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There’s a new kind of waterpark splashing onto the scene.

Florida has cemented itself as the premier winter vacation destination with the opening of Captiva Landing.

The waterpark at South Seas resort on the Sunshine State’s Gulf Coast opened Dec. 22, offering a warm weather experience no matter the season.

Spanning just over 2.5 acres, the “winter-proof” waterpark features heated freshwater pools, water slides, sun-filled play spaces and wind-protected lounging areas, as well as dining options.

“When we say ‘winter-proof,’ we mean families can truly leave winter behind the moment they arrive,” said Shawn Farrell, general manager of South Seas, per Southern Living.

“Captiva Landing was designed so that even in the heart of winter, guests can enjoy warm water, sunshine and outdoor fun without compromise.”

The waterpark sits within the resort’s landscape rather than an enclosed space, and it was designed to feel inspired by an island rather than a theme park or something artificial.

“Natural materials, island-inspired architecture, open sightlines, and a laidback pace all contribute to an experience that feels organic and unforced,” Farrell said.

This is a notable distinction for travelers coming from cold weather, considering there are only a handful of outdoor waterparks that operate on a year-round schedule — and they’re all primarily in Florida.

Aside from Captiva Landing, Walt Disney World’s Typhoon Lagoon is typically open year-round, with heated water in the winter, though it does occasionally shut down for maintenance and for short periods due to cold weather or storms.


  Captiva Landing, a new waterpark at South Seas resort on Florida’s Gulf Coast, opened in December. South Seas Captiva Landing, a new waterpark at South Seas resort on Florida’s Gulf Coast, opened in December. South Seas

When Typhoon Lagoon is closed it often alternates with Disney’s Blizzard Beach, so there’s at least one water park at Disney World open nearly every day of the year.

Meanwhile, Captiva Landing is set to be open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. — and there’s none of the theme park madness.

Captiva Landing’s layout features six sections — Bottlenose Bay, Gulfstream, the Cove, Flippers, the Arcade and Camp-tiva — all designed to appeal to different generations and preferences.

Bottlenose Bay is the anchor of the park with slides, tipping buckets, splash zones and water cannons, while Gulfstream is a more shaded and relaxing area with a lazy river.


  Captiva Landing is open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. South Seas Captiva Landing is open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. South Seas

Another area for those wanting a more relaxing experience is the Cove, featuring a tropical pool with space to lounge.

“Families don’t all move at the same pace,” Farrell said. “While there are plenty of high-energy moments like the slides, splash zones and active play, we were equally intentional about creating calm, restorative spaces like the Cove.

“We wanted Captiva Landing to feel multi-generational and timeless.”

The Arcade offers retro games, and Flippers is a casual dining spot while Camp-tiva offers nature education and hands-on discoveries for kids.

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