Hand Planing Lesson in Newquay, Cornwall

Not at all. Hand planing is designed to be accessible for complete beginners as well as those who already have some confidence in the surf. In fact, many people find it easier to pick up than traditional surfing because the equipment is light, minimal, and doesn’t require the balance needed for standing on a board. Your instructor will guide you step by step, starting in shallow water so you can build confidence before heading into deeper waves.

For those who already surf, bodyboard, or swim regularly, hand planing can be a fresh challenge and a way to approach the ocean differently. Even experienced wave riders enjoy the stripped-back style of the sport, as it gives a more direct connection to the waves. The session can be tailored to your ability, so you’ll either focus on the basics or push yourself to ride more challenging unbroken waves.

Our hand plane sessions are 2 hours long. You'll start with a sea swim with fins to catch powerful ocean swells and build your technique from small waves up. You'll also learn body surfing skills and get comprehensive tuition and feedback from our experienced instructors.

Yes, hand planing is suitable for children aged 8 and above, and it’s a fantastic activity for families to do together. The sessions are led by experienced instructors who are trained in water safety and first aid, and they’ll always be in the water with you. Group sizes are kept small, which means everyone receives plenty of attention and guidance.

For younger participants or families, instructors will usually keep the group in the white water close to shore until confidence builds. The hand plane itself is lightweight and easy to use, making it much safer than traditional surfing, as there are no large boards attached to your leg. Parents often find it a brilliant way to introduce their children to ocean sports in a controlled and supportive environment.

We provide everything you’ll need for the session, including a Rip Curl wetsuit, swim fins, and the hand plane itself. You’ll also have access to heated changing rooms, hot outdoor showers, and secure storage for valuables, so you can arrive with just the essentials. Action photography is included too, so you’ll walk away with images of your experience without needing to bring your own camera.

All you need to bring is swimwear for under the wetsuit, a towel, and some warm clothes to change into afterwards. Many participants also bring a bottle of water and snacks for after the lesson. If you’d like to make a day of it, Newquay has plenty of cafés and restaurants nearby, and you’ll receive a discount card for local food and drink to use after your session.

The Cornish coast is known for its reliable waves, but conditions can vary from day to day. Safety is always the first priority, so instructors will assess the beach and decide on the best location before each session. If conditions at one beach aren’t suitable, the lesson may move to another nearby spot such as Fistral, Great Western, or Towan.

In the rare case that the ocean isn’t safe or suitable for hand planing at all, the session may be rescheduled or adapted into an alternative water-based activity. You’ll always be kept informed, and the team will ensure you still have a safe, fun, and memorable experience. Flexibility is part of what makes these sessions enjoyable, as you’re guided to the best waves available on the day.

Most people manage to catch their very first wave within ten minutes of entering the water. Because the hand plane adds lift and speed, it makes bodysurfing far easier and more effective, giving you quick results. Instructors break down the technique clearly and support you while you get used to the fins and hand plane.

As the session progresses, you’ll notice a big difference in your confidence and technique. You’ll move from catching small white water waves to trying unbroken green waves, learning how to angle the hand plane for speed and direction. By the end of the lesson, many beginners are surprised at how much control they’ve gained in such a short amount of time.