San Jose, California — Families looking for ways to cool off this summer will have one less option in the Bay Area after city officials announced the temporary closure of a popular water park that has entertained visitors for decades.
CaliBunga, a well-known attraction at Lake Cunningham that many longtime residents still remember as Raging Waters, will suspend water-park operations while officials move forward with plans for a major transformation of the property.
The announcement comes just as temperatures begin rising and many Californians start planning trips to beaches, pools, and water parks for the summer months.
Popular Attraction Has Been a Local Favorite for Decades
For more than four decades, the water park has served as a popular destination for families throughout San Jose and the surrounding Bay Area.
Generations of visitors have spent summer days enjoying its attractions, making the park one of the region’s most recognizable recreational destinations.
San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan acknowledged the park’s long history and importance to local families while discussing the temporary closure.
“For more than 40 years, Lake Cunningham’s water park has been where San José families go to beat the heat,” Mahan said in a statement.
While the closure may disappoint longtime visitors, city leaders say the decision is part of a broader effort to create a better experience for future generations.
“Despite a temporary closure, our commitment is to keep this park active now and build an aquatic destination worthy of the next generation,” the mayor added.
Renovation Plans Aim to Modernize the Property
City officials announced that they are partnering with a new operator, Lakeside Partners, to redevelop the site and create a modern water park experience.
According to the city, the project will focus on transforming the property into a state-of-the-art aquatic destination featuring upgraded attractions and expanded recreational opportunities.
Planned improvements include enhanced water features, interactive play zones designed for children and families, and additional amenities intended to appeal to visitors of all ages.
Officials believe the investment will help ensure the park remains a major attraction for years to come while offering a more modern and engaging experience.
Although a timeline for reopening has not yet been announced, the redevelopment effort signals a significant new chapter for one of Northern California’s most recognizable water attractions.
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Parts of the Property Will Remain Open
Even though water-park operations are being suspended, the entire property will not be closed.
The city said portions of the site will remain accessible and continue hosting community events, activities, and special programming during the renovation period.
This approach is intended to keep the area active and connected to the community while construction and planning efforts move forward.
Officials have not yet released a full schedule of upcoming events but say residents can expect a variety of activities to continue taking place at the location.
Legacy of One of Northern California’s Largest Water Parks
Before its closure, the park was widely recognized as one of the largest water parks in Northern California.
Visitors were drawn to attractions such as a lazy river, wave pool, tube rides, and numerous water slides that catered to guests seeking everything from relaxation to adrenaline-filled thrills.
For many Bay Area residents, the park became a summer tradition and a place where families created lasting memories.
Now, city leaders hope the redevelopment project will preserve that legacy while introducing new attractions that better meet the expectations of future visitors.
As summer begins, residents will have to wait a little longer before returning to the water, but officials say the long-term goal is to deliver a significantly upgraded destination that will serve the community for decades to come.
What do you think about the temporary closure? Are major renovations worth the wait if they result in a bigger and better water park experience? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
