Finding the right balance between fun and challenge for teenagers can be difficult, especially when it comes to encouraging them to spend time outdoors and away from screens. That’s where water activities come in. They offer excitement, movement, and the chance to connect with others in a fresh environment.
If you’re a parent planning a family trip or a teacher organising a school tour, these water games and activities for teens are the perfect way to make this summer active, memorable, and full of laughs.
And the best part? The Lagoon Activity Centre reopens on May 17th, just in time for you to dive into the fun.
Why Water Play is Ideal for Teens
Teenagers need more physical movement than they’re typically getting. In fact, the World Health Organization reports that over 80% of adolescents worldwide aren’t meeting the recommended levels of physical activity.
Outdoor water activities are a brilliant way to change that through the combination of physical exercise with team bonding and plenty of fun. Here’s a look at some of the best water-based games and challenges your teens will love this summer.
Top Fun Water Activities & Games for Teenagers
Paddleboard Balance Challenge
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is one of the most accessible and popular water activities at The Lagoon and teenagers simply can’t get enough of it. It’s a fun way to test coordination and balance while still feeling safe in calm waters.
Turn it into a challenge by asking students to complete a series of tasks like paddling in a straight line, performing a 360° spin, or trying not to fall during a ‘balance-off’ with their classmates. SUP is a brilliant way to promote individual confidence while still encouraging a bit of group competition. It’s part of our dedicated school tours packages and suited to all skill levels.
Team Kayak Races
Kayaking is a staple at The Lagoon and ideal for teens who enjoy working in pairs or small groups. Students can take to the water together with our double kayaks and learn to paddle in sync.
To add some fun, set up a short racecourse and divide the group into heats. They can compete head-to-head or in timed races. Kayak relays are also a great way to involve larger groups. This activity combines fitness, focus and teamwork, all under the supervision of trained instructors.
Inflatable Obstacle Course Time Trial
The Lagoon’s inflatable water park is a massive hit with teens. It’s designed to get them climbing, crawling, bouncing, and sliding across the floating course. Exercise is that much more fun when you don’t even realise you’re doing it!
Challenge your group to complete the course as quickly as possible, either individually or as part of a team time trial. It’s the perfect way to release energy and add excitement to educational school activities. The obstacle course is included in many of our activity packages, making it a go-to favourite during the summer season.
Mini Golf Match Play
Need a break from the water? Our mini golf course is a great dryland activity that brings a relaxed but competitive edge to the day. Teens can pair up or form small teams and play through a series of holes while keeping score.
It’s ideal as a post-lunch or wind-down activity that still encourages socialising, light movement, and plenty of laughs. Best of all, mini golf is suitable for all abilities and gives students a chance to reset before heading back into the water.
Tubing Rides on the Lagoon
If you want to turn up the thrill factor, tubing is guaranteed to be a highlight. Teens hop onto inflatable tubes which are pulled across the water by boat giving them a bumpy, splashy, high-energy ride that’s all about fun.
It’s safe, supervised and seriously good fun. Tubing is great for building confidence on the water and works particularly well with small groups rotated through short, exciting rides.
Pedal Boat Treasure Hunt
The Lagoon’s pedal boats are ideal for groups who want a more relaxed activity with a problem-solving twist. Teams can set off on a treasure hunt around the water, following clues and collecting floating markers.
This activity works particularly well for mixed-ability groups, allowing everyone to participate at their own pace. It’s also a great break between high-energy games and makes full use of our scenic lagoon setting.
Boat Trip & Crab Fishing
Combine relaxation with exploration on a guided boat trip around the lagoon. Along the way, students can take part in crab fishing, a fun and hands-on activity that adds an educational twist to the experience.
It’s a great opportunity to introduce teens to local marine life in a relaxed and social setting. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for teachers looking to combine fun with a bit of nature-based learning.
Canoeing Challenge
Canoeing is perfect for building coordination, rhythm, and communication especially when teens are sharing a boat. Our lagoon’s sheltered waters make it ideal for beginners or those looking to improve their paddling technique.
Set up a course or challenge and let students test their timing and teamwork. It’s slightly slower paced than kayaking but just as rewarding and an excellent way to build confidence on the water in a calm environment.
Why The Lagoon is Perfect for Water Activities with Teens
If you’re planning a school trip, youth group outing or just a summer day with the family, The Lagoon Activity Centre in Rosscarbery is ideal.
- All activities are supervised by trained staff
- Equipment is provided — just bring your swimwear and energy
- There’s something for every fitness and confidence level
- Group packages and Secondary School Tours are available
- We reopen on 17th May, so it’s the perfect time to get something in the calendar
From kayaking and pedal boats to paddleboarding and a floating obstacle course, it’s all set up for teenagers to have an unforgettable day.
Book Your Teen-Friendly Water Adventure
Whether it’s a day out with the family or a full school tour, water play is the ultimate summer activity for teenagers. It keeps them active, off screens and making memories outdoors.
Plan your visit and book your spot now — The Lagoon reopens from 17th May, and we’re ready to welcome you back to the water!
