Planning a visit to Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark at North Charleston Wannamaker County Park? This 2026 guide covers verified admission prices, the full seasonal schedule, late-day discounts, lockers, season passes, The Washout, Rip Tide Run, Tubular Twister, the 870-foot Rollin’ River, Big Kahuna wave pool, kids’ areas, height and weight rules, food policies, weather returns, accessibility, birthday packages and the best way to plan a mixed-age family day.
- Under 48″: $20.99
- Senior 60+: $15.99
- Ages 2 & under: free
- After 3 PM Mon–Fri: $16.99
- Lockers: $10 / $12 / $15
Build Your Whirlin’ Waters Day
Choose your group and arrival style to get a practical starting plan.
What Is Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark?
Whirlin’ Waters is a seasonal outdoor waterpark operated by the Charleston County Park & Recreation Commission inside North Charleston Wannamaker County Park. At more than 15 acres, it is the largest of the county’s three waterparks and is designed for both thrill riders and younger families.
Large Thrill Slides
The Washout, Tubular Twister and Rip Tide Run give older or taller visitors the park’s most energetic rides.
870-Foot Lazy River
Rollin’ River is one of the park’s most useful attractions for mixed-age groups and mid-day recovery.
Young-Kid Areas
Otter Bay, Lily Pad Lagoon and Big Splash Tree House give smaller visitors alternatives to the major slide towers.
Whirlin’ Waters Ticket Prices 2026
Charleston County Parks published fixed 2026 admission categories based on height, age and visit timing. Group-ticket information also states that waterpark rates are subject to a 5% admissions tax.
| Admission Category | 2026 Price | Approx. With 5% Admissions Tax | Important Detail |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Admission | $25.99 | ≈ $27.29 | Main full-day rate. |
| Under 48 Inches | $20.99 | ≈ $22.04 | Reduced price also reflects that several major rides require 48 inches. |
| Senior Age 60+ | $15.99 | ≈ $16.79 | Published senior rate. |
| Children 2 & Under | Free | $0 | Swim-diaper rule still applies. |
| Group of 20+ | $20.99 | ≈ $22.04 | Useful for camps, organizations and larger gatherings. |
| After 3 PM Mon–Fri | $16.99 | ≈ $17.84 | Not valid on Memorial Day, July 4 or Labor Day. |
Best Published 2026 Discount for a Short Visit
The most straightforward public late-day saving was the $16.99 after-3-PM weekday rate. It worked Monday through Friday on qualifying days but excluded Memorial Day, July 4 and Labor Day.
Whirlin’ Waters Family Cost Calculator
This estimator uses the published 2026 admission prices and 5% admissions-tax information. Add a locker if needed. Food, souvenirs and any separately applicable county-park gate charge are not automatically included.
Whirlin’ Waters Hours & 2026 Schedule
Whirlin’ Waters did not operate daily for the entire summer. Charleston County Parks used weekend-only periods at the start and end of the season with daily operation during the main summer block.
| 2026 Period | Days | Published Hours | Planning Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 16 through Memorial Day period | Weekends | 10 AM–6 PM | Early-season weekend operation. |
| May 30–August 9 | Monday–Friday | 10 AM–5 PM | Main summer weekday schedule. |
| May 30–August 9 | Saturday & Sunday | 10 AM–6 PM | Longer weekend operating day. |
| August 15–September 7 | Weekends / Labor Day period | 10 AM–6 PM | Late-season weekend-only operation. |
| After September 7 | — | Closed | Regular 2026 swimming season finished. |
Whirlin’ Waters Rides & Height Requirements
Whirlin’ Waters works well for mixed-age families because its attractions range from a 60-foot multi-person slide to toddler play. But the 42-inch and 48-inch thresholds change the day considerably.
The Washout
48″ minimum 2–4 ridersA roughly 60-foot-tall multi-person raft attraction and one of the park’s signature thrill experiences.
Blue slide combined rider weight: 150–500 lb.
No single riders.
Rip Tide Run
42″ minimum Mat racerMulti-lane racing attraction for visitors who want competition rather than a slow family float.
Tubular Twister
48″ minimumMajor tube-slide complex aimed at taller riders who meet the published manufacturer safety threshold.
Big Kahuna
Wave pool Zero-depth entryLarge wave-pool attraction with an accessible gradual entry. It works well as a shared family attraction between slide sessions.
Rollin’ River
870 feet Lazy riverCharleston County Parks describes Rollin’ River as an approximately 870-foot lazy river.
Big Splash Tree House
Family play 42″ slide minimumLarge interactive play structure for children and families.
Otter Bay
Younger kidsKiddie water-play area designed for families whose younger children are not ready for the larger slide towers.
Lily Pad Lagoon
Toddler friendly Zero-depth entryLower-intensity play area and useful base for families visiting with toddlers or preschool-age children.
Tubes & Mats
ProvidedCharleston County Parks states that inner tubes and mats are available for attractions that use them.
Best Whirlin’ Waters Areas by Child Height & Age
| Visitor Type | Good Starting Areas | Main Limitation | Family Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toddlers | Lily Pad Lagoon, Otter Bay | Not eligible for major slides | Build around shallow play, shade and shorter swim blocks. |
| Under 42″ | Young-child zones, wave pool and eligible family areas | Major slide tower restrictions | Do not center the visit on racer or thrill slides. |
| 42–47″ | Rip Tide Run, Big Splash Tree House slide, family attractions | The Washout and Tubular Twister still unavailable | Split briefly from 48″+ riders, then regroup at the river. |
| 48″+ | The Washout, Tubular Twister, Rip Tide Run | Ride-specific weight and safety rules | Do thrill rides early, then share family attractions later. |
Child Supervision Rule
Charleston County Parks requires children age 12 and younger to remain under the supervision of an adult age 18 or older. The agency also suggests approximately one chaperone for every eight children.
Swim Diapers
Children age 2 and under must wear swim diapers. Charleston County Parks says swim diapers are available for purchase.
Whirlin’ Waters Locker Prices 2026
The official 2026 waterpark listing publishes three full-day locker sizes.
Full-day rental.
Useful for several guests sharing valuables.
Largest published 2026 locker option.
What Should Go in the Locker?
- Car keys.
- Wallets and unnecessary payment cards.
- Non-waterproof electronics.
- Jewelry and unsecured valuables.
- Dry clothes.
- Anything you do not want unattended at a lounge chair.
Charleston County Waterpark Season Passes 2026
Plus tax, per person.
- Unlimited Whirlin’ Waters admission.
- Unlimited Splash Zone admission.
- Unlimited Splash Island admission.
- Qualifying county-park gate entry during waterpark season.
Plus tax, per person.
- Unlimited Splash Zone admission.
- Unlimited Splash Island admission.
- Discounted Whirlin’ Waters admission of $15.99.
- Qualifying gate entry for the included county parks.
Families comparing Charleston County Parks options can use our Splash Zone Waterpark 2026 guide to compare its lower admission price, 500-foot lazy river, 200-foot slides and separate James Island County Park gate fee.
Food, Drinks, Picnic Lunches & Re-Entry
Charleston County Parks prohibits outside food and beverages, including alcohol, inside Whirlin’ Waters. Food, drinks and souvenir items are sold in the facility.
Inside the Waterpark
Use park concessions for meals, drinks and snacks.
Want a Bag Lunch?
Outside lunches can remain outside Whirlin’ Waters. Wannamaker County Park has picnic areas where families can eat.
Same-Day Re-Entry
Get a hand stamp at the front admission gate before exiting if you plan to return the same day.
Important Whirlin’ Waters Rules
Hard plastic and metal embellishments that can damage slides are not permitted.
Shared life jackets are available in multiple sizes. Bring your own if a specific fit is important.
Smoking and electronic cigarettes are prohibited.
Pets are prohibited except qualifying service animals. Pets may not be left in vehicles.
Outside food, drinks and alcohol are prohibited inside the waterpark.
Glass, knives, grills, boogie boards and radios are listed among prohibited items.
Allowed Personal Flotation Devices
Charleston County Parks allows certain personal flotation devices only with adult supervision, including:
- Child’s inner tube with built-in seat.
- “Swimmies.”
- Bathing suits with built-in flotation.
Whirlin’ Waters Rain & Severe Weather Policy
Whirlin’ Waters is fully outdoors, so Lowcountry thunderstorms can interrupt operating days.
Park Closure
If severe weather closes the waterpark, guests are instructed to leave the facility and seek shelter in their vehicles.
One-Time Return
Guests may use their dated receipt for one future re-entry during the same waterpark season.
No Refund
Charleston County Parks states that refunds are not provided under the severe-weather policy.
Whirlin’ Waters Accessibility Information
Charleston County Parks publishes unusually useful facility-level accessibility information for Whirlin’ Waters.
Accessible Parking & Routes
Accessible parking and a paved route to the entrance are listed, along with paved accessible pathways through the facility.
Zero-Depth Entries
Zero-depth access is listed at Big Kahuna, Rollin’ River and Lily Pad Lagoon.
Water Wheelchairs
A limited number are available free on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are not accepted.
Accessible Facilities
Accessible restrooms, showers and lockers are listed among the waterpark’s features.
Lowered Counters
Main concessions and Dippin’ Dots include lowered counters.
Shade & Seating
Accessible picnic tables and shade structures are available around the facility.
2026 Inclusive Swim Nights
Charleston County Parks also scheduled sensory-friendly Inclusive Swim Nights at Whirlin’ Waters on July 16 and July 25, 2026 from 6:30–8:30 PM. Admission was $10, with free admission for Super Splash Pass holders. These 2026 dates have passed, but future visitors who benefit from smaller crowds should watch for the next Inclusive Swim schedule.
Whirlin’ Waters Birthday Party Package 2026
For 10 people, including the guest of honor.
- All-day Whirlin’ Waters admission.
- Reserved party area for two hours.
- Four tables.
- Guest-of-honor gift.
- Pitchers of lemonade and water.
Plus tax per additional guest.
- Maximum party size: 30.
- Reservations required at least 7 days ahead.
- Full payment due when booking.
- 16-inch cheese or pepperoni pizza: $22 + tax.
Can You Bring a Birthday Cake?
With the official party package, groups may bring their own cake and ice cream. Other outside food and drinks remain prohibited inside Whirlin’ Waters.
Large Group & Private Waterpark Rental
Schools, companies and large organizations can rent Whirlin’ Waters privately outside normal public operating hours during the waterpark season.
Charleston County Parks says private reservations must be made at least 14 days in advance and attractions remain staffed by certified lifeguards during the rental.
What Else Is at Wannamaker County Park?
Whirlin’ Waters sits within a much larger county park, which makes it easier to build a picnic, playground or trail break into the day.
Woodlands, wetlands and open recreation areas.
About two miles of paved walking/biking trail.
18-hole disc-golf course.
Two playgrounds plus seasonal sprinkler play.
Tables and grills outside the waterpark.
Sand volleyball court.
Separate dog recreation area in the county park.
Bike and kayak rentals are among park amenities.
Best Whirlin’ Waters First-Hour Plan
What to Bring to Whirlin’ Waters
Pack
- Ticket or pass information.
- Proper swimsuit.
- Towels.
- Sunscreen.
- Dry clothes.
- Swim diaper for children age 2 and under.
- Personal correctly fitted life jacket if needed.
- Waterproof phone protection.
- Payment method.
- Picnic food kept outside the waterpark if planning an outside meal.
Do Not Bring Into the Waterpark
- Outside food or beverages.
- Alcohol.
- Glass items.
- Knives or sharp items.
- Grills.
- Boogie boards.
- Radios.
- Pets other than service animals.
- Slide-damaging swimwear with hard metal/plastic embellishments.
Whirlin’ Waters Map, Address & Directions
Whirlin’ Waters is inside North Charleston Wannamaker County Park. Use the full 8888 University Boulevard address in your navigation app so you arrive at the correct county-park entrance.
Compare Whirlin’ Waters With Other Family Waterparks
Whirlin’ Waters is the largest Charleston County Parks waterpark, but it is not necessarily the best fit for every family. Smaller children, South Carolina road trips and resort vacations can justify a different option.
Want a Smaller Charleston Waterpark?
The closest useful comparison is Splash Zone Waterpark at James Island County Park . It has lower admission, two 200-foot slides, a 500-foot lazy river and the Rainforest family play area.
Comparing South Carolina Public Waterparks?
Hartsville’s Neptune Island Waterpark visitor guide is useful for comparing Whirlin’ Waters with another South Carolina public waterpark that has a wave pool, long lazy river, kids’ splash area and major slides.
Want Waterpark + Myrtle Beach Hotel?
Whirlin’ Waters is a day-trip waterpark, while Crown Reef Resort & Waterpark in Myrtle Beach combines lodging, beach access, slides, pools and a long lazy river.
Comparing County-Operated Family Parks?
Our Calypso Bay Waterpark ticket and family guide provides another useful example of a lower-cost county-operated park with slides, a long river ride, children’s play and seasonal hours.
10 Whirlin’ Waters Mistakes to Avoid
Height determines most thrill-ride access.
Food and drinks cannot be brought inside.
You need it for same-day re-entry.
Add $10–$15 if you want secure storage.
Early and late season were weekends only.
Qualifying weekdays offered cheaper after-3-PM admission.
The policy offers future re-entry, not a cash refund.
Required for children age 2 and under.
Charleston County Parks recommends securing valuables.
Estimate realistic visits before choosing Basic or Super.
Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark FAQ 2026
How much were Whirlin’ Waters tickets in 2026?
General admission was $25.99 per person, guests under 48 inches were $20.99, seniors age 60+ were $15.99, and children age 2 and under were free. Applicable admissions tax may be additional.
When was Whirlin’ Waters open in 2026?
The park opened weekends beginning May 16, operated daily from May 30 through August 9, returned to weekend-only operation beginning August 15, and closed for the regular season after September 7, 2026.
What were the main 2026 operating hours?
During the main May 30–August 9 period, Whirlin’ Waters was open Monday through Friday from 10 AM–5 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM–6 PM. Weekend-only periods generally used 10 AM–6 PM hours.
How tall do you need to be for The Washout?
The Washout requires riders to be at least 48 inches tall. It carries two to four riders per raft and also has combined rider-weight requirements.
How long is the Whirlin’ Waters lazy river?
Rollin’ River is approximately 870 feet long. It is one of the park’s main family and lower-intensity attractions.
How much were lockers at Whirlin’ Waters?
Full-day locker rentals were listed at $10 for regular, $12 for large and $15 for jumbo.
Can you bring outside food into Whirlin’ Waters?
No. Charleston County Parks prohibits outside food and beverages inside the waterpark. Guests may leave for a picnic elsewhere in Wannamaker County Park and return the same day with a hand stamp.
Can you leave Whirlin’ Waters and return the same day?
Yes. Guests who want same-day re-entry must get their hand stamped at the front admission gate before leaving the waterpark.
What happens if severe weather closes Whirlin’ Waters?
Guests are instructed to leave the waterpark and shelter in their vehicles. A dated receipt may be used for a one-time future admission redemption during the same season. Refunds are not issued.
Is Whirlin’ Waters accessible for wheelchair users?
The facility lists accessible parking, paved pathways, accessible restrooms, showers and lockers, accessible picnic tables, zero-depth entries at several attractions and a limited number of free first-come, first-served water wheelchairs.
Official Information Checked
This independent guide was researched primarily from current Charleston County Park & Recreation Commission pages rather than third-party ticket or coupon sites.
Independent visitor guide: USWaterParkGuide.org is not Charleston County Park & Recreation Commission, Wannamaker County Park or Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark. Admission prices, applicable tax, park gate treatment, hours, ride availability, height/weight restrictions, locker prices, pass benefits, food rules, event dates and weather procedures can change. Verify final information directly with Charleston County Parks before paying or traveling.