North America officially has its first Wavegarden Cove. On August 16, Atlantic Park in Virginia Beach, Virginia will open to the public. The facility can generate 1,000 waves an hour and offers over 25 different types of waves. There are now a dozen Wavegarden Cove facilities open to the public, with more in the works.
Virginia Beach, despite its place in East Coast surfing history, doesn’t have the most consistent conditions. Surfers like Michael Dunphy, who tested the waters at Atlantic Park, is excited about the new development in his neck of the woods.
“When it comes to surfing, Virginia Beach has a deep, rich history and a legendary crew of surfers,” Dunphy said. “Now, we finally have the waves to match.”
In the months and weeks leading up to the opening announcement, a handful of surfers — Dunphy, Cam Richards, Mason Barnes, Blayr Barton, Jacob Szekely, Camden Hoover, and 13-year-old Bella Faircloth — were invited to test the wares at the new pool and give their feedback.
“This is the best surf park in America,” Szekely exclaimed. “And it has the best air section, by far.”
According to the press release, when Atlantic Park opens its doors to the public, up to 40 surfers can be in the lineup at once. Sessions last 55 minutes, and when you’re not surfing, the lagoon has a sort of beach club to hang out in. And there’s plenty of other things to do, as well.
“Wavegarden’s surf lagoon is the centerpiece of the $350 million Atlantic Park complex, which also includes live music venue, shopping, dining, residential units, and boutique lodging,” the press release reads. “A standout feature is the redevelopment of The Dome — a large cultural and live music venue integrated into the facility. This space celebrates local culture and music, and its creation has been led by global superstar and Virginia Beach native Pharrell Williams.”
