Florida—that long wave-pool-cursed land of epic failures and untold possibilities—graced us with a Jacksonville wave pool update this week.
Which makes us shift our POV a bit. Maybe it’s not all pythons, Kelly Slater relatives, and #Floridaman. We’ve been hearing lately about several projects coming to light in the Sunshine State.
This latest update comes from Andrew Ross, Nick Edelman, and the notable development group Aventuur.
This week Aventuur and a group of local partners have officially secured a 45-acre site in Jacksonville, Florida. This will host the company’s first surf park in the United States. It’s the first of several planned mixed-use surf, leisure, and wellbeing destinations across North America.
Equity Fundraise Completed to Support Local Development
Aventuur recently completed a substantial equity fundraise. The company’s general partners led the effort and brought together local investors to support the project.
eTown Site Rezoned, Public Opening Slated for 2028
The Jacksonville Surf Park site is located in The PARC Group’s master-planned eTown community in Southside Duval County. Jacksonville City Council unanimously rezoned the land to Planned Unit Development (PUD) in February. This approval allows the project to move forward ahead of its planned public opening in early 2028.
Local Support Rallies Behind Surf Park Vision
The PARC Group, the Davis family, Jacksonville City Council, Council Member Raul Arias, and Mayor Deegan’s Office have all voiced their support for the Jacksonville Surf Park.
Why Jacksonville? A Surf-Engaged Community with Tourist Appeal
Aventuur chose the greater Jacksonville area for its strong surf community on the East Coast. The region’s tourism market draws 22 million visitors each year.
The company said North Florida’s coastal, outdoor lifestyle and warm climate appeal to a wide range of visitors. These qualities align with the unique amenities and experiences planned for the Jacksonville Surf Park.
Local Partners Committed to a Jacksonville-Centric Experience
The project’s local general partners include multi-generational developers, engineers, and contractors. They stated they are passionate about both the Jacksonville community and surfing.
The general partners—Lockwood Holmes, Jr., Lockwood Holmes, Sr., Austin Holmes, Riley Skinner, Hawley Smith, Morgan Phillips, Marshall Brown, Brad Davis, and Rob Carlton—stated they are committed to delivering a wave pool. Their shared mission is to create a destination that is by Jacksonville, for Jacksonville.
“Aventuur’s investment in Jacksonville is a testament to our city’s proud surf heritage, and growing appeal as a premier destination for recreation and wellness,” said Jacksonville Surf Park general partner Lockwood Holmes, Jr. “Jacksonville has always been a city that embraces the surf and coastal lifestyle, and the surf park community will elevate that connection to the next level, providing a world-class destination for residents and visitors, while driving economic growth for the city.”
Wavegarden Lagoon to Anchor High-Performance Surf & Wellness Hub
The surf park will feature a 56-module, 5.5-acre Wavegarden Cove surfing lagoon. A wide range of amenities will surround the lagoon, including a surf academy, boutique hotel, health center, clubhouse, beach club, retail, restaurants, and event venues.
Walkable Community Hub to Celebrate Local Surf Culture
Aventuur worked with architect Morris Adjmi and engineering firm Prosser | Prime AE to design a phased masterplan. This plan supports mixed-use spaces, including residential and community features.
Local surf and beach culture will define the walkable precinct. Shops, dining, and hospitality venues will spread out from the lagoon in a natural setting. Residents and hotel guests will have views of the surf and access to on-site amenities. “The Grove” will serve as a central gathering place for locals and host community events.
“Our team’s steadfast commitment to the Jacksonville community remains the cornerstone of the project,” said Riley Skinner, Jacksonville Surf Park general partner. “In partnership with Aventuur, and with the support of local families, surfers, and the City of Jacksonville, we are excited to realize our long-held dream of bringing a surf park to our hometown.”
Sustainability & Wellness at the Core of Development
Aventuur said the project was designed with sustainability in mind. The plan includes native landscaping, preservation of existing vegetation, and the use of recycled, responsibly sourced materials.
Once operational, the surf park will integrate renewable energy where possible. The team also plans to manage water resources carefully and implement recycling and composting programs.
Aventuur also plans to offer surf therapy and ocean health educational programs, promoting both mental wellbeing and environmental advocacy.
“Every Aventuur destination is shaped by the local community it serves, and Jacksonville is no exception,” said Nicholas Edelman, Co-Founder and CEO of Aventuur. “Our local general partners have been the driving force behind this project from the beginning, rallying support, building momentum, and ensuring that the surf park reflects the character and values of North Florida. This will be an amenity by the community and for the community, delivering lasting benefits from both a sport and wellbeing perspective.”
Construction Timeline and Future Growth Plans
Pending further approvals, Aventuur plans to begin construction in early 2026. The Jacksonville Surf Park is expected to open to the public in early 2028.
Texas and Asia-Pacific Also in Aventuur’s Pipeline
Aventuur is exploring surf park sites in Texas, focusing on the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Locations under review include Frisco, Allen, and Fort Worth. The company is also in discussions with potential development partners in Austin.
Meanwhile, Aventuur continues to expand in the Asia-Pacific region. Projects are already underway in Perth, Australia, and Auckland, New Zealand. These developments support the company’s goal of building a global portfolio of surf-centered health and leisure destinations.
