KEMAH — A splashy new attraction may be headed to the Kemah Boardwalk, as Landry’s appears to be moving forward with plans to transform the site of a former restaurant into the entrance of a future water park.

According to a filing with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, submitted on May 30, the project is titled “Convert Joe’s Crab Shack to a Future Water Park Entrance Building.” The filing lists a construction start date of July 1, with completion expected by March 31, 2026.

While Landry’s has not formally confirmed the development of a water park, ABC13 reports that Boardwalk officials responded to inquiries with a statement that hints at big changes. Kemah Boardwalk COO Terry Turney said the upcoming renovation would “bring new and exciting energy to the Kemah Boardwalk for all ages to enjoy.” He added that during the transformation, all current restaurants and amusements will remain open.

The building slated for conversion was formerly home to Joe’s Crab Shack, which closed in November 2024. Its neighboring restaurant, the Flying Dutchman, ended operations a month later on December 31. Both eateries were owned by Landry’s and had collectively served visitors at the Boardwalk for more than 80 years.

Since their closures, speculation about a possible water park has circulated online and among locals. ABC13 noted that interest has grown significantly in recent months, fueled by rumors and recent filings.

The Kemah Boardwalk already features several major attractions, including the Boardwalk Bullet roller coaster, Iron Eagle zip line, and Boardwalk Beast speedboat. If confirmed, a water park would represent one of the most significant expansions to the Boardwalk in years.

As of now, no additional details or project renderings have been released by Landry’s.

Includes reporting from ABC13 Houston