Atlantic Park Surf in Virginia Beach

Thing To Do Atlantic Park Surf in Virginia Beach

Craving a surf day even when the ocean conditions aren't ideal? Head to Atlantic Park Surf, the new surf destination at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. Atlantic Park Surf delivers consistent, customizable waves for every skill level—and it's just a quick drive from our Sandbridge Beach rentals. It’s part of the larger Atlantic Park entertainment district, with food, shopping, and live events all in one spot.

Year-Round Waves Near Sandbridge Beach 

Atlantic Park Surf uses Wavegarden “Cove” technology to create a variety of wave shapes—everything from mellow whitewater for beginners to fast, hollow barrels for experts. Atlantic Park Surf's lagoon can produce up to 1,000 waves per hour across a broad menu of wave types, making it the first Wavegarden Cove in North America. Sessions typically run 55 minutes and operate year-round.

How it Works

  • Book a session: Pick your level (Beginner → Pro) and reserve online. Each level corresponds to different wave settings and speeds. 

  • Arrive early: Plan to be there 45 minutes before your time slot for check-in (arrive 60 minutes before, if you're renting gear), wristband, safety briefing, and to gear up. Lockers, changing rooms, and heated showers are on site. 

  • Gear & lessons: Wetsuits and soft-top boards are included with beginner/novice lessons; rentals are also available from the on-site counter if you’re not in a lesson. Coaching options range from group to private.

  • Not surfing? Grab a Beach Pass for lagoon-side lounge seating or reserve a cabana to hang out and watch the action.


    • What to Expect

  • Consistent waves: No waiting on wind or tides; the lagoon cycles waves predictably so everyone gets frequent rides. This is a great way to get consistent practice and really hone in on your surf skills.

  • All levels welcome: Session menu covers first-timers through experts; look for “Beginner,” “Novice,” “Intermediate,” “Advanced,” “Advanced Plus,” “Expert,” and “Pro” options.

  • Food & hangouts: On-site dining is rolling out in phases; more restaurants are slated to open as Atlantic Park builds out. The broader district has shopping, events, and lodging.

    • Tips for Visiting Atlantic Park Surf

  • Reserve ahead for weekends/holidays. Popular time slots go first, so be sure to reserve your surf session in advance!

  • Bring the basics: Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a water bottle; arrive ready to move through orientation.

  • Pair it with a day in the ViBe or Oceanfront. Coffee shops, vibrant murals, shopping, and post-surf eats are just steps away at Atlantic Park, so you can make a whole day of it.

  • Weather happens, waves don’t stop. The lagoon runs in most conditions; check your confirmation and FAQs for policies.

  • Year-round operation with seasonally adjusted hours.

  • Capacity: Sessions can host multiple surfers at once, rotating through takeoffs so everyone scores plenty of waves.

  • Minimum age: Surfers must be at least 8 years old.


    • Location and How to Get There

  • Address: 365 18th Street, Suite 154, Virginia Beach

  • Location notes: Between 18th–20th Streets on Atlantic Ave, adjacent to the ViBe Creative District (easy to pair with coffee, galleries, and street art).

  • Parking: Paid parking is available on 17th and 20th Streets.


    • Driving from Sandbridge Beach to Atlantic Park Surf is roughly 13–14 miles, which takes about ~20–25 minutes, depending on traffic—close enough for a half-day surf session and lunch in town.

    Plan Your Session

    Families can put beginners in lessons while experienced riders book higher-level sessions. Non-surfers can lounge on the beach deck, snap photos, and make a full Oceanfront afternoon of it—then it’s a short drive back to your Sandbridge vacation rental for sunset and dinner.