Best waterparks in Southeast Asia for Singaporeans

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When having a vacation around neighbouring countries in Southeast Asia, some attractions are superior to others if you need to escape the heat and humidity. One such activity is to spend the day at the waterpark. You get to have some fun with your loved ones while keeping cool. 

Say you are having a lil’ holiday trip, give one of these waterparks in Southeast Asia a shot and who knows, you might just come back for more.

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– Malaysia –

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1. SplashMania Waterpark – Newly opened near KL

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If you’re asking for the newest waterpark on the block, it’s got to be SplashMania Waterpark that opened in February 2023.

The water park has 39 water rides and attractions – and at the heart of it stands a giant multi-deck pirate ship called the Amazonia. Brave souls should conquer The Plunge, a heart-pounding 6-storey vertical slide from the ship that’s tilted at 75 degrees. Or maybe take your adventure to new heights when you zipline and bungee jump from the ship’s deck.

Another popular ride is the Shaka Waka, a 78m-long water slide that’s got in-built LED lights and sound effects. If you prefer taking it chill, the Ravage River is a family-friendly lazy river as you take in the “rainforest” atmosphere. 

Note: SplashMania will be closed for maintenance from 4th-19th September 2023. 

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2. ESCAPE Penang – 1.1km-long tube slide & zip coaster

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ESCAPE Penang holds the Guinness World Record for having the longest tube slide in the world – that’s something to be proud of as a fellow Southeast Asian nation. Hilariously called The Longest, the 1.1km-long tube slide meanders through jungle-like scenery – adjacent to a zip coaster right above it.

If you were wondering how long it would take to swoosh down this slide, it’s 3 whole minutes.
Image credit: @travel.is.art via Instagram

But that’s not all there is to this waterpark – thrill-seekers will love the gravity-defying Banana Slip, where you’re propelled skywards before plunging into the pool below. There’s also the Speed Racer, a twin slide where you and the besties can compete on the fastest rider. 

Since ESCAPE is part of a full-fledged adventure theme park, now is a good time to go on other attractions like the Kite Flyer that suspends you 50m in the air or the Tubby Racer, which involves racing down the hill.

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3. Sunway Lagoon – Largest wave pool & vortex ride in Selangor

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This list won’t be complete without the OG Sunway Lagoon in Selangor, one of Malaysia’s most popular waterparks. With its 6 themed zones and over 80 attractions, you can easily spend a whole day here. 

Image credit: Sunway Lagoon

Expect thrills when you slide down the largest vortex ride in the world, Vuvuzela. You’re launched from an 11-storey-high tower. For similar heart-pumping rides, go on the Cameroon Climb, which starts with a 15m-high drop, shooting you up another 8m on a vertical wall before you plop back into the water. 

Lagoon Villa.
Image credit: @sunwaylagoonmalaysia via Instagram

If you’re planning to visit the waterpark multiple times, you’d want to book a stay at one of the hotels around the area, such as the Sunway Lagoon Hotel (S$106.62/night) or the Lagoon Villa, which costs S$405.05/night for 2 – it’s inclusive of a 2-day admission to the waterpark, meals, and also access to a wildlife zoo. 

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4. Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark – 2H drive from Singapore

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Say you’re headed towards Johor, Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark should be on your list – plus, it’s a short 2-hour journey from Singapore.

You’ve got 5 different zones to explore, starting with the main highlight, Kraken’s Revenge. Embrace yourself as your short roller coaster ride speeds at 70km/h and ends with a big water splash. Don’t skip the giant vortex ride known as The Tempest, where you’ll experience a series of twists and turns right after a 24-foot drop. 

Image credit: @adventurewaterpark via Instagram

For those seeking a leisure escapade, spend your time drifting away at the Penawar River or take the kids to the Tidal Wave Beach that’s got a beach shoreline for sand-play. When the hunger kicks in after a long day out, dine in at F&B options like Kelong Eatery. Order the stir fried black pepper chicken (RM14.90, ~S$4.35) or nasi ayam merah (RM23.90, ~S$6.97) to satisfy your Western or Asian food cravings. 

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– Indonesia –

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5. Atlantis Ancol – Atlantis-themed waterpark in Jakarta

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Image credit: Atlantis Ancol

The kids are going to enjoy this one – an Atlantis-themed waterpark located about a 34-minute drive from Jakarta City Centre. Atlantis Ancol has a water zone called Asthatirta, complete with a network of slides and other water play tools. You’ve got 2-people tube rides, a water bucket dump, and other water cannons and bombs.

Go up on rides like the Dragon Slide, perfect for a group of 3 or the Crazy Slides, where riders will enjoy a view of the waterpark 150m above the ground.

Image credit: @atlantiswateradventures via Instagram

But if you really want to cool off from the heat, take a dip in the huge wave pool. During special occasions, the waterpark hosts games and activities like water polo or zumba, so do keep a lookout for new announcements on their socials.

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6. Waterbom Bali –  Just a 7-minute drive from the airport

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If you’ve never heard of Waterbom Bali, we’re here to get you acquainted. Stepping into this 3.8-hectare waterpark is like entering a tropical paradise – you’re surrounded by nature and plenty of rides. There are 15, to be exact. The waterpark is only a 7-minute drive from Denpasar International Airport, which makes it convenient to drop by for a few hours of fun while waiting to check into your hotel. 

Waterbom Bali has 11 different slides, with 8 being categorised as “extreme”.

Thrill-seekers will be delighted to try the Smashdown 2.0 which unleashes a pulse-pounding 26m-high drop. The Climax is a scarier version of this, where you’ll plummet down a 5-floor-high slide, braving through an inverted loop before splashing into the water below. 

For a more unique type of water activity, surf through the “waves” at Flow Rider – it’s like surfing but you don’t have to worry about being dragged by heavy beach currents. Kids can splash away at Funtastic too, a water playground with smaller-scale slides and amenities. 

After a long day of playing in the water, you’ve got to refuel your body before leaving. For a hearty meal, head to Wantilan Food Court. Otherwise, there are light snacks and drinks at Pleasure Pool Bar. 

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– Vietnam –

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7. Amazing Bay – Largest waterpark in Vietnam

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Image credit: @pxhangg via Instagram 

Amazing Bay really lives up to its name, holding the record of the ‘largest waterpark in Vietnam. It’s located in the Dong Nai province, about a 1-hour 15-minute drive from Ho Chi Minh City. 

This 25-hectare-wide waterpark also has the highest artificial sea and wave pool in the country. Families can experience this for themselves at the Aloha Paradise Beach, equipped with an artificial beach area and tsunami waves that go up to 4m high.

Slide down the Magic Storm and Magical Cave that’s part of the Wonder Cave attraction.
Image credit: The Amazing Bay via Facebook

Run around 9 entertainment zones and 30 thrilling slides that are all ocean myth-themed. Adults can put their bravery to the test at the Secret Port Royal – it’s got 5 different slides longer than 650m. Meanwhile, kids can play at the Chill Burst Quest zone that’s got 3 play areas with multiple slide networks. 

At any time hunger kicks in, just drop by one of the 4 F&B diners like Goddess of Pearl Restaurant and Ocean Oasis.

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8. VinWonders Nha Trang – Located within a mega theme park

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Image credit: VinWonders

Imagine racing down the water slide while enjoying a view of Nha Trang Bay, one of Vietnam’s most scenic bays. That’s VinWonders Nha Trang for you. The waterpark’s part of the mega VinWonders Phú Quốc Amusement Park, which also has a theme park, resort, and casino – kind of similar to our very own Resorts World Sentosa. That being said, look forward to solo and group rides from 6 different zones and the 4,200sqm-wide Splash Bay. 

Enjoy a view of Nha Trang Bay while sliding down the Tail Wagging Lizard.
Image credit: Hvcgroup

Go on the Serpent Battle – which is a network of 3 separate 19m-long tube slides – or grab a group of 6 friends and slide down the 12.5m-high Tail Wagging Lizard ride. Once you’re done with the waterpark, have fun at the popular attractions like Adventure Land for roller coasters and Sea World to admire marine creatures.

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9. Suoi Tien Waterpark – Giant statues & pirate-themed kids play

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Image credit: @lovemoon.site via Instagram 

You’ve got to admit, Suoi Tien Waterpark in Saigon has got quite a unique visual to it. Even from afar, you’ll recognise that waterpark through a large, 70m-tall structure resembling the face of Vietnam’s founding father, Lac Long Quan. 

The giant wave pool here is split into different zones, with the main play area consisting of a pirates-themed kids playground, spiral slides and water sprinklers everywhere. Aside from just splashing around, you’ll also notice some cool Vietnamese-style motifs on the waterpark structures and slides. 

This temple is located within the theme park.
Image credit: @goat_of_goat via Instagram

One interesting fact about this water is that it’s a waterpark dedicated to Vietnamese history, folklore, and Buddhism. Besides the usual water slides and kids playground, there’s a massive Buddha sculpture, magnificent temples, and even a Zodiac Palace. 

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– Thailand –

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10. Ramayana Waterpark – Thrilling free fall & boomerang slides

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Image credit: Ramayana Waterpark 

Over in Thailand, Ramayana Waterpark in Pattaya is famous for its thrill factor. You have 21 unique slides in total, with crowd favourites like the Aqualoop, a freefall ride that takes you through a full 360-degree loop. There’s also the 240m-long Aquacoaster, not forgetting the Boomerango that boomerangs you up a vertical wall.

While the older ones experience the adrenaline, younger kiddos can have their own fun at the designated kids playground, Aqua Play. This one’s a little more unique than other play areas, as the playground exterior are inspired by Thai mythical creatures – which adds some cultural immersion for the kids, too. 

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11. Columbia Pictures Aquaverse – Movie-themed attractions for kids

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Image credit: @yumiko_da via Instagram

Ah, movies and waterparks combined, it’s like a haven for visitors. Get ready to snap pictures at every corner because each slide at Columbia Pictures Aquaverse has its own movie theme. There are 9 zones to explore, each inspired by blockbuster films like Ghostbusters, Hotel Transylvania, and The Emoji Movie.

One of the slides at the Zombieland zone.
Image credit: @andrewmurong via Instagram

But there’s more. Waterpark-goers get to try the world’s first-ever dome ride called Proton Stream – it’s a 110m-long ghost trap adventure part of the Ghostbusters zone. There’s also a mini golf course at The Emoji Movie zone, and go-karts for the family to drive as part of the Bad Boy Race Club zone.

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12. Vana Nava Water Jungle – Has a VR slide

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Image credit: @vananavawaterjungle via Instagram

From its name, you can expect Vana Nava Water Jungle to be a jungle-themed waterpark. It offers over 20 slides, including the Abyss, a funnel ride bringing you up to 28m high. You’ll also get to enjoy the Boomerango that goes at 45km/h and shoots you 20m towards the sky before splashing back into the water. 

This waterpark is more fun than you think, it’s the first one in Asia with a VR slide – meaning you’ll be wearing a VR headset on the ride itself. This specific activity is only available on the Master Blaster, allowing you to choose from 3 themes – Galaxy Voyage, Snow World, or Mysterious Jungle – as you slide down at 45km/h. 

Try out the VR slide on the Master Blaster.
Image credit: Vana Nava Hua Hin

If you’ve got more time to spare, check out other attractions like the rope courses and Kiddie Cove that’s a play area for kids. Families can also relax in the shade in the multiple private cabanas or even catch a massage to pass time. 

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Have a splash at these waterparks near Singapore

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While we have impressive waterparks in Singapore like Adventure Cove and Wild Wild Wet, sometimes you need a change of environment – and you can’t deny that our neighbouring countries have some really outstanding ones. From various themed waterparks in Southeast Asia to crazy water slides, one thing’s for sure – you get to escape the heat while having some fun with your loved ones. 

For more water sports & activities, check out:

• Aqua sport classes 
• Best waterparks in Singapore
• Water sports centres 

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Cover image adapted from: Vana Nava Hua Hin, Ramayana Waterpark, @m.areeq via Instagram, The Amazing Bay via Facebook