Planning a family vacation to Rapid City or the Black Hills? Below you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about WaTiki® Indoor Waterpark Resort, one of the top family-friendly indoor waterpark resorts in South Dakota.
What is the temperature inside the waterpark?
WaTiki® Indoor Waterpark is kept at a comfortable 84 degrees year‑round, so families can splash, swim, and relax no matter the season or weather outside.
What are the hours for WaTiki®?
Waterpark hours vary by season and day of the week. We recommend checking our website before your visit for the most up‑to‑date hours when planning your Rapid City trip. View
hours.
What are the waterpark’s greatest features?
WaTiki® Indoor Waterpark features three large waterslides, including tube slides and the Seahorse body slide, all connected by our lazy river. Guests can also enjoy an activity pool with lily pads, and basketball hoops, as well as Koko’s Kingdom—our interactive kids’ area with mini slides and a giant dumping bucket that splashes every few minutes. For relaxation, the Oasis hot tub offers a calm place to unwind after a day of fun.
What is the maximum capacity of the waterpark?
For guest comfort and safety, WaTiki® Indoor Waterpark has a maximum capacity of 635 guests.
What amenities are offered inside the waterpark?
In addition to slides, pools, and play areas, WaTiki® offers complimentary towels for both hotel and day‑pass guests, along with convenient table‑side food and beverage service from Sliders Bar and Grill so you can spend more time enjoying your day.
How is the pool sanitized?
WaTiki® Indoor Waterpark meets all South Dakota health standards and uses a multi‑step sanitation process that includes regulated chlorine levels, UV filtration, continuous Ecolab monitoring, and frequent manual testing by certified pool operators. This system ensures clean, safe water throughout every day of operation.
How do you regulate air quality?
Our indoor waterpark uses advanced air‑handling systems that continuously filter, heat, and dehumidify the air. This process helps maintain guest comfort while reducing humidity and airborne contaminants.
What are your guidelines for swimwear?
Proper swimwear is required at all times. Guests should wear swimsuits or swim trunks with bare feet or swim shoes. Street clothes are not permitted in the pools or attractions.
Do you provide towels?
Yes. Complimentary towels are provided for both hotel guests and day‑pass visitors. Guests are also welcome to bring their own towels if they prefer.
Do you provide life jackets?
Yes. Complimentary life jackets are available inside the waterpark and can be found near Koko’s Kingdom.
Do you provide tubes for the slides?
Yes. Tubes are provided on a first‑come, first‑served basis. Guests are encouraged to return unused tubes near the slides so everyone can enjoy the attractions.
Do you have lockers?
Yes. Lockers are available for rent in the locker rooms and can be accessed throughout the day. Lockers may be rented using cash or credit card.
Are showers available?
Showers are available in the men’s and women’s locker rooms. Toiletries are not provided.
Can children wear diapers?
Children who are not potty‑trained must wear waterproof swim diapers at all times. Swim diapers are available for purchase in the arcade.
What age is required for the Oasis hot tub?
The Oasis hot tub is designated for guests 12 years and older, unless accompanied by an adult.
What other non-water activities can I expect at WaTiki®?
When you’re ready for a break from swimming, Koko’s Arcade on the second floor offers a variety of games for all ages. Arcade cards can be purchased with cash or credit card, and tickets earned can be redeemed at the arcade shop.
Do you have a gift shop?
Yes. Our gift shop is located inside Koko’s Arcade on the second floor.
Is internet access available?
Yes. Free high‑speed wireless internet is available throughout the waterpark.
Where is Lost & Found located?
Each WaTiki® property maintains its own Lost & Found. Guests should contact us through our
online form regarding items lost in the waterpark, hotels, or dining areas.
Is the resort wheelchair accessible?
Yes. WaTiki® Indoor Waterpark Resort is wheelchair accessible. Additional details are available on our
Accessibility page.
Are waterslides wheelchair accessible?
While the waterslides themselves are not wheelchair accessible, the lazy river and activity pool are accessible.
Does the resort have an ATM?
ATMs are located in each hotel and inside Sliders Bar & Grill.
Are chairs available for belongings?
Yes. Chairs and tables are available inside the waterpark on a first‑come basis. Guests may also reserve a table for guaranteed seating, towels, and arcade perks. Lockers are also available for rent.
Should I reserve a table at the waterpark in advance?
Yes—we highly recommend
reserving a table online before your visit to guarantee your space. The waterpark can fill up quickly, especially during weekends and peak times. Hotel guests can also reserve a table in advance for the dates of their stay, making it easy to relax and enjoy more time in the fun.
What happens if there is lightning near WaTiki®?
At WaTiki®, the safety of our Guests is our top priority. Because our facility includes a metal structure, we closely monitor weather conditions and may temporarily close certain areas during lightning activity.
- When lightning is detected within 10 miles, the slide tower will temporarily close
- When lightning is detected within 5 miles, the entire waterpark will temporarily close
These precautions are in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all Guests.
Is my child safe in the waterpark?
Yes. Certified lifeguards are on duty daily, but parents and guardians should always supervise children while enjoying the waterpark.
How many waterpark passes are included?
Waterpark passes are included based on the maximum occupancy of your room. If you need additional passes beyond what is included with your stay, they can be conveniently purchased at your hotel’s front desk upon arrival at a discounted guest rate.
What are the benefits of staying at a WaTiki® hotel?
Staying at a WaTiki® hotel means included waterpark access, convenient indoor connections, on‑site dining and Starbucks, and a variety of hotel options perfect for families, extended stays, and business travelers visiting Rapid City and the Black Hills.
What amenities does La Quinta Inn & Suites at WaTiki® offer?
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham is directly connected to the waterpark and offers a comfortable, budget‑friendly option for families and travelers with pets. Guests enjoy complimentary breakfast, free Wi‑Fi, free parking, and pet‑friendly accommodations. The hotel features meeting spaces, a fitness center, on‑site guest laundry, and a business center. WaTiki® Indoor Waterpark passes are included with every stay, making it a convenient and welcoming choice for Rapid City visitors.
What amenities does Residence Inn by Marriott at WaTiki® offer?
Residence Inn by Marriott is newly remodeled and ideal for families and longer stays. Guests enjoy spacious suites with kitchenettes, complimentary breakfast, free Wi‑Fi, and free coffee and tea in the lobby. The hotel offers a fitness center, business center, meeting spaces, on‑site laundry, convenience store, outdoor firepit, and outdoor grills. The property is pet‑friendly, and WaTiki® Indoor Waterpark passes are included with every stay. Residence Inn is connected to the waterpark via an indoor hallway connector for year‑round convenience.
What amenities does Fairfield by Marriott at WaTiki® offer?
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott is directly connected to WaTiki® Indoor Waterpark, making it a favorite for families who want quick and easy access to the fun. Guests receive complimentary breakfast, free Wi‑Fi, and free coffee and tea in the lobby. Amenities include a fitness center, business center, on‑site laundry, convenience store, outdoor firepits, and room service. WaTiki® Indoor Waterpark passes are included with every stay, providing excellent value for family getaways.
What amenities does Home2 Suites by Hilton at WaTiki® offer?
Home2 Suites by Hilton is newly renovated and designed for extended stays and families who want extra space. Guests enjoy suites with kitchenettes, free hot breakfast, free Wi‑Fi, free parking, and pet‑friendly rooms. Additional amenities include a fitness center and business center. WaTiki® Indoor Waterpark passes are included with every stay, and the hotel is connected to the waterpark by an indoor hallway connector—making it an ideal home base for longer Rapid City vacations.
What amenities does Courtyard by Marriott at WaTiki® offer?
Courtyard by Marriott is a top choice for business travelers and event guests. The hotel offers free Wi‑Fi, a large fitness center, on‑site laundry, convenience store, business center, and multiple meeting spaces for conferences and events. The Bistro Bar is located on site for food and drinks. Courtyard is directly connected to The Box Elder Events Center and is adjacent to WaTiki® Indoor Waterpark. WaTiki® Indoor Waterpark passes are included with every stay, making it a popular option for guests balancing work and leisure.
Does WaTiki® offer birthday parties?
Yes! WaTiki® Indoor Waterpark is the ultimate destination for unforgettable birthday celebrations. With water slides, pools, arcade fun, and on‑site dining, birthday parties at WaTiki® are designed to make every guest feel like the guest of honor. Book your party
here.
What is included in Koko’s Kowabunga Birthday Party Package?
Koko’s Kowabunga Birthday Party Package includes a two‑hour reserved table inside WaTiki®, all‑day waterpark admission for up to eight swimmers, party essentials such as plates, cups, and utensils, and delicious pizza and beverages from Sliders Bar & Grill. Each swimmer also receives arcade play, and the birthday guest of honor enjoys special WaTiki® surprises, including a WaTiki® gift, birthday T‑shirt, and bonus arcade play.
Can we bring our own food or cake?
Guests are welcome to bring a birthday cake or desserts for their celebration. Outside food and beverages are not permitted in the waterpark, with the exception of cake for birthday parties.
How long can we stay in the waterpark during a birthday party?
While the reserved table is available for two hours, waterpark admission passes included with the party are valid for the entire day. Guests may arrive early and stay as long as they’d like while the waterpark is open.
Do birthday parties need to be booked in advance?
Yes. To ensure availability and the best experience, birthday parties should be scheduled at least 72 hours in advance. Changes to guest counts should also be made at least 72 hours prior to the event.
