Aqualand El Arenal is the island’s big-name water park, set just off the motorway at the edge of the S’Arenal resort area, near the Playa de Palma and a few minutes from the airport. Its slides and pools are spread across lawns and shaded areas, and it offers something for every age. There are fast tube slides and tall body slides for teenagers and adults, a lazy river for drifting, a wave pool with gentle surf, and shallow play zones and small slides for toddlers and young children. Lifeguards watch each attraction, and the staff at the top of the bigger slides check heights and give instructions. There is a food court and several snack stands, plus plenty of loungers, umbrellas and grass for picnics. The park suits families, groups of teenagers and anyone who wants a high-energy day in the heat. As with most water parks, it can be crowded at the peak of summer, so it pays to arrive when the gates open.
How it works
Aqualand sits close to the Palma airport and the Playa de Palma, so it is easy to reach by car, taxi or the local bus from Palma. A day ticket gives access to all the rides, and many visitors buy a combined ticket with return transport, which saves the cost and effort of driving. The park runs through the warmer months only, usually from late spring to early autumn, and it is closed in winter, so check the calendar before planning a trip in the shoulder seasons.
What to expect
Queues build up in the middle of the day, especially at the tallest slides, so ride those first. Height and age limits apply to many attractions, and small children need an adult with them in the shallow areas. Bring a swimsuit, a towel, sunscreen, a hat and flip-flops, because the paving gets hot. Lockers are available for a fee. Food and drink prices inside are typical for a resort attraction, and many families bring snacks for the lawns, though glass bottles are not allowed.
Making the most of it
Arrive at opening time and head to the biggest slides before the queues grow. Take a break in the shade for lunch around midday, when the sun is strongest, and return to the pools in the afternoon. Reapply sunscreen often and drink water, since the heat and the activity quickly tire younger children.
If you have a morning flight, a late-afternoon visit before the park closes can be a gentle way to end a trip. On a cloudy or cooler day, consider the Palma Aquarium or the Caves of Drach as a better choice.
Good to know
The park can be reached by taxi, hire car or day tour, and bus services run from the centre of Palma and the airport area. Pregnant women and people with back or heart conditions are usually advised to avoid the biggest slides, and rules on swimwear and glass apply, so read the guidance at the gate. Keep an eye on children in the shallow areas, put valuables in a locker and remember that wet paving is slippery, so shoes with grip are a good idea when you walk between slides.
What to expect
The experience
A full day of slides, a lazy river, a wave pool and children's play areas, with shaded lawns and food stands.
Best time
A hot summer day, arriving when the gates open to ride the biggest slides before the queues.
How long
Four to seven hours, depending on your group.
Tips
Check the seasonal calendar, bring sun protection and flip-flops, and ride the tallest slides first.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families with children and teenagers who want an active day in the summer heat.
- Families
- There are shallow pools and small slides for toddlers and tall slides for older children, with lifeguards throughout.
- Couples
- Fun if you enjoy slides and crowds, but not the quietest option for a romantic trip.
- Pair with
- A seafront dinner on the Playa de Palma or a late-afternoon walk in Palma.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
When is Aqualand open?+
The park operates in the warmer months, usually from late spring to early autumn, and is closed in winter. Check the calendar for your dates.
Where is Aqualand El Arenal?+
It is close to S'Arenal and the Playa de Palma, a few minutes from the airport and about twenty minutes from the centre of Palma.
Is it suitable for toddlers?+
Yes, there are shallow pools and small slides for young children, but an adult must stay with them.
What should I bring?+
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, a hat, flip-flops and some cash or a card for lockers and food.
How do you get there without a car?+
You can take a taxi or a local bus from Palma, or choose a ticket that includes a return bus transfer.
