Posts Tagged ‘Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon’

It’s a rite of passage for many smaller Disney guests – discovering that they are finally tall enough for the attraction of their dreams.  For every adult who’s terrified of Disney’s mountains, there are three fearless young children begging to be allowed boarding privileges.  They’ve stood and watched sadly as older brothers and sisters happily stepped into ride queues while they were left behind; victims of the dreaded “baby swap.”  Or worse still, they might be forced to walk off with one parent to do allegedly “fun things” while the others went in a different direction to enjoy all the really cool stuff.  Finally, their day has come; they are able to “hit the mark” and board that highly-anticipated ride!

Many of the most exciting rides have specific height requirements.  These guidelines help ensure that all passengers are safe; tall enough to be protected by the headrests, belts and other safety features built into the ride vehicles.

Typically, there will be two checkpoints at an attraction and children must not be able to walk under the bar.  Although shoes are allowed, this regulation is very strictly enforced and cast members do not make exceptions for “almost.”

We’ve included a link to Walt Disney World’s most recent official listing of height requirements for specific attractions:

 

ATTRACTION HEIGHT CHART

 

Joining the ranks of the Big Kids – one of the many reasons families return to Disney Destinations year after year!

 

Summer weather and extended park hours, coupled with lessening crowds and lowering prices make August a favorite of many families; particularly those with back-to-school dates in September.

While the heat and humidity remain at peak summer levels, there’s a bit less rain and, toward the end of the month, attendance tapers back to half of what it was during the first week.  It’s the perfect time of the year to enjoy the water parks and the “cool” rides like Splash Mountain the Kali River Rapids!

Fast Facts

Special Events: August is traditionally a quiet time at Walt Disney World – perfect for just relaxing and enjoying the parks and resorts.

Attendance levels: As different areas around the country head back to school, crowd levels drop off dramatically.  Numbers are typically at July levels for the first week then gradually decrease day by day as local and national school districts reopen for the new school year.

Weather: Although it’s the least-rainy summer month, August nonetheless sees an average of more than six inches of rain.  It’s still very hot with daily highs and lows mirroring those of July.

Packing: Plan for the heat and pack accordingly.  Water parks often attract many local visitors so the last couple weeks in August offer a terrific opportunity to enjoy Disney’s Blizzard Beach and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon since Florida schools generally start earlier than those in many other parts of the country.  So, toss in some extra swimwear and enjoy the pools!

Looking at this tranquil sunrise scene, it’s difficult to imagine that tall waves once broke on the shores of the beach at Disney’s Polynesian Resort.

When it opened in 1971, the resort included a wave machine and surfing was one of the featured activities.  The machine could be configured to recreate the oceans of the South Sea Islands, producing calm tides or crashing breakers.

Almost immediately, it became apparent that it in addition to providing a tropical atmosphere, it was also causing severe erosion of the beach.  The hours of operation were reduced, but eventually, it had to be closed down.  Some say that the installation remains, hidden in the lush foliage of the offshore islands.  Later, all swimming was prohibited due to boat traffic and water quality issues.

Today, guests can once again ride the curl at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park by signing up for the  surfing instruction available several mornings each week.  Groups looking for a private surf party can arrange after-hours rental of the venue.

Learn to Surf

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon

Monday, Tuesday, Friday 8:45 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.; one hour earlier on Extra Magic Hours days

1/2 hour land instruction, 2 hour surf time in the water

$150.00 per person/must be at least 8 years of age

Maximum 12 guests per class

Park admission is required to remain in the park after lesson

Call 407-939-7873  (407-WDW-SURF)