Make a splash

Story by Alea Wilkins & Photos by Alyssa Franck

Splash pads are a hot parks-and-recreation investment in the Lowcountry — three have been added to Beaufort County in the past five years, with plans to build another by the end of 2026. In between a traditional playground and a waterpark, they offer interactive water features like jets and fountains to excite kids while keeping them cool. Brooke Plank-Buccola, Port Royal’s assistant town manager, says they’re especially welcoming for children who may not be fit to swim in the ocean. 

“This is a wonderful chance for kids who might not be comfortable in water to splash around and cool off during these warm summer days,” she says.  

Parents also can unwind with a light mist, escaping the heat while appreciating the lush summer greenery. Explore four local “spraygrounds” that are making a splash.

Coligny Beach Park

Hilton Head Island

Whether you are rolling in from a beach day, cruising along the shoreline on two wheels or loading up shopping bags from Coligny Plaza, the dry deck fountain at Coligny Beach Park is the perfect place to hit pause and cool off. Located right at the entrance at 1 Coligny Circle, this ground-level fountain delivers sweet salvation from the sweltering afternoon sun. Feel like a kid again by darting through 26 vertical streams, or if you prefer to stay (mostly) dry, take a tip from the locals and linger nearby while the ocean breeze carries a refreshing mist your way. Especially after a sandy day at the beach, it is the ideal spot to cool off, reset and revive any cranky kids. Everything you need is just steps away, including shaded seating, public restrooms, bench swings, Wi-Fi, colorful local art and, of course, the iconic Tiki Hut, always ready with an oceanside cocktail. Paradise found!

Lowcountry Celebration Park

Hilton Head Island 

Ahoy, mateys! Set sail for fun at the Adventure Playground at Lowcountry Celebration Park (94 Pope Ave.), a partially wet, partially dry wonderland inspired by the ship that Capt. William Hilton sailed to discover the island. At the helm, a towering play structure modeled after his vessel invites young sailors to climb, slide and fire misting cannons that send refreshing sprays into the air. Venture a little farther and you will find a wading pool designed to resemble a winding creek, complete with jet streams that arch overhead. When it is time to rest between quests, parents and pirates can retreat to shaded seating, take advantage of public restrooms and stay connected with Wi-Fi. A stroll along the perimeter trail reveals even more hidden treasures. Turtles, birds and the occasional alligator have been spotted gathering near the pond. At Hilton Head Island’s most swashbuckling park, adventure is never far away.

Oscar Frazier Park

Bluffton

With showering buckets, larger-than-life animal sculptures and jets spraying from every direction, Oscar Frazier Park (7 Recreation Court) delivers all the fun of a mini waterpark. Kids will love the gushing geysers and flower-shaped sprinklers, while parents, if not already drenched, can enjoy the gentler showers and plenty of shaded benches nearby. The splash pad is just one of many ways to enjoy the outdoors at this community favorite. A traditional playground, walking trails and nearby baseball and soccer fields offer even more room to roam. Even four-legged family members can join the fun at the dog park, where separate areas for different-sized pups ensure everyone plays safely. Planning a party? Oscar Frazier Park can be rented for birthdays, anniversaries and other summer celebrations that could use a refreshing twist.

New Riverside Barn Park

Bluffton

The Lowcountry’s newest sprayground made a big splash at the February grand opening of New Riverside Barn Park (30 Red Barn Drive). Part of a 37-acre Bluffton development, the park features picnic areas, walking paths, the namesake barn and a state-of-the-art play space designed to entertain the entire family. Young adventurers can climb the mast of a wooden ship, scale the ropes course or soar through the air on a zipline (yes, a real zipline). Follow the turf trail to the splash pad, where blue cushioned flooring speckled with lily pads sets the scene. Water sprays from tall reeds like an upgraded backyard sprinkler, keeping kids cool and active even in the warmest months. While the park’s red barn is still undergoing renovations, the rest of the grounds are ready to kick off their first full summer of fun. Pack a picnic for the open-air pavilions, or set out on over five miles of scenic hiking trails winding through the wetlands. Whatever adventure you choose, be sure to pack the sunscreen!

Bruce Edgerly Field

Port Royal 

Big news is making waves in northern Beaufort County. The Town of Port Royal’s splash pad is set to open by the end of 2026. This will expand the inclusive playground at Bruce Edgerley Field, creating more opportunities for children of all ages and abilities to stay cool and have fun as the temperatures rise. Stay tuned to the Town of Port Royal’s website and social media channels for updates on this refreshing addition.