The next time you find yourself in San Francisco you might want to check out this interactive piece. It's part jungle gym, part sculpture and part acoustic instrument. According to the artist, Peter Richards, "Everything in the environment is music. If you take the time you can compose that music in your own head..." His wave organ gives all who adventure to the jetty by the Exploratorium the ability to hear the music of the Bay. Don't believe us? Then take a peek below. We've included a video that brings you face to face with the music of mother nature.
Approximately 25 pipes made with PVC pipe and cement at varying lengths and angles make their way to the ocean. Or, we should say, the tide rolls in and makes its way to the wave organ.
The "music" that each pipe makes is pretty much like that of a conch shell but even cooler.
The sculptor believes when he takes a little time to meditate on the music it has the power to lower his blood pressure. With four kids of my own and my blood pressure spiking quite regularly, there might just be a market for one of these in my home...and every home.
CaliBunga, the new waterpark replacing Raging Waters at Lake Cunningham Park in San Jose, recently opened amid a heatwave, providing Bay Area residents with a fun place to cool down. This Northern California waterpark features a mix of new and revamped attractions, catering to all ages and thrill levels.
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For younger visitors, there are kid-friendly zones like Pirates Cove and Wacky Water Works. Thrill-seekers can enjoy the exhilarating Dragon’s Den, Serpentine Slides, Barracuda Blaster, and Shotgun Falls.
There are four types of cabanas located in various areas of the park. Rent one near the attractions you want to enjoy.
Raging Waters had been a popular destination at Lake Cunningham Park for nearly 40 years when the operator unexpectedly announced last September it was ending its lease a year early.
In February, the city council approved California Dreamin’ Entertainment to take over the city-owned water park on a short-term basis through September 2025, with options for extensions to allow time to find a long-term operator. The park officially reopened as CaliBunga Waterpark on July 4, 2024.
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While some fans of Raging Waters have noted that CaliBunga retains many features of the old park, with updated rides and new food options, the response so far has been mixed.
Many reviewers have enjoyed their visits, appreciating the improvements, while others have voiced criticisms. CaliBunga's management has been responsive to online feedback and is committed to enhancing the visitor experience.
We think it’s worth a visit, especially now that some time has passed since its opening, giving the park a chance to smooth out any initial kinks.
Raging Waters was a blast for so many NorCal kids and their families, and it’s likely that CaliBunga will become the place where new summertime memories are made as well.
Do you live near this Northern California waterpark? Lucky you! If not, plan a road trip to San Jose to spend a day enjoying the wave pool and water slides at CaliBunga Waterpark. Tell us, when was the last time you went to a waterpark?
Built on a man-made lake, this water park in Northern California is a hidden gem! Bring the whole family to Velocity Island Park in Woodland! Kids can play on the floating playground, older kids and adults can wakeboard or play volleyball, or you can just relax on a beach chair under a grass umbrella.
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The water park is open for the season, with pricing at $15 per person on weekdays and $20 on weekends for a 50-minute session. While entry to the park is free if you’re not participating in the attractions, visitors are encouraged to try the various activities offered.
Hidden away in Woodland, just 15 miles northwest of Sacramento, lies a water park unlike any other—Velocity Island Park.
This Northern California gem offers a unique summer experience perfect for families, thrill-seekers, and anyone looking to escape the heat.
Velocity Island Park is known for its wakeboarding park, which caters to all levels, from beginners to experienced riders. The park’s polished and professional setup makes it a top destination for wakeboarding enthusiasts.
Cables pull riders around the lake, offering a thrilling experience complete with various obstacles perfect for stunts and tricks. For those new to the sport, lessons are available.
But wakeboarding is just the beginning. The park is also home to the "Pirate Cove" aqua park, a massive floating playground on the water.
This 30,000-square-foot obstacle course is a summer dream come true.
The aqua park features a variety of attractions, including slides, jumping pillows, trampolines, swings, and challenge tracks—all connected by floating walkways.
To participate in the aqua park, guests must be at least six years old.
The park’s setup is designed for comfort and convenience. Visitors can relax on beach chairs or set up tents and umbrellas in designated areas (10x10 tents are allowed for a fee).
Shaded structures and sandy beach areas provide the perfect spot to unwind after a session on the playground. And when hunger strikes, the on-site restaurant offers delicious bites to satisfy any appetite.
Even though the lake is artificial, the park maintains a healthy ecosystem, using human and animal-safe aquatic products to control unwanted organisms like algae. The presence of mosquitofish helps reduce mosquito larvae, making the environment pleasant for visitors.
This water park in Northern California provides life jackets for all participants in the Aqua Park and Wakeboard Park sessions. However, personal items such as large rafts, alcohol, pets, and outside food (except water in a reusable bottle) are prohibited.
With its thrilling water sports, family-friendly atmosphere, and sunny location, Velocity Island Park is a must-visit destination this summer. Whether you're wakeboarding, exploring the floating playground, or simply soaking up the sun, this water park promises an unforgettable experience for all. Don’t miss out on this epic outdoor adventure—plan your visit today!
