Wales, with its rugged coastline and exposure to the Atlantic Ocean, offers a variety of surfing experiences. While the country may not receive the same consistent swells as regions like Ireland, it still boasts several notable surf destinations.
Wales Surf Season and Weather Conditions
The optimal surfing conditions in Wales typically occur during the autumn and winter months, from September to March. During this period, the Atlantic storms generate swells that reach the Welsh coastline, providing favorable conditions for surfing. The water temperature during these months averages around 8°C (46°F), necessitating appropriate wetsuit gear.
Wales surfing spots and beaches
The perfect surf forecast will call for a southwest swell of good size, like in the 2-3-meter range. In these conditions large sets will slip in between the southwest of England and the south end of Ireland and into the craggy coastline of Wales. Top spots in Wales are Porthcawl and Pembrokeshire.
Porthcawl: Located in Bridgend County, Porthcawl is renowned for its consistent waves and vibrant surf community. The main break, known as Rest Bay, offers beach breaks for various skill levels. It’s a beach and point break comb that goes flat in summer and shows its best face during spring and autumn transition seasons. Best to time your session with a higher tide and northeast winds to score the optimal conditions. The area is also home to the Porthcawl Surf School, which operates year-round.
Pembrokeshire: This region is home to several surf spots, with Freshwater West being particularly notable. Freshwater West is a beach and reef combination exposed to various swells, offering waves suitable for different skill levels. The area is also home to the Outer Reef Surf School, which offers lessons and equipment rentals.
Learn to surf in Wales: best schools and lessons
Porthcawl Surf School: Open year-round (except on Christmas), they offer group lessons starting at £35 per person.
Outer Reef Surf School: Located in Pembrokeshire, they offer two-hour lessons for £40 to groups of two or more.
Hotels for surfers in Wales
Snowdonia Glamping Cabins: Consider Snowdonia’s famous glamping cabins for a unique stay. These tube-shaped wood structures sleep up to four and cost £80 per night for one to two people during peak times. Guests have access to a hot tub and sauna, with additional fees for the wave pool.
High Noon Guest House: Located near castle ruins in South Pembrokeshire, this quaint bed and breakfast offers vegetarian dishes and personal service. Rates start at £80 per night.
The Mary House Porthcawl: Centrally located near the harbor and lighthouse. All shops and restaurants of downtown are nearby as are the peeling rights and lefts of Coney Beach. Rates start at £75 per night and they offer a “Best Rate Guarantee. If you time your stay in late September, you’ll be able to catch the Porthcawl Elvis Festival, one of the largest Elvis fests in the world.
Wales is a great vacation place for water sports activities.
Wales surfing guide and tips prepared by Bryan Dickerson (wavepoolmag.com) for Dailystoke.com’s surf guides. Photo by Lukas Juhas
