From Mermaids to Cocktails, This Waterpark Makes Waves All Summer
Get ready for another unforgettable summer at Wild Rivers, Orange Countyās premier waterpark destination! Opening May 17th for the 2025 season at the Orange County Great Park, Wild Rivers offers rides and attractions for all ages, plus endless ways to soak up the sun. Whether youāre floating with the fam, sipping a pineapple piƱa colada, or relaxing in a private cabana, thereās something for everyone. Donāt miss the new Mermaid Cove by Once Upon An Island, opening in June for the season, live entertainment on the weekends, signature cocktails, and shareable treats that fuel the fun. From big laughs to big splashes, Wild Rivers is your go-to SoCal escape all summer long.
Signature Sips at Mustang Bar
Hydration never looked so good. At the heart of the parkās food and beverage scene is the Mustang Bar. Theyāre serving up the signature Wild Splash Colada: a classic piƱa colada, but better, poured into a fresh pineapple and ready for the ‘gram. Our favorite sip at Wild Riversā Mustang Bar? The Tortuga. Itās a refreshing mix of Don Julio Blanco tequila, fresh mint, coconut crĆØme, lime juice and agave. The barās full cocktail lineup and seasonal drink specials make it a favorite adult retreat. Prefer something non-alcoholic? Thereās a full range of beverages, from Topo Chico to Coke Zero, perfect for cooling off in between rides.
Family-Friendly Food That Goes Beyond the Basics
Waterpark days mean big appetitesāand Wild Rivers delivers. From chicken teriyaki bowls and Wagyu burgers to carne asada tacos, pizza, and Philly cheesesteaks, thereās no shortage of hearty options on the menu. Lighter bites include fresh-cut fruit, yogurt parfaits, and snackable faves like Cheetos and Doritos. Kids can grab Uncrustables, pudding, Jell-O, or even a jumbo pickle in a bag. Whether you want grill fare or grab-and-go, youāll find something to fuel the fun.
Celebrations That Make a Splash
Forget party hats and sheet cakeāWild Rivers throws birthday bashes that drench the competition. Their celebration packages are basically a VIP pass to the most epic day ever. You get shaded party HQs (hello, reserved seating) and a built-in excuse to ride every slide twice. Kids (and grown-ups with main-character energy) get pizza, an Otis Spunkmeyer cookie platter, and more to keep the vibes high. Want to level up? Add a custom cake or mini corn dogs and call it your āmain event era.ā Packages start at 8 guests, but trustāit only takes one Wild Splash Colada to make this party legendary.
Entertainment All Summer Long
Wild Rivers doesnāt just deliver on ridesāit adds major entertainment energy. Mermaid Cove by Once Upon An Island will be running from July 7 through August 11 this summer. Enjoy whimsical magic with in-water mermaid appearancesĀ every day. These dreamy moments are perfect for little ones and photo ops alike. On weekends, the vibe turns up with live DJs and musicians performing every Saturday and Sunday from 1 – 5 p.m. Expect a laid-back poolside party where you can groove, splash, and sip all afternoon.
Easy Ways to Upgrade Your Day
To make the most of your visit, it pays to plan ahead. Book a cabana early to lock in shaded seating, privacy, and your own personal basecamp for the day. Itās perfect for stashing bags, relaxing between rides, or enjoying food and drinks with a little elbow room. Purchase a Season Pass before Memorial Day weekend and get unlimited visits all summer. Be sure to check the Wild Rivers website for updates on food specials, entertainment schedules, and pro tips to help your day flow.
A California local, Kathleen Hokit grew up on a farm but spent every chance she could at the beach. After earning her graduate degree in the social sciences in Finland, she built a 17+ year career writing and editing across lifestyle, entertainment, and culture. A longtime magazine lover, she now lives the dream as part of the editorial team at LOCALE. When sheās not on deadline, sheās hiking or sneaking in a beach day with her husband and son. Kathleen loves all things artāfrom writing and photography to spending time on the dance floor, where she teaches ballet to everyone from tiny tots to grown-ups on their pas de bourrĆ©e path.
