WetSide Water Park

If you're looking for a fantastic way to spend a sunny day with the kids in Hervey Bay, you absolutely have to check out WetSide Water Park. It's a council-run water park located right on the esplanade, offering a brilliant mix of free and paid water play. The main area is a huge, zero-depth splash pad with fountains, tipping buckets, and interactive water features, which is completely free to use. For the bigger kids and thrill-seekers, there are also two large waterslides and a FlipSide BoardRider wave machine, which operate on a pay-per-use basis. It's a vibrant, bustling spot designed purely for family fun.

Age Appropriateness

One of the best things about WetSide is how well it caters to a wide range of ages. For the little ones, there's a dedicated, fully fenced area called TotSide. It's designed specifically for children under 5, with smaller slides and gentle water features, so you don't have to worry about them getting overwhelmed by the bigger kids. The main splash pad is great for all ages, from toddlers who love splashing in the shallow water to older kids who enjoy dodging the giant tipping bucket. The two big waterslides have a minimum height requirement of 1.2 meters, making them perfect for primary school-aged kids and teens. The FlipSide BoardRider is geared more towards confident older kids and teenagers who are up for a challenge.

The Highlights (Pros)

The biggest pro is hands-down the free entry to the main splash park area. You can genuinely have a full day of fun without spending a cent on the main attractions. The park is exceptionally well-maintained and clean, which is always a huge plus for parents. It's also fully patrolled by lifeguards, adding a crucial layer of safety and peace of mind. The location is another major highlight; being right on the Hervey Bay foreshore means you get beautiful sea breezes and lovely views. There's also a great community atmosphere, and on some Saturday nights during the season, they put on a free light and music show, which is a lovely way to end the day.

The Watch-Outs (Cons)

The park's popularity can also be its downside. During school holidays and on hot weekends, it gets incredibly busy. Finding a shaded spot can be a real challenge if you don't arrive early. While the main park is free, the costs for the waterslides and the BoardRider can add up quickly if you have multiple kids who want to have a go. Be aware that the waterslides and the cafe have specific operating hours which can differ from the general park opening times, and they are closed during the winter months (typically from May to August). The ground surface can also get quite hot in the sun, so water shoes are a really good idea for sensitive little feet.

Practical Survival Tips for Parents

• Parking: There's a dedicated car park right next to the park, but it fills up fast. You can usually find additional street parking along the Esplanade, but you might have a short walk.
• Get there early: To snag a good patch of grass in the shade, aim to arrive right when it opens, especially during peak season.
• Pack smart: Bring your own shade tent or umbrella, picnic blanket, and chairs. Don't forget sunscreen, hats, rash vests, and towels. As mentioned, water shoes are a lifesaver for the hot ground.
• Food & Drink: There's a cafe on-site that sells fish and chips, coffee, and ice cream. However, you are more than welcome to bring your own picnic and snacks to save money. There are free barbecue facilities nearby on the foreshore if you want to make a day of it.
• Slide Passes: If you plan on using the paid slides, check the session times and prices online before you go. You can buy passes for a set number of rides or for a specific time period. It's often cheaper to buy a multi-pass if you'll be there for a while.