Located in Tempe, Arizona, Big Surf was more than just a waterpark. It was a trailblazer in the world of artificial wave technology and water-based attractions, drawing visitors from across the country. With its sprawling wave pool, relaxing lazy rivers, and family-friendly attractions, Big Surf captured the excitement of beach life without the need to leave the desert. Designed as a place for both surfers and families, Big Surf offered unique appeal in Arizona’s dry climate, making it an oasis of fun for water lovers of all ages.
Big Surf’s wave pool, the first of its kind in North America, was revolutionary. This technological marvel became the defining feature of the park, offering a genuine surfing experience in an inland state where access to ocean waves was nonexistent. Big Surf gave Arizonans the chance to catch a wave, perfect their surf skills, or just relax by the pool and enjoy the artificial beach.
The History and Origins of Big Surf
Big Surf opened its doors to the public in 1969, but its story began years before with the vision of Phil Dexter, a dedicated engineer with a passion for surfing. Dexter envisioned an inland wave pool that could mimic the experience of the ocean, and he devoted years to developing this groundbreaking concept. After numerous prototypes and significant investments, Dexter’s dream became a reality when Big Surf opened in Tempe, Arizona.
The waterpark was an instant hit, drawing crowds from across the state and quickly gaining a reputation as a must-visit destination. The park’s opening was a significant milestone, not just for Arizona tourism but for waterparks worldwide. Big Surf set a new standard in water-based entertainment, combining cutting-edge engineering with family-friendly attractions.
The Wave Pool: The Heart of Big Surf
A Technological Breakthrough
Big Surf’s main attraction, the wave pool, was nothing short of an engineering marvel. At the time, creating artificial waves for a large body of water was a groundbreaking concept, and Dexter’s design laid the foundation for future waterparks. The pool used a unique hydraulic system to generate waves that reached up to five feet in height, providing a true surfing experience in the heart of the desert.
A Place for Surfers
The wave pool was designed to accommodate both beginner and advanced surfers. In fact, Big Surf’s waves became so popular that the pool was used as a training ground for surfers in an otherwise oceanless state. For many, Big Surf was the only place in Arizona where they could surf, making it a cherished destination for surf enthusiasts.
Fun for All Ages
The wave pool wasn’t just for surfers. Families and casual swimmers could enjoy the gentler waves near the pool’s edge or float on rafts and inner tubes. This versatility made the wave pool the perfect centerpiece for Big Surf, drawing everyone from thrill-seekers to families looking for a relaxing day at the waterpark.
Attractions and Features at Big Surf
Waterslides and Pools
Over the years, Big Surf expanded its offerings to include a variety of waterslides and pools, catering to visitors of all ages. From exhilarating high-speed slides to more relaxed options like the lazy river, Big Surf’s attractions evolved to keep pace with visitors’ changing tastes.
Kids’ Play Areas
To ensure there was something for everyone, Big Surf featured designated play areas for children. These areas were equipped with smaller slides, shallow pools, and interactive water features, providing a safe and fun environment for young kids.
Sand Beach and Lounging Areas
The wave pool was surrounded by a man-made beach area filled with real sand, giving visitors an authentic beach experience in the desert. Many visitors enjoyed simply lounging on the “beach,” soaking up the sun, or watching the surfers. The sand beach and shady cabanas allowed visitors to unwind and enjoy the waterpark’s vibrant atmosphere.
Big Surf’s Influence on Arizona Tourism
A Pioneering Attraction
Big Surf was one of the first major water-based attractions in Arizona, setting a precedent for future developments in the state’s tourism industry. As one of the only wave pools in the region, Big Surf attracted visitors from across the Southwest, creating a new source of revenue and boosting Arizona’s reputation as a tourist-friendly destination.
An Economic Engine
For decades, Big Surf contributed to Arizona’s economy by drawing both tourists and locals. The park created jobs, stimulated the local hospitality industry, and became an iconic stop for visitors exploring the state’s unique blend of urban attractions and natural wonders.
Inspiring Other Waterparks
Big Surf’s success inspired other waterparks to open, not just in Arizona but around the world. Its wave pool technology became a blueprint for wave pools in other parts of the U.S. and internationally, making it a pioneer in the industry. The park’s blend of attractions also influenced future waterparks to diversify their offerings, appealing to a broader audience.
Notable Events and Moments at Big Surf
Concerts and Cultural Events
In addition to being a waterpark, Big Surf hosted a variety of events over the years, from surf competitions to music concerts. The park’s wave pool and spacious grounds made it an ideal venue for concerts, attracting major acts in the 1970s and 1980s. These events added to Big Surf’s cultural significance, transforming it from just a waterpark into a lively hub for entertainment and community gatherings.
Surf Competitions
Big Surf’s wave pool hosted numerous surf competitions, drawing participants from across the country. These events highlighted the park’s unique ability to bring surfing to an inland location, and they helped foster a passionate surf community in Arizona. Competitions at Big Surf gave surfers in the desert a rare chance to showcase their skills and connect with fellow enthusiasts.
Hollywood Fame
Over the years, Big Surf appeared in several films, cementing its status as a cultural icon. The waterpark’s unique location and distinctive wave pool made it an appealing filming location, bringing additional fame and recognition to the park. These appearances only added to Big Surf’s mystique, drawing curious visitors who wanted to experience the park for themselves.
The Decline and Closure of Big Surf
Changing Tastes and Competition
Despite its early success, Big Surf began to face challenges in the late 1990s and 2000s. As newer waterparks with more advanced attractions emerged, Big Surf struggled to keep up with the latest trends in water-based entertainment. Visitors increasingly gravitated toward parks with more elaborate slides and thrilling rides, making Big Surf’s simpler offerings seem outdated.
Maintenance and Operational Costs
Maintaining a large wave pool and waterpark is costly, and over time, the expenses associated with running Big Surf became difficult to manage. The wave pool, in particular, required regular maintenance to keep it functioning safely and effectively. As costs mounted, it became increasingly challenging to keep the park in peak condition.
The COVID-19 Pandemic
Like many other attractions, Big Surf was deeply affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The restrictions on gatherings and health concerns made it difficult for waterparks to operate, and Big Surf ultimately had to close its doors. Unfortunately, the park did not reopen after the pandemic, marking the end of an era for this beloved Arizona institution.
The Legacy of Big Surf Arizona
A Cultural and Historical Icon
Although Big Surf is no longer open, its legacy lives on in Arizona’s collective memory. The park provided generations of Arizonans with unforgettable summer days, becoming a rite of passage for many who grew up in the Phoenix area. For those who experienced Big Surf at its peak, the park holds a special place in their hearts as a symbol of summers past.
Influencing Modern Waterparks
Big Surf’s innovative wave pool technology and design continue to influence the waterpark industry. By proving that artificial waves were possible, Big Surf paved the way for the advanced wave pools and surf parks that exist today. Modern waterparks around the world owe a debt to Big Surf’s pioneering spirit.
Remembering Big Surf in Arizona’s History
Though it no longer operates, Big Surf remains an integral part of Arizona’s history. As one of the state’s first major attractions, it contributed to the growth of Arizona’s tourism industry and introduced countless visitors to the thrill of surfing and water-based fun.
Final Thoughts
Big Surf Arizona was more than just a waterpark; it was a revolutionary concept that brought surfing to the desert and redefined recreational possibilities in the arid Southwest. With its groundbreaking wave pool, rich history, and countless cherished memories, Big Surf has left a lasting impact on Arizona’s cultural landscape.
