Surf Schools in St Ives
1 surf school in St Ives, Cornwall.
St Ives is a wonderful place to learn to surf. With beaches facing in different directions and the wide sweep of St Ives Bay on its doorstep, local instructors can usually find a suitable wave for a lesson, and when you are not in the water you can explore one of the most beautiful towns in Cornwall.
Where surf lessons take place in St Ives
Porthmeor, the town's main surf beach, is where most lessons take place. It faces north into the Atlantic and has a sandy bottom, which makes it great for learning on small and medium days. When the surf is too big or the wind is onshore, schools may head across the bay to Gwithian or Godrevy, which have long, sandy beaches with plenty of space. Your instructor will choose the best spot for the conditions.
What to expect from a lesson
Beginner lessons usually last two to three hours and include a wetsuit, a soft foam board and safety equipment. Your lesson will start on the beach, learning how to paddle, catch a wave and stand up, along with how to stay safe in the sea and spot rip currents. Then you will practise in shallow water, catching white water waves with your instructor nearby. Most people stand up in their first or second lesson.
Schools in St Ives also offer private lessons, family sessions, children's lessons and multi day courses, as well as coaching for improvers.
Choosing a surf school in St Ives
Look for a school with qualified instructors who hold recognised coaching and beach lifeguard awards, and accreditation from Surfing England. Ask about group sizes, what is included and how they choose the beach each day.
When to book
Summer is the busiest time in St Ives, so book lessons ahead, especially in the school holidays. Spring and autumn are quieter and often have good conditions for learning. Late summer brings the warmest water of the year.
After your lesson
Porthmeor beach has cafes right on the sand, and the Tate St Ives gallery sits just above it, so it is easy to make a day of it.
Browse the surf schools in St Ives below, with contact details and directions for each.
Run a surf school in St Ives?
Get a featured spot at the top of this page. See listing options.