Located within Weeki Wachee State Park is Buccaneer Bay, the only freshwater water park in Florida and one of our favorite water park day trips for the whole family. This quintessential old Florida water park is perfect for an affordable fun-filled summer day! From lounging on the sandy beach, floating on the natural lazy river, jumping off the floating dock, or simply taking a dip in the refreshing crystal clear Florida springs water there is plenty to do at this unique attraction.
There is plenty of fun to be had at Buccaneer Bay for the whole family. There are three water slides, (42” and 48” height requirements) that empty you out into brisk Florida springs water. For children under 6, there is a fenced-in kiddie area with a splashing pool and mini slides.
The water park is located near the head of Weeki Wachee Springs and the beginning of the Weeki Wachee river. The springs pump out water, 100 million gallons a day, at an average of 74 degrees year-round. Buccaneer Bay is directly on the Weeki Wachee River. Turtles, fish, manatees, alligators, and otters live in the river and are occasionally seen.
Rent a tube and float the natural lazy river that flows around the swimming area. Swim and snorkel off the sandy beach, or cannonball off the floating dock. Personal tubes are not allowed within the park. There are limited lounge chairs around the beach area, bring chairs or a blanket for a picnic, and enjoy a summer day at this fun family park. There are gift shops, multiple food options, and picnic tables to round out your day.
Plan to Arrive Early
Buccaneer Bay is extremely popular during the summer months and tends to get to capacity quickly. Prepare to show up before the park opens at 9 am to guarantee entrance. Once the park reaches capacity it does not reopen ticket sales for the rest of the day. Pack like you are headed to the beach, even coolers and food are permitted within the park. Entrance is only $13 for adults, children 6-12 are $8, and 5 and under free, a bargain in today’s economic climate. The entrance does include all activities within the Weeki Wachee State Park like the Mermaid Show and boat ride.
Buccaneer Bay is located at 6131 Commercial Way Spring Hill, FL 34606. It makes a great summer day trip with the kids.
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Jillian Gishler is a New Englander at heart. Born in Jacksonville Beach, she grew up in Massachusetts but was beckoned back to Florida by Mickey Mouse for a Disney World Internship. She returned to the beach in 2005 after graduating from Florida State. Ten years ago she opened her handmade & vintage collective shop, Sew Vicious, in Neptune Beach. Jillian raises chickens, is a passionate gardener, a DIYer, a thrift store junkie, a deal loving mama, and has several inspirational travel journals available on Amazon. She leads her daughters Girl Scout Troop, teaches sewing at a local Montessori School, and is a Parents Who Lead Alumni. She loves surprising her husband and daughters with mini-vacations around the Sunshine State.
