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Discover the Tropical Staycation Getaway at Kalahari Sandusky

Recently we visited Kalahari – Sandusky.  We received a complimentary hotel stay and admission to the waterpark in exchange for this promotional post.  All opinions are my own.  Your experience may differ.  Kalahari Sandusky is located just south of Route 2 on Milan Road. It about a two and a half-hour drive from the Metro Detroit area.  Generally taking 80/90 is the quickest route. However, we often take Route 2 as it is only a couple minutes more. The route has better scenic views, and better yet saves us the tolls.

Kalahari Resorts in Sandusky, Ohio is the nations second largest indoor waterpark (Kalahari Pocono Mountain resort is the largest) at 173,000 square feet. This amazing space includes a wave pool, lazy river, toddler splash pools, basketball, FlowRider, indoor/outdoor spas, water tree fort with a dumping bucket, and lots of slides and raft rides.
Kalahari ohio
Kalahari Sandsusky

Covid19 Updates for 2020

As of now, the park is open. However all guests over the age of two are required to wear a mask in all public areas, except when visiting the indoor waterpark, outdoor waterpark, when dining or at the bar. Kalahari in Sandusky is also requiring that guests adhere to physical distancing resort-wide. Learn More.

The Kalahari Sandusky Waterpark is Amazing

Kalahari Resorts in Sandusky, Ohio is the nation’s second-largest indoor waterpark at 173,000 square feet.  The largest is Kalahari Poconos. This amazing space includes a wave pool, lazy river, toddler splash pools, basketball, FlowRider, indoor/outdoor spas, water tree fort with a dumping bucket,  and lots of slides and raft rides.

Lockers at Kalahari Ohio

Daily locker rentals are available for $15/day plus a $5 key deposit.

They provide use of life jackets for FREE at Kalahari Sandusky.

Life jackets are available at many locations about the waterpark.  Most of the pools require the use of a life jacket if guests are under a certain height.

My girls had so much fun at this indoor waterpark.

We visited on a very low capacity day. This was great particularly when it came to not having to wait in long lines for rides or food. However, some of the attractions (and restaurants) were closed due to low attendance.

Kalahari Sandusky indoor waterpark.


Rosaleigh (9) and Carlyn (6) weren’t really into slides and rides. Therefore, we spent most of our time in the lower thrill areas. They especially enjoyed the wave pool, lazy river and the water tree fort.  Naomi (3) is my thrill-seeker. She LOVED the slides in the tree fort, she wanted to go on some of the bigger rides and slides. However, she was WAY too short and didn’t meet the height requirements.

Extreme thrill slide

I personally rode on the Tanzanian Twister (pictured above) and the Swahili Swirl (pictured below).  Both were a ton of fun and full of excitement.

Swahili Swirl at Kalahari Ohio

I also braved the flow rider (pictured below), which was by far my favorite.  One piece bathing suits are highly recommended.  A t-shirt is required for female riders wearing a two-piece style suit.  But, females are not the only victims of bathing suit shenanigans on this ride… I witnessed a boy lose his swim trunks, and I myself almost lost the bottom half of my suit.

Flo-Rider was so much fun.  Just make sure your clothes stay on.
My Kids love the crossing.

Kalahari in Ohio Fun and Games

Outside of the waterpark, the Kalahari Resorts in Sandusky offers many options to keep you and your family busy.  For example, sports lovers will enjoy mini bowling or mini golf. While gamers can spend some time in the game room, play laser tag, or virtual reality. If sitting back and relaxing is more your speed, you will love the 7-D Motion Theatre. You can also test your physical abilities at the Safari Outdoor Adventure Park. Finally, guests can pamper themselves at the spa or salon.

Bowling at Kalahari Ohio

Dining at Kalahari in Ohio

On-site dining options are numerous.  The Ivory Coast and B-Lux Grill & Bar are two options that offer casual dining. However, if you are looking for a quicker option, you may enjoy the Cafe Mirage.  The Candy Hut offers an amazing assortment of sweets.  And if you choose, you can enjoy a meal in the waterpark at one six restaurants.

Ivory coast Restaurant
Candy Hut at Kalahari Sandusky
our room at Kalahari Ohio

There is truly something for everyone at Kalahari Resorts in Sandusky.  If you have a group of mixed ages or teens, this is certainly a great staycation choice.

Connect with Kalahari in Sandusky, Ohio

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Youtube

See more images from our staycation in our Kalahari Sandusky Photo Album.

Amber Louchart
Author: Amber Louchart

Amber is the proud mother to four beautiful children, Damian (27), Rosaleigh (14), Carlyn (11), and Naomi (8). Her family also includes four cats. She loves being a stay-at-home mom and feels blessed to be able to care for her children full-time and provide them with so many opportunities through Metro Detroit Mommy. In addition to Metro Detroit Mommy, Amber has a passion for hosting karaoke with Malibu Entertainment.  She enjoys the metro Detroit nightlife especially, singing, dancing and meeting new people.