Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon is the most popular water park at Walt Disney World. The theme is a tropical paradise that was hit by a massive typhoon, leaving ships stranded on mountain tops and surfboards stuck in trees.
It is famous for having one of the largest and most intense outdoor wave pools in the world. If you want a water park that feels like a lush, relaxing island getaway but still has major thrills, this is the one to choose.
Crucial Update: Is it Open?
Just like Blizzard Beach, Disney usually only keeps one water park open at a time while the other is being refurbished.
- Usually Open in Spring/Summer/Fall: Typhoon Lagoon is typically Disney’s “main” water park for the warmer months (roughly March through October).
- Usually Closed in Winter: It often closes for annual maintenance from November through February.
- Action: You must check the official Disney World operating calendar for your specific travel dates before you plan your day here.
Tickets and Prices
Unlike the main theme parks, Typhoon Lagoon tickets usually have a standard price that does not change much day-to-day. It is much cheaper than visiting Magic Kingdom or EPCOT.
1. Base Ticket Prices (1-Day Admission)
If you just want to visit the water park for one day, you buy a standard water park ticket.
- Adults (Ages 10+): Approximately $74 (plus tax).
- Children (Ages 3–9): Approximately $68 (plus tax).
- Children Under 3: Free.
- Seasonal Tickets: Sometimes Disney sells a slightly cheaper ticket that has “blockout dates” during the busiest summer weeks. Check the website when you book to see if this is available.
2. The Best Value: “Park Hopper Plus”
Most families do not buy a separate one-day water park ticket. Instead, they add it to their main theme park vacation package.
- What it is: If you are already buying a multi-day ticket for Disney World, you can add the “Water Park and Sports” option or “Park Hopper Plus.”
- Cost: It costs a flat fee of roughly $70 extra (total, not per day) added to your main ticket.
- Value: This gives you several visits to Typhoon Lagoon, Blizzard Beach, or mini-golf courses. It is almost always the best deal if you plan to swim more than once.
3. Extra Costs to Budget For
While the ticket is cheaper, there are other costs to consider for a comfortable day.
- Parking is FREE: Unlike the main theme parks, standard car parking at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon is complimentary for all guests.
- Towel Rentals (Important!):
- If you are staying at a Disney hotel, you can get towels for free by scanning your MagicBand at the rental shack.
- If you are staying off-property, you must pay roughly $2 per towel to rent them. (I recommend bringing your own from your hotel to save money).
- Lockers: You will almost certainly need a locker for your phone, wallet, and dry clothes.
- Small Locker: Approx $10 per day.
- Large Locker: Approx $15 per day.
- Premium Seating (Optional):
- Beachcomber Shacks (Cabanas): These private shaded areas include cushioned seating, a stocked cooler, and a dedicated waiter. They are very expensive, often ranging from $300 to $500+ per day, and must be booked far in advance.
- Typhoon Lagoon Umbrellas: You can rent a guaranteed spot with two lounge chairs, a small table, and a large umbrella for approx $75–$100 per day.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
- Typical Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (early spring/late fall) or 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (peak summer).
- Is the water heated? Yes. All pools and slides are heated to approximately 80°F (27°C) year-round.
- H2O Glow After Hours: In the summer months (usually late May to August), Typhoon Lagoon hosts a special ticketed nighttime party. It features glowing lights, special DJ music, and lower wait times from roughly 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
Must-Do Attractions by Visitor Type
The Main Event (Unique to this Park)
- Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool: This is NOT a normal relaxing wave pool. Every 90 seconds, it launches a massive 6-foot wave that can knock you off your feet.
- Warning: It is incredibly fun for strong swimmers, but it can be dangerous for small children or weak swimmers. Stay in the very shallow water if you are unsure.
For Thrill Seekers
- Crush ‘n’ Gusher: A “water coaster” that uses powerful water jets to push your raft uphill before dropping you back down. You can choose from three different tracks (Banana Blaster, Coconut Crusher, or Pineapple Plunger). (Height: 48″)
- Humunga Kowabunga: A near-vertical speed slide that drops you 5 stories in the dark. It is over in seconds, but it is very intense. (Height: 48″)
For Families & Relaxing
- Miss Adventure Falls: A long, excellent family raft ride. Unique feature: A conveyor belt lifts you to the top while you are sitting in the raft, so you don’t have to climb huge stairs. (No height requirement)
- Castaway Creek: The lazy river. It is extremely long (it takes about 20 minutes to float around the whole park) and goes through shady caves and under waterfalls.
- Gangplank Falls: A medium-sized family raft ride that goes down a rocky “mountain” stream.
For Little Kids
- Ketchakiddee Creek: A large play area specifically for children under 48 inches tall. It has small slides, water cannons, and a tugboat to explore.
Dining & Food (The Famous Sundae)
Typhoon Lagoon has standard theme park food, but one dessert is famous:
- The Sand Pail Sundae (Happy Landings Ice Cream): This is a massive amount of ice cream served in a plastic sand bucket with a shovel. It is meant to be shared by 3 or 4 people.
- Typhoon Tilly’s: A good spot for fried shrimp, fish baskets, and chicken wraps.
- Leaning Palms: The main large food court with the most options, including rice bowls and plant-based island burgers.
Essential Amenities & Tips
- Free Life Jackets: Disney provides free life vests for all children (and adults who want them). They are located on racks all over the park.
- Towels:
- Staying at a Disney Hotel? Towels are free.
- Staying Off-Site? You must pay to rent towels (approx. $2 each) or bring your own.
- Renting a Cabana (Beachcomber Shack): You can rent a private shaded area with designated chairs, a cooler stocked with water, and a private attendant to bring you food. They are expensive (often $300–$500+ per day) and must be booked 60 days in advance.
- Wear Water Shoes: The sidewalks get incredibly hot in the Florida afternoon sun. You will regret it if you are barefoot.