Search Results

Stretching for miles along the North Devon coast, Saunton Sands is one of those beaches that seems to have a little bit of everything. Consistent waves, loads of space and stunning views make it a favourite with surfers of all abilities. If you're just getting into surfing, there's a good chance someone has already recommended Saunton to you. And to be fair, there's a reason for that. The Surf Saunton is known for its long sandy beach and relatively mellow waves on the right conditions. Thanks to the amount of space available, it rarely feels as crowded as some of the more famous UK surf spots, even when the car park is busy. The beach picks up plenty of swell throughout the year and can work across a range of tides. Beginners often enjoy the more forgiving waves, while experienced surfers can still find plenty to keep them interested when the conditions line up. It's also a popular spot for longboarders thanks to the longer rides that can be found here. Best For Beginners Longboarders Intermediate surfers Families Longer surf sessions Facilities Saunton keeps things fairly straightforward but has everything most people need for a day by the sea. You'll find: Large car park Food and drink nearby Surf schools and lessons Public facilities The beach itself is the main attraction though. The sheer amount of space means you're never too far from finding your own little patch of coastline. The Vibe There's something quite relaxed about Saunton. Maybe it's the huge beach. Maybe it's the fact that people aren't stacked on top of each other fighting for waves. Whatever it is, Saunton tends to have a slightly more laid-back feel than some of the UK's busier surf spots. It's the sort of place where you can happily spend the whole day, whether you're surfing, walking the beach or just sitting watching the sets roll through. Final Thoughts Saunton Sands has earned its reputation as one of the UK's best surf beaches. For beginners, it's a fantastic place to learn. For experienced surfers, it's a spot you'll probably find yourself returning to time and time again. If you've never surfed Saunton before, it's definitely one to add to the list. Have you surfed Saunton Sands? Let us know your favourite thing about the beach and feel free to share your photos below!

Where do I go surfing as a beginner? Hopefully this article will help you find the perfect beach to kickstart your love of surfing. When starting out, most people don't realise quite how much choosing a beach with the right wave to learn on can shape those first few sessions. A beach that suits beginners can help build confidence, make learning feel less overwhelming and, most importantly, keep you wanting to get back in the water. The UK has some brilliant beaches for learning to surf, and below are a few worth checking out if you're getting started. 5. Fistral Beach, Cornwall Fistral is probably one of the UK's most famous surf beaches, and while parts of it can get powerful, don't let that put you off. On smaller days and in beginner friendly areas, it can be a brilliant place to learn. There are surf schools nearby, loads of surf culture around the beach and plenty of people learning alongside you. If you're after a proper UK surf experience while getting started, Fistral is hard to ignore. Good for: Surf schools Facilities nearby Getting stuck into UK surf culture 4. Rest Bay, South Wales South Wales has some brilliant surf spots and Rest Bay deserves a mention. There's usually plenty of room, consistent swell and a strong local surf scene. Conditions can vary like anywhere, but on beginner friendly days it can be a really enjoyable place to build confidence. If you're learning in South Wales, this one is definitely worth looking at. Good for: Beginners Consistency Building confidence 3. Watergate Bay, Cornwall One of the biggest advantages Watergate offers beginners is space. The beach stretches for around two miles, meaning it often feels less packed than some other spots. On smaller days it can be a brilliant place to work on the basics while still feeling like you're surfing somewhere properly special. It's also one of those beaches that keeps people coming back long after they stop being beginners. Good for: Space Beginners Mixed ability groups 2. Polzeath, Cornwall Polzeath has become one of Cornwall's beginner favourites for a reason. The waves are often a little friendlier than some nearby beaches and there are surf schools nearby too. It's one of those beaches where you'll often see first timers, families and people building confidence in the water. Learning to surf can feel intimidating enough already. Polzeath helps make it feel a little less so. Good for: First timers Families Building confidence 1. Saunton Sands, Devon If there was one beach that gets recommended time and time again for beginners, Saunton Sands would be near the very top. The beach is huge which means loads of room to spread out — ideal when you're learning. On the right conditions, Saunton can offer softer, more forgiving waves than some nearby spots, helping beginners spend more time practising and less time getting worked. There are surf schools nearby and plenty of people learning alongside you too. For many people, Saunton ends up becoming one of those beaches they return to long after their beginner days are behind them. Good for: Beginners Building confidence Longer sessions Final Thoughts The best beginner beach isn't always the beach with the biggest or smallest waves. Sometimes it's simply the beach that makes you want to paddle back out again. Got a beginner beach you'd add? Let us know!

Just a few minutes up the road from last week's surf spot of the week in Newquay sits Watergate Bay. A spot that feels a little more open, a little more relaxed and, on the right day, seriously fun. Check the current conditions now with Surfline! Stretching for around two miles, Watergate gives you something a lot of busy UK surf beaches don't always offer... SPACE!. Even when it's busy, it often feels like there's room to spread out, find your own section and enjoy being in the water. Watergate picks up plenty of swell thanks to its exposed position on the North Cornwall coast and can work across a range of conditions. Smaller days can make it a really enjoyable spot for people building confidence, while bigger swells can quickly remind you to bring your 'A game.' Because the beach is so open, it can handle crowds better than some nearby spots too, which is part of what makes it such a favourite. Best for Beginners on smaller days Intermediate surfers Bodyboarders Long beach walks and surf days with non-surfing friends or family Conditions Beach break Picks up Atlantic swell well Generally works across a range of tides Bigger winter swells can get powerful As always, conditions change quickly, so check your forecast before heading out. The vibe Watergate feels a little different to some of Cornwall's busier surf spots. There's a good mix of locals, visitors, families and surfers all sharing the space. Grab a coffee at a local favourite Cub&Co, walk the beach, watch a few sets roll through and it quickly becomes one of those places you find yourself coming back to. Have you surfed Watergate Bay? Let us know your thoughts!

Choosing a wetsuit for surfing (or bodyboarding) can feel a little overwhelming when you're starting out. What does 3/2 or 5/4 actually mean? What size should you go for? Chest zip or back zip? And do you really need to spend loads to get a decent suit? With so many options out there, it can quickly become a bit confusing. So, I've put together this guide to hopefully make the whole process a little easier and give you a better idea of what to look out for when choosing a wetsuit that'll keep you warm, comfortable and enjoying your time in the water. 1. Understand What The Numbers Mean You'll often see wetsuits labelled something like 3/2mm, 4/3mm, or 5/4mm. The numbers refer to the thickness of the neoprene in millimetres. • 3/2mm = Great for warmer UK summer sessions • 4/3mm = A solid all-round UK option and a favourite for spring and autumn • 5/4mm = Built for colder water and winter surfing As a rough guide: ☀️ Summer → 3/2mm🍂 Spring / Autumn → 4/3mm❄️ Winter → 5/4mm+ 2. Get The Right Fit A wetsuit should feel snug — but not uncomfortable. Too loose and cold water can flush through the suit. Too tight and paddling can become hard work. Different brands can fit differently too, so always check sizing guides. 3. Chest Zip Or Back Zip? Back Zip Easier to get on and off• Great for beginners• Usually a bit cheaper Chest Zip Often warmer• Less water getting in• Popular with regular surfers Neither is right or wrong — it depends what works for you. 4. Think About How Often You'll Surf Heading out regularly? Spending a little more can sometimes be worth it. Trying surfing for the first time? You probably don't need the most premium suit on the market. Choose something that'll suit how often you'll realistically get in the water. 5. Don't Overthink It The perfect wetsuit doesn't exist. Find something that fits well, works for UK conditions and gets you excited to get in the water. The rest can come later. Hope this has helped you in choosing your first wetsuit!

This week, Wetsuit Centre has some mega deals on wetsuits worth checking out. With the season changing, a few older models have started dropping in price, which means there are some cracking bargains on suits that could see you through this year and well beyond. You can check out the full range of deals here, or take a look below at some of our top picks from this week that we think are well worth a look. Save £70: RIP CURL OMEGA5/3MM BACK ZIP Rip Curl kit at a cracking price. Looks like a great shout for colder UK sessions. Save £80: ZION WESLEY 4/3MM CHEST ZIP Good value without feeling budget. A strong option if you're after performance without spending loads. Save £95: Zion Cortez 4/3mm Mens Zip Free Premium feel without the premium hit. A solid all-rounder that looks like a proper good find this week. Prices change fast, so if you're keen on any of these, it's worth jumping on them sooner rather than later. We'll keep an eye out for more good finds and bargains next week. Found a deal we missed? Give us a shout! Surf Community may earn a commission on purchases made through affiliate links on this site. This helps us continue to provide quality content at no extra cost to you.

You can’t really talk about UK surfing without mentioning Fistral. Sitting on the edge of Newquay, it’s one of those places that feels alive all year round — surfers checking the waves from the headland, people walking the beach with coffees, wetsuits drying in van doors and boards strapped to car roofs everywhere you look. The vibe around Fistral is what makes it special just as much as the surf itself. In summer it’s busy, social and full of energy, with surf schools, tourists and loads of people getting their first taste of surfing. Early mornings and evenings are usually the best time to go if you want it a bit quieter and cleaner before the crowds arrive. The wave itself can vary loads depending on the swell. On smaller days it’s a really fun beach break with plenty of room for beginners and intermediates. When the swell picks up though, Fistral can get pretty punchy and powerful, with fast peaks and some heavy closeouts if the conditions aren’t right. The middle section is usually the busiest, while the north and south ends can sometimes offer slightly different banks and a bit more space. Autumn is probably one of the best times to surf there — warmer water, cleaner conditions and fewer crowds than peak summer. Winter can be unreal too if you know what you’re doing, but it definitely becomes a more serious wave on bigger swells. Even if you’re not surfing, it’s one of those beaches that’s just good to spend time at. Grab a coffee, watch the sets roll through and you’ll quickly understand why so many people fall in love with the place.

When it comes to surfing, England may not be the first destination that springs to mind. However, don’t let its reputation for rubbish weather and tea-drinking fool you. From incredible breaks to a vibrant surf culture, England delivers an unforgettable experience for wave riders. So, whether you’re a beginner just dipping your toe into the crazy world of surfing or an avid surfer with years of experience, grab your board, get your sea shoes on and let’s duck dive into some of the best surf spots England has to offer! Oh, and I have also thrown in some post surf snack locations for you as well. ​ Surf Spot Number 1: Fistral Beach, Newquay Situated on the coastline of Cornwall, Fistral Beach is the holy grail of English surfing. But for what reason? Well, its consistent swells and sandy bottom provide ideal conditions for surfers of all levels. Whether you’re just starting out, trying to stand up for the first time or you are an experienced, barrel shredding pro, Fistral has got you covered. Furthermore, the surf scene is vibrant, filled with surf schools and local surfers that are always ready to share tips and tricks on how best to surf the current conditions. So, get ready to paddle out and soak up the infectious surf culture that Fistral has to offer. ​ Where to grab a post surf snack: The Fistral Stable ​ Surf Spot Number 2: Croyde Bay, Devon ​ Next up we have Croyde Bay; a surfing paradise situated in North Devon. Blessed with consistent Atlantic swells and breathtaking surroundings, this surf spot attracts wave enthusiasts from far and wide. The beach offers both left and right-hand breaks, catering to surfers from all skill levels. If you do decide to take a trip down to Croyde, be prepared for fast and powerful waves that will get your adrenaline pumping! But fear not, the welcoming surfing community and astounding coastal walks nearby will make your visit an unforgettable experience. ​ Where to grab a post surf snack: Cassinelli’s Fish & Chips ​ Surf Spot Number 3: Bournemouth Beach, Dorset ​ Bournemouth Beach, located on the South Coast of England, offers a true haven for surfers that isn't too far for those outside of Cornwall. With its long stretches of sandy shoreline and reliable waves, Bournemouth attracts surfers from various parts of the country all year round. Beginners will appreciate the gentle rolling waves, ideal for learning the art of surfing, while more experienced surfers can venture further out for a thrilling challenge. And when you're ready to take a break from catching waves, the lively town of Bournemouth provides a plethora of post-surf, beach-front activities to keep you entertained. Where to grab a post surf snack: The Prom Diner ​ Surf Spot Number 4: Porthcawl, Bridgend ​ Okay, so Porthcawl might not technically be in England, but it would be a crime not to mention this Welsh surfing gem. Porthcawl can be found on the South coast of Wales. It boasts both beautiful beaches and reliable swells that attract surfers from all over. Whether you're looking for long peeling waves or exciting reef breaks, you'll find it here. Don't forget to check out the warm Welsh hospitality and explore the rugged coastal beauty that surrounds Porthcawl. ​ Where to grab a post surf snack: Franco’s Fish Shop Limited ​ Unveiling Secret Surf Spots: Hidden Gems for the Adventurous Surfer ​ If you’re an adventurous surfer in search of lesser-known treasures, England has a few secret surf spots tucked away from the mainstream surf scene. These hidden, wave-filled gems offer a unique, adrenaline filled experience for those willing to explore off the beaten path. So, let’s embark on a journey to discover some of these hidden surf spots that eagerly await the more daring wave riders. ​ Secret Spot Number 1: Duckpool, Cornwall ​ Duckpool, near Bude in Cornwall, is a coveted secret surf spot. Its remote location and limited access provide an exclusive experience away from the holiday destination crowds. With a rocky reef break and consistent waves, Duckpool attracts experienced surfers seeking a thrilling challenge.The natural beauty of the surrounding cliffs and landscapes adds to the allure of this secret spot. So, if you’re looking for an enchanting and uncrowded surfing adventure, Duckpool is a must-visit destination.  ​ Where to grab a post surf snack: Sandymouth Cafe ​ Secret Spot Number 2: Saltburn-by-the-Sea, North Yorkshire Saltburn-by-the-Sea is a cherished surf spot hidden within the picturesque coastline of North Yorkshire. Not only does it offer incredible waves, but it also provides a convenient option for surfers from all regions. Whether you're a local or traveling from afar, Saltburn-by-the-Sea welcomes surfers with its consistent and reliable waves, diverse breaks, and stunning Victorian charm. With its beauty and surf-worthy conditions, this destination is a must-visit for all surfers looking for an exceptional and memorable experience along the coast of North Yorkshire. Where to grab a post surf snack: Tomahawk Steakhouse Saltburn (It's important to note that these secret surf spots often require local knowledge, respect for the environment, and a sense of adventure. While they may not have the infrastructure and amenities of the more popular surf spots, their allure lies in the unspoiled beauty and the thrill of the unknown.) So there you have it, a little glimpse into some of the best surf spots in England (and a little bonus from Wales!). Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie ready to catch your new wave, these locations offer something for everyone. From the iconic Fisteral Beach to the hidden gems like Duckpool and Saltburn-by-the-Sea, England’s coastline is a playground for surfers. So, grab your board, get your sea shoes on and get ready to ride some new waves.