Hawaiian Waters Garland

Description

Hawaiian Waters Garland is a North Texas water park that draws families, groups, and thrill-seekers every summer. The park has a laid-back island theme, offering both exciting slides and relaxing water attractions. The experience feels like a short getaway right in the Dallas area—less than an hour from downtown. It’s best known for its giant 16,000-square-foot wave pool, which really does feel like a mini ocean, and the Kona Kooler lazy river, where visitors drift along on tubes under shady palms. The overall vibe balances classic attractions—like twisting tube slides and splash zones for kids—with a few things that feel surprisingly unique compared to other water parks nearby.

Plenty of people rave about how fun and family friendly it is, especially the wave pool and water slides that keep both teens and little ones entertained. Of course, as with many busy water parks, lines can get long on peak days and food prices aren’t exactly “cheap snack bar” level, but the convenience of on-site eateries and the variety of rides usually makes up for it. The park has made upgrades over time and still feels fresh, although it definitely leans more on being a summertime hangout than a luxury resort. All in all, Hawaiian Waters Garland stands out as a reliable choice for a hot Texas day, where you can go big on adrenaline or keep it chill on the lazy river.

Key Features

• 16,000-square-foot wave pool, one of the largest in the Dallas area
• Kona Kooler lazy river for a more relaxing float
• Tall water slides and tube rides offering varying intensities
• Kids area with smaller slides and splash-friendly attractions
• Onsite food and beverage options for easy dining
• Private cabana rentals for groups wanting extra shade and comfort
• Special events and entertainment scheduled throughout the summer season
• Contactless payments accepted, including mobile and card options

Best Time to Visit

Since Hawaiian Waters Garland operates seasonally, summer is the prime time to go. Generally, May through early September is when the park is open. Weekdays—especially earlier in the season—are the sweet spot if you’re trying to beat big crowds. Weekends get packed fast, and July tends to be sweltering, so bringing plenty of sunscreen along is non-negotiable. Mid-morning arrivals are fantastic: you skip the heaviest afternoon lines for slides while also claiming a shaded table or lounging area before they’re all taken. If you’re more about the atmosphere, evenings can be special, especially when the park hosts family nights or group-oriented events.

Season passes are popular for frequent visitors. If you live in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the math works out after just two or three trips, especially if you’ve got kids begging to return after their first ride down the Pineapple Express slide. For travelers passing through, a single-day ticket is worth it if you carve out a half-to-full day for water play.

How to Get There

The park is located in Garland, Texas, just northeast of Dallas. The easiest way to get there is by car, and parking is available onsite. Coming from Dallas, the drive averages 25 to 30 minutes depending on traffic, while those coming from Fort Worth should plan closer to an hour. If you’re staying in the suburbs—like Plano, Richardson, or Rowlett—the trip is even shorter. For out-of-towners without a car, ride-hailing services are an option, but you’ll definitely want to schedule your return trip ahead of time since the pick-up area can get congested when the park closes.

I’ve personally driven up from Dallas around noon before, and sitting in the summer traffic was less than fun—so take my advice: go early. It’s smoother to get in before the midday rush, plus you’ll have more hours in the park without fighting the afternoon crowds.

Tips for Visiting

Planning a trip to Hawaiian Waters Garland can be surprisingly smooth if you go in with a few strategies. Some insider-style tips:

• Buy tickets in advance. You’ll save time at the gate, and occasionally money if there’s an online deal running.
• Arrive early. Cabanas, loungers, and shady spots go fast, especially on weekends.
• Bring sunscreen and water shoes. Texas pavement gets really hot under the summer sun, and barefoot dashes between attractions are painful without them.
• Pack light but smart. You can’t bring in outside food, but a small bag with towels, sunscreen, and a phone protector is a must.
• Consider a season pass. If you’re local or plan to come more than twice a season, it makes sense financially.
• Check the events calendar. Hawaiian Waters often hosts special activities for kids, family nights, or group gatherings, which can add a fun twist to your day.

If you’ve got younger kids, the splash areas and scaled-down slides are heaven-sent. For older kids, it’s the thrill rides and giant wave pool that keep them entertained for hours. One little thing I’ve noticed: parents often hang out on the lazy river, looping slowly while their teens chase after the wildest slides nearby. It makes for a good balance—everyone gets their preferred version of fun.

And finally, don’t forget this—hydrate. With Texas heat, playing in the sun and water can tire you out quicker than you expect. Grabbing a quick snack break here and there also helps stretch the day so you don’t leave feeling exhausted. Hawaiian Waters Garland is at its best when you treat the park like a full-day outing, slowing down when you need to and hitting the action when you’ve got energy to spare. That way, by the time you float your last lap in the Kona Kooler, you’ll actually feel like you squeezed the most out of the day.