The well-known Calibunga water park in San Jose, California, officially closed its doors on June 11, ending over four decades of operation. Formerly known as Raging Waters, the park was a popular destination for families in the South Bay area, known for its thrilling water attractions and summer fun. The abrupt cessation of services has left many locals seeking alternative ways to cope with the California summer heat.
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The city’s Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services Department announced the end of Calibunga’s operations, which first opened in 1985. The park was originally managed by Palace Entertainment, a company that came under the ownership of Herschend Family Entertainment in 2025. Following a series of operational challenges, Palace Entertainment relinquished its lease in September 2023, prompting the city to seek new management for the site.
In a bid to revamp the property, San Jose has partnered with Lakeside Partners to create a modern water park that will feature enhanced amenities and innovative interactive play areas. Ed Bautista, a representative from the city’s Parks Department, stated that the selection of Lakeside Partners came through a competitive process aimed at ensuring a quality redevelopment project for the historically significant site.
Mayor Matt Mahan expressed disappointment over the park’s closure, particularly as families had anticipated using it to escape the summer heat. “I share the frustration of every family that was counting on it,” Mahan remarked. He emphasised that it was crucial for the city to secure an operator well in advance of the peak summer season. Nevertheless, Bautista reassured residents that while Calibunga may be closed for the time being, the city remains focused on providing entertainment options for families.
In lieu of the water park, San Jose is working on organising a variety of events and activities in nearby areas to maintain summer fun for residents. According to the city’s press release, potential upcoming events include live concerts, movie nights featuring BMX films, and creative workshops for children. Furthermore, swimming opportunities will still be available at local high schools such as Overfelt, Mt. Pleasant, and Silver Creek.
Calibunga was particularly beloved for its array of water-based features, which included a lazy river, a large wave pool, and various water slides catering to different thrill levels. It quickly became a favourite spot for family outings and summer camps since its inception.
The community’s response to the closure has been one of nostalgia and disappointment, with many reminiscing about the memories created at the park over the years. While the announcement of a redevelopment project has instilled hope for the future, it also highlights the need for immediate alternatives for families as summer progresses.
As plans evolve, residents are encouraged to stay engaged with the city’s initiatives aimed at bringing more family-friendly events and activities to San Jose during the summer. Despite the setbacks, the city’s commitment to maintaining a vibrant community spirit continues, with efforts to provide recreational options readily available throughout the surrounding areas.
The future of the Calibunga site looks promising with the planned redevelopment, aiming to bring a fresh perspective and exciting new features for the community. However, for now, families in Northern California will have to seek other avenues to cool off as they await the next chapter in the legacy of this once-beloved water park.