Atlantic Park’s Surf Lagoon Set to Reopen Amid Optimism and Enthusiasm
VIRGINIA BEACH, VA — After being drained for over a month due to scheduled maintenance, Atlantic Park’s surf lagoon is poised to reopen on March 14, contingent upon favorable weather conditions. This highly anticipated return is marked by the addition of more wave options, promising an enhanced experience for surf enthusiasts. Blake Hess, the Chief Operating Officer of Beach Street Development and Operations — the entity managing the surf park — expressed palpable excitement from the community. “The team is eager to welcome the lagoon’s first spring season in operation,” he affirmed in a recent communication.
Atlantic Park Surf, officially launched in August after several years of extensive construction, is a central feature of the broader Atlantic Park multi-use project. This undertaking represents the largest public-private partnership to date within Virginia Beach, with the local government contributing 36% of the approximate 0 million investment. The endeavor aims not only to elevate the local economy through tourism but also to redefine the landscape of recreational activities available in the area.
A notable partner in this ambitious project is Virginia Beach native Pharrell Williams, a multifaceted artist and entrepreneur. His involvement underscores the cultural significance of the park, which encompasses not only the surf lagoon but also a variety of amenities, including the Dome by Rutter Mills entertainment venue, residential apartments, office spaces, retail outlets, dining establishments, and two parking garages. The Dome, which commenced operations in May of the previous year, has already established itself as a vibrant hub for community entertainment.
Moreover, the anticipation grows for the impending launch of the Sitio, a surf-inspired boutique hotel scheduled to open in March. With its unique design and amenities tailored to surfers and travelers alike, Sitio aims to further enhance the area’s appeal as a prime destination for visitors seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation.
The surf lagoon itself is no small undertaking. On January 26, the lagoon, which boasts a massive holding capacity of 3.5 million gallons of water, underwent a complete draining to facilitate essential maintenance. This thorough maintenance regime is designed to occur annually, typically in the January/February period, and lasts approximately three to five weeks. However, this year’s maintenance process has been extended due to unusually severe cold weather conditions.
Importantly, this phase of upkeep involves refinements to the lagoon’s large sealed joints, which expand in response to water exposure. “This is no different than a small swimming pool, just on a much larger scale,” Hess explained, emphasizing that the adjustments being made are cosmetic rather than structural in nature. Such attention to detail is indicative of the operator’s commitment to providing a premium experience for patrons when the lagoon reopens.
The technology that powers the surf lagoon is cutting-edge, featuring a sophisticated wave generator designed by the Spain-based company Wavegarden. This innovative device is capable of producing an impressive 1,000 swells per hour, offering more than 20 distinct types of waves, ranging in height between 1 to 6 feet. Pricing for a typical 55-minute surf session varies, ranging from to 1 depending on the desired wave type and the season. This pricing strategy seeks to balance affordability with the premium experience that the surf park aims to deliver.
As the park prepares for its first full operational year, Hess has indicated that more comprehensive data on visitation and occupancy will be shared, allowing stakeholders and the community to gauge the park’s impact. Initial reports suggest that guests hail from over 30 countries, including notable mentions such as Japan, Australia, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, France, and Spain, alongside tourists from 45 different U.S. states. Such diverse interest points to the surf lagoon’s potential as a significant driver of regional tourism and economic growth.
In conclusion, the reopening of Atlantic Park’s surf lagoon embodies the spirit of innovation and community engagement in Virginia Beach. With influential figures like Pharrell Williams at the helm and an unwavering commitment to maintenance and improvement, the surf park is poised to become a hallmark of recreation and culture. As spring approaches, both locals and travelers alike look forward to riding the waves and experiencing the excitement that has been cultivated in this vibrant urban oasis.
For further inquiries, please contact Stacy Parker at 757-222-5125 or via email at stacy.parker@pilotonline.com.
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