10 Best Wave Pools Around the World

Cover image: Surfing Croyde Bay on Unsplash

Most of us remember the christening ride at the Surf Ranch, where Kelly Slater tucked into a perfect, glassy barrel, and straight into wave pool royalty. In recent years, wave system technologies have produced increasingly better, more realistic waves that bring consistent rides to those who don’t have access to beaches or are curious about the possibilities of these man-made swells. Here are some of the best wave pools in the world.

Surf Ranch, Leemore, California

Who would have thought the longest open barreling man-made wave in the world is nestled between barns and farms in Leemore, California? Kelly Slater worked with scientists, engineers, and designers to create this dream wave at the Kelly Slater Surf Ranch. For 10 years, the team used computational fluid dynamic simulations, physical models, and wave theory to dial a perfect barreling wave based on the wave vortex ratio, wave height, and peel angle. With different waves for different skill levels, the pool can host beginner lessons or WSL events.

Wavegarden Cove, Northern Spain

Wave Garden has taken the world by storm as one of the most energy-efficient, commercially viable, and highest capacity wave systems found today. Their technology produces super realistic ocean waves making it desired for wave pool builders around the globe. The Spanish-based company's first pool is located in the Basque Country, and today it functions as a testing site and private playground for surfers.

URBNSURF, Melbourne Australia

The new, sleek wave park URBNSURF, uses Wavegarden technology to bring even more waves to this surf-loving country. Located about a 5-minute drive from the Melbourne Airport, the pool hosts both a right and left break that ranges from slabby barrels to slower, friendlier waves. The park is open to the public and offers rentals and lessons on property. You can buy your tickets here.

Brazil, Itupeva, Praia da Grama

The Praia de Grama wave pool is located 45 min away from Sao Paulo and is the first Wavegarden cove in South America. This "break" is part of the Praia da Grama residential complex and features a white sand beach with palms, a beach club, and a sushi bar.

Switzerland, Sion, Alaïa Bay

The Alaia Bay Wavegarden pool lies in the scenic Swiss Alps. This hotspot for wave riders looking for new exciting places to surf was the first Wavegarden location in continental Europe. On-site, they offer surf lessons for all skill levels, rentals, surfboard shaping, and a world-class Boardriders surf shop.

South Korea, Siheung, Wave Park

Located 30 minutes outside Seoul, Wave Park is the biggest Wavegarden pool in Asia and offers the longest artificial surfing experience in the world. They offer free surfing and lessons for all skill levels of surfers looking for some leg-burning rides. On the rest of their marine complex, they have scuba diving and a relaxation wave pool.

The Wave, Bristol, UK

The Wave was Europe’s first Wavegarden pool open to the public. The Bristol location brings year-round waves for those who are brave enough to face the icy cold winter weather. The site has lessons for all levels, spectator passes to enjoy the food and drink while watching the surf, and “camping” accommodations where you can spend the night to get optimal surf time in.

Surf Snowdonia, Wales, UK

Part of the Adventure Park Snowdonia, this Wavegarden wave pool is a top tourist destination in North Wales. With experiences tailored to all levels, guests get to enjoy surf sessions and other outdoor activities like climbing, hiking, and biking.

Sunway Lagoon, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Sunny Lagoon is a waterpark with tons of different attractions, including its very own Surf Beach. This wave pool is an impressive 13,000 square meters and can produce waves up to 8ft. Surf Beach is not as favored compared to others on this list, however, it is still worth mentioning for its ability to be tailored to a variety of skill levels, the availability of boards and lessons on-site, and super fun rides.

BSR Surf Park, Waco, Texas

The BSR Surf Park is a paradise for wave chasers of all kinds. Not only do they have a world-class wave pool, but they also host a cable park and crazy water slide. The park is open to the public and offers private or public sessions for all skill levels. There are also stay options so you can optimize time on your Texas surfing vacation.

Up and Coming

Surf Lake

On the horizon for wave pool technology is Surf Lake. Using a huge pump in the center of a pool, the force generates breaks for shortboarders, longboarders, and beginners all at the same time. Currently, Surf Lake has projects all over the world and we hope to see some open to the public in the next few years.

Planning a surf trip to one of these wave pools? Remember to check out the Jamie O’Brien Surf App here for anytime, anywhere surf coaching.