Continuing to make a splash across the US’ burgeoning surf sector using world-class artificial wave technology, Wavegarden recently launched its latest centrepiece at Atlantic Park, Virginia Beach. We explore how the company is harnessing the energy of Virginia Beach’s distinct culture and legacy as the birthplace of East Coast surfing.
THE NEXT GENERATION OF EAST COAST SURFING
Known for towering waves and golden, sandy shores, Virginia Beach is globally renowned as the ultimate surfing destination on the East Coast of the US.
Yet, this beloved surfing spot suffers from a recurring challenge – inconsistent waves – which have tormented international professionals and surfing novices alike for decades.
Waving goodbye to such issues is Wavegarden – a world-leader in artificial wave technology that has firmly established its presence in the US with the launch of Atlantic Park, which is slated to become the home of East Coast surfing.
Located in an urban environment in Virginia Beach – the East Coast capital of surfing just a stone’s throw from the Atlantic Ocean – Atlantic Park’s opening on 16th August this year marked a new wave of surf opportunity, ushered in by the innovative Wavegarden technology.
Stewarded by Virginia Beach native and global superstar, Pharrell Williams, Atlantic Park is the ideal spot for Wavegarden’s 12th facility, as the area offers a strong surfing community and high visitation rate.
Moreover, the company hopes to add to the extensive legacy of the area and generate a buzz around Virginia Beach as a major global surfing capital.
THE LATEST WAVES OF TECHNOLOGY
Making waves in the US surfing scene, Wavegarden is committed to its mission of sharing the incredible experience of surfing with everyone around the world.
As such, the company has extremely high growth potential in this emerging industry, with 12 operational surf parks around the world, more than 10 projects currently under construction, and over 50 in development internationally.
Wavegarden’s forward-thinking technology means visitors to Atlantic Park will have the unique opportunity to experience a 46-module surf park capable of generating up to 1,000 waves per hour and more than 25 different types.
The myriad types of waves on offer range from soft, long waves ideal for beginners to powerful ones that allow advanced surfers to perform turns, airs, and barrels, all delivered in the convenience of a purpose-driven event complex that has the lowest energy and water consumption on the planet.
A small collection of the US’ top surfing professionals got the chance to test out the facility’s spectacular waves during the commissioning of the Wave Menu – a collaborative project whereby surfers provided detailed feedback to Wavegarden’s fluid dynamics experts, who subsequently adjusted the waves’ power, height, and peeling speed accordingly in real time.
With the launch of the company’s latest site, Atlantic Park’s 55-minute sessions will be available year-round, with seasonally variable hours and the capacity to serve 40 surfers at once.
Atlantic Park also features a premium beach club environment surrounding the lagoon, complete with lounge chairs and cabanas, offering the perfect place for surfers to relax before and after their sessions.
Non-surfing holidaymakers equally have the chance to relax around the shimmering waters of the lagoon, enjoying the beach’s vibrant yet leisurely atmosphere.
Operated by US firm Beach Street Development, Atlantic Park will continue to strengthen Wavegarden’s position as a global leader in surf park facilities.
ANOTHER SIDE TO SURFING
Wavegarden’s surf lagoon will sit as the showstopper centrepiece to the $350-million-dollar Atlantic Park – a highly impressive feat which also includes a live music venue, shopping, dining, and residential units, and boutique lodgings.
This one-of-a-kind complex is further distinguished by the redevelopment of The Dome – a magnificent indoor auditorium with an outdoor amphitheatre that creates a perfect atmosphere for incredible live acts.
Celebrating local culture and music, the creation and development of The Dome was spearheaded by Pharrell Williams, forever transforming what it means to surf on the East Coast.
Adding to Virginia Beach’s deep, rich history and legendary crew of surfers, WaveGarden’s Atlantic Park means this surfing paradise finally has the waves to match its enviable legacy.
ATLANTIC PARK – AT A GLANCE
Atlantic Park is breaking ground in both outdoor and indoor experiences, bringing to the surface 10.2 acres of surfing, shopping, working, live entertainment, and boutique surf spaces to the heart of the iconic Virginia Beach.
At the center of the bustling oceanfront community, Atlantic Park seamlessly integrates with the neighboring urban environment and is unlike any other surf park on the planet.
Thanks to its collaboration with Wavegarden, Atlantic Park stands out as the only human-made wave park in the world so close to the ocean.
This article was produced by the editorial team at North America Outlook and published as part of the Outlook Publishing global network of B2B industry magazines.
Outlook Publishing delivers industry insights, company stories, and sector coverage across manufacturing, mining, construction, healthcare, supply chains, food production, and sustainability.
North America Outlook provides ongoing coverage of organisations and developments shaping industries across North America.
