What to Pack. A swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen are necessities when visiting Soak City. Beyond that, there are some items that will help make the day go by seamlessly. Pack a medium-sized bag that will fit your essentials and fit inside one of the lockers available for rent at Soak City.

Yes, you should definitely bring your own towels to Knott’s Soak City, as the park does not provide them for free to general admission guests. While you can purchase towels at the WipeOut Surf Shop inside the park if you forget yours, they are quite expensive. Most experienced visitors recommend bringing "cheap" or distinctively patterned towels that you wouldn't mind losing, as it is a common practice to drape a towel over a lounge chair to "claim" your spot for the day. While theft of non-valuables like towels is relatively rare at the park, it is still a risk in crowded public areas. If you choose to rent a Private Cabana, which accommodates up to 8 guests and includes amenities like lounge chairs, a safe, and a dedicated server, you will still need to bring your own towels unless otherwise specified in your specific rental package. For 2026, the park also emphasizes wearing water shoes between slides, as the Southern California pavement can reach scorching temperatures that are painful for bare feet.