The Best Surfing Beaches In The UK
Surfing has become one of the most popular water sports in the UK, with thousands of surfers hitting the waves every year. The country’s rugged coastline, strong winds and varying swell conditions make it an ideal destination for surfers of all levels. However, choosing the right surf spot is crucial to a successful surf trip. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best places to surf in the UK, from Cornwall’s sandy beaches to Scotland’s hidden gems.
The Importance of Choosing the Right UK Surf Spot
Choosing a surf spot is not just about finding the biggest waves or the most picturesque beach. Factors such as tide times, wind direction and swell size can all affect the quality of your surf session. For beginners, it’s important to choose a spot that is safe and suitable for learning. For more experienced surfers, finding a spot that matches your skill level and wave preference is key. Some surf spots are known for their fast and hollow waves, while others offer more mellow and forgiving waves. Additionally, it’s important to consider the local surf culture and etiquette, as well as any safety hazards such as rocks or rip currents.
Top Surf Spots in Cornwall
Cornwall is the UK’s surfing capital, with some of the best and most consistent waves in the country. The county’s long coastline offers a variety of surf spots, from sheltered coves to exposed beaches. Fistral Beach in Newquay is one of the most popular surf spots in Cornwall, with its consistent waves and lively atmosphere. Other notable spots include Watergate Bay, Porthtowan, and Sennen Cove. For beginners, Polzeath is a great spot to learn with its gentle waves and surf schools. Cornwall is also home to a thriving surf culture, with numerous surf shops, cafes and bars catering to the surfing community.
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Surfing in Devon – The Best Spots
Devon is another popular surfing destination in the UK, with a plethora of surf spots to choose from. Croyde Bay is one of the most famous surf spots in Devon, with its consistent waves and stunning scenery. Other notable spots include Bantham Beach, Woolacombe and Saunton Sands. Devon’s surf spots are known for their long and peeling waves, making it a great destination for longboarders. The county is also home to several surf schools and camps, catering to surfers of all levels.
The Best Surf Spots in Wales
Wales may not be as well-known for surfing as Cornwall or Devon, but it boasts some of the most beautiful and underrated surf spots in the country. The Gower Peninsula in South Wales is a popular destination for surfers, with its long and sandy beaches. Llangennith Beach is one of the most popular surf spots in the area, with its consistent waves and stunning scenery. Other notable spots include Freshwater West, Porthcawl and Aberavon Beach. Wales is also home to a growing surf scene, with several surf festivals and competitions taking place throughout the year.
Read: Cornwall Best Beaches
Surfing in Scotland – The Hidden Gem
Scotland may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of surfing, but it offers some of the most challenging and rewarding surf spots in the UK. The Outer Hebrides is a remote and wild destination for surfers, with some of the most powerful and consistent waves in Europe. The Isle of Lewis is a popular destination, with its exposed beaches and stunning landscapes. Other notable spots include Thurso East, Pease Bay and Belhaven Bay. Scotland’s surf scene is small but passionate, with several surf schools and shops catering to the local community.
Surfing Etiquette and Safety Tips
Surfing is a fun and exhilarating sport, but it’s important to respect the local surf culture and etiquette. Some basic rules include always being aware of your surroundings, not dropping in on other surfers’ waves, and avoiding crowded areas if you’re a beginner. Additionally, it’s important to follow safety guidelines such as wearing a wetsuit and leash, staying hydrated, and knowing your limits. Surfing can be a dangerous sport, so it’s important to always be prepared and take necessary precautions.
Surfing Gear and Equipment You’ll Need
Surfing requires some specific gear and equipment, including a wetsuit, surfboard, leash, and wax. The type of gear you’ll need depends on your skill level, the water temperature and the wave conditions. It’s important to invest in quality gear that fits well and is appropriate for your level of experience. Additionally, it’s important to take care of your gear by rinsing it with fresh water after each use and storing it properly.
Local Surf Shops and Schools
Surfing is a community-driven sport, and it’s important to support local surf shops and schools. These establishments not only provide gear and equipment, but also offer valuable advice and guidance for surfers of all levels. Local surf schools can provide lessons, coaching and equipment rental, while surf shops offer a wide range of gear and accessories. Supporting local businesses helps to sustain the surf community and preserve the natural environment.
Read: Best Paddleboarding in Cornwall
My Favourite Surfing Beaches In The UK
When it comes to selecting the best surfing beaches, there are several factors to consider. These include wave quality, consistency, water temperature, accessibility, and facilities. A great surfing beach should offer a variety of waves suitable for all levels of surfers, from beginners to experts. It should also have a consistent swell and a water temperature that is comfortable enough for surfing without a wetsuit. Additionally, a good surfing beach should be easy to reach and have adequate facilities such as parking, toilets, and showers. With these criteria in mind, let’s take a look at the 10 best surfing beaches in the UK.
Fistral Beach, Cornwall
Fistral Beach is located in Newquay, Cornwall and is one of the most popular surfing spots in the UK. It’s a wide, sandy beach with consistent waves that are suitable for all levels of surfers. The beach is also home to several surfing competitions, including the Boardmasters Festival, which attracts top surfers from around the world. Fistral Beach has a laid-back vibe, and there are plenty of surf schools and rental shops in the area. The beach is also easily accessible and has ample parking and facilities.
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Croyde Bay, Devon
Croyde Bay is a charming beach located in North Devon and is a favourite among surfers. It’s a crescent-shaped beach with consistent waves that are perfect for surfing. The beach is also sheltered from the wind, making it a great spot for beginners. Croyde Bay has a lively atmosphere, and there are plenty of surf schools and rental shops in the area. The beach is also easily accessible and has parking and facilities nearby.
Woolacombe Beach, Devon
Woolacombe Beach is a stunning beach located in North Devon and is known for its long, sandy beach and excellent surfing conditions. The beach has consistent waves that are suitable for all levels of surfers, and there are plenty of surf schools and rental shops in the area. Woolacombe Beach has a lively atmosphere, and there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars in the area. The beach is also easily accessible and has parking and facilities nearby.
Saunton Sands, Devon
Saunton Sands is a beautiful beach located in North Devon and is one of the longest beaches in the UK. The beach has consistent waves that are suitable for all levels of surfers, and there are plenty of surf schools and rental shops in the area. Saunton Sands has a relaxed atmosphere, and there are plenty of walking trails in the area. The beach is also easily accessible and has parking and facilities nearby.
Porthmeor Beach, Cornwall
Porthmeor Beach is located in St Ives, Cornwall and is known for its excellent surfing conditions. The beach has consistent waves that are suitable for all levels of surfers, and there are plenty of surf schools and rental shops in the area. Porthmeor Beach has a lively atmosphere, and there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars in the area. The beach is also easily accessible and has parking and facilities nearby.
Watergate Bay, Cornwall
Watergate Bay is a stunning beach located in North Cornwall and is known for its excellent surfing conditions. The beach has consistent waves that are suitable for all levels of surfers, and there are plenty of surf schools and rental shops in the area. Watergate Bay has a lively atmosphere, and there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars in the area. The beach is also easily accessible and has parking and facilities nearby.
Saltburn Beach, North Yorkshire
Saltburn Beach is located in North Yorkshire and is known for its consistent waves and stunning scenery. The beach has consistent waves that are suitable for all levels of surfers, and there are plenty of surf schools and rental shops in the area. Saltburn Beach has a relaxed atmosphere, and there are plenty of walking trails in the area. The beach is also easily accessible and has parking and facilities nearby.
Scarborough South Bay, North Yorkshire
Scarborough South Bay is a beautiful beach located in North Yorkshire and is known for its excellent surfing conditions. The beach has consistent waves that are suitable for all levels of surfers, and there are plenty of surf schools and rental shops in the area. Scarborough South Bay has a lively atmosphere, and there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars in the area. The beach is also easily accessible and has parking and facilities nearby.
Longsands Beach, Tyne and Wear
Longsands Beach is located in Tynemouth, Tyne and Wear and is known for its excellent surfing conditions. The beach has consistent waves that are suitable for all levels of surfers, and there are plenty of surf schools and rental shops in the area. Longsands Beach has a relaxed atmosphere, and there are plenty of walking trails in the area. The beach is also easily accessible and has parking and facilities nearby.
Conclusion
The UK may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of surfing, but it offers some of the best and most diverse surf spots in Europe. From Cornwall’s sandy beaches to Scotland’s rugged coastline, the UK has something to offer for every level of surfer. Choosing the right surf spot is crucial to a successful surf trip, and it’s important to consider factors such as tide times, wind direction, and swell size. Additionally, it’s important to follow surf etiquette and safety guidelines, and invest in quality gear and equipment. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to catch your first wave, the UK has a surf spot that’s perfect for you.
If you have been to one of the best surfing beaches in the UK, then get in touch and let us know what you thought.
