Surfing in St Ives: Best Beaches, Tips & Local Surf Schools
Ride the Waves in St Ives, Cornwall
St Ives isn’t just famous for its stunning scenery and art scene—it’s also a fantastic surf destination! With crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and reliable waves, it’s a must-visit spot for surfers of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking for lessons or an experienced surfer chasing the best swell, this guide covers everything you need to know about surfing in St Ives.
Best Surfing Beaches in St Ives
1. Porthmeor Beach – The Surfing Hotspot
🏄 Best for: All levels
🌊 Wave type: Consistent, beach break
📍 Facilities: Surf School, board hire, lifeguards (seasonal), cafés
Porthmeor Beach is the most popular surf spot in St Ives. It’s lifeguarded during peak season, making it a safe choice for beginners, while more experienced surfers can enjoy decent swells on bigger days.
2. Gwithian & Godrevy – Consistent Waves & Open Space
🏄 Best for: Intermediate & advanced surfers
🌊 Wave type: Powerful beach break
📍 Facilities: Parking, cafés, surf hire
A short drive from St Ives, Gwithian and Godrevy offer some of the most consistent surf in Cornwall. The long sandy stretch provides plenty of space, even on busy days.
3. Porthminster Beach – A Chill Spot for Beginners
🏄 Best for: Beginners
🌊 Wave type: Gentle, small waves
📍 Facilities: Surf school, cafés, parking
While not known for big surf, Porthminster Beach is a great spot for complete beginners or those who prefer gentle rolling waves in a stunning setting.
Where to Get Surf Lessons & Hire Gear
If you’re new to surfing or want to improve your skills, St Ives has several surf schools offering lessons for all ages:
• St Ives Surf School (Porthmeor Beach) – Highly rated with experienced instructors.
• Gwithian Academy of Surfing – Great for more advanced coaching.
• Ocean Sports Centre (Carbis Bay) – Offers paddleboarding and other water sports too.
Surfing Tips for St Ives
✅ Check the Surf Forecast – Websites like Magicseaweed and Surfline provide up-to-date conditions.
✅ Respect the Locals – Be mindful of surf etiquette and avoid dropping in on other surfers.
✅ Know the Tides – Some spots work best at certain tides, so check before heading out.
✅ Wear a Wetsuit – The water in Cornwall stays cool year-round, so a 4/3mm wetsuit is recommended.
Best Time to Surf in St Ives
• Summer (June–August): Great for beginners, but often smaller waves.
• Autumn (September–November): Best balance of warm weather and consistent swells.
• Winter (December–February): Bigger waves but colder conditions—best for experienced surfers.
• Spring (March–May): Uncrowded beaches and improving wave conditions.
Après-Surf: Where to Eat & Drink in St Ives
After a session in the waves, refuel at these top spots:
🍔 The Sloop Inn – A classic pub by the harbour for post-surf drinks.
🍕 The Hub – Famous for burgers and craft beer with sea views.
☕ Porthmeor Beach Café – Great coffee and tapas right on the beach.
Final Thoughts
Surfing in St Ives is an unforgettable experience, whether you’re just starting out or an experienced wave rider. With its beautiful beaches, top surf schools, and vibrant après-surf scene, it’s no wonder this Cornish town is a top surf destination. Grab a board, hit the waves, and enjoy everything St Ives has to offer!