Opened: July 1989
Size: 4.5-6 acres
Designed By: Leisure And Recreation Concepts, Inc.
Cost: $5.5 Million
HISTORY & INFO
Around 1986 or possibly even earlier, Lagoon began making preparations for a new water park to be built inside the boundaries of the park. It replaced the million-gallon Swimming Pool. The new water park's boundaries eclipsed the tracks of the Pioneer Village Railroad so the train ended its operation. The Swimming Pool closed after its 60th season in 1987. Lagoon-A-Beach was planned to open in June of 1989, but didn't open until July. As part of the grand opening festivities, a fashion show was put on by J.C. Penney's featuring the exclusive Lagoon-A-Beach "Togs". The line of swimwear was sold at J.C. Penney's in the weeks leading up to the event and were thereafter made available at Rad Brad's Surf Rags. The plan was that if the idea was successful, more outlets would be added, perhaps even in other states. A wider variety of styles would be available also. I don't know what happened to the concept though. I'm pretty sure the line was only sold at Lagoon-A-Beach.
In it's opening season, at a time when an All-Day Passport for the park cost $14.95, it cost $8.50 for admission to the waterpark. The best deal was to buy a combination "Ride & Slide" pass for $19.95. Lagoon-A-Beach passes also allowed guests into the park's various shows. A year or two later, Lagoon-A-Beach was included in the All-Day Passport and has been ever since.
There are 4 Pipeline Slides, The Outrigger, 3 Serpentine Slides & 2 speed slides. There are volleyball courts, 3 food stands, hot tubs, a lazy river that slowly winds around an island full of pools, waterfalls and a play area for kids. Lagoon-A-Beach is a great way to relax during a day at Lagoon.
Some things that have been removed are the water guns that were mounted around Bongo's Bay and the arcade which was located in the Beach House. The speed slides were modified around 1998 or 1999.
PHOTOS
Photo: Rick