Ho Tay Water Park, also known as West Lake Water Park, is the most famous and largest water entertainment complex in central Hanoi. It is an indispensable destination for locals and tourists seeking refreshment and excitement during the long, hot Vietnamese summer.
I. General Overview and Best Time to Visit
Location: The park is located on the eastern shore of West Lake (Hồ Tây), approximately kilometers north of the Old Quarter. It is part of a larger amusement complex that often includes the adjacent Moon Park (featuring dry rides like a Ferris wheel and roller coasters).
Target Audience: The park caters to all ages, with dedicated safe zones for young children and high-speed thrills for teenagers and adults.
Operating Season: The water park section is typically seasonal, operating during the warmer months, generally from April to the end of September or early October, to align with the peak summer heat.
Best Time to Visit: To avoid the most significant crowds, aim for a visit on a weekday morning. Weekends and national holidays are significantly busier.
II. Key Attractions and Thrills
The park spans over square meters and is divided into several fun zones:
For Thrill-Seekers (The Slides): The park features numerous imported Spanish slides, including high-speed lanes, black tube slides for two, and multi-lane mat racers, with the tallest slides reaching up to meters.
The Wave Pool: A main attraction boasting a -meter deep pool capable of generating artificial waves up to meters high, simulating the excitement of the sea. Life jackets are available for less confident swimmers.
The Lazy River: A popular feature where visitors can relax on complimentary tubes, floating along a scenic route that includes cooling mist sections.
Children’s Areas: Safe and colorful play zones for kids, such as the Elephant Pool and Castle Pool, with water sprayers and low-height slides.
Diving Pool: Features diving platforms at , , and heights, with a depth of up to meters for safe practice.
III. Practical Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 614 Lạc Long Quân Street, Nhật Tân Ward, Tây Hồ District, Hanoi. |
| Phone Number | +84 24 3718 4222 |
| Typical Hours (Seasonal) | Weekdays (Mon-Fri): 9:00 AM–5:00 PM |
| Ticket Prices (General Range) | Adults (Over 135cm): ∼190,000 VND (Weekday) to ∼205,000 VND (Weekend) |
Note: Ticket prices vary by height and whether it’s a weekday, weekend, or post entry.
IV. Traveler's Tips
Dress Code: Swimwear is required for water activities to maintain water hygiene; regular clothes are not permitted in the pools.
Bring Cash: While the entrance fee can be paid, expect additional small fees for things like locker rentals and possibly separate tickets for some rides in the adjacent Moon Park.
Sun Protection: Hanoi summers are intense. Essential items include high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Waterproof Bag: Highly recommended for securing phones and valuables while you enjoy the slides and pools.
Transportation: The park is easily accessible via Taxi or ride-hailing services (Grab). Several public Bus Routes (e.g., ) also stop nearby on Lạc Long Quân Street.
