Learn to Surf: A Beginner's Guide to Summerleaze Beach with Big Blue Surf

Nestled on the stunning coastline of Bude, Cornwall, Summerleaze Beach is the perfect destination for anyone looking to start their surfing journey. Just a short walk from Bude’s town centre, this picturesque beach is known for its golden sands, iconic Bude Sea Pool, and beginner-friendly surf conditions. If you're planning to take up surfing or simply want to enjoy the waves in a safe, scenic setting, Summerleaze Beach offers everything you need.

summerleaze beach. Aerial picture of Summerleaze Bach, Bude
Summerleaze Beach, Bude.

What Makes Summerleaze Beach Ideal for Beginners?

When it comes to surfing, the natural layout of Summerleaze Beach provides an unparalleled experience for newcomers. One of the main reasons beginners flock to this beach is the shelter provided by the breakwater on the southern side. This feature reduces the size and intensity of waves at mid and high tide, creating smooth, manageable surf.

Additionally, the beach’s gradual incline allows waves to break gently and over a longer distance. For beginner surfers, this means more time to practise balance and control while riding a wave. On a good day, the waves at Summerleaze Beach can carry surfers for up to 200 metres—plenty of time to hone your skills.

How do you get there?

Getting to Summerleaze Beach couldn’t be easier. The beach is accessible via multiple routes, including level access from the main car park, steps leading down from above the sea pool, and the canal bridge at the beach’s eastern end. Fun fact: this bridge is always water-free at 1 pm every day, making it a unique feature of this charming location.

The Best Time to Surf at Summerleaze Beach

Timing your surf session is crucial for getting the most out of Summerleaze Beach. For beginners, we recommend surfing about an hour before and after high tide. During this period, the waves tend to be smaller and more forgiving, making it easier to catch and ride them.

Mornings are often the best time to surf, as the beach is quieter. Always ensure you surf during lifeguard-patrolled hours, 10am – 6pm. Checking tide times and surf conditions in advance is a must and will help you plan your session for maximum enjoyment.

Understanding the Tides at Summerleaze Beach

The tides at Summerleaze Beach play a significant role in shaping the surf experience. Here’s what to expect at different stages:

  • High Tide: The waves are long and gentle, ideal for beginners. However, the currents can pull southwards towards the river, so staying aware of your position in the bay is essential.
  • Mid Tide: This is when the beach becomes narrower, and the waves break more quickly. Be cautious, as stronger currents can make surfing a bit more challenging.
  • Low Tide: The beach opens up, providing plenty of space to surf. However, waves at low tide are often steeper, requiring slightly more skill to ride.

What Surfboard Should You Use?

Choosing the right surfboard is key to enjoying your time at Summerleaze Beach. For beginners, we recommend a wide, buoyant board with extra floatation in the nose. The softer waves here make a buoyant board an excellent choice for catching waves more easily and riding them for longer distances.

At Big Blue Surf, we offer a range of surfboards and wetsuits, ensuring you have the perfect equipment to suit the beach’s conditions and your skill level.

Safety Tips for Surfing at Summerleaze Beach

Staying safe while surfing is always a priority. Here are some essential tips to ensure you enjoy your session at Summerleaze Beach safely:

  • Surf during lifeguard-patrolled hours. Speak to the lifeguards and they will tell you the best spot to go in.
  • Avoid the southern breakwater: Strong rips can occur near the breakwater, especially at mid and low tides.
  • Keep an eye on currents: At mid tide, the beach narrows significantly, increasing the strength of currents near the gap between Barrel Rock and Cross Rock.
  • Take lessons: If you’re unsure about surfing safely, enrol in a lesson with Bigblue Surf School. Our instructors will teach you how to read the waves, manage currents, and surf with confidence.

Why Choose Big Blue Surf School at Summerleaze Beach?

Big Blue Surf is your go-to for learning to surf at Summerleaze Beach. Our experienced instructors are passionate about helping beginners develop their skills in a safe and supportive environment. Whether it’s your first time in the water or you’re looking to refine your technique, our lessons are tailored to suit your needs.

We also provide all the equipment you’ll need, from high-quality surfboards to wetsuits designed for year-round comfort. With us, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy your surfing experience to the fullest.

Conclusion

Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to build confidence in the water, Summerleaze Beach is the ideal place to start your surfing adventure. With its gentle waves, stunning scenery, and the expert guidance of Big Blue Surf, you’ll be riding waves in no time. So why wait? Head over to discover why it’s one of Cornwall’s top surfing spots.

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Accredited Surf School

Location

Summerleaze Beach
(Find us in the car park)
Bude, North Cornwall
EX23 8HJ
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