If you’re planning a holiday to Cornwall and looking to surf, see our guide to some of best spots with the perfect cottages you can stay in. Cornwall is iconic for its great breaks, whether it’s the many beach breaks with inviting golden sand, or legendary reef breaks producing huge peelers. Whatever the conditions, the shape and position of our peninsula means you can usually find the right waves for you, whether you’re a keen beginner or a cool-expert. But we find the best and most convenient spots are next to the perfect surf pad.
Gwithian
This might not be as well-known as the iconic Newquay beaches, but this place is legendary amongst the surfing community. The three-mile beach means there is ample space for everyone, so even on a busy summer’s day there are no other surfers to cramp your style. After a long session in the waves, we recommend you stop by at Sunset Surf for a cuppa or tasty meal.
Stay in…
…our collection of cool surf chalets and live the quintessential surf lifestyle in the dunes, right next to the waves…
Fistral
We couldn’t do a blog about surf spots in Cornwall without mentioning Fistral! This is undoubtedly the home of British surfing with its surprisingly consistent waves and home to several major surf competitions. Be warned, if you do make the pilgrimage to this iconic place the beach can get busy when the waves are working well — South Fistral is generally quieter. TIP: If you think it’s a bit big for you, try heading to more sheltered Towan Beach where the waves are gentler.
Stay in…
…within sight of the Newquay beaches, some VERY close to Fistral!
Holywell Bay >
If the urban Newquay beaches are not your style, try heading to the distinctly rural setting of Holywell Bay. This National Trust beach is particularly unique with its mountainous sand dunes and iconic Gull Rocks jutting out of the ocean. The car park is limited and the beach is big, so you can always find a spot with plenty of space. Be careful of the currents around here.
Stay in…
…a place right next to these golden dunes!
Porthmeor >
St Ives has many beaches to choose from, but it’s the most exposed beach that surfers flock to. Porthmeor is one of the few beaches in Cornwall that is sheltered from south-westerly winds, and usually produces small and clean waves. Surf hire and lessons are available too.
Stay in…
…a cosy fisherman’s cottage minutes of the beach, right in the middle of historic St Ives. So you can just walk out with the board straight into the sea.
Mawgan Porth
This is an excellent north-west facing beach with rugged cliffs either side. And because the beach is six miles away from Newquay, it has a lower profile in the surfing community and you can expect less of the crowds you find in a town beach. Be warned, the waves can appear bigger than they look. Easterly wind provides cleaner waves.
Stay in…
…a house looking down on this sandy paradise. So you if you don’t mind the walk, you can be sofa to surf in no time at all.
