Riding the Waves of Tomorrow: Bringing Atlantic Park Surf to Virginia Beach

After opening in 2025, Atlantic Park Surf has become an initial draw to Virginia Beach for anyone who wants to catch some waves year-round. The lagoon, which leverages Wavegarden technology to create waves for beginner through pro-level surfers, is a 2.5-acre central fixture of the growing mixed-use district, Atlantic Park. This development is located near the shores of the ocean, providing a dynamic backdrop of restaurants, retail, multifamily residential units, offices, and an entertainment venue to carry the legacy of surfing and community into the future.  

Services for a New Wave of Year-Round Surfing 

Alongside Venture Realty Group and partners AO, Gensler, Cooper Carry, and Hanbury, Kimley-Horn provided traffic engineering, landscape architecture, civil design, and permitting services for Atlantic Park Surf. In addition to on-site mixed-use improvements, we designed extensive offsite enhancements to update the city’s infrastructure and roadway system—including designing new roadways surrounding the surf spot and undergrounding overhead power lines.  

Along with providing great opportunities for visitors and bringing in the perspectives and support of Virginia Beach native Pharrell Williams, the overall mixed-use district that includes Atlantic Park Surf is a historically large public-private partnership for Virginia Beach and sets a new precedent for collaboration and economic development.  

Delivering Entertainment, Dining, and Surfing to Virginia Beach

Today, Atlantic Park Surf offers surfing lessons and wave time for a variety of expertise levels and a WRV Pro Shop for easy access to merch and supplies. There are also options for non-surfers who want a relaxing lagoon-side afternoon with cabanas, lounge areas, and food and beverage services.  

Across a more than eight-year journey, Atlantic Park Surf came to life in the middle of an active city and synergized connections between entertainment, dining, and sporting. With a passionate team of professionals who wanted the best-in-show for their community, the surf zone and Atlantic Park are a draw for current and future residents and boost local economic vitality while keeping the cultural soul of Virginia Beach alive. 

Featured Image Courtesy of Hanbury