The Great Debate: Artificial Waves vs Ocean Magic
Exploring the pros and cons of wave pools through the lens of bodyboarding. By Rob Barber.
Wave pools are reshaping the landscape of wave-riding sports. Once purely futuristic, these artificial waves now promise perfect conditions every ride – but do they capture the heart and soul of bodyboarding? At Bodyboard Holidays, we understand the thrill of chasing ocean waves, yet we appreciate the training grounds offered by places like The Wave in Bristol and the newly established Lost Shore Surf Resort in Scotland. This article dives deep to answer our burning question: Are wave pools good or bad for bodyboarding?
Are wave pools good for bodyboarding?
Wave pools provide consistent, predictable conditions ideal for training and perfecting techniques like spins and barrel rides. They offer convenience and safety but lack the adventure, unpredictability, and natural beauty of ocean waves.
Why Wave Pools Are The Best
Consistency & Progression
During our recent El Salvador bodyboard holiday I took the opportunity to catch up with international trip leader Matt ‘Mave’ Davies to chat about the good and bad points of wave pools. He was quick to highlight the immense training potential with the repeatable conditions that you get in ‘the pond’. During the video interview, Mave commented, “You paddle out, catch between ten and fifteen waves, practising the same move repeatedly – something impossible to achieve in the ocean”. I’ve personally noted how my own riding skills, especially spins in the pocket, dramatically improved thanks to regular sessions at The Wave in Bristol. Seeing the best riders perform in the pool makes you realise what is possible on a bodyboard, it’s super inspiring to see the technical movements that they display to perform the sports hardest moves. Check out our upcoming wave pool coaching day with 3x World Champion Jeff Hubbard.
Accessibility for All
Wave pools cater to every skill level, from beginners catching their first white water ride to experienced riders chasing technical barrels. Mave explains, “Wave pools like Bristol are set up for families, beginners, and advanced riders alike, opening the sport to a broader audience.”
Convenience, Time & Community
For inland riders or those with limited time, wave pools offer a guaranteed session. Mave points out, “You can book a slot, get guaranteed waves, and still be home in time for dinner.”
One huge aspect of wave pools are the communities that grow up around them. The biggest and best example of this is the Bristol Bodyboarders Club which boasts over 100 members and regularly holds meets at The Wave in Bristol. Read more about the club.
Jeff Hubbard at Bristols Wave. The only man ever to pull 6 moves on 1 wave!
Why Some Riders Prefer the Ocean
"I can’t wait! It’s shaping up to be a really good day and lots of our members will be joining in on the fun. Jeff is a legend of the sport! And certainly attracted a good crowd on the pier and in the water last year.."
Adventure & Exploration
Matt “Mave” Davies passionately describes the joy of spontaneous surf trips with friends: “There’s something special about jumping in a car, finding hidden gems, and enjoying uncrowded waves. It’s romantic, adventurous, and unpredictable.”
Connection with Nature
In a recent interview, Dan DePranger, our Bodyboard Holidays guest, describes the unparalleled beauty of bodyboarding in Costa Rica: “Waiting in crystal-clear waters, jungle-covered hills behind you – nothing matches the tranquillity and pure connection to nature.” Discover more about our Costa Rica Bodyboarding Adventures
Ocean Skill Development
While wave pools hone specific moves, the ocean offers valuable lessons in paddling, wave selection and dealing with varying conditions. Mave claims, “Ocean riding teaches crucial decision-making skills that pools simply can’t replicate.”
Popular Wave Pool Locations Around the World
North America
Waco Surf, Texas, USA
Opened in 2018, Waco Surf utilises American Wave Machines’ Perfect Swell technology to produce customisable waves, including huge air sections ideal for aerial manoeuvres. World Champ Tanner McDaniel put out a video fo him surfing there and busting every conceivable aerial move. In late 2024 Jay Reale launched a huge ARS out of the bowl and landed awkwardly on his board, snapping his collarbone!
Surf Ranch (Kelly Slater Wave Co.), California, USA
Unveiled in December 2015, Surf Ranch features a 2,300-foot-long basin powered by Kelly Slater Wave Systems. It delivers 6 foot+ barreling waves suitable for advanced bodyboarders, with rides lasting up to a minute. The barrel is long, round and you need to be a master of speed management to slow down, then speed up and make it.
Typhoon Lagoon, Florida, USA
Opened on June 1, 1989, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon boasts one of the world’s largest outdoor wave pools, generating waves up to 6 feet high. It’s a family-friendly destination offering various attractions and reopened for the summer season on May 21, 2025. This pool is more catered to the beginners market.
Europe
The Wave, Bristol, UK
Launched in November 2019, The Wave is the world’s first public Wavegarden Cove facility. It offers consistent, high-quality waves suitable for all skill levels and operates year-round.
Lost Shore Surf Resort, Edinburgh, Scotland
Opened on November 11, 2024, Lost Shore Surf Resort is Europe’s largest inland surfing lagoon, utilising Wavegarden technology to produce over 20 wave types. The £60 million facility includes luxury accommodations, wellness amenities, and dining options. It’s only a 10 minute drive from the Edinburgh airport. Bring your warm wetsuit and flexible board, it can be chilly in the winter months.
Alaïa Bay, Sion, Switzerland
Inaugurated in May 2021, Alaïa Bay is Switzerland’s first surf park, featuring Wavegarden Cove technology. Located in the Swiss Alps, it offers a unique surfing experience with a variety of wave settings.
RiF010, Rotterdam, Netherlands
Opened on July 6, 2024, RiF010 is the world’s first urban surf pool situated in downtown Rotterdam. It provides accessible surfing opportunities within the city, aiming to make the sport more inclusive.
SURFTOWN MUC, Munich, Germany
Opened in 2024, SURFTOWN MUC in Munich is Germany’s first large-scale wave pool dedicated to surfing and bodyboarding. Utilising Endless Surf technology, it features a unique heart-shaped pool design that allows waves to be tailored precisely to the needs of both beginners and advanced riders. Strategically located close to the city, it provides easy access to perfect waves year-round, bringing the spirit of ocean surfing into the heart of Bavaria.
Oceania
URBNSURF Melbourne, Australia
Launched in April 2024, URBNSURF Sydney offers consistent, high-quality waves using Wavegarden technology. Located in Sydney Olympic Park, it provides a controlled environment for bodyboard of all levels. A large community of local bodyboarders regularly meet up for shred sessions in the city!
Asia & Middle East
Wave Park, Siheung, South Korea
Opened in October 2020, Wave Park is Asia’s largest surf park, featuring Wavegarden Cove technology. It offers a variety of wave settings suitable for beginners to advanced surfers.
Surf Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Newly opened in 2025, Surf Abu Dhabi is powered by Kelly Slater Wave Systems. It’s the world’s largest and most luxury artificial surf park, utilising the hot desert weather in an amazing setting.
South America
Praia da Grama, São Paulo, Brazil
Inaugurated in 2021, Praia da Grama is Brazil’s first inland surf park, employing Wavegarden Cove technology to generate high-performance waves in a tropical environment.
Surfland Brasil, Garopaba, Brazil
Opened in 2022, Surfland Brazil combines residential living with a Wavegarden Cove surf park, offering residents and visitors consistent waves year-round. It has an amazing barrel and air section that the Brazillian pro’s tear to pieces.
Previous Bodyboard Holidays guest Sean Reeves samples the Sydney wave pool
Long time customer Brad Mansfield enjoying the benefits of training at The Wave.
Wave Pool frother and coaching weekend attendee Seb Leathlean
How Do Wave Pools Work?
1. Wavegarden Cove
1. Wavegarden Cove (Used at The Wave, Bristol - Alaïa Bay, Switzerland - Lost Shore Surf Resort, Scotland)
Wavegarden Cove employs a modular electromechanical system where a series of paddles, driven by motors, push water to create waves. These paddles are arranged along a central pier and can generate up to 1,000 waves per hour, offering a variety of wave types suitable for all skill levels.
2. Kelly Slater Wave Co. (Used at Surf Ranch, California)
This system utilises a submerged hydrofoil that moves along a straight track, displacing water to form a single, high-quality wave. The wave travels along a specially designed pool, providing a consistent and long ride, ideal for professional training and competitions.
3. PerfectSwell by American Wave Machines (Used at Waco Surf, Texas - Surf Stadium, Japan)
PerfectSwell uses a pneumatic system where air is pushed into chambers (caissons) along the pool wall. The controlled release of air creates waves that can be customised in shape and size, simulating natural ocean swells.
4. Endless Surf (Used at SURFTOWN MUC, Munich - The Wave, London)
Endless Surf’s technology features a heart-shaped pool with multiple pneumatic chambers along the back wall. By controlling the sequence and timing of air releases, it produces customisable waves catering to various skill levels.
5. Surf Lakes (Used at Yeppoon, Australia)
Surf Lakes employs a central “plunger” mechanism that moves vertically to create concentric waves radiating outward. The pool’s design includes different zones with varying bathymetry, allowing simultaneous generation of multiple wave types for different skill levels.
FAQs: Surfing Wave Pools
How do artificial wave pools work?
Artificial wave pools use mechanical or pneumatic systems to generate waves. Mechanical systems, like hydrofoils or plungers, physically move water to create waves, while pneumatic systems use air pressure to displace water and form waves.
How much does an artificial wave machine cost to build?
The cost varies widely based on technology and scale. Smaller installations can start around $500,000, while large-scale, advanced wave pools like Surf Ranch can cost upwards of $20 million.
How high can wave pools go?
Wave heights depend on the technology used. For instance, Surf Ranch can produce waves up to 2.4 meters (8 feet), while other facilities like Wavegarden Cove offer waves up to 2 meters (6.5 feet).
Are wave pools dangerous?
While wave pools are generally safe, risks include collisions, drowning, and injuries from wave impact. Proper supervision, safety protocols, and adherence to guidelines are essential to minimise risks.
Where is Kelly Slater's wave pool?
Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch is located in Lemoore, California, USA. It’s a private facility primarily used for training and professional events.
Are wave pools safe while pregnant?
Pregnant individuals should consult with healthcare providers before participating. Gentle wave pools may be safe, but high-intensity waves and the risk of falls or collisions could pose risks during pregnancy.
How deep are wave pools?
Depth varies by design and purpose. Some pools have shallow areas for beginners, while others can be several meters deep to accommodate larger waves and advanced surfers
Can wave pools produce barrels?
Yes, advanced wave pools like Surf Ranch and Wavegarden Cove can generate barreling waves, allowing surfers to practice tube riding in a controlled environment.
Do wave pools use fresh or saltwater?
Most wave pools use freshwater for ease of maintenance and cost-effectiveness, though some facilities may add salt to mimic ocean conditions.
Are wave pools environmentally friendly?
Modern wave pools aim for sustainability, incorporating energy-efficient technologies and water recycling systems. However, environmental impact varies based on location, energy sources, and operational practices.
Balancing Innovation with Tradition
Wave pools offer unparalleled training grounds, convenience, and inclusivity, shaping a promising future for bodyboarding. However, the soul of bodyboarding will always be deeply rooted in the unpredictable, awe-inspiring waves of the ocean. Ultimately, the best approach might just be a combination of both: using wave pools for progression and the ocean for true adventure.
Try the Future of Bodyboarding Today!
Experience cutting-edge bodyboard coaching in the UK’s best wave pools. Refine your technique, build your skills, and ride guaranteed perfect waves with 3-time World Champion Jeff Hubbard.
Join The Debate
What are your thoughts on wave pools? We would love to hear from you. Leave a comment below or on our youtube channel. We would love to have your opinion!
There's something special about the ocean. I'd rather surf mediocre waves for 3hrs in the ocean then smash out an hour in the pool.
Someone who exclusively rides wavepools would be confounded by the ocean, not so much the other way round.
The proposed London one looks interesting