Will you catch the waves at Wave Island, race your friends at Aquasplash, or float peacefully along Aqualand’s lazy river?
À bientôt,
The Provence Holidays team
