DSRT Surf Brings World-Class Waves to Palm Desert
Forget driving hours to Malibu or flying to Hawaii for the perfect wave. By summer 2026, you’ll be able to surf right here in Palm Desert — just steps from the greens at Desert Willow Golf Resort.
After years of planning and a few pandemic-related delays, DSRT Surf is set to open as the Coachella Valley’s second major surf destination. This one-of-a-kind complex will feature a 5.5-acre surf lagoon, creating consistent, machine-powered waves in the heart of the desert.
A Surf Resort Like No Other
DSRT Surf isn’t just about catching waves. The project includes plans for a 139-room hotel and 57 luxury villas, blending the excitement of surfing with resort-style living. The development mirrors a growing trend across the world — surf resorts far from the coastline that give both beginners and pros the chance to ride waves year-round.
And let’s be honest — with 350 days of sunshine, Palm Desert is one of the best places in the world for this kind of destination. No more worrying about weather ruining your surf trip.
Sustainability at the Core
Water usage has been a big topic of discussion, especially in the desert. The lagoon itself will hold about 7 million gallons of water and cycle through roughly 25 million gallons annually due to evaporation, filtration, and maintenance.
But here’s the interesting part: as part of its agreement with Palm Desert, Beach Street Development is removing 1 million square feet of turf at Desert Willow Golf Resort and replacing it with native landscaping. That move is projected to save 35 million gallons of water each year — more than offsetting the lagoon’s needs.
According to the developers, the surf pool won’t require any additional water beyond what’s already being used at Desert Willow today.
More Than Just Surfing
While surfing is the star of the show, DSRT Surf will also feature:
- Pickleball courts
- A swimming pool and jacuzzi
- Yoga classes
- A restaurant
- A skate bowl
This makes it not only a surfing destination, but a lifestyle hub for residents, visitors, and families alike.
DSRT Surf vs. Palm Springs Surf Club
The opening of DSRT Surf comes just two years after the Palm Springs Surf Club reopened about 10 miles away. That surf spot features a smaller 1.5-acre pool, a lazy river, and water slides. It’s had its share of early challenges — from mechanical issues to noise complaints — but it’s helped prove that surfing in the desert is here to stay.
DSRT Surf’s lagoon will be larger than four football fields and accommodate up to 70 surfers at once. Pricing for surf sessions hasn’t been announced yet, but the developers say their goal is to keep it accessible to locals, not just visitors.
As Doug Sheres of Beach Street Development put it: “We consider this very much available to all income levels and demographics. It’s wide open to everyone.”
What This Means for Palm Desert
For locals and future homeowners, DSRT Surf represents more than just a fun attraction. It’s another example of Palm Desert’s evolution into a world-class lifestyle destination. Between golf, tennis, hiking, fine dining, and now surfing, it’s easy to see why so many people are choosing to call Palm Desert home.
Whether you’re a seasoned surfer, a beginner ready to learn, or just someone who loves the energy of exciting new developments, DSRT Surf is set to be a game-changer for our community.
👉 Thinking about moving to Palm Desert or investing in a property nearby? With attractions like DSRT Surf on the horizon, now is the perfect time to explore real estate opportunities in this vibrant city. Contact me today to start your home search.