Looking for the best surfing beach Cornwall has to offer?
Summerleaze Beach in Bude is always near the top of the list. Thanks to its consistent waves, central location and welcoming atmosphere, it remains a favourite with both locals and visitors.
At Big Blue Surf School, we have taught thousands of surfers on this very stretch of sand. Because of the reliable conditions and varied wave shapes, Summerleaze works brilliantly for beginners taking their first steps into the ocean. At the same time, it also gives more experienced surfers the chance to sharpen their technique and build confidence.
Quite simply, if you are searching for the best surfing beach Cornwall can provide, Summerleaze Beach is hard to beat.
So, what makes Summerleaze the best surfing beach Cornwall has to offer?
Firstly, it is incredibly versatile. The shape of the bay, combined with a steady Atlantic swell, creates waves that suit both complete beginners and those looking to progress. As a result, surfers of all abilities can find conditions that work for them. In addition, the wide sandy beach and gently sloping shallows make it a safe and comfortable environment to learn.
At Big Blue Surf School, we plan every lesson around the tide and swell. Because conditions change throughout the day, our experienced instructors carefully select the best time to enter the water. This ensures each session is both enjoyable and confidence building.
Whether you arrive feeling slightly nervous or full of excitement, Summerleaze offers a supportive setting that helps you relax, improve and make real progress in the water.
Unlike many of Cornwall’s more remote surf spots, Summerleaze Beach is easy to reach. Located just a short walk from the centre of Bude, it offers nearby parking and straightforward access to the sand. As a result, it is simple to head down for a quick lesson or spend a full day enjoying the sea.
In addition, everything you need is close at hand. There are clean public toilets, the famous natural sea pool for sheltered swimming, and several excellent cafés where you can warm up with a coffee or enjoy something to eat after your session.
Because of this combination of accessibility, facilities and coastal character, many people consider it the best surfing beach Cornwall has to offer. It is particularly popular with families, beginners and visiting surfers who want great waves without the hassle of hard-to-reach locations.
Another reason Summerleaze deserves its top-tier reputation is its safety. The beach is patrolled by RNLI lifeguards during the main surf season (April to October), which provides peace of mind for surfers and swimmers alike. There are marked flag zones to indicate where it’s safest to surf, and our instructors work closely with the lifeguard team to ensure every session runs smoothly.
For parents booking surf lessons for children or families wanting to learn together, this extra layer of supervision makes all the difference.
Beyond its physical features, what truly elevates Summerleaze is its community. Bude has a strong surf culture rooted in friendliness, inclusivity, and a shared love of the ocean. Whether you’re joining a group lesson, chatting with locals in the car park, or watching from the cliffs, there’s a welcoming vibe that’s hard to beat.
At Big Blue Surf School, we pride ourselves on being part of this positive local culture. Many of our instructors grew up surfing right here at Summerleaze and have years of experience helping others fall in love with the sport.
If you’re planning to stay in the area and build your skills over several days, Summerleaze is an ideal base. The conditions here vary just enough to offer new challenges as you grow in confidence. From white-water riding on your first day to your first green wave by the end of the week, it’s all possible here.
We offer tailored courses and private lessons at Big Blue to support every stage of your surf journey. And with everything you need on your doorstep — surf hire, wetsuits, and refreshments — it’s easy to spend a full day enjoying the surf and the surroundings.
So, is Summerleaze the best surfing beach Cornwall has to offer? We certainly think so — and we’re not alone. Its safe, reliable waves, easy access, and friendly atmosphere make it a standout choice for anyone wanting to learn to surf in the South West.
Whether you’re visiting for the day or planning a longer surf trip, Big Blue Surf School is here to help you make the most of every wave. Join us at Summerleaze and discover why so many people fall in love with surfing right here.
