Aquatica

Initially, you might find it hard to get your bearings amid the towering slides; Caribbean palms; winding sidewalks; and seemingly random layout of restaurants, rides, slides, and facilities. In reality, the park is easy to navigate. The services (restaurants, changing rooms, shops) form a core around which the attractions are situated. And besides, if you get lost, just ask one of the hundreds of lifeguards or attendants to point you in the right direction.

Hopefully you'll have arrived with some snacks and drinks to combat the fatigue you'll feel after scaling to the tops of all those watery thrill rides. If not, fear not—there are plenty of places to find food and drink.

You should also be toting beach towels, sunscreen, and water shoes. Again, if not, fear not—there are a number of shops and kiosks where you can buy all of this stuff and more.

Many of the rides have height restrictions, so if you're traveling with kids, have their heights checked at the Concierge Cabana, which is to your right as you enter the park. Each child will be issued a colored wristband that alerts attendants to which rides are appropriate for him or her.

After stashing excess supplies in a locker and generally settling in, it's time to explore. Unless it's peak season, several hours should be enough to visit each ride and attraction once or twice. It will also allow for some downtime, lazing on the beach, or enjoying a leisurely meal.