Your Ultimate Guide to Knott’s Soak City Waterpark

Located in sunny Buena Park, just 5 miles from Disneyland Park and 15 miles from Huntington Beach, Knott's Soak City is the perfect place to cool off during a Southern California getaway. This 15-acre water adventure park sits right across from Knott's Berry Farm and is packed with thrills, relaxation, and family-friendly fun. Open mid-May through early September, it’s a must-visit for summer.

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Rides & Attractions

Knott’s Soak City features 23 speed, tube, and body slides for every level of thrill. For little ones, Gremmie Lagoon offers a pint-sized playground with splash pads and gentle fun. If you’re looking to relax, Sunset River is a 1,780-foot lazy river where you can float in an inner tube and unwind under the sun. In the middle range, the Beach House delivers three stories of interactive water fun, complete with sprayers, water guns, and a giant bucket that dumps 500 gallons of water every few minutes. For more excitement, Banzai Falls lets you race friends down six lanes from 41 feet high, while The Wedge sends families twisting and turning together on a raft ride. Tidal Wave Bay, a massive 750,000-gallon wave pool, is perfect for cooling off between rides.
Thrill seekers can head to the park’s tallest and fastest slides. Laguna Storm Watch Tower features high-speed tube slides reaching up to 43 feet. Malibu Run sends riders down individual tube slides from over 39 feet, while Old Man Falls delivers a near-vertical drop from 63 feet. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, Shore Break offers multiple slide experiences, including a dramatic six-story, 60-foot drop.

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Dining, Amenities & Comfort

When hunger hits, Longboard’s Grill serves up burgers, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, and more, while Portside Pizza offers quick and easy slices for the whole family. Both locations also participate in an all-day dining pass for added value. The park offers plenty of lounge chairs on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is recommended to secure a great spot. For a more elevated experience, guests can rent private cabanas with shaded seating, lounge chairs, and added perks like inner tube rentals and food and beverage service delivered right to you. You’ll also find gift shops throughout the park offering souvenirs, sunscreen, swimwear, and beach towels in case you forget anything. Lockers are available to rent, making it easy to store personal items while you enjoy the rides.

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Accessibility & Guest Services

Knott’s Soak City is committed to accessibility. A water wheelchair is available for guests needing additional assistance on a first-come, first-served basis, and pool lifts are available at Sunset River. Guests with disabilities are encouraged to review the park’s accessibility guide before visiting. Life jackets are complimentary and available for any guest who wishes to use one.

Plan Your Visit

Knott’s Soak City is a cashless park, so be sure to bring a card or mobile payment. Outside food and beverages are not permitted, with exceptions for baby food. Parking is available in the main lot located at 8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, for a fee. For directions and a park map, click here. Discounted tickets are available online, and you can check hours here.

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Tips for the Best Day

Inner tubes are provided free of charge at attractions that require them, but if you want to skip the wait, you can rent a personal tube for the day. Wear slip-on shoes for comfort, and don’t forget to bring your own towel, as they are not provided unless purchased at the park.

Where to Stay

Make it a full getaway by staying at one of the dozen affordable and comfortable hotels in Buena Park, many offering convenient amenities and close proximity to the action. The Knott's Hotel is just steps from both Knott's Berry Farm and Knott's Soak City, featuring onsite dining, a Starbucks, a splash pad, and a free shuttle to Disneyland. Nearby, DoubleTree welcomes guests with its signature warm cookie, along with a pool, onsite dining, and shuttle service to Disneyland, Knott’s, and Soak City. The Hilton Buena Park offers a rooftop pool and is connected to The Source OC, a lively three-level dining and entertainment destination. For additional options, Courtyard by Marriott features an outdoor firepit, pool, and EV charging stations, while Hampton Inn & Suites offers spacious, pet-friendly suites, free hot breakfast, and EV charging. Fairfield Inn & Suites is another great choice with complimentary hot breakfast, comfortable rooms, and a relaxing pool—making it easy to unwind after a day at the waterpark.