Surf Camps in Thurso
1 surf camp in Thurso, Scotland.
A surf camp on the north coast of Scotland is a real adventure. Around Thurso you will find empty beaches, clear water, dramatic cliffs and some of the best waves in Europe, all a long way from the crowds of the South West. Surf camps and retreats here combine coaching with accommodation and good food, and many add yoga, wild swimming or other activities to make the most of the far north.
What a surf camp here includes
Surf camps and retreat weekends around Thurso usually include daily surf coaching, all the wetsuits, boots, gloves and boards you need, and accommodation with local partners, from guesthouses to self catering houses. Some programmes include meals, yoga sessions and other activities, and run over a long weekend.
Where you will surf
The famous reef breaks around Thurso, including Thurso East and Brims Ness, are shallow and powerful, and only suitable for experienced surfers. Camps for beginners and improvers use sandy beaches instead, especially Dunnet Bay, a few miles east of the town, which has long, gentle waves and plenty of space. Your coaches will choose the safest spot for your level and the conditions on the day.
Who these camps suit
Camps here suit anyone who wants a surf trip with a difference: beginners looking for quiet beaches to learn on, improvers who want focused coaching, and travellers who want to combine surfing with a road trip around the North Coast 500. Experienced surfers may also use a camp as a base for exploring the reefs.
When to go
Late spring and summer are the most popular times, with long days and daylight late into the evening. Autumn brings bigger swell and can be excellent for improvers. The water is cold all year, so good winter wetsuits, boots, gloves and hoods are essential, and most camps provide them.
Planning your trip
Thurso is a long way from most of the UK, so allow plenty of time to get there. The town is on the North Coast 500 route and has a railway station, and ferries to Orkney sail from nearby Scrabster.
Choosing a camp
Look for qualified coaches with beach lifeguard awards and ask about group sizes, what kit is provided and what happens if the weather turns.
Browse surf camps near Thurso below, with contact details and directions for each.
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