As the hospitality market grows more competitive and guest expectations rise, hotels are looking for ways to set themselves apart. One way properties are standing out from the pack is by transforming their outdoor pool area into a mini water park.
With the addition of water slides, splash pads, lazy rivers and themed play areas, these hotels are becoming a one-stop, family-friendly destination – not just a place for visitors to sleep after traveling to off-site water parks. Hotels with mini water parks make it more convenient, relaxing, and economical for guests – and help boost their reputation and repeat business.
Results of a 2021 study by Hotel & Leisure Advisors found that hotels can subsequently increase RevPAR (revenue per available room) rates by adding water amenities. Additionally, hotels can see gains in other aspects of the business, including higher food and beverage revenues, better reviews, extended lengths of stay, and higher occupancy rates.
Overall, outdoor water features provide a great return on investment for hotels. Here are five reasons more properties are enhancing their outdoor space with a mini water park:
⦁ Creates a Destination, Not Just a Bed: By adding water park amenities, hotels become known as full-fledged destinations instead of simply a place to lodge. Families will especially appreciate the combination entertainment-and-lodging experience all in one place as it saves on travel expenses, pricey outside water park tickets, and other costs associated with off-property vacation stops.
⦁ Increases Revenue and Occupancy: Research shows that hotels with water park amenities see significant boosts in room revenue and occupancy rates. Hotel & Leisure Advisor’s report saw significant revenue boosts for properties that added smaller water parks with one or two waterslides and range from midscale to upscale quality-level properties. These properties reported up to a 59.5% average increase in room revenue per available room after adding water park features. Their amenities provide hours of fun for the kids, offer comfortable lounging and seating areas for the adults, and encourage guests to stay longer, spend more on-site and return for future visits.
⦁ Offers Year-Round Appeal: Indoor and well-designed outdoor water parks help hotels attract guests beyond the traditional summer pool season. While hotels in colder climates see higher occupancy with indoor amenities, water park attractions at any hotel will drive guests to their property more regularly, even in the traditional off-season, providing more regular bookings and revenue.
⦁ Meets Family Vacation Trends: Today’s families looking for a getaway are focused on convenience, safety, and entertainment. A hotel with an on-site water park checks all those boxes. While the kids burn off energy and play in a secure, monitored environment, parents can relax nearby while having food and drinks served poolside.
⦁ Provides Competitive Differentiation: Hotels in tourist areas are in constant competition because we all know that popular destinations mean a high concentration of hotels. Unique water park amenities like pirate ship or jungle-themed water playgrounds, interactive splash zones and wave pools help distinguish hotels from the pack, and they also leave lasting impressions that encourage positive reviews and repeat guest stays.
Staying competitive in the hotel industry requires listening to guests, understanding their needs, and creating an environment that delivers convenience, fun, and memorable experiences. Mini water parks do just that, and they have proven to be a game-changer for hotels – regardless of hotel size and location. Now is the time to turn your property’s pool into an appealing water park the entire family will enjoy.
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