Surfs Up! Maricopa May Be Site for Phoenix-Area Water Park

Big Surf was all the rage when it opened in Mesa, Arizona in 1969. Not just a huge pool, but one that had real breakers from wave machines. It’s since closed down, but a new company, PHX Surf LLC, wants to expand on that concept in nearby Maricopa.

Developers are planning to develop not only the water feature and lagoon, but an 80-room hotel, retail and restaurants. A unique feature will include the construction of 42 one and two-bedroom surf villas. In addition, plans call for a 30-site campground that will allow patrons to bring their own RV to the site.

According to a recent Planned Area Development application submitted to the city, the project will center on building two surf lagoons measuring around five acres each. It will also include a surf school and academy.

Up to 11 acres of parking will be made available at the site, accessed by a primary entrance road off State Route 238.