Are You Even from Arizona if You’ve Never Done This Summer Activity?

If you ask anyone outside of Arizona what we're known for, they'll list the HEAT as either number one or number two. When the Weather Channel only lists the triple digit Phoenix temperatures throughout the summer, it's no wonder everyone thinks that.

Natives know we get a variety of temps here, and Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma and other parts of the state really do experience some intense heat, particularly during the summer. These Arizona water activities will help you beat the heat, but are you even FROM Arizona if you've never done the last one? Read on...

Oasis Water Park

Oasis Water Park in Phoenix is part of the Arizona Grand Resort & Spa, so you'll need to book a stay to enjoy its seven acres of water attractions.

Ride the eight-story slides, surf the giant wave pool, chill in the lazy river, or soak in the hot tub. There's also a bar and grill when you're ready to grab a bite to eat.

Hurricane Harbor

Formerly known as Wet 'n' Wild Phoenix, this park is one of the largest water parks in Arizona, offering a variety of rides and slides for all ages and thrill levels.

Experience white water rafting of Raging River, the vertical drops of Mammoth Falls, the dueling coaster of Maximum Velocity, and more. There's also a wave pool, a lazy river, and a kids' area.

Golfland Sunsplash Water Park

This Mesa waterpark combines water fun with mini golf, arcade games, laser tag, and more.

Enjoy the water slides, like Thunder Falls, Stormrider, and Bonzi Speed Slides or just chill out and relax in the wave pool, the lazy river, or the toddler's tadpole pool.

There's also a snack bar and a pizza place for a family friendly snack break.

Salt River Tubing

Are you even FROM Arizona if you've never spent a day doing this activity? Tubing on the Salt River isn't just recreation, it's a rite of passage for anyone who claims to be an Arizona native.

As the temperatures begin to soar across the state, be sure to schedule a lazy afternoon on the Salt River, near Phoenix.

You can rent a tube from the Salt River Tubing company, hop on a shuttle bus, and float down the river for a few hours. As you drift lazily down the slow-moving waters, you'll see beautiful scenery, wildlife, and maybe even some wild horses.

You can also bring your own food and drinks, and even rent an extra inner tube for your cooler. Whatever you do, remember to stay hydrated. Drifting down the river in the hot sun may take more out of you than you realize.

Tubing on the Salt River is a great activity for friends, families, or anyone who loves nature and water, and it's a wonderful escape from the heat. Don't forget the sunscreen and leave glass bottles and containers at home.