Inflatable water parks in Newport Beach are the ultimate way to combine sunshine, fun, and family time on the coast. While the city is best known for its beaches, harbor, and surf culture, it also has one of Southern California’s most exciting seasonal attractions: the Inflatable Aquatic Park at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort.
For families looking to add adventure to a summer staycation or visitors wanting an unforgettable day on the water, these floating playgrounds deliver climbing, sliding, bouncing, and splashing in a safe, scenic setting. In this guide, we’ll spotlight the Newport Dunes inflatable park, explain what makes it so special, share insider tips, and even touch on smaller inflatable setups nearby.
Newport Dunes Inflatable Aquatic Park: The Crown Jewel of Newport Beach
When most people think of inflatable water parks in Newport Beach, they’re thinking of the seasonal setup at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort. This is not a small floating bouncer — it’s an expansive aquatic playground that transforms the calm waters of the resort’s lagoon into a hub of energy every summer.
What You’ll Find on the Water
The inflatable park features more than 30 oversized play structures, designed for climbing, sliding, and bouncing. Highlights include:
- A 17-foot-tall water slide that sends riders splashing down into the lagoon.
- Iceberg-style climbing walls that challenge both kids and adults.
- Floating trampolines and runways where you can jump, tumble, or race friends.
- Jungle gym structures that test balance and coordination.
- Inflatable tunnels and obstacles that add variety and fun for repeat visits.
The resort has continued to expand the park, adding new inflatables in recent years to keep things fresh. It’s one of the largest and most creative inflatable parks in Orange County, and it draws both locals and visitors once the summer season kicks in.
Safe, Family-Friendly Fun
Safety is central to the experience. Lifeguards are on duty during operating hours, and all participants are required to wear provided life jackets. The lagoon’s calm, enclosed waters make it especially suitable for families, since there are no waves, rip currents, or boats moving through the play area. Parents can relax knowing the setup is designed with kids in mind, though it’s equally fun for adults who want to join in.
Hours, Season, and Pricing
The Inflatable Aquatic Park is a seasonal attraction, usually open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, with daily sessions offered. Tickets are sold per session (typically 2 hours long), and pricing varies for resort guests versus day visitors. Families staying at Newport Dunes often bundle inflatable play with overnight lodging, while locals sometimes book single sessions for a special day trip.
Amenities Right by the Lagoon
Another advantage of playing at Newport Dunes is that it’s not just about the inflatables. Right next to the park you’ll find:
- Moe B’s Munchies, a beachfront snack shack serving burgers, fries, and a full bar to enjoy cocktails and cold drinks.
- Shaded seating and beach cabana rentals for parents who prefer to watch from a comfortable spot.
- Restrooms, showers, and changing areas within easy reach.
- Resort dining and market options, so you can grab supplies or plan a picnic on the sand.
It’s an experience that goes beyond just bouncing on inflatables — it’s a whole day of recreation, food, and beachside atmosphere.
Why Newport Dunes Is More Than Just a Water Park
The Inflatable Aquatic Park is the star of summer, but what makes Newport Dunes truly unique is the way it integrates into the larger resort experience. Families don’t just come for two hours of fun — they stay, linger, and explore.
Stay Overnight in Style
Newport Dunes offers a variety of accommodations:
- RV sites with full hookups and easy lagoon access.
- Cozy cottages for those who want a more traditional lodging experience.
- Tent camping options for adventurous families.
This means you can turn a day at the inflatable park into a full weekend of waterfront living. Wake up by the bay, spend the morning paddling, then hit the inflatables in the afternoon.
Endless Waterfront Recreation
In addition to the inflatable park, the resort offers:
- Kayak and paddleboard rentals, perfect for calmer exploration of the Back Bay.
- Electric boat and Duffy rentals, letting families cruise the water at an easy pace.
- Sailing lessons and eco-tours, which connect play with education.
- A calm public beach lagoon where young children can safely splash without the intensity of the surf. Kids love to swim out to the giant floating whale named Moe B and jump off of it.
Community and Seasonal Events
Throughout the year, Newport Dunes hosts family movie nights on the beach, holiday festivals, and live entertainment. The inflatable park often becomes part of a larger day filled with community activity, especially during summer weekends.
Other Inflatable and Water Play Options in Newport Beach
While Newport Dunes is the standout destination for inflatable water fun, Newport Beach does have other smaller setups and water-play options that can complement a family itinerary.
- Community splash pads. Seasonal spraygrounds and public water-play areas run by the city are popular for toddlers and younger kids. They don’t offer the same scale as Newport Dunes but are free or low-cost alternatives.
- Harbor amusements. The Balboa Fun Zone, while not an inflatable park, includes kid-friendly attractions like small rides, arcades, and water-adjacent play. Sometimes seasonal inflatables or bounce features pop up here.
- Pop-up floats and seasonal events. During summer, smaller inflatable play structures sometimes appear at community events or private pool clubs. These are usually one-off experiences but can be fun to add if you’re already exploring Newport.
None of these rival the size or scope of Newport Dunes’ Inflatable Aquatic Park, but they show how Newport Beach embraces water play in different ways across the city.
Compare & Choose: Finding the Best Fit for Your Family
Not every inflatable setup suits every family. Here’s how to decide if Newport Dunes is the right fit, or if a smaller option makes more sense for your group.
| Option | Best For | Size & Features | Cost | Supervision | Extras Nearby |
| Newport Dunes Inflatable Aquatic Park | Families with kids 6+, teens, and adventurous adults | 30+ inflatables, slides, trampolines, climbing walls | Paid sessions (discounts for guests) | Lifeguards + life jackets | Resort dining, rentals, lagoon beach |
| Community splash pads | Toddlers and young children | Small fountains, spray jets | Free/low cost | Parents supervise | Parks, picnic areas |
| Harbor amusements (Fun Zone) | Mixed ages, casual fun | Small rides, arcade games | Pay per ride/game | Staffed per attraction | Restaurants, harbor views |
| Pop-up inflatables | Event-based fun | Limited floats or bouncers | Usually free with event | Parents supervise | Event food & activities |
For most families, Newport Dunes provides the most complete experience, but knowing alternatives helps you plan for all ages and budgets.
Insider Tips for Visiting Newport Dunes Inflatable Park
A few smart strategies make your day smoother and more fun.
- Book ahead. Sessions sell out quickly in peak season, so reserve tickets online if possible.
- Arrive early. Morning sessions tend to be less crowded and cooler, while afternoons are busier but lively.
- Pack essentials. Bring swimsuits, towels, water shoes (to protect feet on the inflatables), sunscreen, and a change of clothes.
- Plan for shade. Rent a cabana if you want guaranteed cover, especially on hot days.
- Stay hydrated. The combination of sun and activity makes water and snacks important. Moe B’s Munchies is conveniently located, but having your own cooler helps too.
- Mix activities. Consider pairing a session at the inflatables with paddleboarding, a swim in the lagoon, or a family picnic. This breaks up the energy and extends the fun.
- Know the rules. Life jackets are mandatory, alcohol and glass are not permitted, and all inflatables must be used under lifeguard supervision.
Planning Your Day: Sample Itinerary
Here’s one way to turn a day at Newport Dunes into a full experience:
Morning: Arrive at the resort, check in (if you’re staying overnight), and rent paddleboards for a calm cruise around the bay.
Late Morning: Book your inflatable session. Let the kids climb, slide, and bounce while parents join in or relax at a shaded cabana.
Afternoon: Grab lunch at Moe B’s Munchies or bring a picnic for the beach. Then cool down in the swim lagoon or try kayaking.
Late Afternoon: Take a break at your cottage or RV site, or simply rest on the beach while kids play in the sand.
Evening: Stay for a movie on the beach if scheduled, or walk along the Back Bay to catch the sunset. For overnight guests, it’s the perfect wind-down to a day of active fun.
Why Families Love the Inflatable Park at Newport Dunes
Parents often describe the Inflatable Aquatic Park as the “highlight of the summer.” Kids get hours of high-energy fun, while adults appreciate the safety measures and the variety of other amenities close at hand. Of course, they are welcome to try the inflatables as well. Unlike the oceanfront, where waves and currents can be stressful, the lagoon environment makes inflatable play accessible to a wider age range.
Many families also find that the inflatables help burn off energy so evenings at the resort are calmer — children fall asleep faster after a full day of climbing, bouncing, and splashing. It’s recreation that doubles as family bonding and gentle exercise, all wrapped in the beauty of Newport Beach’s coastline.
Conclusion — Discover Newport Beach’s Ultimate Splash Spot
If you’re looking for the best inflatable water parks in Newport Beach, start with Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort. Its Inflatable Aquatic Park is a seasonal favorite that transforms summer days into unforgettable adventures with giant slides, trampolines, and floating obstacle courses. Add in the calm lagoon setting, lifeguard supervision, and nearby resort amenities, and you’ve got the perfect blend of excitement and ease for families. While smaller splash pads and pop-up inflatables exist around the city, nothing compares to the scale and experience of Newport Dunes. Pack your swimsuits, plan your visit, and get ready to make a splash this summer in Newport Beach.
