If you’re planning to learn to surf UK waters, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. From the wild coasts of Scotland to the sunny shores of Cornwall, the UK is home to some of the most scenic and rewarding surf spots in Europe. For beginners, Cornwall stands out as the best place to take those first steps – or rather, first paddles – into the world of surfing. Here at Big Blue Surf School on Summerleaze Beach, Bude, we specialise in helping newcomers build confidence, stay safe, and enjoy the thrill of catching their first wave.
Before you dive in, though, it’s worth knowing what gear you’ll need and how to stay safe in the sea. Surfing is exhilarating, but the right preparation makes all the difference.
When you learn to surf UK beaches, your surfboard is your best friend. For beginners, a soft-top foam board is the perfect choice. It’s stable, buoyant, and forgiving if you happen to fall off – which, let’s be honest, you will! Foam boards are much easier to paddle and balance on than hard fibreglass boards, giving you the confidence to get to your feet. At Big Blue Surf School, we provide all the boards you need, sized to suit your height, weight, and ability.
The UK seas can be chilly, even in summer, so a well-fitting wetsuit is essential. A 4/3mm suit (that’s 4mm thick on the body, 3mm on the arms and legs) will keep you warm from spring to autumn. In the colder winter months, a thicker 5/4mm suit with boots, gloves, and a hood is recommended. At Summerleaze Beach, our surf school supplies high-quality wetsuits to keep you comfortable in the water all year round.
Every surfboard should have a leash, which attaches around your ankle and tethers you to your board. This prevents the board from drifting away if you fall off and also stops it from becoming a hazard to others.
Wax helps provide traction so your feet don’t slip when you’re standing on the board. Some foam beginner boards already have textured decks, so extra wax isn’t always necessary – but if you’re using a traditional surfboard, wax is a must.
It might surprise you, but even on overcast Cornish days the sun reflects off the water and can cause sunburn. A reef-safe sunscreen keeps your skin protected and ensures the ocean environment stays healthy too.
When you learn to surf UK coasts, always go to a lifeguarded beach. Summerleaze Beach in Bude is patrolled by RNLI lifeguards during the main season, which gives you an extra layer of safety while you’re learning.
At lifeguarded beaches, look for the red and yellow flags – this marks the safe zone for swimmers and surfers using bodyboards or foam boards. Stay within these flags, as they are positioned in the safest part of the beach. Avoid the red flag areas, as these signal dangerous conditions.
The sea is powerful and conditions can change quickly. Always check the tide times and surf forecast before heading out, use Surfline for this. As a beginner, you’ll find it easier and safer to surf on smaller waves at mid-tide.
Surfing is physically demanding, so do a quick warm-up before entering the water and make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day. Fatigue and dehydration can increase your risk of accidents.
Perhaps the most important safety tip is to learn with professionals. At Big Blue Surf School, our qualified instructors know the local conditions at Summerleaze Beach inside out. We teach you how to paddle safely, how to pop up correctly, and how to fall without injury. Having an expert in the water with you massively reduces risks and speeds up your progress.
Cornwall is widely recognised as the surf capital of the UK, and Bude is one of its hidden gems. Summerleaze Beach combines consistent waves, golden sands, and excellent facilities, making it a brilliant location for learners. The beach is family-friendly, lifeguarded, and has plenty of space, so you never feel overcrowded in the water.
At Big Blue Surf School, we’ve been teaching people to surf for years, and nothing beats seeing the joy on a beginner’s face when they stand up for the first time. Whether you’re looking for a one-off taster session or a multi-day course to really master the basics, we provide everything you need – from gear and safety guidance to encouragement and fun.
Learning to surf in the UK is both exciting and rewarding. With the right gear and a focus on safety, you’ll be catching waves in no time. Cornwall’s Summerleaze Beach is the perfect classroom, and at Big Blue Surf School we’ll make sure your first surfing experience is one you’ll never forget. So if you’re ready to take the plunge and learn to surf UK, grab your wetsuit, your board, and come join us on the sand – your surfing journey starts here.
