top 5 places to surf in Cornwall
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Are you thinking about learning a new skill or want to make the most of the Cornish coast? Below you will find the top 5 places to surf in Cornwall…
Overall Cornwall offers the best spots for surfing in the South West and it’s no surprise since there is over 250 miles of coast and over 300 beaches. Cornwall goes straight out to the Atlantic Ocean and is a magnet for swell hence why it is so popular for surfers from all over. Not only is it where the UK surf capital is, it is also where the infamous Boardmasters Festival is, the perfect event encompassing both live music and surfing. But with their being so many beaches to explore and discover it can be hard deciding where to go so we’ve put together a list of the top 5 near our resorts in Cornwall.
1. Fistral Beach
- location: Newquay
- nearest resort: Piran Meadows
- surf school: Newquay Activity Centre
- facilities nearby: yes
Fistral Beach is probably one of the most known surfing beaches in the UK, and is in Newquay, which is the surf capital of the UK. Located right near the town centre you won’t be far away from any shops, restaurants or cafes. With it being a renowned surf spot you can enjoy learning the sport with lessons from the surf school or just head out yourself to make the most of the waves if you are an experienced surfer. Dogs are also welcome at Fistral Beach all year round without any restrictions.
2. Gwithian Beach
- location: Hayle
- nearest resort: Mullion Cove
- surf school: Hayle Surf School
- facilities nearby: yes
Gwithian Beach is a broad spacious beach that is incredibly popular for surfing. Overall, it is a slightly quieter beach but still popular for surfing. Surrounded by rockpools, dramatic cliffs and miles of sand stretching along the coast. As well as dogs being welcome all year round apart from 10am – 6pm in July and August. It’s a favourite amongst surfers all year round due to the consistent swell from the Atlantic and the strong sea breeze. And if there are people in your group who aren’t interested in surfing they will enjoy exploring all that the beach has to offer, you can also keep an eye out for grey seals that are often spotted off the coastline.
3. Perranporth Beach
- location: Perranporth
- nearest resort: Piran Meadows
- surf school: Perranporth Surf School
- facilities nearby: yes
Just a short drive away from Newquay is Perranporth Beach, another great option for surfing. You can enjoy a range of waves along the 3 mile stretch of sand from the left hand wedging waves to the right hand waves created from the headland. Dogs are welcome on the beach all year round but must be kept on leads during July and August from 9am till 5pm. On the Perranporth high street you will find plety of shops and restaurants to enjoy during your visit to the beach.
4. Summerleaze Beach
- location: Bude
- nearest resort: Sandymouth
- surf school: Big Blue Surf School
- facilities nearby: yes
Summerleaze Beach is right in Bude town centre and is a great beach to head to if you are an avid surfer or you are wanting to try some surf lessons in Cornwall. It’s a west facing beach so you will find it regularly picks up the swell from the Atlantic which means it provides plenty of fun waves for both experienced surfers and beginners. And due to the beach being right in the town centre you won’t be far from plenty of restaurants, cafes, shops and surf schools.
5. Porthmeor Beach
- location: St Ives
- nearest resort: Mullion Cove
- surf school: St Ives Surf School
- facilities nearby: yes
Sheltered by two headlands in St Ives is Porthmeor Beach, an extremely popular spot for surfers, swimmers and those looking to relax on a sandy beach. It is known for being one of the best surfing beaches in West Cornwall for advanced surfers and for those looking to get into the sport. Whilst you are visiting this beach it is also worth exploring the town centre which is just a short walk away from the beach with plenty of shops, cafes and restaurants.