We arrived at opening, secured some great chairs under an umbrella by the wave pool, and headed for shark reef. My DD, 9, was really interested in this, and had been waiting for this attraction for a long time. I followed advice from past posts and we had no waits for this at all, and were able to get in and out several times without waiting. Just when it started to get a little backed up, we headed on to the slides. We REALLY liked having the attention on the CM's and having the reef practicaly to ourselves. Don't forget an under-water disposable camera!! So,if this is something that interests your guys, I would recommend going there first for a calmer swim.
My family, me, DH, DD -7, and DD - 9, rode every slide several times, including the biggest which really isn't SO big. My DD -7 had never done anything like that before and wasn't really a confident swimmer and she enjoyed all but the very biggest - she says the only reason she didn't like it was because of the wedgie she got!!
The tube rapids rides were our favorites - there were three of them I think, including the family one. Only complaint is that they are too short - especially the family one.
The corkscrew body slides were also fun, and dumped you out into a pool.
The worst part is, of course, climbing up the darn "mountains" over and over...our so-called relaxing day wasn't so relaxing but was one of our favorites!! Having the great "home base" near the wave pool and UNDER an umbrella was awesome - get there early and snag one! Have fun on your trip!