Where are the Best Surfing Beaches in Wales?

Despite the cooler sea temperatures compared to other destinations, Wales offers some incredible surf spots. Whether you’re on the North, South or West coastline, there will be no end to the exciting surfing opportunities, perfect for everyone from beginners to experts.

But, with Wales home to so many scenic surfing beaches, it’s essential to find the right spot for you to ride the waves. So, if you’re looking to get your board out, read on as we explore some of the best surfing beaches in Wales.

Where can I surf in South Wales?

With its rugged coastline and mountainous terrain, South Wales is on the top of the list for many visitors looking to explore the Welsh landscape. It’s also home to some of the best surfing in Wales, so it should be a high priority visit for surfers.

 

Coney Beach, Porthcawl

Coney Beach, perched upon the Porthcawl coastline, makes for the perfect surf spot for anyone visiting the Welsh capital and any of the Eastern towns. The best time to hit the beach here is at high tide due to the sheltered beach, and the waves here are often immaculate – an excellent trait that makes it a good choice for beginners.

The beach’s sheltered nature is what makes it one of the best surfing beaches in Wales as the waves won’t be scattered by high winds. However, if the weather is very calm, it may be best to search elsewhere for a wave to ride as there will be fewer breakers forming.

The time of year you visit Coney Beach can also make all the difference. In Spring and early Autumn, you’ll find warmer weather and larger waves. Beginners may prefer a visit in the Summer, though, where the waves are perfectly sized for learning the basics.

Oxwich Bay, Gower

Oxwich Bay is a popular destination for many with its scenic and well-facilitated surroundings. Again, an excellent spot for beginners who may be less confident as it offers a handful of swells and a relatively safe section of the sea in which to develop surfing skills.

However, on certain days on Oxwich Bay and its surrounding coastline, the surf can be incredible and will make for a truly exhilarating ride. It will be crucial on these days to find a good spot though, as you’ll likely find plenty of other surfers also attempting to catch the waves.

Where can I surf in North Wales?

Those who are planning on surfing in Wales would be mistaken to not head to North Wales. While it may be home to a more biting wind outside of Summer, the breakers can be incredible.

 

Aberdaron, Llyn Peninsula

For those a fan of quite surfing spots, Aberdaron is the place to go. It’s a hidden gem, nestled amongst Lleyn Penisula and a less prominent location for casual surfers, making it an idyllic and tranquil beach.

The waves themselves range from modest swells to fully rideable breakers, making it an excellent spot for all abilities. However, if you visit on a calm day and want something more thrilling, take a short trip along the coastline to Hell’s Mouth where a larger surf can be found.

Arguably one of the best traits of this small, Welsh surf spot is the surrounding village. Many of those who visit fall for its charm and quiet way of life. With a pub, a handful of eateries and notable pasty shop, it’s the perfect spot to relax in after a long day on the waves.

Rhosneigr, Anglesey

Rhosneigr is much more suited for those at an intermediate – expert level, but offers a consistently good surf, making it one of the best beaches in Wales for surfers.

If you do visit Rhosneigr, you’ll need to be confident in the water as it’s riptides are known to cause a little havoc with its surfers. However, they never create too much of a problem, and surfers will be able to find a wave to catch back to shore easily.

Where can I surf in West Wales?

Wales’ Western coastline is home to some truly spectacular sights, so a day surfing along these scenic shores certainly wouldn’t be a day wasted. From top to bottom, the Western facing beaches are well-known for experiencing plenty of perfect surf, so it’s just a case of picking your ideal spot.

 

Poppit Sands, Cardigan

Cardigan is a much-loved area of Wales for many tourists, so it’s no surprise that Poppit Sands will be one of the most populated surfing spots. However, this doesn’t mean to say it won’t be an enjoyable trip.

There are plenty of local facilities, including parking and toilets, and lifeguards are always on duty during peak months, ensuring you can feel safe as you hit the waves. On top of this, the beach is often pristine, and the local people are incredibly welcoming, so there’s plenty of reason to visit.

The surf here is more well-suited to beginners, but on a good day, there will be enough surf for everyone to enjoy. If you do take your board, be wary of the river estuary as there can be stronger currents on this side of the beach.

Whitesands, Pembrokeshire

One of the best surfing beaches in Western Wales is Whitesands. Located in Pembrokeshire, the waves can be truly spectacular. In the right conditions, you can find the surf towering, making for an electrifying ride. And, thanks to the shelter offered by Ramsey Island and the headland, the breakers are often clean and longstanding.

That’s not to say the beach is only suitable for confident surfers, as the waves can be conquerable if you remain close to the beach. Throughout the summer months, lifeguards will also be present on the beach.