Rip Curl North America has inked a deal with Atlantic Park Surf, the new surf lagoon in Virginia. The global surf company has a long history of partnering with wave pools, including collaborations in Melbourne, Sydney, Munich and Bristol. Atlantic Park Surf opened this summer and is part of the much-anticipated Virginia Beach redevelopment.
The venue, which is the first Wavegarden Cove in North America, is the central component of a Pharrell Williams-backed redevelopment that will see iconic city locations like The Dome, rebuilt. Currently under construction are peripheral amenities like apartments, restaurants and shops.
As part of the partnership, the Rip Curl GromSearch National Final was held today, Oct. 4 and features 64 under-16 surfers. The groms qualified through four regional contests held in Tofino, British Columbia; Huntington Beach, California; Kewalos, Oahu; and Ocean City, New Jersey.
“We’re stoked to be joining forces with Atlantic Park Surf, a partner that shares our commitment to supporting the future of surfing in North America,” said PJ Connell, vice president of marketing and e-commerce at Rip Curl North America. “Atlantic Park’s innovative technology sets a new benchmark for high-performance surfing, making it the perfect venue to crown the next generation of champions at the GromSearch National Final.”
Wave Pool Technology Expands Access
Virginia Beach has a deep surfing history with iconic shops like Wave Riding Vehicles and 17th Street Surf Shop. Icons like ’80s pro Wes Laine were a mainstay on the world tour at the time. The new wave pool enhances the VB surf scene in several ways.
“Given Virginia Beach’s lasting heritage and culture as the birthplace of East Coast surfing, hosting the Rip Curl GromSearch National Final at Atlantic Park Surf is an honor,” said Nate Stevens, general manager of Atlantic Park Surf. “We look forward to a continued partnership with Rip Curl and to elevating surfing, not just on the East Coast but across the United States.”
Facility Anchors Oceanfront Development
Atlantic Park Surf is part of a $350 million development project that includes mixed-use infrastructure on a 10-acre site near the beach. The facility offers wave profiles tailored for beginner to expert surfers and integrates with the surrounding urban space.
Wave Pool Virginia Price Breakdown
The wave pool uses Wavegarden Cove technology, capable of producing waves ranging from two to seven feet. The Cove is a diamond-shaped wave pool with rights on one side and lefts on the other. It supports both left and right breaks and offers variable ride lengths from 30 to 100 yards.
Atlantic Park surf pricing is based on skill level and session type, with seasonal adjustments. Current rates are listed as follows:
- Beginner: $90–$100
- Novice: $95–$104
- Progressive: $109–$123
- Intermediate: $118–$133
- Advanced: $123–$142
- Expert: $133–$151
- Professional: $133–$161
All sessions are priced per hour, and access to specific wave settings depends on the participant’s skill classification. Rates are subject to change based on season, wave type, and availability. Additional services such as coaching and equipment rental are offered for an additional fee.
You can find a full wave pool price guide to the world’s surf parks at this link. More Rip Curl and Atlantic Park Surf information is available at Atlantic Park and Rip Curl GromSearch.
