Hidden Secrets of Typhoon Lagoon: Disney’s Storm-Soaked Paradise 🌴
- Trixie
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
For over 35 years, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon has made a splash with guests from around the world. But how much do you really know about this waterlogged wonder? Let’s dive into the fascinating story behind Disney’s tropical escape — and why it remains a fan favorite today.
A Stormy Beginning
Long before it became a place for families to catch waves and conquer slides, the idea behind Typhoon Lagoon started with a simple sketch — a boat perched on top of a mountain.
Lead designer Chris Runco’s very first drawing of “Miss Tilly” stranded atop “Mount Mayday” captured Disney executives’ imaginations immediately. That sketch became the centerpiece for the entire park.
Every 30 minutes, Mount Mayday blasts a 50-foot geyser into the sky, reminding visitors of the mythical storm that turned a pristine island into a wild, waterlogged paradise.
Building a Backstory
Disney Imagineers didn’t just want another water park. They built an entire narrative.The park tells the story of a once-beautiful tropical resort wrecked by a fierce typhoon.
Scattered surfboards, tangled fishing nets, and overgrown vegetation paint a vivid picture of nature reclaiming its turf — all while inviting guests to splash, slide, and surf through the chaos.
Typhoon Lagoon’s detailed theming remains one of Disney’s finest storytelling achievements outside the theme parks.
Shark Reef: The Forgotten Treasure
One of Typhoon Lagoon’s most unique experiences — now lost to time — was Shark Reef.Guests could snorkel through a 362,000-gallon saltwater lagoon filled with real sharks and tropical fish. It was a rare chance to swim with sea creatures in the middle of a theme park!Sadly, Shark Reef closed permanently in 2016, leaving behind fond memories for those lucky enough to experience it.
A Park Apart
Did you know Typhoon Lagoon is the only Disney water park located within the city limits of Lake Buena Vista?It originally opened in 1989 as Disney’s second water park after River Country, which operated from 1976 until 2001.Today, Typhoon Lagoon continues to thrive alongside its sister park, Blizzard Beach, which reopened for simultaneous operation in 2025 — the first time both parks have run together in years.
Why Typhoon Lagoon Still Makes Waves
Between its giant surf pool, lazy rivers, family raft rides, and unbeatable theming, Typhoon Lagoon remains a must-visit destination for Disney World guests who want a day of thrills, chills, and a little laid-back beach magic.
