This Unique California Waterpark Is A Thrilling Playground Floating On A Lake

A trip to California, the Golden State, offers countless opportunities to forge unforgettable memories with friends and family. From the beaches of sunny Southern California to the state's many national parks and imposing Redwood forests (and arguably the most beautiful drive in the country), there's no shortage of reasons why millions make the pilgrimage out west every year. Nestled just outside of the historic architecture and amazing food of Sacramento and floating atop a manufactured lake is Wake Island, the largest waterpark (80 acres) on the West Coast and a family-friendly destination for those seeking some rest and relaxation by the water and adrenaline addicts alike. 

Open for over a decade, Wake Island has no shortage of attractions, including a wildly fun obstacle course called the Ninja Race Course. This family-friendly park is an essential pit stop for swimmers and lovers of watersports. Any upcoming California vacation wouldn't be complete without a day (or two) spent at this hidden gem in a state full of diamonds.

Wake Island's central attraction is its boatless wakeboarding park, where visitors of all skill levels are pulled around a lake by an intricate cable system. Think of it like an overhead cable system for skiing, but instead of snowy mountains and layers of winter clothes, you're being pulled under sunny California skies. For those weary of the boat-less system, Wake Island invites visitors to observe others before booking their own sessions. Once booked, beginners in the Slow Speed Sessions will enjoy two hours of being pulled around the lake at no more than 16.5 mph, with the cable system starting easier off the dock and smoothly (and slowly) turning corners. 

More experienced wakeboarders can enjoy the breeze and catch some air as they are pulled through the lake at 19 mph. If it's a special someone's birthday, Wake Island offers a multitude of birthday packages, with the park letting visitors party all day long. Different packages allow up to 10 visitors access to various parts of the park alongside a sunny day's worth of pizza and soda.

Wake Island is home to North America's largest floating Aqua Park, which offers visitors of all ages (as long as you're at least 4 feet tall) an opportunity to show off their skills as they run around the park's state-of-the-art equipment. The park allows visitors the opportunity to book single 45-minute sessions, but if you've still got energy after that, don't worry — visitors can also book double sessions on a bargain deal. After the Aqua Park, make sure to rent a cabana so that your party has a shaded private area to relax. Wake Island offers three different kinds of cabanas depending on party size, with the larger options equipped with lounge chairs and tables.

Once you've rested and hydrated, it's time to make your way to the Ninja Race Course, where you can challenge a friend to a race that'll have one of you bragging for the rest of the summer. The Ninja Race Course lets visitors race head-to-head on three different obstacle courses, ranging from easy to hard. If there are enough willing competitors, six people can race simultaneously across the three tracks. Ready, set, go!

If you are looking for an awesome experience just a short drive away from Sacramento (a fantastic California destination in its own right), book a trip to Wake Island. Obstacle courses, relaxing artificial beaches, and a huge variety of water-based activities mean this watery haven has something for everyone.