South Cornwall and Devon

15 Surf spots
families beginners
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Positives
  • North wind protection
  • Handles large swells
  • Good reefbreaks
  • Easy access
Negatives
  • Cold water
  • Cool and wet climate
  • Crowds
  • Pollution
  • Expensive

South Cornwall and Devon surf travel guide

South Cornwall and Devon's breaks are less consistent than their north coast counterparts but what they lack in consistency, they make up for in quality. Porthleven, one of England's finest reefs, is in the area. This coast usually needs an element of S in the Atlantic swells, although a massive W will wrap in, as will a NW at a few reefs. Southerly swells from Biscay lows can also light up the area's diverse breaks. The dominant SW airflow means onshores are a major problem in the area. Easterly windswells coming down the English Channel can also provide waves for the desperate. Summer can be painfully flat, September onwards can be rewarding but it depends on the track of the lows, if the lows are running north then Cornwall's south coast lays dormant.

Surf spots in South Cornwall and Devon

Research the 15 surf breaks in South Cornwall and Devon and discover what spots suit the current conditions.

Break lowdown

We’ve collated the wave data giving you a unique insight into the 15 breaks in South Cornwall and Devon.

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When to go

Surf and weather statistics to help plan your surf trip to South Cornwall and Devon

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Travel Information

General
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Tourists
35,548,200
Population
55,980,000
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Visas

Since Brexit, unrestricted travel between the UK and the EU is over. The current system allows for visa free travel for up to 90/180 days a year. Beyond 90 days things get very complicated so check online for the details. US, Canada, OZ, NZ and some others follow the same 90-180 day rules. Most other countries need a visa before arrival. more info here 

Getting Around

It's about 2 hours from Plymouth To Penzance and 45 minutes to Bantham but you can almost double that on busy summer weekends. Get up very early to avoid traffic and get in the water early!

Accommodation

Most people will stay on the more consistent and exposed north coast and hit the south coast when the wind swings north. If you do stay on the south coast there are the usual endless B&B's and campsites - It's best to keep west to get more swell and allow for quicker times to the north coast spots. Praa sands makes a great base.

Activities
cultureoutdoorurbanwatersports

The Eden Project near St Austell is well worth a day trip. Huge domes contain thousands of plant species from around the world. Penzance is a great little town with plenty to do and you get a ferry from here to the Scilly Islands where reports of mysto waves continue to circulate. Plymouth has full city entertainment and lots of naval historic sites.

Hazards & hassles

The breaks around Porthleven and near Plymouth get super busy but you can find some space here and there if you put the time in. Snagging a wave at Porthleven from the local crew is tough. The dominant SW winds are onshore at most spots which can get frustrating as can long flat spells.

Handy Hints

Timing is key. Knowing the best swell, wind and tide combo is essential to getting good waves along this fickle coastline.

Due to global pandemic, Visas, Getting There, Getting Around or Accommodation information and pricing may have changed. Always check Government Travel Advice before travelling.

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