Charleston County is regarded as one of the most popular destinations for a break in South Carolina. As the summer season gets under way, the county has plenty of waterparks on offer for anyone who enjoys splashing about. From 16 May 2026, the Charleston County Parks and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) will open its three waterparks – Splash Island in Mount Pleasant, Splash Zone on James Island, and Whirlin’ Waters in North Charleston. The pool at the West County Aquatic Center in Hollywood will also open, but weekends only to begin with; daily opening hours start from 30 May. This guide takes a closer look at each of these waterparks, along with their current opening times and exact addresses.
Splash Island Waterpark
This waterpark is located within Mount Pleasant Palmetto Islands County Park. It offers a wide range of water-based fun for children of all ages, from toddlers through to teenagers.
Among the most popular attractions are:
- a large water slide standing 60 m tall
- a swimming pool
- an otter-shaped slide 5 m tall
- a variety of splash fountains
- geysers and waterfalls
Food and drink kiosks operate on site, along with lockers for storing belongings, sun loungers, showers and toilets. Certified lifeguards are also stationed near the water attractions at all times. Birthday party packages are available separately.
Opening times for the summer season:
- 16 May to Memorial Day – Saturdays and Sundays, 10am to 6pm
- 30 May to 9 August – daily: Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm, Saturday 10am to 6pm, Sunday 1pm to 6pm
- 15 August to Labor Day (7 September) – weekends only, following the schedule above
Address: 444 Needlerush Pkwy, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464.
Splash Zone Waterpark
Another great spot for a family day out, this waterpark sits within James Island County Park.
On offer for adults and children alike:
- two large slides standing 60 m tall
- a large swimming pool
- a 150 m “lazy river”
- the “Rainforest” family play structure, complete with slides and fountains
Opening times for the season:
- 16 May to Memorial Day – Saturdays 10am to 6pm and Sundays 1pm to 6pm
- 30 May to 9 August – daily: Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm, Saturday 10am to 6pm, Sunday 1pm to 6pm
The waterpark closes for the season after 9 August.
Address: 871 Riverland Drive, Charleston, SC 29412.
Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark
One of the largest CCPRC waterparks, located in North Charleston. Visitors here will find plenty to enjoy at any age:
- The Washout, an 18 m multi-rider slide
- the Big Splash Tree House attraction
- a 260 m “lazy river”
- the Big Kahuna wave pool
- the Tubular Twister slides
- the Rip Tide Run slide
- Otter Bay play area for children
Opening times for the season:
- 16 May to Memorial Day – Saturdays and Sundays, 10am to 6pm
- 30 May to 9 August – daily: Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am to 6pm
- 15 August to Labor Day – weekends only, following the schedule above
The waterpark closes after 7 September.
Address: 8888 University Blvd, North Charleston, SC 29406.
West County Aquatic Center Pool
The aquatic centre features a 6,000-square-foot pool, making it a great spot for both serious swimmers and beginners alike. Swimming lessons for beginners are also available, along with the option of joining a competitive swim team.
This makes for a great alternative to the waterparks for anyone after a quieter time by the water. There’s a zero-depth entry area for children and beginners, dedicated swimming lanes, plus sun loungers, changing rooms and showers.
Opening times for the season:
- 16 May to Memorial Day – Saturdays 10am to 6pm and Sundays 1pm to 6pm
- 30 May to 9 August – daily: Monday and Wednesday 10am to 3pm, Tuesday and Thursday 12pm to 5pm, Friday and Saturday 10am to 6pm, Sunday 1pm to 6pm
- 15 August to Labor Day (7 September) – weekends only, following the schedule above (Saturday 10am to 6pm, Sunday 1pm to 6pm)
The pool closes after Labor Day until the following season.
Address: 5156 Highway 165, Hollywood, SC 29449.
Splash Zone, Splash Island, Whirlin’ Waters Adventure and the West County Aquatic Center are all owned and operated by CCPRC. CCPRC’s core mission is to improve quality of life across Charleston County through a wide range of services, park facilities and recreational programmes.