With tentative glimpses of sunshine on the horizon, our thoughts turn to summer holidays. Aside from generous helpings of ice cream and hours a day spent on the beach, there’s really only one thing that makes a holiday truly special for little ones – waterparks. Inspired by an article recently posted on the travel comparison site dealchecker, here are the top 8 waterparks for Summer!

The World’s 8 Best Waterparks for Summer 2016

1. Aquaventure Waterpark

Dubai, UAE

Aquaventure is like a whole other world of aquatic antics and incredible rides. The park is home to a number of themed waterslides, river rides, a private beach and even a shark safari – more than enough to keep kids and parents amused for hours!

2. Siam Park

Adeje, Spain

Siam Park is one for life’s thrillseekers, with rides including The Dragon and Mekong Rapids offering adrenaline-fuelled experiences, and the Tower of Power plummeting for 28 metres. If you want to take things easy though, the Mai Thai River, Siam Beach and Floating Market are on hand for relaxation.

3. Wet ‘n’ Wild

Oahu, Hawaii

Wet ‘n’ Wild’s amazing range of rides and slides is enough for a whole day of water-themed fun. Keiki Love ‘sprayground’, Surf Sliders and Kapolei Kooler are available for younger kids, whilst Tornado drop and Shaka Slide kick things up a notch.

3. Beach Park

Aquiraz, Brazil

This creatively designed waterpark offers rides and attractions for all ages. Little ones are catered for with Aqua Circus, Treasure Island and Enchanted River, whilst more adventurous kids can enjoy themed flumes and the ‘Insane’ waterslide, stretching 43 metres towards the sky.

5. Waterbom Bali

Kuta, Indonesia

Offering a selection of incredible slides, flumes and pools nestled within tropical gardens, Waterbom Bali is the perfect family adventure. The park’s best feature is without a doubt double wave machine for joint surfing sessions!

6. Wild Wadi Waterpark

Dubai, UAE

Wild Wadi is renowned as one of the best waterparks in UAE. The Wipeout Riptide ride, Trantrum Alley and Flood River are constantly raved about, and Burj Surj, a huge, meandering waterslide and whirlpool is arguably its best feature. Sally and Flea recently spent some time at Wild Wadi, so take a look at what they thought of it. 

7. Tropical Islands

Krausnick, Germany

Tropical Islands is officially the world’s largest indoor waterpark, covering an area the size of eight football fields. As well as rides, slides and flumes, this waterpark also features a spa, sauna and artificial beach, and is open 24 hours a day!

8. Etnaland

Sicily, Italy

Slides including Big Toboggan and Rio Anaconda make this waterpark a brilliant destination for thrill-seeking families, whilst the Lazy River, and bubbling Hydro Pool are on hand for a more chilled experience too.

We have been to lots of waterparks including Blizzard Beach at Disney and The Sandcastle in the UK, but none of the above.  If it is just Europe you are interested in then check them out here. Have you visited any of them?  What is your favourite waterpark?