If you’re anything like me, this summer has been a bit underwhelming. Between the seemingly endless rain and the chillier temperatures, I’ve barely been able to wear my favorite sundresses, let alone relax by the pool. Which is why Blue Harbor Resort โ and its adjoining Breaker Bay Waterpark โ felt like such a godsend earlier this week.
Only about three hours away (or two-and-a-half, if you don’t have to stop for multiple potty and snack breaks) in Sheboygan, Wis., Blue Harbor manages to feel like it’s on another planet. Maybe that’s because the indoor waterpark is always kept at a balmy 84 degrees (remember the 80s?), and is full of fun for the whole family.
The waterpark is probably best for ages 5-10, when things like the dueling three-story tube slides and twisty-turny body slides produce maximum thrills. Water babies of all ages will enjoy Molly’s Moat, the lazy river that practically demands relaxation, the Recreation Pool, complete with wobbly lily pads that test your balance, and the zero-depth entry S.S. Minnow sprayground, which had my 3-year-old nephew drenching me at every opportunity with geysers and spray features. Older kids will definitely want to try out the Riptide Double Surf Simulator (it requires a signed waiver) for a real boogie board challenge, or they can opt to soak in the hot tub.
If Mother Nature cooperates, there is an outdoor pool (with its own bar) or the Lake Michigan beach for some open-air adventures.
Despite the cooler temps, we did venture outside a bit. Our little golfers gave enthusiastic thumbs-up to the course at Harbor Pointe Mini Golf, and we definitely enjoyed our sweet treats at the old-fashioned South Pier Parlor โ both just across the street from the hotelโs entrance. Thereโs more than enough on-site, as well: options for families include the Kidโs Club (every day through Sept. 7) and an indoor glow-in-the-dark miniature golf course that would be perfect in case of rain.
Mysteriously, given our mostly indoor endeavors, we all seemed to come home with a bit more color and even a few freckles. Maybe all our bodies needed to believe that it really is summer was some wet and wild fun, regardless of rain or the thermometer’s reading. That’s good to keep in mind as we look forward to a couple of months’ worth of uncertain weather patterns.
I’m still waiting to pull out the sundresses, though.
