Lots of hotel water parks bill themselves as resorts, but the three nationwide Kalahari Resorts go "beyond expectations," offering the kind of amenities you'd expect at a luxury resort along with an innovative and original water-park experience.

With their safari motif, spacious rooms, choice of indoor or outdoor water park, and dry, treehouse-themed indoor play areas, the Kalahari Resorts set themselves apart from other indoor water-park resort franchises. But if there was just

Lots of hotel water parks bill themselves as resorts, but the three nationwide Kalahari Resorts go "beyond expectations," offering the kind of amenities you'd expect at a luxury resort along with an innovative and original water-park experience.

With their safari motif, spacious rooms, choice of indoor or outdoor water park, and dry, treehouse-themed indoor play areas, the Kalahari Resorts set themselves apart from other indoor water-park resort franchises. But if there was just one word to describe their Sandusky, Ohio property, it would be "big." With 884 guestrooms, you can expect to do some serious walking, so ask for a room near the water park if you can get it. And about that water park? Expect to be wowed. The indoor water park alone at Kalahari Sandusky is 173,000 square feet, one of the biggest in the nation and significantly larger than most.

Because there are so many things to do and try—beyond the usual water-park fare—Kalahari is a great escape for families with older children or those for whom the water-park circuit has become old hat. Options include the MasterBlaster roller coaster, FlowRider surfing ride, family-size tube ride, and a variety of slides to satisfy everyone from speed demons to those looking for a more leisurely ride.

Guests can rent a cabana in the indoor water park or a bungalow in the outdoor water park, which include a flat-screen TV, safe, fridge, table, and chaise lounges… great for putting up those tired feet and getting a little private R&R without having to go all the way back to your room.

Choose from a variety of African-themed accommodations, including suites that sleep up to eight people with two separate bedrooms, three beds, and a pullout sofa. Microwaves and refrigerators allow you to cut down on food costs by storing snacks or bringing leftovers back to your room.

Kalahari offers a variety of dining options, including four restaurants in the hotel and several more throughout both the indoor and outdoor water parks. Meanwhile, Spa Kalahari has a full menu of services, from massages and body treatments to haircuts and coloring, plus manicures/pedicures for grownups and kids. And the shopping—four distinctive stores in all—goes far beyond the typical hotel gift shop. The resort also offers a fitness center, putt-putt golf course, volleyball courts, and arcade on the off-chance that the water park doesn't provide enough entertainment.

Because the water parks are open to the public as well as hotel guests, lines can be long and the park is often crowded during peak times. Opt for a weekday visit if possible, and ask how full the hotel is when you call to book your room. Note that guests do receive complimentary early access to the water park an hour ahead of the hoi polloi. Rides can be closed for scheduled maintenance, too, but the resort makes an effort to rotate closings, particularly on busy weekends and holidays.