Adventure Island at Busch Gardens kicks off Tampa water park season March 9

Adventure Island, the water park right across the street from Busch Gardens Tampa, opens for the season on Saturday, March 9. While it might still seem a bit chilly for swimming, Florida temperatures can climb quickly this month, going from "winter" to "balmy" within a day.

The popular Tampa water park has a wide range of rides and attractions that run the gamut from relaxing to pure white knuckle. The kids have their own play areas, and those who want to kick back and relax can hang out in the Rambling Bayou (lazy river) or bob in the wave pool.

A variety of body slides and tube slides stand ready to take on the thrill seekers. Ride or tandem, depending on the ride, and get a group together for the Wahoo Run family inner tube ride.

There are plenty of places to dine, like Mango Joe's and the Surfside Cafe, so plan to make a day of it at the park. You can even rent a private cabana just for your family if you want your own personal home base. The cabanas have mini fridges and come with four loungers, four souvenir towels and assorted drinks.

Find operating hours and admission prices on www.adventureisland.com, and keep an eye out for Island Nights, which returns on June 13 on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights through August 10. Enjoy music, games, and tropical cuisine from 5 to 9 p.m. on those special nights.

If you're in the Orlando area, Aquatica, SeaWorld Orlando's water park, might be more convenient. The park just celebrated its fifth anniversary. Check out the party by going to this article.

Need advice or guidance from a Central Florida theme parks expert? Check out my ebooks for Kindle and Nook.

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, Orlando Theme Parks Examiner

Barb Nefer lives in the thick of the Orlando attractions area. She has an annual pass to all the major theme parks, from Disney and Universal to Legoland Florida, SeaWorld and Busch Gardens. Besides the parks, she covers a wide range of Florida tourist attractions, restaurants, and hotels. You...

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