Is Volcano Bay separate from Universal Studios?

Volcano Bay admission is separate from admission to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. You must purchase a separate ticket for Volcano Bay or upgrade your multi-day ticket to the 3-park option.



Yes, Universal’s Volcano Bay is considered a separate, "third" theme park within the Universal Orlando Resort, distinct from Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. It requires its own specific admission ticket, or a "multi-park" pass that explicitly includes Volcano Bay. While it is located on the same overall property, it has its own entrance and is themed as a South Seas oasis centered around the 200-foot Krakatau volcano. Note for 2026 travelers: Volcano Bay is scheduled for a major, five-month refurbishment starting on October 26, 2026, and is not expected to reopen until March 24, 2027. During this period, Universal has paused the sale of 3-Park Annual Passes. If you are visiting in late 2026, you will need to stick to the two main dry parks or the newly opened Universal Epic Universe, as the water park will be entirely closed for maintenance and system overhauls.

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Universal Volcano Bay Water Theme Park, or Volcano Bay, is a tropical-themed water theme park at Universal Orlando Resort in Orlando, Florida.

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If you're more interested in large rides like roller coasters, Universal is going to be your best bet. The same is true if you're a big fan of Harry Potter. If you don't mind some of the more family-friendly rides or you have little ones to bring along, Disney may be a better option.

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The Universal Orlando Resort is a sprawling, three-park complex located in central Florida. Although it can be a little overwhelming to visit, you can do Universal in one day.

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Plus, the park is considerably more than some other waterparks like SeaWorld's Aquatica. Having shelled out that money ourselves and spending the day at the park, we are happy to say that yes, Volcano Bay is worth the money.

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You may be wanting to pack in a few theme parks in your short trip, which may leave you wondering, “can I do Universal Orlando in one day?” Lucky for you, with strategic planning and a little help from us, it is totally possible to do Universal Studios Orlando in one day.

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The two water parks differ in their ownership, but the major difference between Typhoon Lagoon and Volcano Bay is the attractions. Volcano Bay, which is a Universal park, favors more thrilling attractions, with several large water slides. Typhoon Lagoon in Disney World is geared more toward a relaxing experience.

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Explore Our 3 Amazing Theme Parks Whether you're visiting Universal Studios Florida, Universal's Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay, or all three, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

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Make sure you've got strong swimmers if you plan to do the Ohno and Ohyah drop slides. These two body slides plunge into a 10-foot-deep pool! Volcano Bay does not provide any free towels, so be sure to bring your own if you do not want to rent them (it costs $7).

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Wear something on your feet You won't be able to go down the water slides with them but many (not all) of the rides have small baskets to throw in your flip-flops, sunglasses, and towel before you climb up the steps to the slide.

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You can also opt to visit Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure one day with a park-to-park ticket and spend your second day splashing at Volcano Bay. If you want to maximize your two-day visit, we recommend: Getting the Universal Express or Universal Express Unlimited Pass for skipping the general queues.

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