Kevin
Steph was great, loved the lesson




This 2-hour surf lesson at Gwithian Beach is perfect for beginners and improvers looking to build confidence and skill in the water. Led by expert coaches, you’ll receive detailed guidance suited to your ability level, plus all the gear you need is included. If the surf isn’t right on the day, we’ll relocate to another nearby spot to make sure you get the best and safest conditions.
You’ll meet your coach at Gwithian Beach, or a nearby beach if conditions require a change. After introductions and kit-up, your lesson starts with a land-based briefing covering beach safety, wave awareness, paddling technique, and how to pop up on your board. Beginners will then head into the whitewater zone to catch their first waves, focusing on balance, control and standing up.
Improvers will progress further out, learning to paddle through the surf, catch green waves, and work on techniques like trimming, turning, and generating speed. You’ll also be introduced to key surf etiquette so you can safely navigate shared waves. Coaches provide hands-on support and continuous feedback throughout. After the lesson, you can choose to stay in the water with your gear for another hour at no extra cost, giving you a chance to build on what you’ve learned.
The primary location is Gwithian Beach in West Cornwall, known for its long sandy shoreline and excellent conditions for learners and improvers. However, because surf can vary from day to day, the exact location is confirmed 24 to 48 hours before your session.
If needed, we’ll switch to another suitable nearby beach to ensure you get the best possible experience in safe, surfable conditions.
You’ll need to be comfortable swimming at least 25 metres in the sea. No prior surfing experience is necessary.
Children aged under 8 or weak swimmers can still join, but they must be accompanied in the water by a responsible adult for the full session.
The centre has been delivering high-quality surf lessons in Cornwall since 2005, growing into one of the most respected surf schools in the UK. All instructors hold internationally recognised surf coaching qualifications (ISA Level 1 or 2) and are trained beach lifeguards. Head Coach Chris is the former Head Coach for the British Surf Team, bringing over 20 years of elite-level experience to the team. Alongside him is Steve, a leading Surfing England trainer and assessor, responsible for setting national standards in both surf coaching and lifeguarding.
The centre is one of only a few officially accredited Surfing England Centres of Excellence at both Gwithian and Praa Sands. Every instructor is hand-picked for their coaching ability, knowledge of local conditions, and friendly, professional approach. Safety is prioritised without compromising on fun, and tailored instruction ensures every participant makes real progress. With over 400 five-star reviews and a reputation for reliability, quality, and community spirit, you’re guaranteed a great time in the surf.
Your safety and enjoyment are the top priorities, so if the conditions at Gwithian Beach aren’t suitable—whether that’s due to flat waves, dangerous rip currents, or high winds—we’ll move the session to a nearby alternative beach.
We monitor the forecasts closely and make final decisions 24–48 hours in advance, keeping you updated by email or phone. The goal is to ensure you still get a great session in safe, surfable waves.
Yes. On arrival, you’ll have access to private changing rooms, toilets, and secure lockers.
Your valuables and dry clothes can be stored safely while you’re in the water. If you have additional bags or equipment, we’ll make sure there's a designated space to keep everything secure and dry during your lesson.
The youngest age to join a group lesson without parent assistance is 8 years old.
Children aged 6-7 years old can join the group lessons but must be assisted by a non-surfing adult. Children 5 years and older can book onto our private lessons, which can be found among our other sessions below.
Absolutely. If you prefer to use your own full-length wetsuit or surfboard, you’re welcome to bring them. However, we do recommend using our equipment, especially for improvers, as we provide boards that are specifically matched to your ability, weight, and the day's conditions.
Our wetsuits are also designed for comfort and warmth year-round and are replaced every two seasons to maintain quality.
Our instructors are highly experienced in working with nervous participants and those who need a little extra encouragement. If you’re not confident in the sea, let us know beforehand and we’ll give you extra support.
All sessions are run by trained beach lifeguards and take place in waist-depth water for beginners. You must be able to swim at least 25 metres unaided. Children under 8 or weak swimmers must be accompanied in the water by a responsible adult.
Steph was great, loved the lesson
Coasterring with Lizard adventure. Great day out. Rory was great with us. Got some sea snacks along the way. Great jumps for all levels. Saw the seals. All in all a great day out
I was impressed that Steve contacted me to ask if my adolescents would like a more adventurous experience and tailored the coasteering to them. They all had a great time - came back exhilarated and exhausted. Thanks also for taking some great photos
We had a fab time with Steve guiding us. A wide range of abilities and Steve enabled us all to meet our challenges and succeed. Highly recommend this as an amazing activity. Thumbs up for Steve. Thank you.
Five stars great fun and engaging and entertaining hosting!
It was great and our guide was very enthusiastic, personable and conscientious. Thankyou!
Absolutely fabulous. Chris(?) the instructor was very knowledgeable and helpful but also definitely a ‘people person’. It was my first ever time and I loved every second of it. Will definitely do again. But wanting to make this a frequent thing for me. Sad to think it may not be…
Adam was a very knowledgeable and seemingly very experienced guide on our sea kayaking adventure from Mullion Cove. We had a great time, paddling alongside seals and in and out of caves and coves.
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