We spent the May half-term in the Netherlands. Visiting both the Duinrell theme park and the amazing Duinrell water park, the Tikibad swimming complex. If you asked the boys which one they preferred out of the two then the waterpark wins hands down. So I thought I would write this guide to the Duinrell Waterpark in case you are thinking of visiting. If you are also thinking of staying onsite then I have also written about the holiday park and our stay in Eurocamp accommodation. I have tried to answer all the questions I have been asked and the Tikibad water park. But if there is anything I am missing please let me know in the comments below and I will come back to you.
Where is Duinrell Tikibad water park located?
Duinrell Waterpark is located in the Netherlands in the town of Wassenaar, South Holland. It is bordered by the cities of The Hague to the north and Leiden to the south. Tikibad Waterpark is located in the southern part of Wassenaar, close to the beach and the dunes. The park is easily accessible by car, train, or bus, and is only a short distance from major cities like The Hague and Amsterdam. Making it one of the most popular day trips both for the Dutch but also for tourists visiting the Netherlands.
How do you get to Duinrell Tikibad?
If you are planning on visiting by car then there is a large car park on-site which costs 15€ a day. You need to purchase a parking coin which is available at the entrance to the park. If you are staying in Amsterdam then the Duinrell Tikibad is a fifty-minute drive from the centre. Making it the closest waterpark to Amsterdam. To work out your own route you can use the address Duinrell 1, 2242 JP, Wassenaar. I found it easier to search by the postcode when driving around the local area. There is also plenty of bike parking if you are thinking of taking a bike ride to the amusement park.
If you are planning on using public transport then you will be pleased to know that it is really easy. The best option is to take a train or bus to the nearby town of Leiden, and then transfer to a bus that goes directly to the park. It is possible to catch a train to Leiden Centraal station from any major city in the Netherlands. Then from Leiden Centraal, take bus 43 towards Den Haag. Make sure you get off at the Duinrell bus stop, which is located right in front of the park entrance.
Alternatively, you can take bus 90 from The Hague Central Station or bus 444 from Leiden Central Station, both of which stop at Duinrell. You can check the schedules and plan your trip using the Dutch public transport website.
How do the lockers work?
One of the most common questions I have seen is how do the lockers work in the swimming pool. Tikibad Duinrell is pretty much electronic. You scan your ticket to enter and you do not need any change for the lockers. Instead, there are several keypads with touchscreens. Here you can choose a standard-size locker or a large locker. Enter a code and it will tell you which one is available. Find the number pop your stuff in and close it.
You will need to remember your locker number and code. Although there are staff in the changing rooms who can help if needed. It is possible to visit the locker and select that you are not leaving and so just open your existing number and then close it again. We found the system particularly easy to use and would like to see it replicated here in the UK.
What if my child can not swim?
If your child can not swim then you need to make sure that you have flotation devices. As there will be certain areas of the swimming complex at the Tikibad water park they they will not be allowed in without. Even if you are with them. This does catch several parents out. The lifeguards may also ask your child to swim especially if they are close to the 120cm mark or just below. This did not happen to us but we did see it happen elsewhere. If they think you are close to 120cm and you can swim then you are given a wristband so that other lifeguards can see you are competent in the water. Harry fell out the bottom of one of the slides and was given a band when he swam to the slide, much to his delight.
How many waterslides does Duinrell Tikibad have?
There are a total of 29 attractions at the Duinrell water park both in the pool complex when you count both those inside and outside. This includes 21 water slides in total. It really is a water lovers paradise and I do not think that the boys have ever experienced anything like it.
What attractions are there at Duinrell Tikibad?
During our visit, we tried to go to all the attractions there really is something for the whole family. I am going to split the waterslides down by height requirements. As we were staying with Eurocamp at the Duinrell holiday park we did need to pay for entry (see below) to the Duinrell water park, although we did get a discount on the full price. We also needed to book a slot in advance we tended to go for the first session of the day at 10 am when it opened. As we found this to be the quietest.
150cm water rides
Several water slides had a height requirement of 150cm. They do have lifeguards checking height requirements. Although Charlie could pass for 150cm (he is about 149cm) when we visited. He only went on a couple of the water slides. Some of them were a little bit too much for him so we decided we will have to return in the future. As we had Harry I did not try out any of the slides that he could not go on at Duinrell water park.
Flits
Charlie really enjoyed this high-speed water slide that features a steep drop and several twists and turns, allowing riders to reach speeds of up to 50 kilometres per hour. Charlie was particularly interested in the clear section of the slide which allows spectators to see you. And the rider to look out. The Flits water slide is named after the Dutch word for “flash” or “bolt,” which accurately describes the speed and thrill of the ride. Length 80m. Height 14m
Blits
He also gave this one a go as it is located right next to Flits. Designed to reach speeds of up to 60 kilometres per hour it is one of the fastest slides in the Duinrell water park complex. Charlie said that as you go down you go so quickly it doesn’t feel like you are touching the slide at all. Length 80m. Height 14m
Tyfoon
One of the most unique slides in the complex the riders will reach up to 50km an hour. From one big curve into two smaller ones, making G-forces perceptible on your body. The name “Tyfoon” is the Dutch word for “typhoon”, which is a powerful tropical storm with strong winds and heavy rain. The slide is appropriately named as it gives riders a feeling of being swept up in a powerful storm as they slide down. Length 86m. Height 15m
X-Stream
Now this really is a slide for the adrenaline junkies! One of the most thrilling and unique attractions at Tikibad water park. It is a vertical water slide that drops riders straight down from a height of 18 meters, reaching speeds of up to 40 kilometres per hour. The slide features a capsule-like chamber that riders enter before the floor drops out from under them, sending them plummeting down the slide. This is not something we tried! Length 16m.
120cm+ waterslides
We managed to go on all of these slides at the Duinrell water park and loved them all in equal measure. Although those that require a double ring, really need an adult to help with getting the ring up the stairs. Since they are heavier than they look. Charlie at 10 did struggle on his own
Groene Barracuda
This is one of the longest water slides at Duinrell Tikibad at 110m. It has a steep drop and multiple twists and turns, and it is named after the barracuda fish, which is known for its speed and agility in the water. The slide is painted green to match the colour of the barracuda.
Blauwe Haai
This was the first water slide that the boys went on and is located right next to the Groene Barracuda. They preferred the green slide to the blue one. This slide is named after the blue shark, which is known for its sleek and powerful swimming abilities. The Blauwe Haai water slide has several twists and turns, as well as a dark tunnel section that adds to the excitement. Riders can reach speeds of up to 20 kilometres per hour as they slide down the Blauwe Haai. Length 86m
Moonlight
This was the first of the tube slides which the boys went on. The enclosed water slide features a series of twists and turns in complete darkness. With a starry sky and occasional bursts of light that simulate the phases of the moon. Riders can experience a sense of weightlessness as they slide down the Moonlight water slide. You’ll have no idea when you’re about to change direction or whether you’re about to be surprised by a waterfall. As it is in darkness this slide is slower at 20km per hour. Length 150m.
Starfright
The boys preferred this one to Moonlight. The slide is named after the feeling of being launched into space at a high speed, hence the name “Starfright”. Throughout the slide, there are waterfalls and flashes and beams of light. You also need a tube to ride this. Length 150m.
Triton
The last where you need a tube is the red and blue slide with the cones that you can see outside. It looks impressive and is as good as it looks with three cones. It is a new addition to the waterpark. A massive 163m long, from a height of almost 20 metres into the so-called cone (the funnel) before sliding upwards against the wall and then downwards once again. The slide is named after Triton, a Greek god and messenger of the sea. This was one of Charlie’s favourite waterslides.
Cycloon
While this was Harry’s! The fastest slide in the Tiki Pool and with a space bowl finish. The boys actively did back flips through the large exit to this slide plunging into the pool below. The slide starts with a 15m drop and is only 56m in length. It is possible for those not brave enough there is a ‘Catwalk’ which is meant for visitors who prefer to check out the action from above. It is a great place to take photos. The slide is named after the Dutch word for “cyclone”, which accurately describes the feeling of being swept up in a powerful storm as riders slide down.
Cannon Ball
This was another favourite of the boys. This is only a short slide at 6m, short and powerful it gets its name from the shape of the slide. Making it a good option if the Duinrell water park is particularly busy as the queue moves quickly. Jump into a black hole from the first floor, get launched up and over the water and literally glide through the air.
Pelikaandunk
This is a very short slide of 7m which goes into a deep plunge pool. Almost vertical in nature it is not something I have seen elsewhere. Charlie really enjoyed this but it was a little too vertical for Harry. The slide is named after the Dutch word for “pelican dive”, which accurately describes the feeling of diving headfirst into the water. Only this one you need to go feet first.
Quattro Run
This slide is located outside. A family slide that does what its name implies. There are four lanes allowing you to race against each other to see who will get to the bottom first. The slide is 24m long and has a run-off at the end. Although when we went on it, it was very cold!
Boogie Ride
A smaller outside version of Flits there is a transparent section so that you can wave at your friends and family. The slide is named after the boogie board, a type of bodyboard used for riding waves. It is 26m long
Twin Fin
Aimed at the younger visitors this double slide is part of the outside splash area. Allowing riders to race against each other to the bottom. Not very long but potentially within firing range of several water features. The slide is named after the twin fins on a surfboard, which provide stability and control in the water. Length 11m
Rainbow Slash
Another outside slide which, is named after the rainbow colours that are visible as riders slide down the slide. Only 12m long it is next to both the Twin Fin and Boogie Ride in the splash park area of the outside swimming pool.
Playa indoor water park and waterslides for less than 120cm
There are four slides which are suitable for younger visitors all with a minimum height of 100cm. All of these slides are located together in the Playa. Which is an indoor water park for children. The water is between 0cm – 15cm in depth. With a selection of different activities including water guns, tipping buckets, waterfalls and sprays.
The slides are rapid run which allows three children to race next to each other. Green Flash and Blue Stripe, one has a sharp turn to the right and one has a sharp turn to the left. Our favourite was the Hurri’cone, a miniature version of the fearsome Triton. Slide through an enormous chute without a tube. There is a mezzanine seating area with sun beds and parasols that overlooks Playa.
Toddler & baby area in Tikibad water park
There really is something for every age group. Next to the Playa area which is reached by a small bridge, there is a heated play pool. It is a shallow pool designed for young children and families to enjoy. Featuring a variety of water play elements such as water sprays, fountains, and small slides. The pool is heated to a comfortable temperature, making it a great place for families to relax and play together.
Outdoor pool area
During the Summer seasons, the outside pool area is open. Not only are there the slides mentioned above as well as a splash-down area. There is also a large outdoor pool located outside the main building of the water park. The pool is surrounded by a spacious deck area with plenty of lounge chairs and umbrellas for guests to relax and soak up the sun. There is also a small water play area for young children adjacent to the pool. The outdoor pool is heated to a comfortable temperature, although when we visited it did not feel like it. If it had been warmer then we may have spent more time in the hammocks which are scattered across the grass.
In the Summer months, you can sometimes book the outdoor pool for four hours at a time. When we visited it was open as part of the indoor complex as it was not warm enough. However, it does have a separate entrance and changing huts. It is also cheaper to book than the indoor pool.
Other attractions at the Duinrell water park
As well as the water slides there are several other attractions in the Tikibad water park
Lazy River
The lazy river is recommended for those 120cm or over. There are no rings although you could bring your own. The boys really enjoyed the lazy river, especially the dark bit which is about halfway around. The depth varies from 70cm to 90cm going up and down as you work your way around the slow-moving waterway. The lazy river is surrounded by lush tropical landscaping, and there are several water features and waterfalls along the route. The lazy river is a great way to take a break from the more high-intensity water slides and attractions at Tikibad and enjoy a leisurely ride around the park.
Wave Pool
Another big hit with the boys at the Duinrell water park is the wave pool runs every twenty minutes. There is a clock on the side of the pool which count downs so you always know when the next session is coming. The boys really enjoyed the pool which has a sloped entrance. Although Charlie liked going to the end where he could hang onto the metal bar and where the waves were the highest.
Whirlpool & Turkish Steamrooms
We noticed that there were two hot tubs or whirlpools. One next to the pelican dive and another by the exit to the cannonball. There are also three Turkish steam rooms which are next to the wave machines. They cost 3€ each. The steam rooms are heated to a high temperature and are infused with eucalyptus oil, which is known for its health benefits and soothing aroma.
What age is Duinrell Tikibad best suited to?
I felt like the boys were the perfect age to visit the Tikibad water park as Harry over 120cm could go on all the water slides that he wanted to. Even some he wasn’t too keen on. If you are travelling with older kids then there is enough to keep them entertained for a few hours. So I would suggest 7-12 would probably be the perfect age.
What food options are there at Duinrell Tikibad?
When we visited there was only one option to get food in the Duinrell water park. This was the Tiki Take Away located next to the entrance from the changing rooms. There is some seating so you can sit and have a drink and a snack.
Enjoy fresh juices, smoothies, milkshakes, La Place Restaurant coffee, homemade pastries and fruit to raise your energy level. For those who like well-seasoned foods, the restaurant offers Flemish chips with mayonnaise, croquettes and many other snacks. From the restaurant high up in the complex you have a unique view over the Tiki Pool. In good weather, the terrace is open at Tikibad water park.
How long do you need at Duinrell Tikibad water park?
When we visited we could only book two hours at a time using our vouchers (see below). I also booked a four-hour evening session so that we could stay until it shut at 10 pm. I found that really we needed somewhere between two and four hours. As two hours wasn’t quite enough but we did not stay the full four hours as we had spent time in the theme park during the day and the boys were shattered by nine.
How much does it cost to go to Tikibad?
If you are staying at the campsite with Duinrell then you can have unlimited entry during opening times. If you are planning on visiting for the day then the prices when we visited were 22.50€ per person. Going up to 25.50€ per person at the weekends and during the holidays. This allows you entry for four hours, you select your time slot at checkout. You can also buy a combined ticket with the theme park. This gives you two hours in the water park, you need to book a time slot in advance. These tickets start at 27.50€ during the week but go up to 32.50€ at the weekends and school holidays. Tickets can be booked online in advance via the Duinrell website.
How much does it cost for those staying with Eurocamp?
When you check in you will be given some vouchers. The number of vouchers you get depends on how long you stay. For seven nights we were given four vouchers. You can book your whole party with one voucher. To do this you scan the QR code on the voucher and complete the steps on the screen including entering the voucher number and selecting a time and number of people. There are additional charges to access the pool. I think from reading other reviews that these have increased recently.
When we visited Tikibad Duinrell waterpark the cost was 22.50€ per person but this was reduced to 10€ per person by using the voucher. However, you are limited on time slots, as in when and how long your session in the pool complex lasts if you do not want to pay full price. We could book for two hours between 10 am and 2 pm. They also allowed an extra half an hour for changing times. The outside pool was open and in theory, it was possible to book this separately and have a four-hour session. I am not sure if it was because it was the start of the season but when we visited they were both open together with no segregation between them. And it was not possible to select the outside pool at the time of booking.
Top tips for your visit to Duinrell Tikibad
- You can only book up to one day in advance. During the school holidays and summer seasons, slots can be fully booked. We booked first thing when we woke up.
- If you stay in the Duinrell accommodation, you get free access to the pool area. As well as unlimited access even in the Summer holidays. Yet you still need to book. Like the rest of the theme park, it is possible for those not staying on the family campsite to visit on a day ticket.
- Showers are limited and get very busy the half an hour as this is when people are either entering or leaving the Duinrell waterpark. If you want to avoid this then leave a bit early.
- You have up to half an hour of changing time. As you scan your tickets on the way in and out, they will know that if you spend more time than this, they will charge you extra.
- Although the inside lockers are free of charge. The ones at the outside pool cost 1€ so make sure you have some change.
- To try and reduce numbers when visiting the Duinrell waterpark, avoid the Dutch school holidays such as the May half term. Although some of the water slides had short queues none were too long.
You may also be interested in:
If you have enjoyed this post about the Tikibad Water Park, you may also be interested in some of the other things we got up to during our stay.
- Visit the picturesque canals of Leiden – Things to do in Leiden
- Enjoy the sand dunes at Wassenaar Beach
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kinderjik
Have you visited Duinrell Tikibad? I would love to hear about your experiences in the comments below.
Pin for later – Duinrell Tikibad – Tikibad Water Park
