MCKINNEY, Texas — The landscape of North Texas entertainment is getting a massive, coastal-inspired makeover.
On Monday, developers and city officials officially broke ground on Cannon Beach, a $200 million, 35-acre surf and adventure resort located at the northeast corner of Stacy Road and S.H. 121. The ambitious project aims to blend "lifestyle and adrenaline," featuring a world-class surf lagoon and a luxury resort hotel.
A New Era of Recreation
At the heart of the development is a three-acre surf lagoon utilizing advanced wave technology to bring a beach experience to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Beyond the waves, the site will feature:
Water Attractions: A lazy river, mineral hot springs circuit, and cliff diving.
Action Sports: A skateboard park and stationary surf wave.
Entertainment Hub: A movie theater, bowling alley, and indoor recreation facilities.
Hospitality: A full-service resort hotel with wedding venues, event spaces, and poolside cabanas.
“We’re creating a place where families build indelible memories and visitors explore,” said developer Cole Cannon, noting that the surf experience will be unlike anything else currently available in the state.
Economic Tidal Wave
The project is a collaborative effort between the City of McKinney, the McKinney Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), and the McKinney Community Development Corporation (MCDC). Under agreements signed in May 2025, the city provided infrastructure assistance and tax reimbursements to secure the development.
The long-term impact on McKinney is expected to be significant:
Jobs: Over 700 new positions created.
Tourism: 400,000 projected annual visitors.
Economic Impact: An estimated $2 billion over the next 20 years.
“This groundbreaking marks an important moment for our city’s future,” said Mayor Bill Cox. “The project brings new energy to McKinney, supporting growth that provides residents with more activities while opening new avenues for local businesses.”
Timeline and Next Steps
Construction is now officially underway following the successful launch of a similar Cannon Beach development in Mesa, Arizona. Residents won't have to wait too long to catch their first wave; the first phase of the McKinney resort is slated to open as soon as mid-2027.