Wave pools are beginning to pop up around the country making surfing possible in areas without access to an Ocean. If you are landlocked and looking for a wave, check out this list of wave pools in the USA.
What is a Wave Pool?
Before we dive in, a wave pool is a man-made lagoon or tank that generates surfable waves using mechanical technology to push water and create consistent swells. Unlike the ocean, wave pools can produce perfectly shaped, repeatable waves at the push of a button—ideal for practice or controlled surf sessions. The waves can be adjusted in size, shape, and frequency to suit beginners or pros. While it can’t fully replicate the power and unpredictability of real ocean surfing, it offers a reliable and fun way to surf anytime, anywhere.
Current List of Wave Pools in the USA
- Waco Surf – Waco, TX. Located in between Austin and Dallas; Waco Surf is one of the best known wave pools in the country. Using a high-powered air pressure system, it pumps out everything from mellow cruisers to heaving “Freak Peak” barrels at the touch of a button. You can dial in lefts, rights, and even air sections that feel straight out of a surf movie. They also have a beach, lazy river, and hotel.
2. Palm Springs Surf Club – Palm Springs, CA. If you’re dreaming of surfing in the desert, the Palm Springs Surf Club brings the wave-magic inland with a high-tech wave pool. They have multiple wave types including Lefts and Rights (think point breaks), A Frames, and Slabs (for advanced riders). Also complete with lazy river, water slides and bars.
3. Revel Surf – Mesa, AZ. Another wave pool in the desert. The waves here feel surprisingly ocean-like, with fun peaks, rippable faces, and even the chance to sneak into a little barrel if you’re lucky. They’ve got sessions for every level — from easy rollers for first-timers to punchier sets that’ll get your heart racing. When you’re not surfing, you can chill on the sandy beach, grab food or drinks, or hang poolside under the desert sun.
4. Atlantic Park Surf – Virginia Beach, VA. This wave park is so close to the beach, you can choose between a manmade or natural experience. This spot features a huge surf lagoon that pumps out perfectly shaped waves — mellow rollers for beginners through punchy faces for the seasoned crowd. Beyond the surf, you’ve got beach club cabanas, lounges, food and drink spots right on the oceanfront.
5. Kelly Slater Surf Ranch – Lemoore, CA. Located over 100 miles inland from the Pacific, this facility churns out world-class waves in a super-controlled environment—think full-rail turns, clean walls, and barrels that feel like they were dialed in just for you. While access is still limited and often geared toward elite surfers or special sessions, the vibe is pure surf-tech meets luxury, with upscale amenities, lounge spaces, and that “wow, I’m really surfing a machine-made wave” feeling. If you ever get the invite (or find a booking slot), consider it a once-in-a-lifetime surf experience
6. Disney Typhoon Lagoon – Orlando, FL. Surf alongside Disney characters?! Yes, they crank out surf-sessions either early in the morning before the park opens or after it closes when this is normally open for swimming only. You’ll find waves up to around 5–6 feet, with options for lefts and rights depending on how the session is run.
7. Crest Surf Club – Long Island, NY. The last on our wave pools in the USA list is an exclusive, private club. If you’re looking for something next-level, Crest Surf Clubs is building a luxury, members-only surf club. The clubhouse will include everything from lounge spaces and dining to coaching and surf-training programs—basically a surf resort meets social club.
Future Wave Pools in the USA
These are the future surf parks in the United States currently on our radar. We’ll update this list as more wave pools becoming planned.
- DSRT Surf – Palm Springs, CA. I guess one surf park in the same city wasn’t enough. Look out for this new wave park in 2026.
2. OceanKamp – Oceanside, CA. While San Diego is not necessarily in need of a surf park having access to the Ocean, this wave park is slated for a 2026 open before the Summer Olympics.
Where would you like to see a wave pool in the USA? Comment below!
