This Saturday, August 16th, a massive man-made surf lagoon called Atlantic Surf Park is opening right in the heart of Virginia Beach, just a few hours’ drive from Washington, D.C.!
The new surf park features the latest and most advanced technology from Wavegarden Cove®, an industry leader that powers dozens of artificial surf parks worldwide.
Everything you need to know about the Atlantic Surf Park
As mentioned above, the new surf lagoon will be opening on Saturday, August 16.
The massive 116,000 square foot surf park is capable of generating up to 1,000 waves per hour that can range in size from 1 foot for beginners up to 6 feet for more advanced surfers.
The special technology will not only allow for customization of the wave size, but also allow for the creation of unique wave types, including:
- Cruisers
- Turns
- Barrels
- Air
How do you get tickets to the Atlantic Surf Shop?
Currently, you can either order a surf voucher for the skill level of your choice or book a spot in a group surf lesson.
The vouchers range in skill level, matching the difficulty of the waves set during the various surf sessions.
- Novice – $104
- Progressive – $123
- Intermediate – $133
- Advanced – $142
- Expert – $151
- Pro – $161
Once you purchase a voucher, customers will be able to redeem it for a surf session online once Atlantic Surf Park releases its surf schedule.
Buying a voucher now will lock in your price, which could be subject to change over the year.
How long will each surf session be?
Non-coached surf sessions will last a total of 55 minutes and allow around 20 to 40 surfers in the lagoon per session.
On average, each surfer should have the opportunity to catch between 10 to 15 waves per session
Aside from time in the water, it’s worth mentioning that surfers must arrive at least 45 minutes early for check-in, wristband collection, and a safety briefing.
Can you take surf lessons?
Group surf lessons are available for $125 per person.
There are two groups divided by age: adults (13+) and kids (8-12).
Included in the cost of the lesson is:
- A Basic Softboard
- Full Wetsuit
The lessons include a 30-minute pre-surf instruction followed by a 55-minute coached surf session.
Private lessons are also available:
- Beginner – $225
- Novice – $225
- Progressive – $225
- Intermediate – $233
- Advanced – $242
- Expert – $261
- Pro – $271
Can you rent equipment?
Yes, the Atlantic Surf Park has partnered with a local surf shop to offer rentals of whatever you may need, ranging from softboards for beginners up to shortboards for more seasoned surfers.
Can you bring your surfboard?
Yes!
You can bring your board, just keep in mind that hardboards are not allowed in beginner sessions.
However, non-surf-related items like chairs, food, or beverages are prohibited.
Can you go bodyboarding?
Sure thing!
Bodyboards are permitted, but you must wear a leash.
Can you go swimming in the surf lagoon?
No, all non-surfing activities, including paddleboarding, hand planing, or swimming, are prohibited in the surf lagoon for everyone’s safety.
Is there a pool you can swim in?
There is a constant-depth wading pool that you are allowed to use at any time.
Can you go to the surf park just to watch surfers?
Totally!
There is a park access ticket, the “All Day Beach Pass” for just $25 per person, which will include access to the park to get a front-row view of the surfers.
There is also the option to rent a cabana fit that will fit six guests for four-hour blocks for a total of $300.
If you want to plan an event at the surf club, for $600, you have the option to rent out a private event cabana that can comfortably fit groups of around 20 guests for four hours.
Is the surf park going to be open year-round?
You betcha!
The park will be open year-round, but there will be select closure periods to provide necessary maintenance throughout the year.
Will the surf park be heated in the winter?
The surf lagoon will not be heated, but the wading pool will.
Additionally, during colder periods, surfers will be able to rent wetsuits, boots, gloves, or hoods if they wish.