Surf-based class warfare explodes as “playground for the rich” Zion Shores breaks ground in Utah

“Most [of] us can’t afford an apartment, but sure let’s build some rich luxury ‘surf community.'"

Life is a tinderbox, these days, not at all a box of chocolates. The light-minded Forrest Gump coined the now-iconic phrase way back in 1994 whilst starring in his eponymous film. A young man from Hope, Arkansas was President of the United States, back then, and anything seemed possible. Waking up each morning would bring a varietal of experiences, each delicious. Well, that was 30 years ago before division, mistrust and volatility becoming the only guarantees at the start of each American day.

But let us bustle to Utah’s southern bit where a surf-based class warfare has exploded in the desert. A new 30-acre development and its 9-acre lagoon are set to open mid-2027 right outside Zion National Park and, thus, appropriately dubbed Zion Shores.

According to SF Gate:

Zion Shores is slated to comprise 65 properties: 22 townhomes and 43 single-family waterfront houses. The latter will face a vast, concrete-lined lagoon with tapered shores, according to plans, allowing those living on the artificial beach to step directly into the chlorinated waters. At the top of the lagoon will be two wavemakers where residents can hone their surfing skills. A separate, third wave pool is planned at the edge of the community, complete with a boardwalk, cabanas and umbrellas dotting the shore. Restaurants, retail space and a clubhouse skirt the property in the plans.

Dreamy, no? And the $1.5 million starting cost seems entirely reasonable but not, apparently, for poor locals. Further reporting shares locals have been made furious by this “playground for the rich,” one declaring, “Most [of] us can’t afford an apartment, but sure let’s build some rich luxury ‘surf community.’ I’m sure I’ll be doing work out there on this development but I’ll still not be able to afford f—king rent in this town.”

Zion Shores parent company Desert Lakes CEO Cody Larkin was incensed by accusations of pandering to the rich. “Our aim is not to displace local residents,” he boldly declared, “but to enhance economic opportunity through responsible development. The revenue generated — from lodging, tourism, and associated spending — will directly support the local economy, including restaurants, shops, and public services. In doing so, we believe Zion Shores helps offset some of the broader pressures associated with growth by creating jobs and long-term infrastructure investment in Washington County.”

Still thinking about that low, low $1.5 million buy in? Don’t delay. Kick the poor locals while they’re down.

David Lee Scales and I did not discuss any form of pool surfing, or pool surfing developments, during our weekly chat but did spend some time dissecting Crosby Colapinto’s spelling. Surrendur to the experience. Come be preseant with us.