Surf's Up - In The Arizona Desert

It's close.  It's and easy drive.  It has sand.  It's San Diego.  And tho this is a blog about what to do in Arizona, I can't help but to mention some of the attractions that are so near.  That isn't really going to happen here; not right now anyway.   But we do travel to Southern Cali for many reasons.  There's the beach, and the attractions, and the beach and family, and friends and the beach and the great weather (if you can get past the June gloom that begins in early may and continues thru July) and the feel of the warm sand between you toes.  And many other places that you don't even want the sand to go, but it is all worth it, to spend time on the California beaches.




For years we have sat on benches at Belmont Park, on Mission Beach, San Diego, and watched brave beginners of the FlowRider crash and burn, over and over again, until they find a way to bond with the water. Since it was located next to the pizza provider at the park, it was a perfect location for a break. Currently, all wave attractions are located at the Wave House, and is sometimes a bit more crowded than in past years, but still a blast to watch, if not participate.

But, we no longer have to drive to San Diego to watch or play on the wave.  Kierland Resort, in Scottsdale Arizona, opened it's very own FlowRider in the Summer of 2012. This is in addition to their water slide, the lazy river (relaxing and great for all ages) The location is perfect but the fact that it is only for guests puts a snag in those who would just like to take a quick break and challenge the wave on a hot afternoon.



For those of us who like to take a 'StayCation' and stick it out in the desert heat during the summer, the Kierland Resort is offering some very tempting discounts.  Some rooms as low as $139 per night.  With the cost of gas, this could be a great alternative to leaving the state.

Back to the subject of water fun -

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The FlowRider at  Kierland is a blast.  Instructors are always available to work with anyone who is a minimum of 42" tall.  From the looks of the web site, there are more fun things happening here than just the wave.

  The water is shallow and the base is soft and cushioned so there is no hard bumps or hits.  This is truly built for safe family fun.  There is a one time registration fee, which I never understand, and the cost is about $30 per hour.  I suspect that when you first begin, 60 minutes will feel like 6 hours.  Considering the fact that even your teenagers will be ready to nap for a while (offering the adults some true quiet time) after a session, this may be a worth while investment.

Check out some of these vids to best understand this attraction.