test

Olas Surfing Technologies update first testing facility and commercial park in Quito

Olas Surfing Technologies (OST) announced progress this week for its flagship project, the Quito Surf Park, located in Ecuador. The project is Step One in the company’s ambitious goal of 100 wave pools in two decades in a market they say is valued at over $130 billion.

Note: All Images provide by Olas Surf Technologies. All images are the responsibility of Olas Surf Technologies.

Founded in 2018, OST acquired the British “Wavemaster” patent, originally developed by John Baxendale in 2009. The company has since focused on refining its technology for generating artificial waves by utilizing hydrodynamic simulations to create a complete wave pool system.

General Manager Diego Cornejo noted that the company has shifted some of its focus to business development. Recenlty they entered an accelerator program with Peachscore and Gust, which is supported by the Fred Kiesner Center for Entrepreneurship at Loyola Marymount University.

“Considering that we started our research and development in 2018, it’s remarkable that in just six years, we’ve not only brought to life a groundbreaking surfing technology that we believe could eventually lead the market but have also laid the foundation for our first surf park, the Quito Surf Park,” said Cornejo. “This project is our first testing facility and commercial park, where we’ll demonstrate the full potential of our innovations.”

The Quito Surf Park will feature the new technology which sends waves in two separate directions to two different surf basins.

The Quito Surf Park will be both a testing facility and commercial venue for OST’s prototype. The site spans 21 acres and is strategically located near the international airport. Quito’s climate will allow year-round operation of the wave pool. The project will feature a surf pool, a wake board lagoon, a hotel, restaurants, and various recreational facilities. Cornejo stated that the architectural and engineering work is nearly complete, with construction expected to begin soon.

The OST Dual wave pool is designed to accommodate dozens of surfers per hour on two simultaneous point waves on separate sides of the pool. Cornejo emphasized that the pool’s advanced geometry enhances riding time and reduces energy consumption.

“The Quito Surf Park is absolutely pivotal for us, as it’s our roadmap to show the world what our technology can do,” said Cornejo. “We’re confident, and it’s not just us saying this, that we have nine solid competitive advantages over our competitors. These advantages position us to capture a significant share of the market once we open our first surf pool.”

Renders show how the design can fit within residential developments as well as commercial, retail and holiday projects.

The company says the dual surf pool design delivers two simultaneous point waves, accommodating 44 surfers per hour—22 on each side—while also featuring a dedicated beginner’s zone with white water waves for over 50 surfers. This setup enables 94 surfers per hour to enjoy the pool.

“Additionally, our advanced pool geometry increases riding time by 29%, with shorter wave generation lengths, resulting in lower energy consumption and maximized enjoyment for everyone,” added Cornejo.

OST’s business model includes selling its technology to wave pool developers globally and establishing its own pools in collaboration with hospitality developers. The company is currently working on securing local permits for the Quito Surf Park, with expectations to finalize approvals by the end of 2024. In addition to the Quito project, OST is exploring opportunities in the Canary Islands.

Cornejo indicated that the company is seeking to raise approximately $10 million from investors to support its initiatives, while also welcoming smaller contributions from supporters.

Editor’s Note: All Images provide by and are the responsibility of Olas Surf Technologies.


Endless Surf 2023A