H2OBX Waterpark
Rating
Family of 4
$140-$200 for a family of 4 including admission, food, and parking
Duration
4-8 hours (full day)
Best Ages
Best for ages 2-17
About
H2OBX Waterpark is the undisputed big-day, full-family destination for Outer Banks vacationers — a full-scale water park on Caratoke Highway just outside the OBX bridge that earns its title as the largest waterpark in North Carolina. With over 2,300 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this is the kind of place that families specifically plan their OBX week around.
The park's attraction lineup covers every age group. For toddlers, Toddler Cove provides a dedicated shallow-water zone with age-appropriate slides, spray features, and safe depths — parents of young kids can relax knowing their little ones aren't getting swept into the deep end. For older kids and teenagers, the big-drop slides, bowl slides, and the FlowRider surf simulator provide the thrill factor that beach vacations sometimes lack.
The lazy river winds through the park as a peaceful counterpoint to the slide rush.
Practical family logistics are well-handled. Lounge chair rental is available, lockers secure valuables, multiple food vendors cover lunch and snacks, and clean changing rooms make the arrival-to-water transition smooth even with young kids. The park is stroller-friendly in the non-water sections, and nursing facilities are available for families with infants.
The Caratoke Highway location — technically in Powells Point, before the main OBX bridge — makes H2OBX a natural stop on the way into or out of the Outer Banks. Many families use it as a full arrival day or departure day activity. Operating seasonally (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather permitting), it's a warm-weather-only destination.
Buy tickets online for the best pricing. Arrive early to secure chairs and beat the slide lines. Budget $35-$50 per person including food for a realistic full-day estimate.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Yes
Nursing / Changing
Available
Kid Meals
Available
Setting
Outdoor
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Arrive at opening (10AM) on weekdays; weekends are busier
Wait Times
15-30 min for popular slides on weekend afternoons
Nearby Food
Full food service inside the park including meals, snacks, and drinks. Bringing snacks from outside is sometimes permitted — check their website policy. Several restaurants are in the Grandy/Powells Point area nearby.
Why Kids Love It
H2OBX is the biggest waterpark in North Carolina and the Outer Banks' ultimate hot-day family destination. Kids go crazy for the multiple high-speed water slides including the massive bowl slides and the FlowRider surf machine, while the toddler-specific splash area with smaller slides keeps young children completely happy without competing with the big-kid crowds. The lazy river alone can occupy kids for an hour.
What Parents Say
“Myself and my 15 year old grandson made a fabulous day here.”
Pro Tips from Parents
- Book online at h2obxwaterpark.com — tickets are cheaper than gate pricing
- The park opens at 10AM — arrive by 9:45AM to get good lounge chairs before they fill
- Toddler Cove has dedicated shallow water areas and smaller slides perfect for 2-4 year olds
- The FlowRider surf simulator typically has height minimums — check website before planning
- Lockers are available for rent — bring a lock or rent one to secure valuables
- Located on the way to the OBX on Caratoke Hwy — convenient as an arriving or departing day
What to Bring
- Water shoes (concrete gets hot)
- Waterproof sunscreen and reapply frequently
- Change of dry clothes
- Towels
- Snacks to reduce food costs
- Cash for lockers
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
$140-$200 for a family of 4 including admission, food, and parking
Tips to Save
- Book tickets online in advance for the best pricing — gate prices are higher.
- Season passes pay off in 2-3 visits if you're in the area for a week.
- Bring your own water shoes and snacks to reduce food costs inside.
- Arrive at opening to hit the best slides before lines build.