Smugglers Notch vs Kahuna Laguna, North Conway
A side-by-side look at two water parks — rides, prices, amenities, and which one fits your trip.
Which Park Is Right for You?
Quick verdicts based on what each park offers.
Amenities Compared
What each park offers, side by side.
| Feature | Smugglers Notch | Kahuna Laguna, North Conway |
|---|---|---|
| Parking |
Only at Smugglers Notch
- picnic areas
Only at Kahuna Laguna, North Conway
- indoor facility
Both parks share 1 amenities including Parking.
About Each Park
Smugglers Notch
Vermont
Smugglers Notch might be a Vermont ski resort first, but their summer water features pack more punch than you'd expect from a mountain resort. The main attraction is their heated outdoor pool complex, which includes a substantial water slide area that'll keep kids busy for hours. The slides range from gentle spirals perfect for younger kids to faster drops that give tweens and teens the thrills they're looking for. What really sets this place apart is the mountain backdrop - you're literally swimming and sliding with views of Vermont's Green Mountains all around you. The pool water is heated, which is crucial since Vermont summers can be unpredictable. I've visited in late August when it was 65 degrees outside, and the warm water made all the difference. The kids' area features smaller slides and interactive water features that work well for toddlers and early elementary ages. There's also a separate swimming pool for serious lap swimmers or adults who want to escape the splash zone. The facility feels more like a resort amenity than a standalone water park, which means it's usually not packed like bigger commercial parks. Families staying at the resort get priority access, but day visitors are welcome when space allows. The mountain setting means you'll want to bring layers for before and after swimming - Vermont weather can change fast. Arrive early in the day for the best selection of lounge chairs and to beat any potential crowds. The snack bar keeps things simple with typical…
Read the full Smugglers Notch guide →Kahuna Laguna, North Conway
New Hampshire
Kahuna Laguna sits inside the Red Jacket Mountain View Resort in North Conway, making it a solid choice for families staying in the area or looking for a rainy day activity in the White Mountains. The indoor setting means you can visit year-round, which is huge when you're dealing with New Hampshire winters. The space feels cozy rather than massive - think community pool atmosphere with water park features rather than a sprawling resort complex. You'll find a decent selection of water slides that work well for kids and teens who aren't quite ready for the extreme stuff. The multi-level play structure keeps younger kids busy for hours with smaller slides, tipping buckets, and spray features. Parents can actually relax in the hot tubs while keeping an eye on the action, which is always a win. The indoor pool area stays warm and humid, so you won't be shivering between activities like you might at some indoor parks. Being part of a resort means the facilities are well-maintained, though don't expect the bells and whistles of larger destination water parks. The food options are pretty standard - pizza, burgers, snacks - but adequate for a day of swimming. Parking is straightforward since you're at a resort property. The crowd tends to be families with elementary and middle school aged kids, plus resort guests looking to unwind. It's not going to challenge thrill-seekers, but that's not really the point. This is more about convenient family fun in a controlled environment. The…
Read the full Kahuna Laguna, North Conway guide →Ready to visit Smugglers Notch?