BEST SURF SPOTS IN UNITED KINGDOM
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The Top 20 Surf spots in United Kingdom:
Breakwater
Breakwater - St Ives, Cornwall
Breakwater features left-breaking waves over a sandy bottom mixed with rock, ideal at low and mid tide. This spot requires a significant swell to work effectively and is best accessed from the longer pier in St Ives. Expect hollow and fun waves, but be cautious of rips and rocks.
While Breakwater can be a hidden gem when Porthmeor is maxed out, it tends to attract crowds when conditions are optimal. The atmosphere is generally friendly among surfers, though competition for waves can lead to snaking and dropping in. The paddle out can be challenging due to a small rip, but it leads to a calm harbor. Access is straightforward, with limited parking available on the pier and an easy walk to the break. Best to surf early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the waves before they disappear at high tide.
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Penhale
Penhale - Perranporth, Cornwall
Penhale features a beach break with both right and left waves, breaking over a sandy bottom. The spot is known for its hollow, powerful, and fun waves, suitable for all tides. Access requires a short 5-15 minute walk through the dunes after driving towards Perranporth and passing the Perran Sands holiday park.
This scenic beach offers a chill vibe, away from the busier Newquay area. With a crescent shape backed by sand dunes, it often remains uncrowded, making it ideal for surfers seeking solitude. While smaller swells provide easy paddling, larger swells can lead to rippy conditions. The best surf occurs from September to February, particularly with southeast winds. However, conditions can be unpredictable, with sessions varying from excellent to frustrating close-outs. Be mindful of rocks and the nearby nudist colony when enjoying this hidden gem.
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Jeffs left
Jeffs Left - Wales
This left point break features boulders on the bottom and produces ordinary power waves. It is best surfed during strong gales when other spots are blown out. Access requires a short walk of 5-15 minutes, and while public access is available, a boat can also be used to reach the spot.
Jeffs Left is a hidden gem that thrives in challenging conditions, making it a perfect choice for surfers seeking solitude. With minimal crowds during the week, it offers a unique experience for those willing to venture out. However, caution is advised due to the presence of rocks in the area. This spot is ideal for adventurous surfers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more popular locations.
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Droskyn, Perranporth
Droskyn (Perranporth) - Perranporth, Cornwall
Droskyn features a beach break with both right and left-hand waves over a sandy bottom. It can handle substantial swells, offering hollow and fast conditions at low tide, while higher tides provide longer, mellow rides. Access is straightforward, with parking available at the cliff top and a short walk down to the beach.
This popular surf spot is situated on a vast westerly facing beach, making it ideal for surfers of all levels. The relaxed atmosphere attracts both beginners and seasoned surfers, especially in autumn when conditions are optimal. The preferred wind direction is southeast, enhancing wave quality and allowing ample space for surfers to spread out. While weekends can be crowded, weekdays typically see fewer surfers. Be mindful of rips and undertow, particularly at low tide when the shorebreak can be heavy.
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Kimmeridge Bay (Bench)
Kimmeridge Bay (Bench) - Dorset, England
Kimmeridge Bay features a reef break with both right and left-hand waves, characterized by flat rocks on the bottom. The waves can be hollow, fast, and powerful, making it a world-class surf spot on its best days. It works best at low and mid tide, particularly during falling tide conditions.
This surf spot, located within the Smedmore Estate, is accessible via a toll road leading to a car park just a minute's walk from the slipway. Kimmeridge Bay offers a mix of reef and beach breaks, catering to various surfing styles, from shortboards to longboards. While the bay is the safest option, caution is advised due to nearby rocks and strong rips, especially at Broad Bench and the Ledges, which can produce larger surf. Expect a vibrant local scene, but be prepared for crowds on good surf days.
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Polzeath
Polzeath - Cornwall
Polzeath features a sandy beach break with both right and left-hand waves, offering fun conditions for surfers. The spot works well at all tides, with good banks shifting from low to mid tide. Access is easy, just follow the signposts from Wadebridge, and the beach is within a 5-minute walk.
This popular surf destination in Cornwall attracts many holidaymakers, especially in summer, making it a great spot for surfers of all levels. The beach opens nicely at low tide, providing ample wave-catching opportunities. While it can get crowded, particularly on weekends, the atmosphere remains friendly and relaxed. Optimal wind conditions come from the East, and autumn months from September to November are ideal for consistent swells and fewer crowds. Be mindful of localism and potential rips or undertow when surfing.
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Sandwood Bay
Sandwood Bay - Scotland
Sandwood Bay features a beach break with both right and left-hand waves over a sandy bottom. The waves are known for being fast and fun, particularly during low and mid tides with rising and falling tide movements. This remote spot is exposed, picking up swells from the north, northwest, and west, making it a prime location for adventurous surfers.
Located on the northwestern edge of mainland Scotland, Sandwood Bay is one of Britain’s most secluded beaches, accessible only by a challenging 4-mile hike from Blairmore. Surfers can expect solitude, as the area is typically empty, with only a few hikers around. The lack of facilities enhances its charm, but visitors should come prepared with all necessary provisions. Optimal surf conditions are generally found between June and September, but caution is advised due to strong rips and changing weather. This hidden gem promises a unique surfing experience for those willing to make the trek.
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Great Western
Great Western - Newquay
Great Western is a beach break featuring a sandy bottom with rocky sections, primarily breaking to the left. The wave is generally ordinary but can transform into a hollow slab when the swell is overhead. It works at all tides, making it a versatile spot, though caution is advised due to rocks at the southern end.
Situated near Towan Beach, Great Western is a popular choice during big SW storms, providing some shelter. The atmosphere can be hectic, especially in summer when surf schools and beginners flock to the area. The left off the harbour wall and fast short lefts and rights can be fun, but the beach often closes out with larger swells. Access is straightforward, with nearby parking and paths leading from Towan Beach, but be wary of the incoming tide, which can trap unwary surfers between coves. Overall, Great Western offers a mixed experience, from enjoyable small waves to chaotic conditions when the surf is pumping.
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Porthmeor
Porthmeor - St Ives, Cornwall
Porthmeor features a beach break with both right and left-hand waves over a sandy bottom. Known for its hollow, fast, and powerful surf, this spot works at all tides, particularly on a falling tide. It can produce sweet closeout barrels on good days, making it a popular choice among surfers.
Located in St Ives, Porthmeor boasts a stunning stretch of golden sand and rocky headlands, providing a picturesque backdrop. The beach is easily accessible, with parking options available nearby. While it can get crowded during the summer, the autumn and winter months attract more dedicated surfers. The northwest-facing beach offers some shelter from large swells, accommodating all skill levels and various board types. However, caution is advised during bigger swells due to occasional rocks. Expect a friendly local vibe, especially in the off-season, making it a chill yet engaging surf spot.
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Llangennith
Llangennith - Gower Peninsula, Wales
Llangennith features a powerful and fun beach break with both right and left waves over a sandy bottom. The spot works at all tides, with optimal conditions during a rising tide and southwest swells. Access is easy, with parking available at Hillend Campsite, just a short walk to the beach.
This renowned surf location boasts a stunning three-mile stretch of sand, ideal for surfers of all levels. While it can get crowded on weekends and holidays, there’s often room to spread out, especially further down the beach. The forgiving sandy bottom is complemented by occasional rips during larger swells, so caution is advised. A variety of boards, including shortboards, longboards, and SUPs, are suitable here. Autumn, particularly from September to November, offers the best conditions for clean swells, making it a prime time to visit Llangennith.
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Langland bay
Langland Bay - South Wales
Langland Bay features a mix of beach breaks and reef breaks, with waves breaking both right and left over a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. The spot requires a decent swell of 1.5 meters or more to come alive, and it works at all tides, although high tide can lead to dumping unless conditions are optimal.
This popular surf destination attracts a diverse crowd, from beginners to seasoned surfers, particularly during the summer months. The beach offers instant access with a large car park nearby, though parking fees apply. The atmosphere is lively, but respect for local surfers is essential due to the competitive vibe. The best surfing conditions are typically found between September and February, with attention needed for rips and rocks, especially during larger swells. Surfers should be cautious and aware of the varying conditions to maximize their experience at this vibrant surf spot.
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St Agnes
St Agnes - Cornwall
St Agnes features a right-hand beach break with a sandy bottom, ideal for surfers seeking reliable waves. The spot works best with southwest winds and swells over 2 meters, particularly at low and mid tides. Access is straightforward, with less than a 5-minute walk from public parking.
Known for its vibrant surf community, St Agnes can become ultra crowded, especially during winter months from December to February. The beach can handle large swells, making it a prime location for experienced surfers. However, be cautious of localism and potential rips. The area offers limited parking, and the local vibe is competitive, so expect a hectic lineup when conditions are favorable. Enjoy a post-surf drink at the nearby Driftwood Spars, where the atmosphere is welcoming despite the tough-guy locals.
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noahs right
# Noah's Right - Location
Noah's Right features a reef break with both right and left waves, characterized by a bottom of coral and sharp rocks interspersed with sand. The spot is accessible via a very long hidden back path, requiring a good walk of 15-30 minutes.
This surf spot is ideal during low and mid tides, particularly with a rising tide. It remains uncrowded throughout the week and on weekends, making it a perfect choice for surfers seeking solitude. The unique wave characteristics and the scenic, secluded access add to the allure of Noah's Right, inviting adventurous surfers to hit the waves hard.
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Praa sands
Praa Sands - Cornwall
Praa Sands features a beach break with both right and left waves, offering ordinary power. The spot works best at low and mid tide, particularly when the swell comes from the southwest and the wind is from the north or northeast. Access is straightforward, with a car park overlooking the beach and instant access within 5 minutes.
Located on the south coast of Cornwall, Praa Sands is a favored surf destination, especially during winter months when solid waves attract many surfers. The sandy beach stretches about 1 km, providing various peaks to accommodate the crowd. While it can get busy, particularly from December to February due to Atlantic storms, the atmosphere remains friendly. Surfers can enjoy a cozy vibe, and those willing to walk can often find less crowded peaks. Overall, Praa Sands is a must-visit for surfers seeking consistent conditions and a lively surf scene.
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Portballintrae
Portballintrae - Northern Ireland
Portballintrae features a beach break with both right and left-hand waves, characterized by a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. The spot offers hollow and powerful waves suitable for various skill levels. It works at all tides, with optimal conditions during south to southeast winds and swells from the north and northwest.
Located along the picturesque Northern Irish coastline, Portballintrae is easily accessible, with a car park just a short walk from the beach. While it can be relatively empty during the week, expect larger crowds on weekends and in the summer months. The area is known for its scenic beauty, making it a great spot for a surf session or a day out. Be mindful of rips and undertow, and check surf reports to ensure the best experience.
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Mother Ivey's (spot M)
Mother Ivey's (spot M) - North Cornwall
Mother Ivey's features a powerful beach break with hollow and fast waves, breaking to both the right and left over a sandy bottom. This spot is best surfed during low and mid tide, particularly under rising and falling conditions, and is primarily suited for storm swells.
Accessing Mother Ivey's requires a short walk (5-15 minutes) from the parking area near the second holiday park. The atmosphere can be intense, especially when the waves are firing, attracting a crowd of bodyboarders. Caution is advised due to localism and potential hazards such as rips and rocks. While it rarely works in summer, when conditions align, it offers thrilling barrels that are worth the visit. Be discreet with your gear to avoid theft, as the area can be prone to break-ins.
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Sango Sands
Sango Sands - Durness
Sango Sands features a beach break with both right and left waves, set against a sandy bottom. This spot is ideal for surfers of all levels, with a better right-hander located at the east end of the bay. The waves are fast and hollow, making it more suitable for intermediate surfers.
Located near the village of Durness, Sango Bay offers a picturesque surfing experience with minimal crowds. Access is convenient, with parking available at the Durness tourist information office, followed by a short walk down to the beach. The spot works best at low and mid tide, with rising and falling tides providing optimal conditions. Surfers should be mindful of rips, undertow, and rocks in the area. With its friendly atmosphere and ample space to practice, Sango Sands is a perfect destination for those looking to hone their skills without the hassle of crowded waters.
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Manorbier
Manorbier - Southwestern Coast of Wales
Manorbier features right-breaking reef waves over a coral and sharp rock bottom. This surf spot is accessible within a 5-minute walk and operates at all tides, particularly favoring falling tide conditions. While it can be crowded on weekends, weekdays see fewer surfers.
Nestled beneath a historic Norman castle, Manorbier offers a stunning backdrop for surfers. The beach is easily reachable with a small parking area nearby. This spot attracts both locals and tourists, making it essential to adhere to surfing etiquette for a pleasant experience. Optimal surfing conditions occur from September to February, appealing to beginners and intermediates alike. Versatile enough for various board types, including shortboards, longboards, and fishes, Manorbier is a must-visit for those seeking good vibes and quality waves in a picturesque setting.
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Chapel Porth
Chapel Porth - Cornwall, UK
Chapel Porth features a powerful beach break with right-hand waves, breaking over a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. The spot is accessible via a short 5-15 minute walk and is open to the public. Optimal conditions occur at low and mid tide, with swells primarily coming from the west.
This picturesque surf spot is popular among surfers of all skill levels, though it can become crowded on sunny weekends. The beach tends to disappear at high tide, making timing crucial for a successful session. While it may not always produce the best waves, the forgiving sandy bottom makes it a safer option for wipeouts. With a nearby National Trust car park, Chapel Porth is a convenient and enjoyable destination for surfers looking to experience the beauty of Cornwall.
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frainslake sands
Frainslake Sands - Pembrokeshire, Wales
Frainslake Sands features a powerful beach break with waves breaking to the right and left over a sandy bottom. This spot works at all tides, making it versatile for surfers. Access requires attending a safety briefing due to its location in the MoD range, and it is not publicly accessible.
The beach boasts a vast expanse, providing ample space for surfers. While it remains relatively empty during the week, expect a few surfers on weekends. The ideal swell comes from the west and southwest, complemented by rising and falling tides. However, be cautious of rips and undertow, which can pose dangers. For more information on accessing this unique surf spot, visit the provided link.
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