Virginia Beach is set to make surfing history with the grand opening of the Wavegarden Atlantic Park Surf Lagoon. This state-of-the-art facility offers up to 1,000 waves an hour for surfers of all abilities. It marks Wavegarden’s first completed project in North America, blending advanced technology with coastal lifestyle.

A New Era for Surfing in Virginia Beach

Atlantic Park is home to a 4-acre surf attraction powered by Wavegarden Cove technology. The system creates waves up to six feet tall, offering more than 25 styles for beginners to pros. The lagoon sits at the heart of a mixed-use development that fuses beach culture with urban energy. It transforms a once-urban space into a thriving recreation and lifestyle hub.

Advanced Wave Technology at the Core

The 46-module Wavegarden Cove system delivers precision-controlled waves. Its paddle technology and software adapt to different skill levels, making sessions tailored and safe. The 2.67-acre lagoon uses a discreet drainage system to manage water flow and works with Virginia Beach’s high-water table. This innovation means consistent, high-quality waves year-round, regardless of ocean conditions.

AO’s Role in Shaping the Destination

AO served as architect for the surf lagoon, water treatment buildings, and public bridge. Their design expertise helped integrate surf technology into an urban footprint. Working with Wavegarden, AO ensured performance and safety without sacrificing aesthetics. The team coordinated with engineers and other architects to align the lagoon with the broader vision of Atlantic Park.

A Collaboration of Industry Leaders

The project brought together AO, Wavegarden, Coffman Engineers, Gensler, and Hanbury. Each played a key role in blending architecture, engineering, and surf technology. This collaboration resulted in a cohesive space that connects with the local community. The design ensures that the surf park fits seamlessly into the surrounding mixed-use environment.

Economic and Cultural Impact

Atlantic Park is more than a surf lagoon—it is an anchor for tourism and local business. By introducing a world-class surf destination, Virginia Beach strengthens its appeal to visitors and residents. The park is expected to attract surf enthusiasts, families, and travellers seeking unique water experiences. This positions the city as a leader in sports-driven urban renewal.

A Highlight for Surf Park Summit

The Wavegarden Atlantic Park will be featured at the Surf Park Summit this November. This industry event will spotlight the project’s design, technology, and role in shaping the future of surf destinations. It cements Atlantic Park’s place on the global surf map and highlights the potential of urban surf projects.

Part of a Growing U.S. Surf Park Network

Atlantic Park joins AO’s growing portfolio of surf projects, including DSRT Surf in Palm Desert, Alchemy Surf in Sacramento, and PHX Surf in Maricopa. These developments expand the surf park concept to include hospitality, retail, and community spaces. They signal a shift in how cities integrate recreation into mixed-use developments.

Designed for All Skill Levels

With more than 25 wave types, the lagoon caters to every surfer. Beginners can start with gentle rollers, while experts can take on steep, fast barrels. This flexibility makes the park a year-round attraction for lessons, training, and competitions. Families, tourists, and locals can enjoy the water without relying on ocean conditions.

Overcoming Design and Engineering Challenges

Constructing a surf lagoon in Virginia Beach required careful planning. Engineers worked around the area’s high-water table and designed infrastructure to ensure safety and durability. AO and its partners adapted Wavegarden’s technology to fit within a compact urban site. The result is a high-performance lagoon that blends seamlessly into its surroundings.

A Milestone for Wavegarden in North America

This is Wavegarden’s first completed project on the continent. Its success in Virginia Beach opens the door for similar developments across the U.S. The Atlantic Park project showcases how advanced surf technology can transform urban landscapes and create new tourism opportunities.

Looking Ahead

With Atlantic Park now open, Virginia Beach is poised to become a hub for surf culture on the East Coast. The project demonstrates the potential for blending recreation, tourism, and community design. It is a model for future surf parks worldwide, combining cutting-edge technology with thoughtful urban integration.

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