Knott’s Soak City | Anaheim

Knott’s Soak City is a separately gated seasonal water park located adjacent to Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park, California. Operated by Cedar Fair, this 15-acre water park offers a variety of water-based attractions, catering to both thrill-seekers and families looking to cool off during Southern California’s warm months.

Overview and History

Originally opened in 1999 as Knott’s Soak City U.S.A., it was built on the former site of the Japanese Village and Deer Park. The water park was later acquired by Cedar Fair when they purchased Knott’s Berry Farm in 1997. While other Soak City locations were eventually sold or rebranded, the Buena Park location remains under Cedar Fair’s ownership and is the only Soak City still operating under the Knott’s name.

Park Features and Attractions

Knott’s Soak City features over 20 water attractions, including body slides, tube slides, family raft rides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and dedicated areas for children. The park has a laid-back beach theme reminiscent of 1950s Southern California surf culture.

Major Slides and Attractions

1. Shore Break

A six-slide complex that includes four 60-foot tall, near-vertical drop slides.

Features launch capsules where the floor drops out beneath riders.

Two other slides in the complex are enclosed tube slides with serpentine paths.

2. The Wedge

A seven-story family raft ride designed for groups.

Riders slide through twists and turns in a large inflatable raft that can accommodate up to six people.

3. Malibu Run

A four-lane mat racing slide where riders lie on mats and race side-by-side down a series of dips and hills.

4. Old Man Falls

One of the tallest rides in the park at over 63 feet.

Includes three high-speed body slides: Dropoff, Pipeline, and Point Break.

5. Tidal Wave Bay

A large wave pool that mimics ocean waves, offering both calm floating areas and timed wave cycles.

6. Sunset River

A 1,780-foot-long lazy river, one of the longest in any California water park.

Guests float gently through a scenic and relaxing course with waterfalls and foliage.

7. Gremmie Lagoon

A kid-friendly play zone for toddlers and young children.

Features pint-sized water slides, interactive spray elements, and shallow pools.

8. Beach House

A three-story interactive play structure with water cannons, sprayers, and a 500-gallon tipping bucket that drenches everyone below.

Amenities and Guest Services

Cabanas: Available for rent throughout the park, offering shade, lounge chairs, food service, and a private space.

Locker Rentals: Three locker sizes are available to secure belongings.

Food & Beverage: Several food stands and snack bars serve pizza, burgers, chicken strips, ice cream, and specialty drinks.

Gift Shop: Offers swimwear, sunscreen, towels, and themed merchandise.

Accessibility and Safety

Life jackets are available free of charge and are recommended for children and non-swimmers.

Lifeguards are stationed throughout the park.

Water temperature is maintained for comfort, though specific attractions may vary slightly.

All guests must adhere to height and safety requirements for specific slides.

Seasonal Operation and Admission

Open Season: Typically from mid-May through mid-September, depending on weather.

Operating Days: Open daily during peak summer, weekends in shoulder seasons.

Tickets: Can be purchased separately or bundled with Knott’s Berry Farm tickets.

Season passes often include both parks or offer add-on options.

Discounts are available for groups, online purchases, or combo deals.

Parking and Entry

Entrance: Soak City has its own dedicated entrance located off Beach Boulevard.

Parking: Shared with Knott’s Berry Farm; parking fees apply.

Summary

Knott’s Soak City is a well-maintained, highly rated water park known for combining exciting thrill slides with relaxing family-friendly zones. It's a natural extension to a trip to Knott’s Berry Farm and a great destination on its own during the hot summer months in Southern California.