The 10 Best Secret Surf Spots in the UK
Surfing pro or beginner surfer? No matter what your skill level is, finding the best secret surf spots in the UK can be a challenge, especially if you’ve already found some great places to surf in the UK. Thankfully, as there isn’t a location in the UK that’s over eighty miles from the coastline, you can easily access some fantastic hidden gems. Here, we reveal the top surf spots in the UK, including those suitable for beginners and the more experienced surfer.
The 10 Best Hidden Surf Spots in United Kingdom
Consider these surf spots as inspiration for your next surfing trip.
1. Croyde Bay
Croyde Bay in North Devon is close to Croyde Beach; an idyllic setting for any surfer. Alongside camping, you’ll also discover beautiful sand dunes, beaches and hiking trails for when you want to get away from the sea. This hidden surf spot in the UK can offer powerful waves, making it an ideal location for intermediate to pro surfers. If you want to grow your surfing skills while taking in some breath-taking beach scenery, Croyde Bay and beach is your best bet.
2. Thurso East, Scotland
The north of the British Isles has been noted as serving up some of the best surfs in the UK. From the craggy Caithness coast to the ruins of Thurso Castle, this is an awesome place to surf. However, one thing to know is that it’s not for beginners. For the more experienced surfer, Thurso East is home to surfing competitions.
3. Fistral Beach, Cornwall
During the summer months, Fistral beach is one of the best beginner surf spots in the UK, while the steeper waves of the winter months are perfect for pros. If you’re completely new to the sport, you can take surfing lessons on the beach. There are also plenty of bars and restaurants to grab a post-surfing snack.
4. Saltburn, North Yorkshire
Mellow waves and Saltburn Surf School make this location great for beginners. Experienced surfers will enjoy honing their skills all year round at Cayton which is situated a little further down the road. The serene landscape provides an ideal quiet afternoon or evening on the waves.
5. Portrush East Strand, County Antrim
Smaller waves and sheltered spots make Portrush an ideal surf spot for beginners to the sport. It’s even protected from offshore winds on stormy days, which is when pro surfers can get to grips with fast barrels.
6. Llangennith Gower Peninsula
Beach breaks along the three-mile beach make this hidden gem popular with surfers of all levels. For beginners, you can access surf lessons, although this spot does get pretty busy in good weather conditions. Those new to the benefits of surfing can learn alongside the safety of the sandy shore, just ensure you look out for the tide.
7. Kimmeridge Bay, Dorset
Mellow reef breaks, high waves and rocks make Kimmeridge Bay a slightly challenging spot for surfers. If you want to catch a surf, just check the weather conditions before heading out. You’ll also need to look out for the rocky coast too. With good wind and wave conditions, you’ll get a great surf. Plus, you’ll also have a stunning backdrop to look at.
8. Dalmore Bay, Isle of Lewis
Quiet coves, blue waters, sandy beaches and dolphins make Dalmore Bay a must-visit. While you’ll need to take a drive to get there, the calmer waves when conditions are good make it excellent for beginners. You’ll also find it much less packed than other surf spots so it’s less intimidating for new surfers.
9. Porthleven Beach, Cornwall
Golden sands, clean waves between low and high tides and near-perfect barrels make Porthleven Beach one of the best surfing spots in the country. Best for intermediate to advanced surfers, it does get crowded when conditions are good so be sure to head out early.
10. Sennen Cove, Cornwall
Located only two miles away from Land’s End, Sennen Cove is ideal for surfers of all levels. It’s also home to one of the longest-running surf schools in the UK. Sennen Surfing Centre offers both one-to-one and group sessions so there’s something for everyone.
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Indie Bornhoft is a personal trainer and watersports coach, who encourages her clients to make movement their mantra. She has coached every ability in wakeboarding, paddleboarding, SUP fitness, and windsurfing for over ten years, and is highly qualified in all disciplines. Discover more about her drive to just keep moving and be inspired to connect to the raw power of body & spirit through fitness.
