Heroes Paradise Opens Standing Wave for Surfing Fun

(eap) The family entertainment centre Heroes Paradise in Brandon, Florida, founded by Julie and Tim Pennenga in 2020, has expanded its visitor offering – which focuses on laser tag, archery and gameplay climbing – with an outdoor standing wave. Since last Friday, both surfing beginners and experienced wave riders have been able to acquire new skills in a controlled environment and enjoy one-hour sessions.

Photo: Courtesy of Aquatic Development Group (ADG) The surf installation is the “ES46” model from the EpicSurf^® brand of US manufacturer Aquatic Development Group, which can generate waves ranging from two to five feet in height (approx. 0.6 to 1.5 metres). The attraction occupies a footprint of 20 by 27 metres, while the usable surf area measures around 14 metres in width. As this is a deepwater installation, guests can use surfboards with fins, which are generally also used for surfing in the sea to provide stability and board control. In addition, retractable training bars have been integrated in the facility so that surfing beginners can better improve their stability and confidence on the wave. Thanks to a walk-out recovery zone, participants in the surf sessions do not have to swim to exit the installation and re-enter it, which is intended to optimise actual surf time and allow for a maximum number of waves to be used.

According to the manufacturer, the installation is “the first deepwater standing wave on the US’ East Coast”: “We are excited to see this project and product come to life at Heroes Paradise. […] Proven technology, project execution experience and a dedicated team leads to great results. […],” said Bruce Quay, COO of Aquatic Development Group.

Julie Pennenga commented: “The team behind EpicSurf has been incredible to work with from day one. Their responsiveness and attention to detail have made a huge difference in keeping our project on track […].” The groundbreaking ceremony for the new surf installation took place in November 2025, at the same time as the start of construction on an expansion of the FEC. The new attraction was built in just under seven months. ■