Lost Island Waterpark: Tickets, Hours, Prices & Map 2026
Lost Island Waterpark in Waterloo, Iowa is a large outdoor tropical-themed waterpark with major waterslides, a lazy river, wave pool, raft rides, toddler areas, kids play zones, cabanas, dining, go-karts and mini golf nearby.
This 2026 guide answers the real visitor questions behind “lost island waterpark”: how much tickets cost, when the park is open, whether online tickets are cheaper, where to park, what rides fit each height group, how to use the map, what to pack, whether cabanas are worth it, and how to avoid confusing the waterpark with Lost Island Themepark.
Quick answer: Lost Island Waterpark is located at 2225 E. Shaulis Road, Waterloo, IA 50701. Official waterpark admission currently lists online day passes for adults and children age 4+ ranging from $32.00–$36.00 plus tax when purchased by midnight before the visit date. At-gate waterpark pricing is listed separately, with children ages 3 and under free. In-season waterpark hours are generally listed as 10:30AM–6:30PM, and parking at the waterpark is listed at $10 per space.
What People Really Mean by “Lost Island Waterpark”
This search is usually not just about the name. Visitors want to know if the Waterloo waterpark is open today, how much admission costs, whether online tickets are cheaper, whether kids get in free, which address to use, how to read the park map, and whether they should visit the waterpark, themepark, go-karts, mini golf or a two-day Island Pass.
Ticket intent
You need the difference between online waterpark tickets, at-gate tickets, military pricing, children 3 and under, and the two-day Island Pass.
Hours intent
You need the waterpark calendar, not the themepark calendar. The two parks sit near each other but can have different ticket categories and planning needs.
Map intent
You need the correct Waterloo address, waterpark map, parking cost, entrance plan, and first-hour route for slides, lazy river and kids areas.
Lost Island Waterpark 2026 Trip Picker
Use this before buying tickets. It helps you choose the better ticket, arrival plan and ride route.
Lost Island Waterpark Tickets and Prices 2026
Lost Island uses several admission choices. The most important rule is that online tickets must be purchased by midnight before the day of visit. Gate pricing is usually higher or less flexible, so compare before driving.
| Ticket / price intent | Current official signal | Best for | Important warning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online Waterpark Day Pass | Adults and children 4+: $32.00–$36.00 + tax. | Most families who know their date early. | Must be purchased by midnight before the visit date. |
| At-Gate Waterpark Ticket | Official listing shows separate gate pricing by height and category. | Last-minute visitors only. | Gate pricing can cost more and depends on availability/current rules. |
| Children 3 and under | Free; no ticket required when entering with a paid guest. | Families with toddlers or babies. | Still plan swim diapers, shade, breaks and close supervision. |
| Military Admission | Military pricing is listed on the official waterpark admission page. | Eligible military families. | Confirm ID and purchase rules before arrival. |
| Island Pass | $75 + tax listed for admission at the waterpark or themepark on two consecutive days. | Families considering both Lost Island parks over two days. | Read whether your exact plan fits waterpark, themepark, dates and consecutive-day terms. |
| Go-Karts / Mini Golf | Sold separately from waterpark admission. | Families extending the day after waterpark hours. | Confirm hours and pricing separately from the waterpark ticket. |
Real-cost rule: compare waterpark tickets + tax + $10 parking + cabana/villa + food + lockers + go-karts + mini golf + hotel costs. The online day pass may look cheaper, but your full day budget depends on extras.
Lost Island Waterpark Hours and 2026 Calendar
In-season Lost Island Waterpark hours are listed as 10:30AM–6:30PM, but you should still check the official waterpark calendar for your exact date. Early-season, late-season, weather, private events, staffing and special programming can affect operations.
Check the calendar
Use the official waterpark hours page before buying and again before leaving.
In-season baseline
Waterpark in-season hours are listed as 10:30AM–6:30PM.
Do not mix parks
Themepark hours, waterpark hours, go-kart hours and mini-golf hours may not be the same.
Weather matters
Outdoor waterpark attraction operations can be affected by storms or safety closures.
Arrival tip: arrive before the waterpark opens on hot weekends. You get better parking flow, quicker lockers, easier seating and shorter first-hour slide lines.
Lost Island Waterpark Map, Address and Directions
Use the waterpark address, not the themepark address, when navigating. Lost Island Waterpark is at 2225 E. Shaulis Road, Waterloo, IA 50701. The themepark uses a different nearby address at 2600 E. Shaulis Road.
Waterpark address
2225 E. Shaulis Road, Waterloo, IA 50701.
Parking
Waterpark parking is listed at $10 per space while visiting.
Park map
The official map describes 24 acres of island summer fun with slides, wave pool, lazy river, toddler areas and raft rides.
Lost Island Waterpark vs Lost Island Themepark
This is a common planning mistake. Lost Island Waterpark and Lost Island Themepark are related attractions in Waterloo, but they are not the same admission page, map, address or ride list. Searchers often type “Lost Island” and land on the wrong ticket type.
| Choice | Address | Best for | Plan carefully |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lost Island Waterpark | 2225 E. Shaulis Road. | Waterslides, wave pool, lazy river, toddler areas, cabanas and summer water fun. | Use the waterpark ticket, waterpark calendar and waterpark map. |
| Lost Island Themepark | 2600 E. Shaulis Road. | Roller coasters, dry rides, themed lands and amusement park rides. | Use the themepark ticket, themepark calendar and themepark map. |
| Island Pass | Waterpark or themepark depending on day plan. | Visitors who want two consecutive days across Lost Island parks. | Read valid dates and consecutive-day rules before buying. |
Lost Island Waterpark Slides, Pools and Attractions
Lost Island Waterpark has a tropical island layout with major waterslides, tube slides, body slides, a water coaster, wave pool, lazy river, toddler areas, raft rides and kid-friendly play areas. The best route depends on height and thrill level.
| Attraction / area | Best for | Planning note |
|---|---|---|
| Molokini Crater | Extreme thrill riders. | Large funnel-style thrill slide; check 48-inch rules before riding. |
| Lost Soul Falls | Body-slide thrill fans. | 48 inches to ride alone; check swimwear rules for metal or hard plastic. |
| Wailua Kupua | Kids and adults ready for bigger slides. | 42 inches with adult, 48 inches to ride alone. |
| Emerald Adventure & Jade Rapids | Tube slide riders. | 42 inches with adult, 48 inches to ride alone. |
| Polynesian Plunge & Samoan Splash | Riders who want medium/extreme slide action. | 48 inches to ride alone. |
| Lazy River | Family reset time and calmer floating. | Useful after high-thrill slides or lunch. |
| Wave Pool | Mixed-age family time. | Use life jackets and close supervision for weaker swimmers. |
| Starfish Cove | Small children and toddler families. | No height requirement; swim diapers required. |
| Mermaids / kids experiences | Children who want extra themed moments. | Mermaid shows and experiences can be date/time specific. |
Lost Island Height Rules and Safety Notes
Most Lost Island Waterpark attractions have height requirements, and the official safety page groups several major slides by 48-inch and 42-inch rules. Do not promise a slide until you check the current ride page and posted signs.
48-inch riders
Some major thrill slides require 48 inches, including rides such as Molokini Crater, Tangerine Tempest, Polynesian Plunge/Samoan Splash and Lost Soul Falls.
42-inch with adult
Some slides allow riders at 42 inches with an adult and 48 inches to ride alone. Always check the exact slide page.
Small kids
Use Starfish Cove, mini slides, splash pad and kids areas when children do not meet major slide rules.
Safety rule: lifeguards and posted signs control the ride, not online guesses. Height, swim ability, weight, tube type, swimwear and weather can all affect whether a guest can ride.
Best First-Hour Plan at Lost Island Waterpark
The first hour decides whether the day feels smooth or chaotic. Use this simple route before crowds spread across the slides, wave pool and lazy river.
Buy online by the night before
Online waterpark tickets must be purchased by midnight before the visit date, so do not wait until the parking lot.
Use the waterpark address
Navigate to 2225 E. Shaulis Road, not the themepark address, if your plan is the waterpark.
Arrive before opening
Early arrival helps with parking, entry, seating, sunscreen, lockers and the first ride line.
Split by height
48-inch thrill riders should start with major slides. Smaller kids should start at Starfish Cove and kids play areas.
Use lazy river as the reset
After the first few slides, use the lazy river or wave pool to regroup before lunch.
Add go-karts or mini golf later
If your family still has energy after waterpark hours, check go-kart and mini-golf hours separately.
Cabanas, Deluxe Cabanas and Tsunami Bay Villas
Cabanas are useful at Lost Island because the park day can be hot, crowded and long. They are strongest for toddlers, grandparents, birthdays, larger families and visitors who want a fixed base instead of hunting for seating.
| Cabana option | Official signal | Best for | Planning note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Cabanas | Reserved seating for up to 6 guests; wheelchair accessible. | Smaller families and shade-focused visitors. | Additional guests may be added at check-in for an extra fee. |
| Deluxe Cabanas | Reserved seating for up to 8 guests; Barefoot Lounge location requires stairs. | Larger families wanting a better base. | Not ideal if stairs are a problem. |
| Tsunami Bay Villas | Seating for 12; pricing ranges listed by weekday/weekend. | Large groups, birthdays and premium comfort. | Official range examples show higher pricing Friday–Sunday than Monday–Thursday. |
| Cabana reservation map | Availability is shown after selecting your visit date. | Visitors comparing location and shade. | Book early on hot weekends; premium options can sell out. |
Cabana value rule: rent a cabana when shade, seating, food service, a meeting point or toddler breaks are worth more than squeezing the cheapest possible day.
Parking, Arrival and Reaching the Right Entrance
Lost Island Waterpark parking is listed at $10 per space. Since the waterpark, themepark, golf and go-karts are all part of the Lost Island visitor area, it is worth checking the exact address and parking plan before arrival.
Parking cost
Waterpark parking is listed at $10 per space while visiting.
Highway approach
Official directions reference Highway 20 and Highway 218 routes toward E. Shaulis Road.
Right destination
Use Lost Island Waterpark on maps if you bought waterpark admission, not themepark-only admission.
Food, Drinks and Dining at Lost Island Waterpark
Lost Island Waterpark lists dining options inside the waterpark, including Castaway Cafe, High Tide Pizza and Treetop Cafe. Plan food before everyone is tired, hot and hungry.
Castaway Cafe
Useful for a main food stop inside the waterpark.
High Tide Pizza
Good for families who want a simple, shareable food option.
Treetop Cafe
Another on-site option to check when building your lunch plan.
Parent tip: eat before peak hunger. A waterpark day usually goes smoother when lunch happens before kids are overheated and lines are longest.
Rules, Lockers and What to Bring
Lost Island’s official “What to Bring” page recommends practical waterpark extras such as footwear, goggles, life jackets, empty water bottles and waterproof phone cases. Always check current bag, food, swimwear and safety rules before packing.
Bring these
- Online ticket confirmation or season pass information.
- Swimsuits, towels, sunscreen and dry clothes.
- Footwear for hot pavement and walking between areas.
- Goggles if your child uses them safely.
- Life jacket if your family prefers your own Coast Guard-approved option.
- Empty water bottles and waterproof phone protection.
Check before bringing
- Outside food and drink policy.
- Swimwear restrictions for slides.
- Ride height and tube requirements.
- Locker location and current pricing.
- Weather delay or storm rules.
- Cabana check-in and extra-guest rules.
Best Lost Island Plan by Visitor Type
A toddler family, teen group, two-park visitor and grandparent-led family should not follow the same plan.
Toddlers
Start at Starfish Cove, splash pad and kid-friendly areas. Bring swim diapers and take short shade breaks.
42-inch kids
Check which slides allow 42 inches with an adult and which require 48 inches to ride alone.
48-inch thrill riders
Start with major slides such as Molokini Crater, Lost Soul Falls and other high-thrill attractions.
Grandparents
Consider cabanas, shaded seating, lazy river time and a slower route instead of a full thrill-slide plan.
Budget families
Buy online by the night before, include parking, skip unnecessary upgrades and pack smart essentials.
Two-park families
Compare Island Pass terms if you want waterpark and themepark over two consecutive days.
Birthdays
Book cabanas or villas early if you need seating, shade and a central gathering spot.
Weather-watch visitors
Check the official calendar and weather updates before driving to an outdoor waterpark day.
Lost Island Waterpark Packing Checklist
Pack for a hot outdoor Iowa waterpark day. Keep valuables minimal, organize kids by height and make sure your phone can survive water, sunscreen and wet hands.
Pack these
- Ticket confirmation, payment card and ID.
- Swimwear that follows slide rules.
- Towels, sunscreen and dry clothes.
- Water shoes or sandals for hot ground.
- Waterproof phone pouch.
- Empty water bottles if allowed under current rules.
Plan these
- $10 parking per space.
- Locker or cabana for valuables.
- Lunch timing and dining location.
- Family meeting point.
- Height-rule backup attractions.
- Go-kart or mini-golf add-on timing.
Watch Lost Island Waterpark Before You Buy
A video preview helps first-time visitors understand the slide scale, lazy river, wave pool, kids areas and tropical layout. Use videos for visual planning only; use official pages for current prices, hours and rules.
Video planning tip
Open recent Lost Island Waterpark Waterloo videos before choosing your first three must-do attractions and deciding whether a cabana is worth it.
Open Video SearchLost Island Waterpark FAQ
Where is Lost Island Waterpark located?
Lost Island Waterpark is located at 2225 E. Shaulis Road, Waterloo, IA 50701.
What is the Lost Island Waterpark phone number?
The official waterpark pages list 319-455-6702.
How much are Lost Island Waterpark tickets in 2026?
Official waterpark admission currently lists online day passes for adults and children age 4+ ranging from $32.00 to $36.00 plus tax when purchased by midnight before the visit date.
Are children free at Lost Island Waterpark?
Children ages 3 and under are listed as free and do not need a ticket when entering with a paid guest.
Can I buy tickets at the gate?
Yes, but gate pricing is listed separately and can be higher. Buying online by midnight before the visit date is usually the smarter planning move.
What are Lost Island Waterpark hours?
In-season waterpark hours are generally listed as 10:30AM to 6:30PM. Always check the official calendar for your exact date.
How much is parking at Lost Island Waterpark?
Official directions and parking information lists waterpark parking at $10 per space while visiting.
What address should I use for the waterpark?
Use 2225 E. Shaulis Road, Waterloo, IA 50701 for Lost Island Waterpark. The themepark uses a different nearby address.
Is Lost Island Waterpark the same as Lost Island Themepark?
No. They are related Waterloo attractions, but the waterpark and themepark have different admission pages, maps and ride lists.
Does Lost Island have a two-park pass?
Yes. The Island Pass is listed as valid for admission at the waterpark or themepark on two consecutive days, with official pricing and terms shown on the Lost Island ticket page.
What rides are best for thrill riders?
Thrill riders should look at major slides such as Molokini Crater, Lost Soul Falls, Wailua Kupua, Emerald Adventure, Jade Rapids, Polynesian Plunge and Samoan Splash, based on height and safety rules.
What areas are best for small kids?
Starfish Cove, mini slides, splash pad, splash zone and other kids attractions are better starting points for younger children.
Does Lost Island have height requirements?
Yes. Most attractions have height requirements, and several major slides use 42-inch with adult and 48-inch alone rules. Always check official ride pages and posted signs.
Does Lost Island have a lazy river?
Yes. The waterpark map and overview include a lazy river as part of the waterpark layout.
Does Lost Island have a wave pool?
Yes. The waterpark includes a wave pool and family water attractions.
Are cabanas available?
Yes. Lost Island offers Standard Cabanas, Deluxe Cabanas and Tsunami Bay Villas with different capacity, location and pricing rules.
Are lockers available?
Yes. Lost Island has a waterpark locker page. Check the official locker page for current pricing and location before visiting.
What dining options are at the waterpark?
Official waterpark pages list dining options such as Castaway Cafe, High Tide Pizza and Treetop Cafe.
What should I bring to Lost Island Waterpark?
Bring tickets, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, footwear, waterproof phone protection, dry clothes and any child-specific items such as swim diapers.
Is Lost Island Waterpark worth it?
Yes, it is a strong Iowa waterpark choice if your family wants major slides, a wave pool, lazy river, kids areas, cabanas and extra Lost Island entertainment nearby.
Final Take: Is Lost Island Waterpark Worth It in 2026?
Lost Island Waterpark is worth considering if your family wants a full outdoor Iowa waterpark day with tropical theming, major slides, a lazy river, wave pool, toddler areas, cabanas, dining and nearby go-karts or mini golf.
The smartest plan is simple: buy online by midnight before your visit, use the waterpark address, check the exact calendar, add parking to your budget, group your kids by height, do major slides early, use the lazy river as a reset, and keep the themepark ticket separate unless you are buying a two-day Island Pass.