Exploring Moana Journey of Water at EPCOT was an absolute highlight of my recent Disney trip! This interactive water attraction is a must-see, especially if you’re traveling with kids or just love the vibrant world of Moana. The first time I heard about it, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Was it a ride? A splash pad? Something entirely different?
Turns out, it’s a beautifully immersive experience that brings Moana’s connection with water to life, and it’s unlike anything else at EPCOT. I’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from the best times to visit to some tips for making the most of your experience.
I’ll share my own experience, along with some lessons I learned the hard way, so you can avoid a few common pitfalls!
Key Points for Visiting Moana Journey of Water at EPCOT
- Visit in the morning or evening to avoid the hottest part of the day and enjoy shorter lines.
- Bring a change of clothes if you plan on letting the kids splash around. Even if you’re just walking through, unexpected splashes can happen.
- Incorporate it into your EPCOT itinerary to make the most of your time. It’s not a quick stop, so plan for some time to relax and explore.
What is Moana Journey of Water?
Moana Journey of Water is an immersive, interactive water attraction inspired by Disney’s Moana. It’s located in the World Nature section of EPCOT and offers a unique way to explore water's natural cycle through hands-on experiences. If your kids are like mine, they’ll immediately be drawn to the playful fountains and streams, where water seems to dance and respond to your movements.
From water features that respond to your touch to calming, flowing streams, the attraction is as educational as it is fun. Most visitors spend around 20 to 30 minutes exploring the area, but if your kids are really into it, you might find yourself staying even longer. It’s a great spot for families, especially those with younger kids looking for a break from rides.
Plus, it’s one of those experiences that feels relaxing yet keeps the kids engaged, which is a big win when you’re navigating a busy park day.
Best Times to Visit
I learned pretty quickly that the best time to visit Moana Journey of Water is either in the morning or the evening.
During midday, the area can get quite crowded, especially on hot days when families are looking to cool off. We went early one day, and it was such a peaceful way to start our EPCOT adventure.
Another day, we stopped by in the late afternoon, and it was way less hectic than I expected. If you’re staying on property, consider making it part of your EPCOT rope drop plan.
For more tips on making the most of your morning at EPCOT, check out the EPCOT Rope Drop and Early Entry Strategy.
My Opinion: Pros and Cons of Moana Journey of Water
After experiencing Moana Journey of Water at EPCOT, I have some mixed feelings about it. Overall, it’s a beautiful and creative addition to the park, but it’s not for everyone.
Pros
- Unique and Interactive: It’s not just a passive experience—you can really engage with the water elements. Kids love it.
- Calming Atmosphere: It’s a peaceful break from the more intense attractions. The flowing water sounds and natural aesthetics make it feel like a mini retreat within the park.
- Educational Aspect: The attraction subtly teaches about the water cycle and the importance of water, which I really appreciated.
Cons
- Not a Traditional Ride: If you’re expecting a thrilling experience or ride vehicles, you might be disappointed. It’s more of a walk-through area with interactive features.
- No Genie+ or Lightning Lane: You can’t use Genie+ to skip the line, so if it’s busy, you’ll have to wait.
- Potential for Crowds: Because it’s new and family-friendly, it can get pretty crowded, especially midday. Planning your visit at a quieter time is essential.
Incorporating Moana Journey of Water into Your Day
Depending on your itinerary, you can either plan to hit the attraction early or use it as a mid-afternoon cooldown spot. It’s located conveniently near other popular attractions, so you can easily weave it into your day.
One thing to keep in mind: Moana Journey of Water does not use Genie+ or Lightning Lane, so there’s no option to skip the line. For this reason, it’s best to visit during lower crowd times, like early morning or late afternoon.
If you’re using Genie+ for other attractions, plan your day around that and slot Moana Journey of Water during a break between other rides. You can check the current wait times on the My Disney Experience app to help decide the best time to visit. Consider pairing it with a visit to Living with the Land for a nature-themed morning!
Do you get wet at Moana Journey of Water?
Yes, you can definitely get wet at Moana Journey of Water! While it’s not like a traditional water ride where you’re soaked from head to toe, there are plenty of interactive water features that spray and splash. If you or your kids plan on playing in the water, it’s a good idea to bring a towel or a change of clothes just in case.
Where is Moana Journey of Water in EPCOT?
Moana Journey of Water is located in the World Nature section of EPCOT. It’s positioned near The Seas with Nemo & Friends and Living with the Land, making it easy to include as part of a nature-themed morning or afternoon.
Is there going to be a Moana ride at EPCOT?
Right now, Moana Journey of Water is an interactive walk-through experience rather than a traditional ride. There are no ride vehicles or queues like you’d find on Test Track or Soarin’. Instead, it’s more of an exploration area where you can engage with water in creative ways.
Where to meet Moana at EPCOT?
If you’re hoping to meet Moana herself, keep an eye on character meet-and-greet schedules via the My Disney Experience app. She often makes appearances near the Journey of Water area or in designated character spots around EPCOT. Check the app on the day of your visit for the most accurate times and locations.
