Often overshadowed by its neighbour Cornwall, Wales is quietly establishing itself as a premier destination for surfers.
With over 1,370 miles of coastline, from Pembrokeshire’s rugged shores to the Gower Peninsula’s sheltered bays, Wales offers a diverse range of surf experiences.
The best surf spots in Wales are less crowded, more scenic and, in many cases, more challenging than those found elsewhere in the UK.
Whether you’re an experienced surfer seeking powerful Atlantic swells or a beginner looking for a friendly wave, Wales has something to offer everyone.
Table of Contents
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Top Surfing Spots in Wales
- Llangennith, Gower Peninsula
- Freshwater West, Pembrokeshire
- Rest Bay, Porthcawl
- Hell’s Mouth, Llyn Peninsula
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Whitesands Bay, Pembrokeshire
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Hidden Surf Gems in Wales
- Manorbier, Pembrokeshire
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Porth Ceiriad, Llyn Peninsula
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Best Time to Surf in Wales
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Surf Safety and Etiquette in Wales
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Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
Top Surfing Spots in Wales
When it comes to finding the best surf spots in Wales, you’re spoilt for choice. The coastline is dotted with surf breaks that cater to all skill levels. Here are some of the most popular locations that should be on every surfer’s radar.
1. Llangennith, Gower Peninsula
Llangennith is a must-visit for anyone exploring the best surf spots in Wales. This five-mile stretch of beach is a magnet for Atlantic swells, making it one of the most reliable surf spots in the country.
The beach offers a mix of left and right-hand waves, but be prepared for challenging paddle-outs, especially when the swells are big.
- Wave Type: Beach break
- Surfing Conditions: Llangennith is known for its consistent waves, which range from 2 to 6 feet. The surf here can be unpredictable, with frequent closeouts, but the waves are generally fun and varied
- Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced, although beginners can find manageable waves on smaller days
2. Freshwater West, Pembrokeshire
Freshwater West is another top contender among the best surf spots in Wales.
Known for its powerful, hollow waves, this beach is a favourite among experienced surfers. It’s also the site of the Welsh National Surfing Championships, further cementing its reputation.
- Wave Type: Beach break with some reef sections
- Surfing Conditions: Freshwater West offers fast, hollow waves that can reach up to 8 feet, particularly during the winter months. The waves here are powerful and can be challenging, especially during bigger swells
- Skill Level: Advanced, due to the strong currents and powerful waves
3. Rest Bay, Porthcawl
Rest Bay, located near Cardiff and Swansea, is one of the top beaches for surfing in Wales. Its proximity to urban centres makes it a popular spot, but it offers excellent waves for those willing to brave the crowds.
- Wave Type: Beach break
- Surfing Conditions: Rest Bay offers consistent swells throughout the year, with wave heights ranging from 2 to 5 feet. The beach is exposed to westerly winds, which can create choppy conditions, but also ensure a steady supply of waves
- Skill Level: Suitable for all levels, but the crowded line-up can be challenging for beginners
4. Hell’s Mouth, Llyn Peninsula
Hell’s Mouth, or Porth Neigwl, is a four-mile stretch of beach on the Llyn Peninsula.
It’s one of the best surf spots in Wales for those looking to escape the more crowded beaches in the south. Despite its ominous name, Hell’s Mouth offers a range of waves suitable for all surfers.
- Wave Type: Beach break
- Surfing Conditions: Hell’s Mouth picks up swells from the south-west and can hold waves up to 6 feet. The beach is known for its long, rolling waves, making it a great spot for both shortboarders and longboarders
- Skill Level: All levels, although beginners should be cautious of the strong rip currents
5. Whitesands Bay, Pembrokeshire
Whitesands Bay is a beautiful beach that attracts surfers from all over the UK. It’s considered one of the best surf spots in Wales for its scenic beauty as well as its surf potential.
The beach is protected by Ramsey Island, which helps to shape the waves into something special.
- Wave Type: Beach break
- Surfing Conditions: Whitesands Bay offers a solid beach break with waves that can reach up to 10 feet during larger swells. The beach is best surfed at mid to high tide when the waves are more manageable
- Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced, but beginner-friendly surf beaches can be found nearby during calmer conditions
To expand your surf adventure beyond Wales, check out these amazing surfing beaches in Northern Ireland and the best surfing spots in Scotland. These surf spots will give you a complete picture of the UK's surfing scene.
Hidden Surf Gems in Wales
While the best surf spots in Wales are well-known within the surfing community, there are also plenty of hidden gems that offer excellent waves without the crowds.
These hidden surf spots in Wales are perfect for those who prefer a quieter, more secluded surfing experience.
1. Manorbier, Pembrokeshire
Manorbier is a lesser-known spot with a famous reef break known as the "dak." It’s sheltered by cliffs at high tide, making it a great option when the wind picks up elsewhere.
- Wave Type: Reef break
- Surfing Conditions: Manorbier offers steep, hollow waves, especially during larger swells. The reef creates powerful waves that are best surfed by those with experience
- Skill Level: Advanced, due to the wave power and reef structure
2. Porth Ceiriad, Llyn Peninsula
Porth Ceiriad is a hidden gem that offers some of the most picturesque surfing in Wales. Located between Abersoch and Hell’s Mouth, this beach is remote and often deserted, even on good days.
- Wave Type: Beach break
- Surfing Conditions: Porth Ceiriad works best with a south-westerly swell, producing steep, hollow waves. The beach is best surfed at mid to high-tide
- Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced, due to the steep waves and isolated location
If you’re eager to explore more hidden gems and amazing waves in the UK, be sure to check out some of the best surf spots in England.
Best Time to Surf in Wales
The best time to surf in Wales varies depending on your experience level and what you’re looking for in a surf trip.
Wales experiences year-round waves, but the seasons do affect the surfing conditions in Wales significantly.
Winter (November – February)
Winter is prime time for surfing in Wales, especially for experienced surfers. The swells are consistent, and the beaches are less crowded.
However, the water temperature can drop as low as 8 degrees Celsius, so you’ll need a thick wetsuit, along with booties and gloves.
Spring (March – May)
Spring offers a mix of the last of the winter swells with the first signs of warmer weather.
The waves are still consistent, but the water remains cold. This is a great time to explore the hidden surf spots in Wales before the summer crowds arrive.
Summer (June – August)
Summer is the best time to surf in Wales if you’re a beginner. The waves are smaller and more manageable, making it perfect for those new to the sport.
It’s also a great season for family-friendly surfing destinations in Wales, where adults and children can enjoy the waves.
However, you’ll need to contend with more crowded beaches and less consistent swells.
Autumn (September – October)
Autumn is often considered the best season for surfing in Wales. The summer crowds have disappeared, but the water is still relatively warm.
The swells return, and you can enjoy some of the best surf spots in Wales with fewer people in the line-up.
Surf Safety and Etiquette in Wales
Surfing in Wales is an incredible experience, but to ensure everyone has a good time, it’s important to follow safety guidelines and respect the Welsh surf culture. Here are some key tips.
1. Respect the Locals
The Welsh surf culture is friendly but tight-knit. Always be respectful of the locals, follow the rules of the line-up, and avoid dropping in on someone else's wave.
2. Know Your Limits
Wales offers a wide range of surf conditions, from beginner-friendly beach breaks to powerful reef breaks.
Make sure you choose a spot that matches your skill level. If in doubt, seek advice from the locals or book a lesson with one of the many surf schools in Wales.
3. Use the Right Gear
The surf conditions in Wales can be challenging, especially during the winter months.
Make sure you have the appropriate surfing equipment for Welsh beaches, including a thick wetsuit, booties, and gloves during the colder months.
4. Protect Your Ears
Cold water and frequent exposure to the elements can lead to swimmer's ear, a common issue among surfers.
To prevent this, consider using ear sprays that help keep water out and protect your ears from infection. It’s a simple but effective way to safeguard your hearing while enjoying the waves.
5. Surf with a Buddy
While Wales is relatively safe, some of the more remote hidden surf spots in Wales can be isolated. Always surf with a buddy, especially if you’re venturing to less populated areas.
To ride the waves with confidence, explore our detailed guide on water safety tips for surfing.
Conclusion
Wales might not be the first destination that comes to mind when you think of surfing, but it should be.
These surf spots offer a unique combination of stunning scenery, powerful waves, and a welcoming surf culture that’s hard to beat.
If you’re eager to explore more surf destinations in the UK, be sure to check out the best surfing destinations in the UK.
From the wild shores of Scotland to the hidden coves of Cornwall, there’s a wealth of surfing adventures waiting for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best months to surf in Wales?
The best months to surf in Wales are typically from September to November and March to May.
During these periods, the swells are more consistent, and the weather is generally more favorable.
Autumn (September-November) is often considered the peak surf season, offering good wave conditions and fewer crowds.
Spring (March-May) also provides reliable surf with the added benefit of milder temperatures.
2. Where is the best surf in Wales for beginners?
For beginners, some of the best surf spots in Wales include Caswell Bay on the Gower Peninsula, Rest Bay in Porthcawl, and Whitesands Bay in Pembrokeshire.
These beaches offer smaller, more manageable waves and have surf schools nearby, making them ideal for those new to the sport.
3. Do I need a wetsuit to surf in Wales?
Yes, you will need a wetsuit to surf in Wales, as the water temperature can be quite cold, especially during the winter months.
A 4/3mm wetsuit is recommended for most of the year, while a thicker 5/4/3mm wetsuit, along with booties, gloves, and a hood, may be necessary in winter when water temperatures can drop to around 8 degrees Celsius.
4. Is surfing in Wales good year-round?
Surfing in Wales is possible year-round, but the conditions vary across different seasons.
Winter offers the most consistent and powerful swells, making it ideal for experienced surfers.
Spring and autumn provide a good balance of swell consistency and milder weather, while summer is generally more suited for beginners due to smaller waves and warmer water, though the surf can be less consistent.
