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Kilauea: Europe’s Only Water Coaster Opens Near Madrid

Kilauea: Europe’s Only Water Coaster Opens Near Madrid RUSSPAIN.com © russpain.com
Kilauea: Europe’s Only Water Coaster Opens Near Madrid © russpain.com
Aquopolis Villanueva de la Cañada has opened Kilauea, a water coaster billed as unique in Europe, as the centrepiece of its new Mana Nui area. The ride pairs roller coaster thrills with aquatic fun, widening the park’s appeal to Madrid families and adventure seekers.

Kilauea, the headline attraction for Aquopolis Villanueva de la Cañada’s 2026 season, is now open to visitors. The water coaster offers a ride experience described as unlike any other in Europe. Set within the new Mana Nui area, it is designed to deliver an adrenaline rush while keeping guests cool during Madrid’s hottest months. Visitors reviewing the park on Disfrutalia called Kilauea a new attraction and noted its speed, as well as a longer ride experience than conventional slides.

Stretching nearly 180 metres and reaching close to 10 metres in height, Kilauea combines a roller coaster’s speed and drops with the twists of a water slide. Powerful water jets launch riders down a straightaway, followed by climbs and descents before sharp turns. The journey lasts about 45 seconds. Immersive visual effects and a narrative inspired by the legendary Hawaiian volcano Kilauea add to the adventure. The name refers to Kīlauea, an active volcano on Hawaiʻi’s Big Island. The U.S. Geological Survey lists the volcano at 1,247 metres above sea level.

Mana Nui: A New Tropical Zone

Kilauea is the centrepiece of Mana Nui, a 4,600-square-metre expansion that brings a Hawaiian-inspired atmosphere to Aquopolis Villanueva de la Cañada. The new zone adds to the park’s existing 15,000 square metres, balancing high-energy attractions with places to relax and spend time with family. The park’s plans for the area include lush landscaping and themed decor, with dedicated spaces for all ages intended to make it a summer destination for Madrid residents and visitors.

Family-Friendly Features

Aquopolis Villanueva de la Cañada also offers a broad range of family attractions. The park has more than 2,000 square metres of white-sand beach, a wave pool and over 15 water attractions. Younger guests can try scaled-down versions of popular slides, including Waikiki, Zigzag, Pistas Blandas and Río Rápido. Interactive play zones and splash areas are designed for children.

For visitors seeking stronger thrills, rides such as Kangaroa remain among the park’s highlights. Kilauea is expected to draw new visitors, especially teenagers and young adults looking for a distinctive aquatic experience close to the capital. Disfrutalia reviewers also mentioned returning to Waikiki Jungle and Río Lento during their visit.

Services and Practical Details

Aquopolis offers restaurants and picnic areas, along with sun loungers, VIP spaces and Balinese beds for guests who want to alternate between rides and relaxation. Tickets for the 2026 season are already available through the park’s official website, which offers several access options.

For families considering other large-scale leisure destinations in Spain, Alannia Costa Blanca in Alicante also offers extensive pools and slides, as well as nature-focused amenities. It is another example of family entertainment in the country.

With Kilauea and Mana Nui, Aquopolis Villanueva de la Cañada strengthens its position as a summer attraction just outside Madrid, pairing new rides with places to relax.

Lara Carter RUSSPAIN.com
Journalist

Lara Carter

Lara Carter is a journalist at RUSSPAIN.COM covering Spanish current affairs, culture, tourism, transport, economy and society.