Vacationers, locals and waterpark enthusiasts have been having a splashtastic time at H2OBX, a new state-of-the-art attraction in Powells Point. H2OBX, themed to embrace the area’s history and culture, offers more than 30 rides, slides and attractions.

“The value of a day is how much you value the work you put into it,” he says, standing in his open-air forge as chickens rummage for food out in the yard. His house, barn and vegetable garden are reminiscent of a simpler age — and that is exactly what he likes.

Designated family rides include Calico Jack’s Cove, a multi-level, pirate-themed play structure and Deep Six Adventure Lagoon, which includes a large climbing wall and aqua basketball courts. Children’s attractions include slides at The Swooping Seagull and Osprey Landing. Thrillseekers can drop nine stories in free fall on the adrenaline-inducing Paradise Plunge and brave a fearsome squall on Stormchaser.

H2OBX, which launched in late June, is on 20-plus acres on US Highway 158. It’s about a 15-minute drive from Kitty Hawk, or three miles from the Wright Memorial Bridge (the northern gateway to the Outer Banks). General admission: $49 for persons over 42 inches tall; $44.99, under 42 inches tall; children under age 2 admitted free. Discounts are available to the military and to those who stay with the waterpark’s lodging partners or reside or work in Dare or Currituck county.

Restrictions apply: Call 252-491-3000 or check the website for details.