American Wave Machines and Desert Lakes LLC have announced a new Utah wave pool project near Zion National Park. Called PerfectSwell Zion, the public facility will anchor a new residential community known as Zion Shores. The developers plan to open the park in early 2027.
Located in Washington, the park will feature the latest version of AWM’s wave-making system. According to the company, Generation 6 PerfectSwell technology creates more consistent waves while using less energy. It also includes automated diagnostics and systems that control air and water temperatures. The company added that upgrades to the pneumatic system have increased the efficiency of wave generation.
Unlike most surf parks, PerfectSwell Zion will rely on brackish water—unsuitable for farming or drinking. That approach, the developers say, helps preserve freshwater and reduces overall waste. Water use is an issue in the area with people voicing concerns. The wave pool will also use natural materials to manage water flow, limiting the need for artificial structures.
“Water is a precious resource, especially in Southern Utah, and Zion Shores was conceived and designed with the vision of protecting that resource,” said a press release. “Our surf lagoons will be filled with non-potable brackish water not suitable for drinking or irrigation from privately owned onsite wells. Brackish water is much too costly to convert into culinary or irrigation quality, but with a little chemistry added, it is entirely safe for recreation.”
The Surf Park Development
Zion Shores will include 65 residential lots, all with lagoon access and desert views. Residents will have access to paddleboarding areas and receive priority access to surf sessions. The community offers three tiers of property types: custom home lots, single-family homes, and townhomes. Prices start at $1.5 million.
Cody Larkin, CEO of Desert Surf LLC, said the surf park fills a gap in the region’s recreation options.
“We have just about every outdoor activity you can think of in this high desert playground except surfing. We’re stoked to partner with AWM to change that. The team behind PerfectSwell is the real deal,” he said.
Bruce McFarland, president of American Wave Machines, said the location offers an ideal debut for the company’s latest technology.
“Gen 6 PerfectSwell is next level, and I can’t think of a better location for the debut or a better partner in the US. Desert Lakes brings a wealth of expertise in civil construction and community infrastructure building, essential for a successful project,” he said.
The park adds Utah to a growing list of inland locations embracing artificial wave technology. American Wave Machines also operates surf parks in Texas, Japan, and Brazil.
UNIT Surf Pool to Unveil Dual Wave Technologies at Zion Site
UNIT Surf Pool announced the development will feature two new surf technologies at the Zion site.
The UNIT Zion Dynamic Wave will be the world’s first 164-foot wide dynamic wave system. Using patent-pending programmable water flow control technology, the system generates multiple moving wave pockets, offering a versatile experience for riders. WavePoolMag covered the announcement of the new technology last year.
The UNIT Zion Standing Wave, measuring 60 feet in width, is the company’s flagship model and a core feature of its inland surf technology lineup. Designed for flexibility and skill inclusivity, the standing wave delivers a controlled surf environment tailored to all experience levels.
Desert Lakes LLC formed in 2019 as a partnership between Salt Lake Excavating and Immaculate Homes. The group previously built Southern Shores, a lake-based residential project in Hurricane, Utah.
Construction on PerfectSwell Zion is expected to begin in late 2025.
