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Big Surf Water Park - AZ Tickets

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AZ Venue & Things to Do in Tempe | Tickets, Pa

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About Big Surf Water Park - AZ

Big Surf Water Park in Tempe, Arizona, opened in 1969 and became a landmark for inland surfing and family fun. While the site underwent redevelopment after demolition began in 2022, its legacy as a large-scale water play space remains a notable chapter in Tempe's entertainment history. This page provides venue context, historic highlights, and practical details for visitors and locals curious about the site’s past and the ongoing transformation of the area.

Location: 1500 N McClintock Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281. The property spans roughly 35 acres and featured a Waikiki Beach Wave Pool with about 2.5 million gallons of water at its peak, along with multiple slides and family-friendly attractions. While the park is no longer operating as a water park, the location remains a historic point of reference for Tempe’s entertainment scene.

If you’re researching where to stay or eat nearby, Tempe offers a range of options near Downtown Tempe and Mill Avenue. For travelers planning future visits to the area, consider secure, hassle-free reservations at affiliate partner hotels and dining establishments that align with a straightforward, friendly booking experience. For current events, tickets, or local venue guidance, we’ve got you covered with practical tips on parking, transit options, and getting around Tempe.

Transit and parking notes: The site sits in Tempe, with convenient access via Valley Metro Light Rail stops in Downtown Tempe (3rd St/Mill Ave and 5th St/College Ave). On-site parking historically existed when the park operated, and there are extensive public parking garages and lots nearby for current visitors. When planning your trip, check the latest local guidance for parking availability and street closures that may affect access to the area.

Nearby hotels and dining (affiliate recommendations): For comfortable stays near the Tempe campus and Mill Avenue, consider affiliate partner options such as Aloft Tempe, Residence Inn Tempe Downtown, Tempe Mission Palms, and Red Lion Inn & Suites Tempe, among others in the vicinity. These partners often offer convenient access to Downtown Tempe’s dining and entertainment options. For meals before or after your visit, there are numerous nearby restaurants with varied menus to fit different tastes. Always verify current availability and rates when you book.

Good to know

Seating, Parking & Venue Information

  • Address: 1500 N McClintock Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281.
  • Venue type: Water park with Waikiki Beach Wave Pool (inland surf pool) and multiple slides.
  • Opening date: 1969; Closing date: 2019; Demolition began in 2022; site sold for redevelopment.
  • Wave pool capacity: Approximately 2.5 million gallons of water.
  • Property size: About 35 acres.
  • Notable events hosted: Pink Floyd performed there in 1972; The Rock Hop teen disco ran Fridays from 1977–1980.
  • Post-closure activity: In 2020–2021 the site hosted concerts, drive-in movies and flea markets before demolition.
  • Transit: Located in Tempe; accessible via Valley Metro Light Rail stops in Downtown Tempe (3rd St/Mill Ave and 5th St/College Ave).
  • Nearby hotels: Aloft Tempe; Residence Inn Tempe Downtown; Tempe Mission Palms; Red Lion Inn & Suites Tempe (with other Tempe properties nearby).
  • Parking: On-site parking historically available; Tempe provides extensive public parking in nearby garages and lots.