Surf Cornwall

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Carbis Bay - Cornwall, England Carbis Bay features a beach break with both right and left-hand waves over a sandy bottom. The spot is known for its hollow and powerful surf, particularly effective during low and mid tides with a rising tide. It is best suited for experienced surfers, as conditions can be unpredictable. This scenic location in Cornwall offers a quiet atmosphere, making it a hidden gem for those willing to hike down from the steep access road. While parking is available near the beach, the path to the surf can be challenging, especially at high tide. When conditions align, Carbis Bay can attract a few local surfers, but it generally remains uncrowded during the week. Although it may not be the most accessible spot, those who venture here can enjoy fun waves and a safe beach environment, even in semi-storm conditions.

Sennen (The Westerly Wave) - Cornwall, England Sennen features a beach break with both right and left waves over a sandy bottom. This spot works at all tides, particularly during a rising tide, and is known for its ability to pick up even the slightest Atlantic swells. Be cautious of strong rips, especially on larger days. Located just north of Land’s End, Sennen is a crescent-shaped beach that attracts surfers, particularly in summer when it can become quite crowded. The beach is easily accessible with parking available right by the surf shop. While summer brings a bustling atmosphere, autumn and winter offer more manageable crowds and often better wave conditions. The local surf community is welcoming, provided surfers respect the environment and fellow riders. The best time to surf is from September to November when the sandbanks are typically well-formed, creating opportunities for long, enjoyable rides.

Crantock - Cornwall, UK Crantock features a beach break with both right and left waves over a sandy bottom. The spot is accessible through Crantock Village, with a small car park and a short walk of less than 5 minutes to the beach. It works at all tides and is best with swells from the North, Northwest, and West, particularly under Southeast winds. This northwesterly facing beach offers a welcome alternative to the crowded Newquay surf spots. The rivermouth creates varied wave conditions influenced by sandbars and swell. While parking is available at locations like the Bowgie Inn and Pentire Headland, expect busier conditions, especially near the rivermouth. Paddling can be challenging on larger days due to strong rips. Crantock caters to all skill levels, making it suitable for shortboards, funboards, longboards, and bodyboards. Respecting local surfers is essential, particularly during peak times.

St. Ives Harbour Wall - St. Ives, Cornwall St. Ives Harbour Wall features a left-point break over a sandy bottom mixed with rock. This spot is best during winter storms when other locations are too windy. It works at low and mid tide, with rising and falling tides providing optimal conditions. Access is instant, with public parking available nearby. Porthmeor, located in St. Ives, is a popular surf destination known for its golden sands and rocky headlands. While it can be crowded in summer, the autumn and winter months attract dedicated surfers. The northwest-facing beach offers some protection from southern swells, making it suitable for all skill levels. Various boards can be used here, including shortboards and longboards. However, larger swells can create challenging conditions with hidden rocks. The local surf community is strong, especially during the off-season, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere for surfers looking to enjoy consistent waves.

Porthtowan - Cornwall Porthtowan features a sandy beach break with waves breaking both right and left. The spot is protected from southwest winds at high tide, making it ideal for fun surfing conditions. It works best at mid and high tide with rising and falling tides, and is accessible within a five-minute walk. Located on the north coast of Cornwall, Porthtowan is a classic surf destination popular among both surfers and bodyboarders. While it can get crowded, especially in summer, the beach offers easy access and beachfront parking. After heavy rains, conditions can become sketchy, so monitoring the weather is advisable. The local surf community is well-established, and respect in the water is essential. Porthtowan caters to various board types, with the best surfing typically occurring in autumn, making it a versatile spot for all skill levels.

Hayle Rivermouth - Cornwall Hayle Rivermouth features a right-hand sandbar wave with a sandy bottom, offering hollow to ordinary power. This spot is best surfed at high tide during rising conditions, particularly with a northwest swell and east winds. It is known for being uncrowded during the week, with only a few surfers on weekends. Located in Cornwall, Hayle Rivermouth provides a dynamic surfing experience with shifting sands that can lead to rapidly changing conditions. While it can produce fun waves, be cautious of the rips and currents, especially around the rivermouth. The spot is accessible via pay parking at Bluff Inn, with a short walk to the beach. Best surfed from December to February, it accommodates various board types, making it suitable for both shortboards and longboards. However, surfers should be aware of the dangerous whirlpool near Hayle harbour, which has claimed lives in the past.

Portreath (The V) - Cornwall Portreath features a right-hand reef break over flat rocks, known for its hollow and powerful waves. The spot is best surfed at high tide, particularly during rising and falling tides. Access is instant, with public facilities available, making it a convenient choice for surfers. This surf spot is popular among experienced surfers, especially bodyboarders, due to its heavy conditions. While it can be inconsistent, the waves are at their best during high tide, offering a unique experience. The harbour wall creates a sucky wave that can be quite fun when the swell is right. However, caution is advised due to potential rips and rocks. With few surfers on weekdays and weekends, Portreath provides a more relaxed atmosphere, but respect for locals is essential. Always check surf reports before heading out to ensure optimal conditions.

Towan - Newquay Towan is a beach break featuring both right and left-hand waves over a sandy bottom. It is known for its hollow waves, particularly during winter when conditions align. The spot is accessible with instant access from Newquay Harbour, and it works at all tides, although it tends to close out frequently, especially at low tide. Towan can become extremely crowded, especially with local surfers, creating a challenging atmosphere in the water. While it can produce decent waves behind the harbour during large swells, the best conditions typically occur at mid-tide, offering occasional peeling waves. The beach connects to Great Western, Tolcarne, and Lusty Glaze, making it a popular choice for surfers seeking shelter from westerly winds. Be cautious of rips, undertow, and localism, as these factors can affect your experience. Overall, Towan is a spot that requires patience and skill to navigate its often chaotic surf scene.

Porthleven - Cornwall Porthleven features a powerful reef break with boulders, delivering hollow and fun waves that break both right and left. This spot is best surfed at mid to high tide, with optimal conditions arising from southwesterly swells and north to northeast winds. Access is straightforward, with instant access available after a short walk from parking. Renowned for its rugged beauty, Porthleven attracts a competitive crowd of locals and pros, especially during prime conditions. The atmosphere can be intense, so respect is crucial to avoid localism issues. Parking is limited to narrow residential streets, so be considerate of the locals. Surfers should be cautious of the shallow reef, particularly at low tide, as it poses a significant risk. Overall, Porthleven offers a thrilling surf experience for those seeking quality waves amidst a vibrant surf culture.

Zorbas Reef - Fistral, UK Zorbas Reef is a powerful reef break located 2 miles off Fistral Beach, accessible only by boat. The wave breaks over a sandy bottom mixed with rock, making it a challenging spot for elite surfers. This remote location is often overlooked, resulting in minimal crowds. The atmosphere at Zorbas Reef is unique, reminiscent of the famed Cortes Bank, yet it remains largely undiscovered due to its distance from shore. The spot is ideal for tow-ins, catering to experienced surfers willing to invest in boat or jetski access. While the waves can be intense, caution is advised due to the presence of rocks. This hidden gem offers a thrilling experience for those seeking adventure away from the more crowded surf spots in the UK.

The Cribber - Cornwall The Cribber is a powerful reef break that offers both right and left-hand waves, breaking over sharp rocks in very shallow water. It requires swells of at least 2-2.4 meters (6-8 feet) to break safely, with optimal conditions being clean and big. The spot works at all tides, with a strong rip current making access challenging. Known for its heavy, big-wave conditions, Cribber is not for the faint-hearted. It gained notoriety after Chris Bertish surfed it in 2004, attracting skilled big-wave surfers. Access is limited; park at Little Fistral and take a short walk to the spot. Be prepared for strong rips and potential hazards, including rocks and pollution. The crowd is typically empty during the week, but expect more surfers on weekends. Only experienced surfers should consider tackling this mythical wave, as it can be treacherous.

Fistral (North Fistral) - Newquay, Cornwall North Fistral is a renowned beach break featuring both right and left-hand waves over a sandy bottom. The waves can be hollow and fast, making it one of the best beach breaks in the UK. It works at all tides, with rising and falling tides providing optimal conditions for surfers. Located in the heart of Newquay, North Fistral is famous for its powerful waves that can reach up to 3.6 meters. The surf varies significantly, offering long rides at Little Fistral during low tide, while North Fistral predominantly delivers hollow right-handers as the tide drops. Access is easy, with parking available, though it can be limited during peak times. Expect heavy crowds in summer, particularly during surf school sessions, but autumn offers a more enjoyable experience with fewer surfers. The spot also hosts competitions, adding to its vibrant surf culture. Be mindful of localism and rips while enjoying this iconic surf destination.

Porthcurno and Logan Rock - Cornwall Porthcurno features powerful left-breaking waves over a sandy bottom, ideal for experienced surfers. The spot is known for its hollow and fast conditions, particularly at low tide. Access is challenging, with narrow roads leading to the beach, but a national trust car park is available nearby. This picturesque surf location is renowned for its stunning scenery, including views of the Minack Theatre perched on the cliffs. While the beach can be uncrowded, it requires patience as the waves are fickle and depend on the right conditions. When the surf is on, surfers can enjoy a unique experience at Logan Rock, located about 500 meters from the main beach. Be cautious of localism and the heavy shore break at high tide, which can create hazardous conditions. After a session, surfers can relax at the nearby café, making it a perfect spot for a day out.

Kennack Sands - Cornwall, UK Kennack Sands features a beach break with boulders on the bottom, producing hollow, fast, fun, and ledgey waves that break both right and left. The spot is best accessed within a 5-minute walk and is publically accessible. Ideal conditions occur with a southwest swell and winds from the north, northwest, or west, particularly at low and mid tide during a rising tide. This southeast-facing beach is sheltered and offers decent surf when the swell is substantial. However, be cautious as the beach can disappear at high tide, making timing crucial for your session. While it generally remains empty during the week, expect a few surfers on weekends, especially when the waves are firing. Always check local conditions before heading out, as they can change rapidly. Enjoy the surf and respect your fellow surfers while riding the waves at Kennack Sands!

Falmouth Beaches (Gylly, Swanpool, Maenporth) - Falmouth, Cornwall Falmouth Beaches feature a sandy beach break with waves breaking both right and left. The spot works best with a swell over 0.5 meters, particularly on a 3-meter+ south/southwest swell, complemented by favorable winds. It can also handle larger swells, occasionally reaching up to 6 meters, especially from the west/northwest. This surf destination comprises three main beaches: Maenporth, Swanpool, and Gyllyngvase, each offering easy access and parking. While the surf scene can be competitive, particularly among locals and university students, it remains relatively uncrowded during the week. The best conditions typically arise from December to February, attracting surfers of all levels. Be prepared for varying board types in the lineup, and always check the forecast before heading out, as quality waves depend on the right Atlantic storms or swells.

Mousehole Reef - Penzance, UK Mousehole Reef features powerful right-hand reef breaks over flat rocks, requiring a significant north coast swell that wraps around. The spot is best at low to mid tide, with optimal conditions occurring at low tide. Access is straightforward, with instant access available within 5 minutes from the west end of the harbour wall. This surf spot is located near Penzance and is known for its emptiness during the week, attracting only a few surfers on weekends. Surfers should be cautious of the rocky bottom and avoid turning left while riding the waves. The ideal wind direction is from the west, and the swell typically comes from the southwest. Mousehole Reef remains a well-kept secret among locals, making it a hidden gem for those in the know.

Gwithian - Cornwall Gwithian features a beach break with both right and left waves, breaking over a sandy bottom. The waves are known for being powerful yet ordinary, making it suitable for various skill levels. It works well at all tides, with optimal conditions when the wind blows from the north or northeast. Access involves a short walk (5-15 minutes) from nearby parking. This popular surf spot, located near Hayle, is managed by the National Trust and offers stunning coastal scenery with sandy beaches and dunes. While it can get lively during summer, with both surfers and tourists, the crowd remains manageable on weekdays. Autumn is particularly favorable for consistent waves, attracting a mix of shortboarders, longboarders, and bodyboarders. Surfers should be mindful of rips and undertow, and it's advisable to maintain good surfing etiquette due to the competitive local vibe.