A Beginner’s Guide to Surfing in Wales: Where and How to Start

Living in Cathays as a Cardiff Uni student, I never thought surfing would be so accessible—until I gave it a shot. Whether you’re looking for a new hobby, a break from uni stress, or just an excuse to escape the city for a day, surfing is an epic way to explore Wales’ stunning coastline and challenge yourself in the process.

The best part? You don’t need to be a pro to get started. Here’s everything you need to know about learning to surf in Wales, from the best beginner-friendly beaches to how you can get involved through Cardiff University Surf Sports.

Best Beginner Surf Spots in Wales

Wales has some of the best surf beaches in the UK, and plenty of them are beginner-friendly. Here are a few great spots to check out:

🌊 Rest Bay, Porthcawl

📍 Closest to Cardiff – 45 mins by train or car
This is one of the most accessible surf spots from Cardiff, making it ideal for day trips. The waves here are consistent, and there’s a surf school right on the beach, so you can rent gear and get lessons easily.

💡 Best for: First-timers who want a structured lesson with professional instructors.

🌊 Llangennith, Gower Peninsula

📍 About 1.5 hours from Cardiff
Llangennith is legendary in the Welsh surf scene. The beach is massive, meaning there’s plenty of space to practice without feeling like you’re getting in the way of the pros. There are also surf shops and rental places nearby, so you don’t need to own any gear.

💡 Best for: Beginners who want room to practice without feeling crowded.

🌊 Caswell Bay, Swansea

📍 1 hour from Cardiff
Caswell Bay has gentle, rolling waves—perfect for learning. It’s a beautiful spot, and it’s less intimidating than some of the bigger surf beaches. Plus, it’s got a café nearby, so you can warm up with a coffee after your session.

💡 Best for: Smaller waves and a chilled-out vibe.

🌊 Freshwater West, Pembrokeshire

📍 A bit further—about 2 hours from Cardiff
If you’re up for a proper road trip, Freshwater West is one of Wales’ most stunning beaches. It’s where they filmed Dobby’s grave in Harry Potter, so it’s worth visiting for that alone! The waves here are great for all levels, but the currents can be strong, so stick to surf lessons if you’re a beginner.

💡 Best for: A weekend trip with mates who want to surf and explore Pembrokeshire.

How to Get Started with Surfing

🏄 Step 1: Book a Lesson

If you’ve never surfed before, getting a lesson is 100% worth it. Instructors will teach you how to paddle, pop up, and stay safe in the water. Most of the beaches above have surf schools where you can book beginner lessons.

🏄 Step 2: Rent or Buy a Board

As a beginner, you’ll want a soft-top foam board—they’re easier to balance on and safer if (when) you wipe out. Most surf schools rent boards and wetsuits, so you don’t need to buy anything straight away.

🏄 Step 3: Join Cardiff Uni Surf Sports

If you’re keen to surf more regularly, Cardiff University Surf Sports is a great way to get involved. They organize beginner-friendly surf trips, provide access to kit, and have an amazing social scene too. Even if you’ve never surfed before, they welcome all levels.

📌 Find out more & sign up here: Cardiff Surf Sports

Top Surfing Tips for Beginners

Check the weather & tide – Surfing is best when the tide is mid-incoming, and early mornings often have calmer conditions.
Wear a wetsuit – Welsh waters are cold all year round, so a 4/3mm wetsuit is your best bet for staying warm.
Start on smaller waves – Don’t rush into the big ones! Practicing in whitewater (broken waves) helps build confidence.
Don’t go alone – If you’re new, always surf with a mate or a lesson group for safety.
Have fun & don’t stress! – Everyone wipes out (a lot) at first—just keep trying!

Final Thoughts: Give It a Go!

Surfing in Wales is so much more accessible than people think, and it’s one of the best ways to get outside, meet new people, and take a break from uni stress. Whether you’re heading to Rest Bay for a quick session or making a weekend trip to Llangennith, you’ll quickly see why so many people fall in love with the sport.

So, grab a wetsuit, book a lesson, and give it a go—you might just find your new favourite hobby.