Hua Hin has always been a favourite for families, famed for its long stretch of beach, lively night market and hilltop temples. These days, the once-sleepy resort town is pulsing with activity – yet it retains a very family-friendly vibe. The latest upcoming attraction that has piqued our attention is Vana Nava Water Jungle in Hua Hin, Thailand’s largest water theme park.

Set to open at the end of October, Vana Nava is located in Hua Hin’s city centre near the InterContinental Hua Hin Resort and Cicada Market. Spanning 3.2 hectares, the jungle-themed water park features over 19 attractions designed by Canadian water park specialist, WhiteWaterWest.

One highlight (for the daring set) includes Thailand’s first Abyss slide, where up to six riders soar together from a height of 28 meters, share several near-vertical spins and then plummet into a huge funnel at speeds that surpass 45 kilometres per hour. Sharing the same tower as the Abyss, the Boomerango ride offers inner-tubing and vertical drops, where a rider shoots up and down a wall before splashing down into a pool over 20 meters below. In addition, the park’s Wild Water zone boasts a number of adrenaline-inducing rides and slides for adults and teens.

For younger kids, the Rain Fortress features seven slides that connect to a child-friendly pool, a huge water-blasting bucket and spontaneous sounds. A separate kids’ pool sports interactive fountains and play structures, including slides. Also, a multi-level Aqua Course allows children of all ages to test their balance through various courses of ropes, challenging obstacles and spray guns operated by spectators.

Other attractions include a surf shack with a surf simulator for perfecting body board and surf board manoeuvres, 12 meter high climbing wall, 1,600 square metre wave pool, 345 metre lazy river and an events plaza. Facilities also encompass restaurants, massage pavilions, lounges and more.

Vana Nava promises to elevate the level of family fun in Hua Hin, adding thrills to weekend excursions from Bangkok. We can’t wait!

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