Kalahari Resorts | Sandusky

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in Sandusky, Ohio, is a premier year-round family vacation destination that combines a massive indoor waterpark with themed accommodations, outdoor adventure activities, and extensive entertainment options. It is one of the largest indoor waterpark resorts in the United States and the largest hotel in Ohio by room count, making it a popular getaway for families, groups, and conventions.

Location and Theme

Kalahari Sandusky is located at 7000 Kalahari Drive, just minutes from Cedar Point and Lake Erie. The resort’s design is inspired by African culture and wildlife, reflected in its architecture, décor, and the overall ambiance. This immersive theme includes African artifacts, murals, sculptures, and vibrant colors throughout the property, creating a unique, exotic experience that sets it apart from typical resorts.

Accommodations

The resort offers a wide range of lodging options catering to different group sizes and needs:

Standard Guest Rooms: These rooms typically include modern amenities like flat-screen TVs, microwaves, refrigerators, coffee makers, free Wi-Fi, and luxurious bedding. They can accommodate couples or small families.

Suites: Larger suites provide two or three bedrooms with additional living space, full kitchens or kitchenettes, and sometimes whirlpool tubs, ideal for families or groups wanting more space and convenience.

Luxury Villas: Premium accommodations with upscale furnishings, expanded living areas, and enhanced amenities, perfect for visitors seeking extra comfort and privacy.

All rooms feature African-inspired design touches, enhancing the thematic experience.

Indoor Waterpark

Spanning approximately 173,000 square feet, the indoor waterpark is the centerpiece of Kalahari Sandusky and one of the largest indoor waterparks in the Midwest. It offers attractions for all ages and thrill levels:

Dawn Breaker: A high-speed, twisting water slide with an immersive day-to-night theme that takes riders on an exhilarating journey.

Rippling Rhino: A family raft ride that winds through a lengthy flume with twists, turns, and gentle drops, suitable for groups wanting to ride together.

Swahili Swirl and Tanzanian Twister: High-speed, twisting body slides that deliver adrenaline-pumping fun.

FlowRider Surf Simulator: A surf wave machine where guests can practice bodyboarding or stand-up surfing on a continuous 5-foot wave.

Coral Cove and Kid’s Safari: Dedicated splash zones and play areas designed specifically for younger children, featuring mini slides, splash pads, swings, and interactive water features to ensure safe and fun water play.

The indoor waterpark also includes multiple hot tubs, a lazy river, and a large wave pool.

Outdoor Waterpark – Zambezi Outdoor Waterpark

Opened in 2023, the outdoor waterpark expands Kalahari’s offerings with 77,000 square feet of outdoor aquatic fun, available during warmer months (Memorial Day through Labor Day):

15,000-Square-Foot Pool: The largest outdoor pool Kalahari has constructed, equipped with tanning ledges and shallow areas for lounging.

Zipline Experience: A four-tower zipline course that offers aerial views of the outdoor waterpark and surrounding property.

Free-Fall Jump Tower: A 50-foot tall tower where adventurous guests can experience a thrilling drop.

Bugs Burrow: A children’s aquatic play area with small slides, pools, and splash features designed for younger guests.

Safari Outdoor Adventure Park

Seasonally open during the summer, this 3-acre outdoor adventure zone offers more than just water fun:

Animal Encounters: Visitors can view and learn about exotic animals including camels, giraffes, and zebras, with educational programs that appeal to children and adults alike.

Ropes Course: A three-level ropes challenge course designed for varying skill levels, providing physical challenges and team-building opportunities.

Climbing Walls: Multiple climbing surfaces catering to beginners and advanced climbers.

Zipline Tours: Offering a bird’s-eye view of the resort and waterparks, these ziplines add adventure beyond the water.

Dining Options

Kalahari features multiple dining venues that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences, ranging from casual quick bites to sit-down meals:

Cinco Niños: A modern Mexican restaurant known for its vibrant and flavorful dishes.

Sortino’s Italian Kitchen: Classic Italian cuisine, including pasta, pizza, and specialty entrees.

B-Lux Grill & Bar: A casual spot famous for gourmet burgers, milkshakes, and comfort food favorites.

Great Karoo Marketplace: A buffet-style restaurant offering a broad range of dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Café Mirage: Serving lighter fare such as sandwiches, salads, and beverages, ideal for quick snacks.

Additional Entertainment & Amenities

Beyond water attractions and dining, Kalahari offers various entertainment and recreation options:

Big Game Room Arcade: Featuring a wide variety of arcade games, redemption games, and rides suitable for all ages.

Mini Golf: An 18-hole course offering fun for families and groups.

Laser Tag: An interactive arena for action-packed team games.

Escape Rooms: Themed puzzle rooms that challenge groups to solve mysteries and escape within a time limit.

Pottery Studio: A creative space where guests can craft and paint pottery items.

Spa & Fitness Center: Wellness amenities for relaxation and fitness during your stay.

Events and Seasonal Activities

Kalahari hosts various seasonal and special events such as:

Duck Derby Days: Family-friendly games, competitions, and prizes.

Easter Brunch Buffets: Special holiday dining experiences.

After-Hours Waterpark Events: Exclusive times where guests can enjoy the waterpark with fewer crowds and added entertainment.

Accessibility and Guest Services

The resort is designed to be accessible for guests with disabilities, offering:

Accessible rooms and waterpark areas.

Assistance services upon request.

Family-friendly amenities, including childcare programs and kid-focused activities.

Summary

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions Sandusky is a large-scale, immersive destination that combines the thrill of an expansive indoor waterpark with outdoor adventures, cultural theming, and a full-service resort experience. Its location near Cedar Point and Lake Erie makes it an ideal complement for visitors seeking a mix of amusement, relaxation, and family-friendly activities in one place.

Whether you're looking for high-energy water slides, relaxing pools, family activities, or immersive themed accommodations, Kalahari offers a comprehensive vacation experience designed to appeal to guests of all ages and interests.