Can Muslims go to a water park?

Why it's allowed, and what to manage

Nothing in Islam forbids slides, lazy rivers or wave pools, and a water park can be a lovely family day. The challenge is the environment. A water park puts lots of people in swimwear in one place, and the speed and splashing test how well your clothes stay in place. The Quran reminds us about clothing:

The Prophet ﷺ also said, "Faith consists of more than sixty branches, and haya (modesty) is a part of faith" (Sahih al-Bukhari 9). Modesty is not a burden at the water park. It is something you can plan into your day. For the basic rules of swimming, see Can I still go swimming at a public pool as a Muslim?

Swimwear that works on slides

Slides can pull at loose or thin clothes. Choose pieces that stay put:

• Men: knee-length board shorts with a drawstring, plus a rash guard, so nothing rides up on a slide.
• Women: a burkini, or swim leggings with a long, fitted-but-not-clinging swim top, and a swim hijab that fastens securely. See What is a burkini?
• Fabric: some parks only allow swimwear fabrics such as lycra or nylon, and don't allow cotton or jeans. Check the dress code before you go, because most parks accept modest swimwear made from swim fabric.

Crowds and quiet times

Water parks are among the most crowded public spaces in summer. You can't control the crowd, but you can control your visit:

• Go on a weekday or arrive when the park opens, to avoid queues and peak crowds.
• Choose areas with fewer people, like the children's zone or a quieter river, and take breaks in the shade.
• Lower your gaze, and look at your family and the water rather than at the people around you.
• Some resorts and spa parks offer women-only or family-only hours, so check the schedule.

Scholars differ on how strict to be about mixed swimming: some advise avoiding mixed water parks where there is an alternative, while others allow them if you keep your conduct and clothing proper. Follow what your trusted imam recommends.

Keeping children safe

Water parks are busy, and children can get into trouble fast. Keep young children within arm's reach, use life jackets where offered, and agree on a meeting point. Teach children to be comfortable in modest swimwear from an early age. See How do I teach my kids modesty as a Muslim?

Prayer for a whole day

A day at a water park usually covers Dhuhr and Asr. Pray in dry clothes after you change, and don't postpone prayer until you leave. Many parks have changing rooms with sinks for wudu. Bring a small prayer mat and a long towel for covering up between rides.