Take a peek at our must-see list of Cornwall's best beaches to catch some waves.
Cornwall is a surfer's paradise that has earned a worthy reputation as one of the world's top surfing destinations.
Whether you're a newbie looking to hone your skills or a seasoned pro searching for a new challenge, you'll find plenty of hidden gems to explore. Surfing is an excellent way to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the ocean around us, and we’re so lucky to have some of the world's most magnificent surfing spots right here on our doorstep, including our favourites - Watergate Bay in Newquay, Gwynver in Sennen, Porthmeor in St Ives and so many more.
So, let's dive into our top picks of places to surf in Cornwall!
1) Watergate Bay, Newquay
Let's kick things off close to home with one of the most beautiful beaches in the UK - Watergate Bay! This superb location offers stunning scenery and delivers fantastic surfing conditions perfect for surfers of all levels.
With its breath taking open expanse of golden sand, there's no need to worry about overcrowding as there is plenty of space for everyone to find their own perfect spot to catch a ride.
As a west facing beach, Watergate Bay also benefits from consistent swells from the Atlantic Ocean, creating the epic surf conditions that drew us to establish our Cornwall surfing school right here.
The waves at Watergate Bay tend to break further out due to the large expanses of shallow water, providing long and exhilarating rides for surfers. Whether you're looking for stormy swells, adrenaline-pumping 6ft waves, or smaller, clean waves to practise on, Watergate Bay really has it all.
Getting to Watergate Bay is also a breeze, as it's easily accessible by car from most places in Cornwall. And after a long day of riding the waves, there's nothing better than kicking back and watching the sunset with a hot chocolate from our own, The Hangout Cafe.
2) Gwynver, Sennen
Nestled just north of Sennen, Gwynver Beach is a true hidden gem within Cornwall's surfing community. It's a secret swell magnet, often delivering the goods when other spots fall flat.
Similar to Watergate Bay, Gwynver's west-facing position ensures a steady supply of consistent swells from the Atlantic Ocean that are a joy to ride. The towering cliffs and headlands that shelter the beach also create offshore winds, shaping the waves into beautifully consistent sets.
With waves that can reach heights of up to 12ft, Gwynver is a haven for experienced surfers looking for an exhilarating challenge. But beginners can still enjoy the beach's smaller waves closer to the shoreline.
What's more, Gwynver's secluded location makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a quieter surfing experience away from the summer crowds. And, at low tide, a fun peak is revealed, spreading out the surfers even more.
3) Porthmeor, St Ives
Porthmeor is one of those beaches that never fails to amaze us. Its crystal-clear turquoise waters, playful resident dolphins (sometimes you can even surf with them!), and great waves make it a true paradise for surfers.
The beach is exposed to the full force of the Atlantic, resulting in large and powerful waves that are a thrill to ride. Surfing enthusiasts worldwide flock to Porthmeor every year to experience the excitement and challenge of the waves.
Beyond the excellent surf conditions, Porthmeor has a vibrant surfing community that contributes to the beach's unique atmosphere. And with the nearby St Ives town centre just a stone's throw away, there's no shortage of places to relax, refuel and soak up the atmosphere after a long day on the salty waters.
Now you know some of Cornwall's best surfing spots, it's time to hit the road, grab your board and catch some waves! But don't go too far just yet, because we've got even more of our top surfing destinations coming your way in part II. So stay tuned to discover plenty more epic surf spots to explore and ride.
If you’re interested in learning to surf in Newquay or would like to finesse your technique, contact our Newquay surf school today at 07772251778 or book online.
