We’re coming into the summer months, and that means my client families who are going on vacation to Universal Orlando Resort are definitely going to be spending a day cooling off at Universal’s Volcano Bay water park. Universal’s Volcano Bay is the third theme park at Universal Orlando Resort, and it’s easy to spend a day beating the heat by riding the water slides, surfing the waves and relaxing on the lazy river.

Here are my top ten recommendations for having the best day ever at Universal’s Volcano Bay water park.

Get there Early–On a hot summer day, it’s important to get to Universal’s Volcano Bay water park early. Use the Universal Orlando app to check theme park hours. Guests of Universal Orolando Resort theme parks can use shuttle bus transportation to get to the park. Guests of Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort have park access through the exclusive resort entrance, while guests of Universal’s Aventura Hotel or Loews Sapphire Falls Resort can use the walking trail to get to the park. When you arrive to the park early, you’ll have the best chance at securing beach chairs at the location of your choice.

Rent a Locker–Universal’s Volcano Bay offers locker rentals, which are essential for storing your valuables while you enjoy the water park. There are locker stations in several locations throughout the park. Use the Universal Orlando app or park signage to find one that works for you. I like to use the locker station toward the back of the park since most guests will stop off at the closest station. Using a locker means you won’t have to worry about carrying around your belongings, and you can fully enjoy the attractions without worrying about losing your phone or wallet.

Consider Wearing Water Shoes–Universal’s Volcano Bay water park has a lot of walkways and those walkways are concrete. Concrete gets hot! Water shoes will prevent burning feet and can also provide some extra traction in slippery areas.

Use TapuTapu–The TapuTapu device allows guests to wait in a virtual queue for attractions, so you can keep relaxing and having fun instead of standing in lines. TapuTapu is also useful for payments throughout the park, as long as you link your payment method to your app and device ahead of time. The device also activates interactive features throughout the park.

Wear Your Sunscreen–This feels like a bit of a no-brainer, but it’s easy to forget you need to apply and re-apply sunscreen when you’re having fun splashing around at the park. Burns in the Florida sunshine can sneak up on you. Forgot to bring yours? That’s okay, sunscreen is sold in the gift shops at the park.

Stay Hydrated–Don’t forget to drink water throughout the day, especially if you’re enjoying some alcoholic beverages, which can actually be dehydrating.

Take Breaks–There are a lot of beautiful, tropical areas where you can sit in the shade and simply relax.

Ride the Krakatau Aqua Coaster!–This is the signature ride at Universal’s Volcano Bay water park. Krakatau Aqua Coaster is a thrill water ride that takes you right through the heart of the volcano in the middle of the park.

Chill Out in the Wave Pool–The wave pool is one of the first features many guests will encounter, since it’s at the base of the volcano at Universal’s Volcano Bay water park. Spend some time relaxing at Waturi Beach.

Have Lunch–The food and drink options at Universal’s Volcano Bay water park are delicious! My favourite spot to have lunch is Whakawaiwai Eats, which features flatbreads, foot-long hot dogs and a delicious salad on the menu.

Remember to follow the safety guidelines and park rules. These are in place to ensure all guests can make the most of their day at the park. You’ll have a blast exploring all of the thrilling water slides, rivers and attractions at Universal’s Volcano Bay water park.