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A handy information pack full to the brim with useful hints and details about surfing in Cornwall.
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A Quick Word Before you Dive in...Every attempt is made to ensure that the information provided on the Adventure Eyes publications is accurate, however locations and organisations change over time and therefore we cannot be held accountable should details change. Any reliance you place on the information contained on the Adventure Eyes publications is therefore strictly at your own risk.
Many of the activities and adventures discussed on the Adventure Eyes publications are by their very nature, potentially dangerous. In choosing to undertake those activities you do so at your own risk. Whilst we actively promote adventures we urge you to ensure that you are appropriately knowledgable and skilled to undertake the activities safely. Alternatively, we recommend that you use an experienced, qualified instructor to help you to develop the initial skills and knowledge required.
Now thatʼs said, enjoy reading through this Information Pack and enjoy your adventures in Cornwall!
The Adventure Eyes Team
Contents Introducing CornwallTravelling AroundClimate, Gear, Swells & SurfCornwallʼs Classic Surf SpotsAccommodation Providers NearbySurf Schools, Coaches & ShopsWidemouth PolzeathConstantineWatergateFistralCrantockPerranporthGwithianSennenWhitsandAdventure Eyes & Your BusinessThank you, Donations & SupportOther Publications
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Introducing Cornwall...Soaring granite cliffs, sandy beaches and an enviable laid back atmosphere. Cornwall has soooo much more than just pasties!! (as delicious as they may be).
Whilst there are no National Parks in Cornwall, there are 167 Sites of Scientific Interest, 12 areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and some of the best surfing locations in the UK!
As well as providing useful information about visiting and staying in Cornwall, this Adventure Information Pack covers a selection of Cornwallʼs key surf spots that are particularly worth checking out. Undoubtedly there are other places, but we have selected a few of the classics beach breaks out there. If we have missed some secret localʼs gem, then so be it. After all, Cornwall has so much to offer, perhaps some places deserve to remain the secret of the locals.
Traveling Around?There are three main road routes into Cornwall: The A39 (The Atlantic Highway), the A30 & the A390. All of them are pleasant enough but be warned, on a sunny day in the summer you will not be the only vehicle desperately trying to head West! The traffic along these roads can be monstrous particularly in the summer holidays.
Although it is potentially easier and quicker by car, it is possible to use public transport to get to each of the surf spots in this Information Pack. You have a number of options if you are planning to head down by train (see the map below) and there is a reasonable bus service connecting the key destinations. For detailed information either visit www.cornwallpublictransport.info or alternatively call Travel Line on Tel: 0871 200 22 33 (calls from a landline cost 10p per min, calls from a mobile will be more).
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Climate? The south westerly position of Cornwall means on average it enjoys over 1600 sunshine hours a year. However, Cornwall's position also means that it receives the brunt of the South Westerly winds and with the exception of Western Scotland it gets the strongest winds in the UK.
The warmest months are July and August when temperatures average 19 degrees celsius but regularly soar beyond this. As for the winter months, there may be a biting wind but the temperatures rarely fall below freezing.
The sea temperatures tend to be at their lowest in January when they average a rather ʻteeth chatteringʼ 8 degree celsius. They then increase significantly to a balmy 16 degrees in August.
In summary, it can be damp, it can be breezy, but on average Kernow tends to be warmer and sunnier than many places in the UK. Why else would boardies and flip flops be so popular?!
Gear?Although you will see people swimming in very little during the summer months, it itʼs pretty typical for most surfers to be in at least a shortie wetsuit. In the colder months a winter suit (5mm+) becomes the norm, and for most people, a hood, boots and gloves are needed if theyʼre planning to brave the winter waves.
Typical Swells?Although there are surf spots on the south coast of Cornwall, the regular Atlantic westerly swells makes the north coast more consistent and there are numerous beautiful locations to choose from.
Checking the Surf Forecast?The Adventure Search on Adventure- Eyes.Com has Surf forecasts displayed for each of the selected surf spots, courtesy of Magic Seaweed. If youʼre not able to use the internet for any reason though then you can also get a reliable surf forecast from the Annʼs Cottage Telephone Surf Report by calling: 01208 862162. Although this report is just Polzeath based, it still gives a good indication of what conditions are like generally on the North Coast.
Cornwall’s Classic Surf Spots at a Glance...
Widemouth: West facing; Good at all states of the tide; All abilities
Polzeath: West facing; Good at all states of the tide; All abilities
Constantine: West facing; Ideal at low to mid tide; Intermediate and above
Fistral: West facing; Ideal at mid to high tide; Intermediate and above
Watergate: West facing; Good at all states of the tide; All abilities
Crantock: West facing; Ideal at low to mid tide; Intermediate and above
Whitsand: South facing; Good at all states of the tide; All abilities
Gwithian: West facing; Good at all states of the tide; All abilities
Sennen: West facing; Ideal at low to mid tide; All abilities
Perranporth: West facing; Good at all states of the tide; All abilities
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Featured Accommodation Providers Near to the Surf Spots
Featured Surf Schools, Coaches and Shops Nearby
Elm Farm CampingPortreath, TR16 5UFTel: 01209 891498www.cornwallcycletrails.com [email protected]
Pure HolidaysRange of Accommodation OptionsTel: 01637 [email protected]
Gwithian Holiday SuitesGwithian, TR27 5BWTel: 01736 755 [email protected]
Pure Holidays provide a wide range of activity options for individuals and groups included full and half day surf sessions at different locations in Cornwall. Get in touch with them for more information. Tel: 01637 85 27 [email protected]
Gwithian Academy of Surfing is the longest established Surf School in the St Ives area providing surf tuition for all ages and abilities for the last 11 years. Lessons for beginners, improvers and ʻOne on Oneʼ coaching available from qualified and experienced coaches. Wetsuits, boots, gloves, hoods, body boards, fins, surfboards, and board bags are also available for sale. Gwithian, Hayle, TR27 5BW Tel: 01736 757579www.surfacademy.co.uk
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Widemouth: West Facing; Good at all states of the tide; All Abilities
What to Expect?Widemouth is the most northerly of the Adventure Eyes selected surf spots. It's close proximity to Bude, Launceston and West Devon make this a popular destination. It has a sandy beach that's lifeguarded during peak season and it's good for all abilities, and popular with all. However, it is worth keeping an eye out for rips and rocks (depending on the state of the tide).
Where is it?Grid Reference: SS 199 023Post Code: EX23 0AH
Whatʼs Nearby? The pay & display car park at Widemouth is not only right next to the beach but it also has toilets, outside showers and a cafe.
There are a couple of pubs nearby and Bude is only 4miles away with shops, food places etc. For anybody who would be interested in doing a spot of cycling as well as surfing the North Cornwall Trail and the Cornish Way pass nearby and both start in Bude.
Just for info...the nearest hospital with an Accident & Emergency Department is North Devon Hospital, Barnstaple, EX31 4JB (39miles away).
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Polzeath: West Facing; Good at all states of the tide; All Abilities
What to Expect?
Polzeath is an ideal location for all abilities at all states of the tide. However, it is particularly good for beginners to intermediates. It has a sandy beach that's lifeguarded on a full time basis from the end of April to the end of October. The beach is incredibly easy to access (you park on it!) and there's a pay & display car park, toilets, surf hire/ shops, cafes, and bars all near by. Polzeath has a lot going for it and it is therefore incredibly popular so the village, car parking and the water can get very busy!
Where is it?Grid Reference: SW 936 789Nearest Post Code: PL27 6TB
Whatʼs Nearby? Pub: The Oystercatcher (PL27 6TG) in Polzeath is worth visiting for a post surf beverage.
Public Toilets: Over the road from the main car park.
Cafe: There are a number of options in Polzeath.
Hospital with an A&E: Royal Cornwall Hospital (Treliske) Treliske, Truro, TR1 3LJ (22 miles).
Surf Shop: There are a couple of options in Polzeath including Ann's Cottage which also provide daily surf reports.
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Constantine: West Facing; Ideal at low to mid tide; Intermediate & Advanced
What to Expect?Constantine has a large sandy beach which is lifeguarded during the summer and produces some good waves, particularly at low to mid tide. Surfing here should not be underestimated though. Not only are there rocks to look out for but there are also some serious rips lurking! A good spot in the right conditions but definitely one for those that have the skills and experience to play safely here.
Whatʼs Nearby? There is a small car park at Constantine Bay but be warned, parking is limited. There are toilets available at the car park and you will find a couple of shops in Constantine itself. If you are looking for more in the way of general shops and amenities Padstow is the nearest town. Not only are there a number of options in terms of food and drink places in Padstow, it is also a popular place for sailing and kite surfing. The Camel Trail also starts there for anybody interested in cycling.
If you decide against Constantine for any reason then Watergate is 20minutes down the road and Polzeath is also another option further up the coast.
Where is it?Grid Reference: SW 859 745Post Code: PL28 8JL
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Watergate: West Facing; Works at all states of the tide; All abilities
What to Expect?Watergate bay offers a reasonably consistent break offering a good wave for all. Access to it is easy, the beach is spectacular, it's lifeguarded during peak season and it can work at all states of the tide including high tide. It's also not far from Newquay. These factors combine to make Watergate Bay a very popular surf spot. So enjoy your waves but keep an eye out for rips, people, boards and boats! It's likely to be busy out there.
Where is it?Grid Reference: SW 841 649 Post Code: TR8 4AA
Whatʼs Nearby? Parking, toilets and a beach bar are all close at hand. It's generally a place with a lot happening and a few key events on the calendar, including the BKSA Kitesurf Course Racing event, the English National Surfing Championships and the Boardmaster's Music Festival. For those into celebrity chefs, or just good food, Watergate Bay is also home to 'Fifteen Cornwall' one of Jamie Oliver's restaurants.
Just for info'... the nearest hospital with an Accident and Emergency Department is the Royal Cornwall Hospital, Treliske, Truro, TR1 3LJ
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Fistral: West Facing; Ideal at mid to high tide; Intermediate & Advanced
What to Expect?Fistral is probably the most famous surf spot in Cornwall and it certainly draws the crowds! It's a sandy, lifeguarded beach right next to the amenities that Newquay has to offer. It is easily accessible but bear in mind parking can be tricky during the summer months. Fistral is ideal at mid to high tide and although it is popular with all, it is perhaps best for intermediate to more advanced surfers. In terms of hazards, keep an eye out for rocks and people!
Where is it?Grid Reference: SW 800 621Post Code: TR7 1HY
Whatʼs Nearby? Pubs, cafes, shops, toilets and the facilities of Newquay are all nearby.
If for any reason Fistral loses it's appeal then Watergate and Crantock are both in close proximity.
Just for info'... the nearest hopsital with an Accident and Emergency Department is the Royal Cornwall Hospital, Treliske, Truro, TR1 3LJ (16miles away)
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Crantock: West Facing; Ideal at Low Tide; All abilities
What to Expect?Crantock beach break has a number of 'major feathers in it's cap' - not least of which is the fact it is so close to Fistral! Whilst the hoards cram the waves there, Crantock breathes easy. Be aware of the currents on the right, but other than that this is a great spot for all, particularly at low tide.
Where is it?Grid Reference: SW 788 609Post Code: TR8 5RN
Whatʼs Nearby? Parking, cafe and toilets are all nearby and there are a couple of pubs in Crantock. If you are wanting a little more, Newquay is a mere 'stones throw' away over the river and 4miles by road.
Just for info... the nearest hospital with and Accident and Emergency is the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro, TR1 3LJ (14miles away)
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Perranporth: West Facing; Works at all states of the tide; All abilities
What to Expect?Perranporth has a beautiful sandy beach and the surf is ideal for all abilities at all states of the tide. It's worth bearing in mind that you lose a lot of the beach at high tide though. Regardless, it's a popular place for all, including surfers and kite surfers. The pay & display car park in Perranporth is literally right next to the beach so access couldn't be easier and it's lifeguarded during peak season. Perranporth beach is undoubtedly another one of Cornwall's gems.
Where is it?Grid Reference: SW 756 543Post Code: TR6 0JN
Whatʼs Nearby? Toilets, surf hire/shops, cafes, bars are all nearby in Perranporth. Thereʼs also a bar on the beach! The 'Watering Hole' does great nachos and live music. It truly is a fantastic setting to relax and watch the sun go down.
If for any reason you decide against surfing at Perranporth, Crantock, Fistral and Watergate are just up the coast.
Just for info...the nearest hospital with an Accident and Emergency Department is the Royal Cornwall Hospital,Treliske, Truro, TR1 3LJ (9miles away)
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What to Expect?Gwithian is quite simply one of the most breathtaking beaches in the UK. In fact it is one of those places that you look upon and wonder if you are still in the UK! Its beautiful golden sand stretches on for miles and it gets consistently good surf at all states of the tide. It's ideal for all abilities and has lifeguarded sections during the summer months. You have different options in terms of parking but these location details take you to the Pay & Display Car Park near to the Sunset Cafe. The access from there is relatively easy - the quickest option is a steep rocky scramble or alternatively there's a slightly longer gentler route. It is also possible to park and access the beach at the other end too, so explore and see where you fancy. In terms of hazards, there are rips to be aware of and rocks at low tide and if you choose to surf with everyone else then watch out for people too!
Where is it?Grid Refʼ: SW 578 413Post Code: TR27 5BT
Whatʼs Nearby? If you're lucky you will find seals and dolphins nearby! The dunes near to Gwithian also provide a wealth of flora and fauna, hence the Towans being a SSSI.
In terms of amenities, the village of Gwithian has a pub and campsite and Hayle is just down the road with more shops and accommodation options, it's also a popular desitination for kitesurfers. In terms of other nearby places, St Ives is not far away and definitely worth a visit if you're in the area (a pint in the Sloop goes down well too)
The nearest hospital with an A & E is the West Cornwall Hospital in Penzance, TR18 2PF ( 12 miles away).
Gwithian: West Facing; Works at all states of the tide; All abilities
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What to Expect?Sennen is a beautiful location with a stunning sandy beach and consistent waves. It works best at low to mid tide and is pretty ideal for all abilities although watch out for the rips. Sennen village has a range of useful amenities in close proximity, and although it is a popular destination it doesn't draw the crowds in the same way as other spots further up the coastline. Sennen is definitely worth a visit though and if you're a 'surfer climber' then this is an ideal location!
Sennen: West Facing; Ideal at low to mid tide; All abilities
Where is it?Grid Reference: SW 355 263Post Code: TR19 7DG
Whatʼs Nearby? Sennen village has a Pub, cafes, and a couple of surf shops - one of which bizarrely has a fish & chip shop in it! The pay & display car park provides easy access to the beach and also has the Chapel Idne surf shop, a cafe and public toilets.
Not only does Sennen provide quality surf it is also the home to a classic granite crag. So a trip combining a spot of surfing and climbing couldn't be easier!
Just for info', the nearest hospital with an A & E is the West Cornwall Hospital in Penzance, TR18 2PF (9miles away).
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Whitsand: South Facing; Works at all states of the tide; All abilities
What to Expect?Whitsand Bay is on the South coast close the Devon border, and with the city of Plymouth nearby it can be a popular destination. With miles of sandy beach there's enough room for all, but it's worth keeping an eye out for other people and floating debris. Whitsand is ideal with a South Westerly swell and can work at all states of the tide, although it's perhaps not as consistent as some of the other Kernow surf spots. There are a number of free parking options which is an added bonus but be prepared for a short walk to the waves. Check the tides before you head down too as areas of the beach get cut off at high tide. Where is it?
Grid Reference: SX 390 531Post Code: PL11 3AZWhatʼs Nearby?
Cafe: If you head Eastwards along the Military Road you will come across the View Cafe. Pub: There are number of options in the nearby villages. Millbrook has a few to choose from together with shops and places to eat.Surf Shop: There's a surf shop on the A38 just South of Liskeard. Hospital with an A&E: Derriford Hospital, Crownhill, Plymouth, PL6 8DH (20miles away or 10miles via ferry - please note that the ferry is not 24hours though)
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Just a few of the other Information Packs that are on their Way...Kite Sports in Cornwall-Walking in Cornwall-Biking in Cornwall-Climbing in Devon-Surfing in Devon
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