Sometimes the best days are those when you don’t know exactly what to expect. That was the case with our afternoon at Splash Seixal, along with our daughters, aged 6 and 9. We had heard of a waterpark across the Tagus River, but what it would actually be like? No idea. And that made it even more fun.
A Surprise Across the Tagus
Splash Seixal is just a 30-minute ferry ride from Cais do Sodré. After the crossing, it’s a five-minute walk, and suddenly you’re standing in a huge parking lot. Outside the summer months, commuters who work in Lisbon park here, but during summer, this place transforms into a cheerful water paradise – with plenty of space for parking if you drive yourself.
Swimming Fun and More
The park is well-organized, sunny, and playful. There are a total of nine pools, but it feels more like one big playground with various water activities.
There’s one large pool with only one entrance and exit – great if you have kids and prefer things to stay manageable.
The second large pool can be accessed via an obstacle course or a slide that ends in the refreshing water. Our girls loved repeatedly conquering the challenges.
For smaller children, there’s a dedicated toddler pool. Perfect for the little ones to safely splash around.
The other “pools” are mostly slides that lead into small pools. Equally fun! Our absolute favorite? The belly slide – we all had a good laugh on it.
For real thrill-seekers, there’s a tall slide; when we were there, we only had to wait ten minutes.
Besides swimming, you can also climb in an obstacle course, go bungee jumping, or join the cheerful Zumba classes that are offered every hour. There’s always something to do!
Safety First
The lifeguards keep a close eye on everything. They are strict – you can frequently hear a whistle – but always with the kids’ safety in mind. That gave us parents peace of mind.
Crowds and Best Visit Time
Up until around 3:00 PM, it’s pretty busy, mainly due to kids’ camps and groups. But from around 4:30 PM, it started to get quieter, and we had almost all the slides and pools to ourselves. Very relaxed!
Tip: Come after 3:00 PM if you prefer a quieter atmosphere.
Food, Drinks, and Facilities
Food and drinks? Burgers, pizzas, and coffee are available for purchase. Not super cheap, but fine if you don’t feel like bringing your own food. You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks though – which we really appreciated.
You can change in the restrooms or just outside. There’s also a mother-child room. Note that the restrooms close at 6:45 PM, and the showers are often already cleaned by then.
A View to Dream Of
What makes Splash Seixal extra special: while you’re in the water, you look out over the Tagus River with the impressive Christ the King statue, the red bridge, and even a piece of Alfama and Parque das Nações in the background. A view you won’t forget.
Practical Tips
- Age: Ideal for children from 6 years old (with swimming diploma A), but also fun for little ones with the toddler pool.
- Location: 30 minutes by ferry from Cais do Sodré, then a 5-minute walk.
- Parking: Plenty of space at the swimming park if you drive yourself.
- Food: Food and drinks for sale, bringing your own food is allowed.
- Activities: Pools, obstacle courses, climbing course, bungee jumping, Zumba classes – something for everyone!
- Safety: Lifeguards keep a close watch, strict but careful.
- Note: Restrooms close at 6:45 PM, and this is also where you can change.
