Surfing in Sennen
Surf schools, shops, camps and more in Sennen, Cornwall.
Photo: Cyr~commonswiki, CC BY-SA 3.0
Sennen Cove sits at the very end of Cornwall, just a mile from Land's End, and is one of the most consistent surf spots in Britain. Facing west into the open Atlantic, its beach picks up swell when almost everywhere else in the country is flat, which is why surfers from across Cornwall head here on small days. It is a small, quiet village with a big reputation and some of the most spectacular scenery in the country.
Surfing at Sennen
The main beach at Sennen is Whitesand Bay, a long sweep of white sand with clear turquoise water. The southern end, by the village and harbour, is more sheltered and often smaller, which makes it a good place for lessons. The further north you go along the beach, the more exposed it becomes and the bigger the waves get.
At the northern end, Gwenver is a separate beach reached by a steep path down the cliff. It is one of the most powerful beach breaks in Cornwall and picks up even more swell than Sennen itself, so it is best suited to experienced surfers.
When to surf at Sennen
Because it is so exposed, Sennen can have waves all year round. Summer is the best time to learn, with RNLI lifeguards on the beach and smaller, friendlier waves. Autumn and winter swells can be big and powerful, and on those days it is worth checking more sheltered spots nearby. Easterly winds blow offshore here, which is common in spring.
The area around Sennen
Sennen is a great base for exploring the far west of Cornwall. Land's End is a short walk along the coast path, and the Minack Theatre, carved into the cliffs at Porthcurno, is a few miles away. The village also has an RNLI lifeboat station, cafes and a pub overlooking the harbour.
Surf businesses in Sennen
Browse the categories below to find surf schools, surf shops and board hire in Sennen. Every listing shows contact details and directions, and local businesses can claim their listing for free.