Nestled in the vibrant district of Na Jomtien, Sattahip, Chon Buri Province, Thailand, Columbia Pictures Aquaverse stands as the world’s first fully themed Columbia Pictures water park and amusement park. Opened in October 2022, this sprawling 184,000-square-meter destination transforms beloved Hollywood films into immersive attractions, offering a unique blend of thrilling water rides, family-friendly activities, and cinematic entertainment. Located just 20 kilometers south of Pattaya and approximately two hours from Bangkok, the park has quickly gained recognition as a top-tier destination, earning a TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award for its consistent excellence. This review explores the park’s attractions, accommodations, dining, activities, and practical tips, providing a comprehensive guide for visitors seeking a memorable adventure.
Overview of Columbia Pictures Aquaverse
Columbia Pictures Aquaverse transports visitors into the worlds of iconic films such as Hotel Transylvania, Jumanji, Ghostbusters, Bad Boys, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, and Zombieland. The park’s cinematic theme, crafted with meticulous attention to detail, creates an atmosphere where guests feel as though they’ve stepped onto a movie set. Its location in Sattahip, near cultural landmarks like Khao Chi Chan (Buddha Mountain) and natural attractions like Silverlake Vineyard, enhances its appeal as a day trip or weekend destination. The park operates daily from 10 AM to 6 PM (closed Wednesdays), offering unlimited access to rides and attractions with a single admission ticket.
The park’s state-of-the-art facilities, including nine thrilling water slides, a massive wave pool, and a lazy river, cater to adrenaline junkies, families, and those seeking relaxation. With over 100 certified lifeguards ensuring safety and a commitment to high cleanliness standards, Columbia Pictures Aquaverse delivers a world-class experience. Its proximity to Pattaya makes it easily accessible, yet its immersive theming sets it apart from traditional water parks, offering a unique blend of Hollywood magic and tropical fun.
Attractions and Highlights
Columbia Pictures Aquaverse boasts a diverse array of attractions, each themed around a blockbuster film, ensuring there’s something for every visitor. Here are some of the park’s standout features:
Water Slides and Rides: The park features nine world-class water slides, designed by industry leaders to deliver thrilling experiences. In the Ghostbusters zone, the Proton Tunnel, a 110-meter rapid water slide, sends riders plunging through a high-speed adventure, suitable for those weighing between 35 and 120 kg. The Jumanji zone offers Jaguar Mountain, Jungle Stampede, and Viper, where guests navigate wild twists and turns, with group rides limited to 200 kg for four people. The Hotel Transylvania zone features a serpentine slide where riders glide through a winding corridor on rubber tubes, perfect for families. The Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs zone includes the Swallow Falls River Adventure, a playful float through a food-themed river.
Mega Wave Pool and Lazy River: The Aquaverse Mega Wave Pool is a highlight, where guests can ride ocean-like waves, watch blockbuster movies on towering LED screens with Dolby surround sound, or join daily foam parties. The lazy river, winding through lush scenery, offers a relaxing escape with gentle currents and interactive water features.
Kids’ and Family Zones: The park caters to younger visitors with dedicated areas featuring gentler slides, splash zones, and interactive games. The Hotel Transylvania kids’ area includes safe, fun attractions for children under 121 cm, while the Emoji Movie Mini-Golf offers a vibrant nine-hole course suitable for all ages. Free entry for kids under 90 cm and discounted rates for those between 91-121 cm make it a budget-friendly family destination.
Dry Land Attractions: Beyond water-based activities, the park offers a Miami-themed go-kart track inspired by Bad Boys, where guests can race through a cinematic course. The Surf’s Up zone allows visitors to try surfing, while the Ghost Trap Blitz and Slimer’s Slime Run in the Ghostbusters zone provide interactive adventures. The Rainbow Sky Bridge, a rope-based climbing structure, adds a playful challenge for kids and adults.
Live Entertainment: The park’s live entertainment zone features high-energy dance-offs, stunt shows, and mascot meet-and-greets with characters from Hotel Transylvania and Jumanji. Daily performances ensure constant excitement, with interactive experiences that engage visitors of all ages.
Relaxation Areas: For those seeking a break, the park offers over 40 private cabanas for rent, shaded by tropical trees, and a chic Day Club for lounging. The wave pool and lazy river also provide serene spots to unwind, complemented by Thai massage and spa services.
The park’s attention to theming, from ancient ruins to modern movie sets, creates an immersive environment that elevates it beyond a typical water park.
Accommodations
While Columbia Pictures Aquaverse does not offer on-site lodging, its location near Pattaya and Sattahip provides access to a wide range of accommodations. Visitors often choose to stay in Pattaya, just a 20-minute drive away, for its diverse hotel options and vibrant nightlife.
Luxury Stays: The Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach, located 1.04 km from the park, offers upscale amenities with beachfront views, costing $100-$200 per night. The InterContinental Pattaya Resort provides similar luxury, with rates around $90-$150 per night, ideal for families seeking comfort and proximity.
Mid-Range and Budget Options: Hotels like Cosy Beach Hotel in Pattaya offer comfortable rooms for $30-$60 per night, while budget guesthouses in Sattahip, such as Samaesan Beach Resort, provide basic accommodations for $20-$40. Airbnb rentals in Na Jomtien, including condos and private homes, start at $15-$30 per night, perfect for groups.
Package Deals: Some Pattaya hotels partner with the park to offer packages that include discounted or free admission tickets, which can be booked via the park’s website or platforms like Trip.com and RestNFun.
Dining and Local Cuisine
The park features a variety of dining options, with Seaside Snacks and other food outlets offering quick bites like crispy fries, hot wings, and Thai favorites such as pad thai and som tam (papaya salad). A meal for two typically costs $10-$20, with a dedicated kids’ menu ensuring family-friendly options. The pool bar serves refreshing cocktails and mocktails, enhancing the cinematic experience with drinks enjoyed in the water. Outside food is not permitted, but the park’s diverse menu, including Western dishes like burgers and pizzas, caters to all tastes.
For those exploring beyond the park, nearby restaurants like Pebbles Bar and Grill (2.52 km away) offer fresh seafood and international cuisine, with meals averaging $15-$25 for two. The nearby Bang Saray area features local eateries serving authentic Thai dishes at budget-friendly prices.
Activities and Entertainment
Columbia Pictures Aquaverse offers a full day of entertainment, with activities tailored to various interests:
- Thrill-Seeking: High-speed slides like the Proton Tunnel and Viper provide adrenaline-pumping fun, while the go-kart track and Surf’s Up zone offer unique thrills.
- Family Fun: Kids’ zones, mini-golf, and the Rainbow Sky Bridge ensure endless entertainment for families, with safe environments for younger children.
- Relaxation: Cabanas, the lazy river, and the Day Club provide serene escapes, while spa services offer ultimate relaxation.
- Live Shows: Daily performances, foam parties, and mascot interactions keep the energy high, with professional photographers capturing memories via wristband-scanned photos.
Free high-speed Wi-Fi allows guests to share their experiences instantly, and the park’s year-round appeal ensures fun regardless of the season.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Getting There: From Pattaya, a taxi or Grab ride takes 20 minutes, costing 300-500 THB ($9-$15). From Bangkok, a 2-hour drive via Sukhumvit Road is the fastest route, or take a bus to Pattaya (100-200 THB) followed by a taxi. The park offers private transfers bookable online.
- Tickets and Costs: Adult tickets start at 1,190 THB ($35), with discounts for children (91-121 cm) and free entry for those under 90 cm. Online booking via Trip.com or RestNFun is recommended to avoid queues, with same-day entry possible.
- Best Time to Visit: The dry season (November-February) offers ideal weather (25°C-30°C). Weekdays are less crowded, and arriving at opening (10 AM) maximizes ride time. The park is closed on Wednesdays.
- What to Bring: Guests should pack swimwear, sunscreen, and a change of clothes. Towels and lockers are available for rent. Cash is useful for small purchases, though most vendors accept cards.
- Safety and Rules: Over 100 lifeguards and a first-aid room ensure safety. Height and weight restrictions apply to certain slides, and outside food is prohibited.
Conclusion
Columbia Pictures Aquaverse in Sattahip, Thailand, delivers an unparalleled cinematic adventure, blending Hollywood-inspired thrills with tropical charm. From heart-pounding slides to relaxing wave pools and interactive shows, the park caters to all ages, making it a perfect destination for families, friends, and solo travelers. Its proximity to Pattaya, coupled with its unique theming and world-class facilities, solidifies its status as a must-visit attraction. Visitors leave with lasting memories, having stepped into the worlds of their favorite films in a way that only Columbia Pictures Aquaverse can offer.
