Owner:Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission
Year opened:2001
Size:15 acres
Retail price of adult 1-day ticket: $19.99
Staff:Approximately 230, peak season
Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark generates comparatively high attendance in a market with a limited population and competing facilities. In 2010, Whirlin’ Waters’ market penetration (defined as park attendance divided by the population within a 50-mile radius) was higher than that of any of the other parks featured on this list. Signature attractions at Whirlin’ Waters include the Big Kahuna, a 27,000-square-foot wave pool, the Big Splash Treehouse play structure and the Tubular Twister slide complex. Opened in 2001, Whirlin’ Waters also is known for its promotion of group events. For example, the last day of the season is known as Dog Day Afternoon. During 2010, this event, which is only open to dogs, was host to more than 1,000 of man’s best friends.
