From Bethesda Magazine: Take a splash at Virginia Beach’s Atlantic Park Surf

No ocean is needed at this swim and surf spot a four-hour drive from Bethesda

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June 10, 2026 3:00 p.m. | Updated: June 9, 2026 11:58 a.m.

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Set in the heart of Virginia Beach’s revitalized Oceanfront district, Atlantic Park Surf offers a new way to catch a wave. The park opened in August and features North America’s first Wavegarden surf lagoon, an advanced system that creates consistent and rideable waves on demand. Unlike the unpredictability of the ocean, the waves in the lagoon are customizable to be between 1- and 6-feet tall.  

There are waves to accommodate any skill level ranging from gentle, rolling white water for beginners, to fast, barreling waves for experienced surfers. Whether you’re riding your first wave or practicing tricks on a reliable break, wet suits and boards are available to rent on-site, and sessions can be booked online. A schedule on the website helps visitors determine the best time to surf at the lagoon, as specific periods are designated for different skill levels.

Atlantic Park Surf’s 55-minute sessions are available year-round, with hours varying by season. Surfers have the chance to catch an average of 12 waves per session; the capacity for each session ranges from 20 to 40 people, depending on the wave profile. Surfing rates also change based on wave profiles and seasons, ranging from $117 to $171 per session. Groups rotate through waves that break in both directions across the split lagoon, as the current of the water directs surfers in a loop to prevent collisions. Group coaching sessions cover fundamentals such as paddling techniques, board control and safety, while private instructors offer more personalized guidance. 

The surf lagoon spans 2.67 of the Atlantic Park development’s 10.2 acres. Backed by music producer Pharrell Williams, who was born and raised in Virginia Beach, the new district blends surfing, dining, entertainment and lodging just a short walk from the Atlantic Ocean. 

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The Atlantic Park complex includes 100,000 square feet of restaurants, shops and entertainment venues. Visitors could spend half a day or an entire weekend surfing, dining, shopping and relaxing around the complex. The Dome, a reimagined music venue is an eye-catcher, plus you’ll find a variety of curated retail and dining options that include Nami Nori, Wiseguy Pizza, Johnnie-O, The Grill, Lululemon, Quiet Storm Surf Shop, Milk & Honey and Faherty. 

In addition to the various lodging options in the surrounding area, boutique hotel The Sitio opened in March in Atlantic Park. With 20 surf-inspired rooms overlooking the lagoon, The Sitio’s guests have access to a private lounge and pool deck. 

Atlantic Park Surf, 365 18th St., Virginia Beach, Virginia, 757-974-8198, atlanticparksurf.com 

This appears in the May/June 2026 issue of Bethesda Magazine.

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Originally published at Bethesdamagazine