The Birthplace of East Coast Surfing Is Getting the First ‘Wavegarden’ in the U.S.—and It’s Just 2 Blocks From the Ocean

Surf culture runs deep in Virginia Beach, long considered the birthplace of East Coast surfing. Now, it’s leveling up with Atlantic Park Surf, the first surf lagoon in the United States powered by Wavegarden wave-generation technology.

Set to open by July, this high-tech lagoon will pump out consistent, rideable waves year-round—just two blocks from the ocean.

This surf park anchors Atlantic Park, a 10.35-acre entertainment district developed in collaboration with hometown icon Pharrell Williams. The project sits on hallowed ground—the former site of the original Dome, a legendary music venue that once hosted Jimi Hendrix and Ray Charles before its demolition in 1994. Opening in phases, the development will include shops, restaurants, residences, and an open-air concert venue. But it’s the surf lagoon that’s generating the most buzz. 

“We have a long-standing surf culture, but this adds something special to our tourism portfolio,” Amanda Jarratt, deputy city manager for the City of Virginia Beach, told Travel + Leisure. “It’s something different and unique that lets surfers explore and excel at their sport.” 

Designed for all skill levels, the lagoon offers everything from gentle rollers for beginners to fast, barreling breaks for advanced wave riders. Surf sessions last 55 minutes, start at $100, and feature seven wave settings. On-site coaching will be available, including from Jason Borte, a local pro, who is director of coaching at Atlantic Park Surf and a 2016 East Coast Surfing Hall of Fame inductee.

“The surf culture [in Virginia Beach] is massive,” Borte, who also co-owns WRV Surf Camp, said. “We’ve produced a lot of great surfers. For the next generation of kids looking to make a name in surfing, Atlantic Park Surf will provide them with a great opportunity,” he added, noting the value of high-quality waves on demand.

Surfing in Virginia Beach dates back to 1912, when local teen James M. Jordan Jr. paddled out on a redwood surfboard brought back from Hawaii by his uncle, marking the start of East Coast surfing.

Today, the city hosts the Coastal Edge East Coast Surfing Championships—the world’s longest-running surf contest—along with events like the Steel Pier Classic and Neptune’s Surfing Classic. Mainstays like 17th Street Surf Shop and the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum keep the past alive, while surf schools like VB Surf Sessions inspire the next wave of riders.