After months of hibernating and pining for warm weather to return, our wish has finally been granted! Summer is on in North and South Carolina, which means it’s time to ditch the wool socks, restock on sunscreen, and plug in GPS coordinates for the best places to stay cool in the Carolina heat. From the mountains to the sea, there are plenty of things to do on the lakes, rivers, and ocean with family and friends alike. You’ll undoubtedly want to check these five spots off your summer bucket list – anchors away!

Consider the dress code “splashy casual” for this riveting relay at the Beaufort Water Festival!

#1. Beaufort Water Festival (Beaufort, SC)

Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, Bay Street, Beaufort, SC 29902

The Beaufort Water Festival is an annual event that takes place in Beaufort, South Carolina. The festival has been celebrated for over 60 years and is one of the state's largest and most popular summer events – this year, visitors from all over the country will join in on the fun from July 14 to 23.

The festival features a variety of water-based activities and events for staying cool in the Carolina heat. Grab your kids and fishing gear and head on down to the Children’s Toad Fishing Tournament, or participate in a riveting raft, dragon boat, or sailboat race! The annual Ski Show takes place on Sunday, July 16, where you can witness incredible feats performed on slalom skis or even human pyramid formations. There is also a popular air show featuring stunt pilots and aerobatics on the final Saturday, July 22, as well as live music, a parade, and a beauty pageant.

The Beaufort Water Festival concludes with the annual Blessing of the Fleet and Parade of Boats on the Beaufort River directly in front of Riverfront Park. Make the trek to this charming coastal treasure of a town to experience the unique culture and history of the Lowcountry while also enjoying fun in the sun on the water.

Hold on to your tube — this slide will end with a big splash!

#2. Wet N’ Wild Emerald Pointe Water Park (Greensboro, NC)

3910 S Holden Road, Greensboro, NC 27406

Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe is one of the largest water parks in the Carolinas and features over 36 water rides and attractions spread across 41 acres of land. The park has a variety of water rides and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. You can even search the website ahead of time for attractions ranging from “Moderate” and “Passive” to “Aggressive” and “High Thrill”! 

You're sure to find a fun escape from the Carolina heat in this retreat — popular high thrill rides include the notorious Daredevil Drop, a diabolical six-story free-fall slide, and the turbulent Twin Twisters, a pair of identical, completely enclosed chutes whipping brave thrill-seekers through 350+ feet of twists and turns. In addition to water slides, Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe has a wave pool, a lazy river, and a children's play area. The park also features several food and beverage options, including a restaurant, snack stands, and a full-service bar.

Overall, Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe in Greensboro is a great destination for a fun day in the sun with family and friends. Whether you're looking for a thrilling adventure or a relaxing day by the pool, this water park has something for everyone looking to enjoy their time in the Carolina heat.

Take your family on an adventure they'll never forget!

#3. Nantahala Outdoor Center (Bryson City, NC)

13077 U.S. 19 West, Bryson City, NC 28713

If you are a Tar Heel born and bred, you know that the only place where you'll need a break from the Carolina heat in summertime. The Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) is a hub for outdoor adventure activities nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of western North Carolina, offering a range of family-friendly aquatic diversions. 

Why not try whitewater rafting? Voted one of the best outfitters on the planet by National Geographic ADVENTURE magazine, NOC offers full-day and half-day excursions traversing six different rivers, with packages appropriate for different ages and ability levels. Take on the churning waters of the French Broad River, Chattooga River, or Pigeon River, among others. You'll be so busy paddling through the rapids and having fun getting splashed that you won't even register the Carolina heat!

If you're looking for a more personal, milder adventure on the water, NOC also offers kayaking trips for all skill levels. Embark upon a peaceful paddle along the shores of Fontana Lake, where hidden waterfalls and animals may surprise you at any corner. Even fly fishers will find a haven at the NOC, where experienced guides lead intrepid anglers along local rivers and streams in search of rainbow trout, brown trout, and other native species.

The Great Wolf Lodge is one of the best aquatic attractions for young children and families.

#4. Great Wolf Lodge Indoor Waterpark (Concord, NC)

10175 Weddington Road, Concord, NC 28027

Great Wolf Lodge's indoor waterpark features a range of thrilling water rides, including water slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, and interactive water play areas. You can spend hours of fun with your family in this waterpark, a bonified destination for beating the Carolina heat.

Thrill levels range from low to medium to high. The “Howlin’ Tornado” is a high-thrill attraction reeling four passengers through quickly-tilting twists and turns aboard a single raft. How high can you raft escalate up the walls before careening down into a dark tunnel for one ultimate splash?! Fort Mackenzie, constituting a low-thrill experience, is ideal for children and toddlers. Imagine the coolest, wettest fortress you’ve ever encountered! You can even escape through the Totem Tower (medium-thrill) slides – just make sure you avoid being dumped on by the gigantic bucket of water that tips every time an alarm sounds!

Other exciting (and dry) attractions at the Concord Great Wolf Lodge include a miniature bowling alley, an arcade with classic and modern games, a Build-a-Bear Workshop, and Scoops – a spa just for kids that offers manicures, pedicures, and, of course, ice cream!

This aquatic paradise is a hidden gem located just outside of Charleston, SC.

#5. Charleston Aqua Park at Trophy Lakes (Johns Island, SC)

3050 Marlin Road, Johns Island, SC 29455

One of the newest places to beat the Carolina heat — Charleston Aqua Park is located at Trophy Lakes and reopens their host of aquatic attractions in May of 2023. Located just outside of downtown Charleston, the park allows guests ages six and up can tackle the obstacle course, which takes approximately 45 minutes to complete. 

Alternatively, hold on tight while conquering the above-water ropes course! Charleston Aqua Park’s version is the first of its kind in the entire world, challenging brave participants to hone their coordination and dedication. There are even three difficulty levels ranging from beginner to intermediate, making the ropes course accessible to all abilities. 

There are plenty of other exhilarating activities to take part in at Trophy Lakes. Strap on a slalom ski to make clean cuts through the pristine waters, or fix your goofy stance to conquer the wakeboarding Cable Park. Those who prefer activities on the more tranquil side may enjoy connecting with nature aboard kayaks or paddleboards, and classes are available for those new to steering.

Whether you’re shredding the gnar on skis, tacking and jibing aboard a sailboat, or churning through a gripping waterslide, you’re sure to form unforgettable memories with friends and family members, all while staying cool in the persistent yet much beloved Carolina heat!