Last week, before taking the kids to the Park for a midweek playdate with some friends, I checked the weather to find it was going to be 80° and promptly texted my girlfriend to say, “Bring suits!” Since the Water Park was not open that day, we headed straight for Pirate Shores, where water and fun abound. I knew this buccaneer themed area of the Park would be perfect for a sunny afternoon.

Though bathing suits aren’t required for adults in this area I do recommend wearing an outfit you don’t mind getting wet because whether your toddler is splashing about in the water fountain area called Swabbies Deck or you’re riding Treasure Falls with your older kids, the chances of getting wet are pretty high. All of the rides and attractions in the area involve water, except the carnival games, the air brush tattoos and the pirate ship ride, Captain Cranky’s Challenge.

Speaking of Captain Cranky’s Challenge, I have something to confess. Ever since I began taking my kids to the Park on a regular basis, I have been terrified to ride Captain Cranky’s Challenge. I would walk past it quickly, pointing out various models and landscaping in the area, hoping my kids didn’t notice how fun it looked, and, every time, my diversions worked. Until last week, when my two year old yelled, “I want to wide that one!” I thought to myself, time to put my brave-mom-face on.

Of course I should’ve realized that LEGOLAND® California is a theme park for kids and therefore none of the rides should terrify a grown woman, but nevertheless, I was terrified. I think at some point in my youth I had been traumatized by a similar swaying ride at a local carnival when my lunch made a surprise appearance upon disembarking. Regardless of my inner turmoil, I caved to my kiddos and rode the ride that I’ve been wary of for years and I am SO glad I did. It was an absolute blast and nothing like the carnival ride that has haunted me all of these years. Captain Cranky’s Challenge has just been added to our list of “must rides” at LEGOLAND.

Other attractions in the area include the family ride Splash Battle where you can shoot water at other family members and unsuspecting on-lookers, and a huge play structure called Soak~n~Sail where older kids can utilize interactive water pumping and spraying devices. My two year old does not yet meet the height requirement for these rides so I haven’t been able to enjoy them yet, but I know my time will come soon.

The day was full of successes all the way around: the kids got soaked and tired out while I chatted with my girlfriend and enjoyed some sun, we found yet another ride that all of us can ride together, AND I conquered a fear, all in the same afternoon. Be sure to check out Pirate Shores on your next visit. There is something for the whole family, and though your kids might be saying “Ahoy me hearty” for the rest of the day, they will sleep like rocks that night.