How to Use TapuTapu at Universal’s Volcano Bay

Are you planning a trip to Universal’s Volcano Bay water park at Universal Orlando? If so, you need to know how to use TapuTapu so you can have the best time enjoying the water park.

Universal’s Volcano Bay

Universal’s Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando is quite possibly one of the BEST water parks there is. It is an exciting tropical paradise right in the heart of Orlando.

This fantastic water park offers both thrill rides and chill experiences. And, there is plenty of great dining so that you can re-fuel during your visit.

Whether you are sliding down a massive slide, floating along a lazy river, or relaxing in a lounge chair, it is most assuredly a GREAT way to spend a hot day alternating between playing and relaxing. And, even better, Volcano Bay has innovative technology that helps make your stay even better.

What Is TapuTapu

TapuTapu is your key to having an amazing day at Universal’s Volcano Bay! It Is a watch-like armband that you strap onto your wrist and wear during your visit.

TapuTapu serves several purposes. Most importantly, you will use it to scan at attractions to reserve a return time so that you don’t have to wait in long physical lines.

However, you can also use it for cash-free spending. You can link a payment method and charge all purchases using your TapuTapu. You can also use it to access lockers and interact with select experiences.

How Much Does it Cost

We have great news for you. TapuTapu is absolutely FREE for all guests at Volcano Bay. It is a truly awesome benefit.

If you were a Disney Parks fan back in the day, TapuTapu will probably remind you a bit of the old FastPass benefit. It really makes the entire experience of the water park feel like a better value.

TapuTapu is FREE for all guests at Volcano Bay!

Picking up Your TapuTapu

When you enter Volcano Bay, you may wonder when and where to pick up a TapuTapu. It is very hard to miss. First, you will go through the security checkpoint. Then you will make your way up the path to Volcano Bay.

There will be carts with Team Members passing out TapuTapu. They should be clearly visible. Everyone entering the park gets to take one. However, it is not yours to keep. It is a loaner that you return at the end of the day.

Using your TapuTapu

Using TapuTapu is easy. All the rides at Volcano Bay feature a Virtual Line. It changes how you wait–leaving you free to float, swim, splash, eat, shop or just relax until it’s your time to ride!

Anything with much of a wait will be eligible for a return time. You can check the Universal app to see which rides have waits and head to one to scan your TapuTapu.

You will see touch points with a digital wait time displayed. Once you tap in at an attraction with your TapuTapu wearable, you’re in the Virtual Line! Just be sure you are scanning for the right slide.

Your TapuTapu will count down the minutes while you wait elsewhere. When your TapuTapu vibrates, it’s time to return to your attraction with just a short wait before you ride.

It is important to know that you can only hold one return time at a time. If you select another attraction, it will void the one you have been waiting on.

What Can You Do While You Wait

You can do anything you like while you wait for your ride time. That is you can do anything except for stand in lengthy standby lines, of course.

If you want to have a snack or a meal, go right ahead. There are PLENTY of good things to eat.

You could also enjoy lounging in one of the many lounge chairs around the park. Or, you can rent a cabana if you are feeling fancy.

You can also enjoy attractions such as the Kopiko Wai Winding River, which is a huge lazy river. You may even want to play at Waturi Beach or catch the waves!

Of course, sometimes attractions will not have long wait times now and then, and TapuTapu will be unnecessary for these. These will be considered “Ride Now” attractions. You can walk straight onto these with little waiting while you wait for a return time. If they attract too many riders, then they will begin utilizing virtual lines again.

What About Express Pass?

You can purchase Universal Express if you don’t want to wait in the virtual lines. Then, you do not need TapuTapu.

Universal Express is available at the park if you find you want it. Also, you should know Universal Express is NOT included for Volcano Bay with stays at Premier Resorts.

However, if you are utilizing TapuTapu, you really don’t NEED Express Pass at Volcano Bay unless you are short on time or the park is at capacity. And even then, careful strategizing with TapuTapu will get you on everything.

For example, a member of my travel party wanted to visit Volcano Bay on a holiday weekend. Using early entry and TapuTapu, he was able to enjoy every slide as well as lots of chill time and lunch. He was back in the room before 2:00 PM!

Returning Your TapuTapu

When you finish with your fun day at Volcano Bay, you will need to return your TapuTapu. Returning them is easy.

Simply head toward the exit, and you will see collection bins. Just drop yours in the bin and you are done. It’s that easy.

Final Thoughts

Overall, TapuTapu is an amazing little innovation. It makes the time so easy to enjoy at Universal’s Volcano Bay. We wish that more theme parks had the ability to operate using a fully virtual queuing system.

If you want a day in the sun that offers just the right proportion of fun and relaxation, Volcano Bay is it! Grab a TapuTapu and a float and enjoy!

Have you ever been to Universal’s Volcano Bay and used TapuTapu? How did you like it? Let us know, and be sure to pass this information along to your friends who plan to visit Universal Orlando so that they don’t miss out.