Summer is here! It's time for new adventures and fun-filled days. The long-awaited opening of Southshore Bay Lagoon, the second man-made lagoon in the Tampa area, couldn't have come at a better time! My family and I were invited to visit the lagoon this past weekend and we had a blast experiencing over 5 acres of fun in the sun with everything from floating water obstacles to kayaks and paddleboards, AquaBanas to splash pads for the kids. It doesn't matter if you like pools or the beach, being active or relaxing - the Southshore Bay Lagoon is guaranteed to have something that the whole family can enjoy together. A massive pool of crystal-clear water, cabanas, a variety of water sports, lawn games, food trucks and frozen concoctions, live musical entertainment and a robust calendar featuring events like movie nights and yoga are all in store for you at Southshore Bay Lagoon.
Southshore Bay Lagoon, located in Wimauma, is about 25 miles from Bradenton. I loved that instead of battling stop-and-go beach traffic for an hour, we flew down 75 and in just 30 minutes we had arrived. The rest of our day was full of swimming, splashing, kayaking, water sliding, drinking, eating and overall having a blast!
If you are ready to visit Southshore Lagoon, this is what you need to know!
Tickets
A lagoon pass is required to enter the park. Passes can be purchased online HERE. Days can sell out so be sure to purchase your pass in plenty of time. Included with your pass is an unforgettable day in paradise - sandy beaches, swimming in the clear blue waters, unlimited rides on the water slide, access to the kiddie splash pad area, family lawn games, beach volleyball, and a swim-up bar. The Day Pass is $35 for adults and $25 for children Monday through Friday and $40 for adults and $25 for children Saturday and Sunday. (Children are considered ages 4 to 12, and children 3 and under are free). There is also an option for a Late Day Pass which is $30 and gives you access to the same amenities, only after 3PM. The Lagoon is open daily from 10AM to 8PM. There is no charge for parking. Tickets and activities are nontransferable, nonrefundable, and cannot be canceled or refunded, including in the case of inclement weather.
Additional Activities
Southshore Bay Lagoon is a family friendly destination for all ages - from toddlers to adults! Bring some sand toys so the kids can play in the sand. Water noodles are allowed. The zero-entry pools and wading areas are the perfect spot to play with little ones. Be sure to visit Gasparilla Island where there is a splash pad and water bubblers that kids will love to play in.
Kids (and adults!) of all ages will love the water slide, which is included in your daily admission. Guests must be a minimum of 42 inches tall to enjoy the water slide.
If you need a break from the pool activities and sun, there are a number of fun options, all in the shade of the covered courtyard. Enjoy listening to live music, catch a movie or take part in organized yard games and tournaments - we participated in a cornhole tournament (and came in 3rd place - not too shabby!) There is a Kids Club every day from 11AM to 2PM during which time they bring out various yard games, hula hoops and crafts. There is also an inflatable slide. Check out their monthly calendar of events HERE.
Add-On Activities
If you want more action than soaking up the sun poolside, you are in luck!
Water Obstacle Course ~ For only $12, kids and adults alike can take on the challenge of the floating obstacle course. Climb, scoot, swing, jump, slide - you will stay busy and, as I found out, it is quite the workout to keep up with the kids! The course is 45 minutes and begins at the top of every hour. My kids (ages 8 and 14) absolutely LOVED the obstacle course! It is required that everyone wear a life jacket (which are provided complimentary) while on the obstacle course and there are lifeguards present. For kids to participate on the obstacle course they must be a minimum of 48 inches tall, be 6 years of age or older and be able to swim. Children under the age of 14 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
Kayaks and paddleboards ~ Experience the lagoon from a different vantage point! Single and double kayaks and stand-up paddle boards are available for one-hour sessions. My daughter and I tried this for the first time and besides capsizing the boat, we had a blast! The cost is $12 for one hour. Children must be at least 8 years old to ride alone and must know how to swim. Children ages 8 and under must be in a double kayak with an adult.
Cabana Rentals
Want the best seats during your stay? There are a number of options to choose from - from basic beach umbrellas and premium seating to the Clamshell Lounger and Premium Cabanas. There is the option to book your cabanas when purchasing your tickets, which I highly suggest doing. They do sell out quickly, especially the ultimate lagoon experience - the AquaBana. This is a floating cabana exclusively for you and your friends - it seats 6 people comfortably and no more than 10 people are allowed on at one time. Plus, you will also have access to Cabana Cove's private bar. Pure heaven! There were only 2 AquaBanas when we went - hopefully they will get some more!
Food and Drinks
Be sure to come hungry and visit one of the many food trucks visiting Southshore Bay Lagoon. The trucks alternate, but while we were there, the available food trucks offered family favorites including tacos, hamburgers, chicken nuggets, Philly cheese steak and, of course, a variety of ice cream deserts, popsicles and miniature cakes. No outside food, beverages or coolers are allowed at the lagoon. You can bring in a water bottle that can be refilled at their water stations. Infant formula and baby food are permitted.
Southshore Bay's Lagoon Bar is a fun swim-up tiki bar that serves a variety of yummy frozen concoctions. It also so happens to be located right in front of the floating obstacle course, so you can feel comfortable sending your kids off to enjoy the course while you have some adult fun at the bar, all while being able to keep a watchful eye on your kids. Check out the menu of tropical drinks.
Southshore Bay Lagoon was an amazing experience, and it should definitely be on your summer bucket list of fun to do!
Southshore Bay Lagoon is located at 16881 Lagoon Shore Blvd, Wimauma, FL 33598. Visit them online HERE.
I was provided complimentary tickets for the purpose of this review. All opinions stated are my own.
