News Summary
Developers in Jacksonville have submitted a permit application for a $20 million surf park in eTown. This project aims to provide consistent surfing experiences and contribute to local culture, with construction expected to begin in early 2026.
Jacksonville Surf Park Developers Submit Permit Application for $20 Million Project
Jacksonville developers have formally submitted a permit application for a $20 million surf park project in eTown. The permit review process is currently underway, marking a significant step forward in the ambitious plan led by Aventuur, a Los Angeles-based surf park developer. The company is collaborating with local partners, including multi-generational developers and engineers, to bring the concept to fruition.
The deal for the surf park was finalized in early June, with the site for the project covering 44.85 acres located southwest of the Florida 9B and Interstate 295 interchange in South Jacksonville. Developers closed on the property on June 2, 2025, acquiring it from Westland Timber LLC, associated with the Davis family, for approximately $21.1 million. The site was subsequently rezoned in February to a Planned Unit Development to accommodate the surf park’s requirements.
Project Timeline and Features
Construction for the surf park is expected to commence in early 2026, with plans to open to the public by early 2028. Central to the surf park will be a 56-module, 5.5-acre Wavegarden Cove surfing lagoon, designed to provide consistent, ocean-like surfing experiences for individuals of all abilities. The project also aims to incorporate sustainable building materials and preservation methods throughout the construction process.
In addition to the surfing lagoon, the surf park will feature a high-performance surf academy, a boutique hotel, a health and wellness center, a member clubhouse, beach club, retail spaces, and event venues. The developers are working with architect Morris Adjmi and planning and engineering firm Prosser | Prime AE to ensure the design meets both functional and aesthetic goals.
Community Support and Master Planned Development
The Jacksonville Surf Park has garnered support from several key stakeholders, including the Davis family, the Jacksonville City Council, district Council member Raul Arias, and the office of Mayor Donna Deegan. The project’s vision aligns with the master plan for the area, which includes multifamily residential units and community spaces designed to celebrate local surf and beach culture. A focal point for community gatherings will be a space called “The Grove.”
The developers have committed to ensuring that the surf park reflects the character and values of North Florida. This commitment aims to enhance Jacksonville’s local beach heritage and solidify the area’s reputation as a destination for recreation and wellness. Currently, the greater Jacksonville area attracts approximately 22 million visitors annually, drawn by its inviting coastal lifestyle and warm climate.
Florida’s Surf Heritage
Florida boasts a rich surf heritage, with several world champion surfers hailing from the state. This surf park construction will contribute to nurturing this culture and offer a dedicated facility for both locals and tourists to enjoy surfing year-round. The project additionally represents Aventuur’s aspirations to expand beyond Jacksonville, with future plans for sites in Texas and developments in Australia and New Zealand.
This surf park is not just a new recreational facility; it aims to rejuvenate the local community by providing opportunities for engagement and enjoyment while maintaining a focus on sustainability and the celebration of surfing culture in Jacksonville.
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Additional Resources
- News 4 Jax: Permit Review for Jacksonville Surf Park
- Wikipedia: Surfing
- Jacksonville Daily Record: Surf Park Purchase Announcement
- Google Search: Jacksonville Surf Park
- SJ Citizen: Jacksonville Surf Park Reality
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wave Pool
- Surfer: Florida Wave Pool Approval
- Google News: Florida Surf Parks
- CoStar: Developer Plans for New Surf Parks
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
