NC summers are known for bringing the heat — but we also have some of the best water parks + beaches around and near the Triangle. Save this guide when you’re in need of some reprieve from the heat.

Water parks + splash pads

Fantasy Lake | 3601 Quarry Rd., Wake Forest | Find adventure through the park’s activities including kayaking, inflatable park, paddle boarding + more. Pro tip: If you enjoy scuba diving, this may be an oasis.

Sprayground at Jack Smith Park | 9725 Penny Rd., Raleigh | Splash about this colorful water-filled playground with the kiddos.

Buffaloe Road Aquatic Center | 5908 Buffaloe Rd., Raleigh | Slide into good times at this aquatic center that features a three story water slide. The center also includes a lazy river and a whirlpool.

Moore Square Splash Pad | 225 E. Martin St., Raleigh | Enjoy this downtown interactive splash pad at the center of the City of Oaks.

Beaches here + near

Sandling Beach | 30 min. | Indulge in an array of water activities including swimming, boating + fishing. If you visit in either the spring or fall, you may observe monarch butterflies.

Wrightsville Beach | ~2 hours | Relax by the waves while taking in the coastal atmosphere. The location frequently offers farmers markets + Sounds of Summer concerts.

Carolina Beach | ~2 hours | Explore this beach and its variety of things to do, like the boardwalk and small town feel. Pro tip: Britts Donuts is a local sweet treat to try while visiting.

Surf City | ~2 hours | Bask in the sun at this family-friendly beach known for its Topsail Turtle Project mission of preservation of sea turtles through the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center.