A cool place to spend the day
In the midst of tropical lush North Queensland, there are a number of cool refreshing spots you can head to for some sweet relief from the sweltering heat and humidity.
A well-known oasis which is popular with locals and tourists alike, set in sugar cane country, only 10kms south of Cairns, is the iconic Sugarworld Waterpark.
Fun for all ages
The Waterpark is owned by Cairns Regional Council and managed by Belgravia Leisure, who have combined all the key elements of water fun, play for all ages, exciting water slides and a relaxing family day out to create a mini tropical wonderland for all.
This ideal location is set on an expansive 17-acre property previously known as the old Hambledon Estate, established by the old owners; the sugar refinery company (CSR) - hence its name.
Family fun
It is an easy drive from central Cairns and the property is beautifully laid out, providing plenty of space, greenery and cool shaded zones perfect for a picnic under century old trees.
Sugarworld WaterPark is suitable for all ages, from the toddler to the teenager. There is a toddler pool and play area, perfect for your curious one to splash in a safe and fun environment.
Water play
Our two boys, aged 6 and 8 years old, loved the kid's interactive water play area designed with the age group from 4 years up in mind.
Complete with huge overflowing water bucket that draws both the meek and the bold to experience its tumbling, tremendous dump of water just when you least expect it.
Buckets of fun!
This is an exciting and expansive zone with 6 slides to choose from. Of course, my sons had to do them all, over and over again!
There are 3 additional water slides for the thrill seekers in your family. These are suitable for ages 6 and up. These included the 'rubber doughnut' as my son fondly named it, the double yellow twister - no mellow here! With 'no fear' as their motto, even names, such as Supajet Body slide, wasn't going to deter my youngsters.
Twister fun
For the finale, the speed racer had my sons lifting almost in the air on their way down, determined to outrace and beat their Dad to the finish. Unfortunately, even with a head start, there are just some things that parents don't forget from their childhood!
Discussing tactics
To replenish those depleted energy stores, simply head to the aptly named 'Splash Cafe', located conveniently on site. As well as the ritual food of fish n chips, a must for any outdoor pool day, the cafe has just as many healthy food options for those who desire something a little more fresh and light.
Healthy and sweet options
If you are thinking more along the lines of dessert, there are delicious cakes on offer and enticing vegan ice cream flavours that were hard to resist. Like any cafe, there is always coffee on hand for those who want to settle in for the afternoon with a brewed cup in hand, while the kids do what they do best - play.
Plenty of places to sit and relax
Unlike many other commercial operators, Sugarworld WaterPark allows families to BYO food, so if a picnic style lunch is more your style, pack your hamper goodies, find a shady grassy spot or choose from one of the several picnic tables (with umbrellas) scattered around the grounds to enjoy your feast. These are available and free for all to use.
After a hearty lunch, my sons decided for a more relaxed afternoon, choosing to spend the rest of our time swimming in the refreshing cool pool.
During the day, we met the local resident peacock of the feathery kind, including the little babies in tow. One local you definitely won't bump into here, which is of the large scaly reptile variety, is a crocodile, thank goodness.
Resident peacock
A great family day out in a lovely environment with all the right ingredients for a relaxing and fun outing. It is reasonably priced and has everything you need on site.
Whether you chose to head out for the day as a solo family, or better still, gather some friends and organise a fun get together with everyone, kids and parents alike.
A satisfying day out
