Surfing in Holywell Bay: Best Surf Lessons and Travel Guide
Introduction to Surfing at Holywell Bay
Holywell Bay is one of Cornwall’s best lowkey beaches. It features a wide, sheltered beach tucked into the cliffs three miles south of Newquay that delivers consistent Atlantic surf in a setting far removed from the bustle of its famous neighbour. Flanked by dramatic dunes and backed by a coastline of extraordinary natural beauty, it faces directly into the southwest swell window and picks up waves with impressive regularity throughout the year.
It is stunning in a way that stops you in your tracks the first time you see it. For families, beginners and surfers who want quality waves without the crowds, Holywell Bay is one of the most complete and appealing destinations on the entire Cornish coast.
A beautiful landscape of Holywell Bay featuring Cornwall Surfing Academy bringing a couple learners out for some lessons.
Seasons to Surf
- Winter Season — November to March: Advanced recommendation. The Atlantic delivers its most powerful and consistent swell to Holywell during winter, with well-shaped beach break waves that reward experienced surfers prepared to handle the cold and the occasional heavy set.
- Summer Season — June to August: Beginner recommendation. Smaller, friendlier waves and the full beauty of a Cornish summer make Holywell one of the most welcoming surf beaches in the county for beginners and families. The sheltered nature of the bay keeps conditions manageable even on livelier days, and the beach itself — golden sand, rock pools and towering dunes — is simply one of the finest in Cornwall.
- Shoulder Seasons — March to May and September to November: The finest window for most surfers who want weather, waves, and smaller crowds. Although can be a hit or miss.
Beautiful waters, sunny weather, and good waves. Photo provided by Cornwall Surfing Academy.
Recommended Surf Spots
Holywell Bay
Holywell Bay faces southwest, giving it a clean line into the Atlantic swell that rolls in from the open ocean and wraps into the sheltered curve of the bay.
The sandy bottom produces a consistent and forgiving beach break that reforms across multiple peaks depending on the state of the tide, offering options for surfers across a wide range of ability levels. On smaller days the waves are long, gentle and ideal for those learning the ropes.
Holywell Bay showing its best side. Clean Atlantic surf on one of Cornwall’s most beautiful beaches.
Recommended Surf Schools
Cornwall Surfing Academy
Cornwall Surfing Academy is a family-run surf school with over 22 years of experience operating across Holywell Bay and Newquay, making it one of the most established and trusted surf operations in the county.
Lessons run for all ages and ability levels, from complete beginners catching their first wave through to improvers working on their technique and confidence in bigger surf. Group lessons, private sessions and family packages are all available, with small group sizes ensuring that every student gets real attention in the water. Hence, were happy to recommend them to you all, if your looking for a fun session in Holywell!
Cornwall Surfing Academy having a fun time getting their students out in the water during a set.
Five Other Things to Do Around Holywell Bay
- Holywell Beach Rock Pools: The rock pools at the southern end of the bay are among the finest in Cornwall.
- Crantock Beach: A short walk or drive around the headland brings you to Crantock, another beautiful and relatively uncrowded beach that is well worth a visit for a change of scenery and a slightly different surf environment.
- Newquay Town: Three miles up the coast, Newquay offers everything from excellent seafood restaurants and independent cafes to the famous Fistral Beach and the energy of Cornwall’s surf capital.
Another beautiful shot of Holywell Bay. Photo provided by Cornwall Surfing Academy.
Conclusion About Surfing in Holywell Bay
Holywell Bay rewards everyone who finds it. It is a beach that manages to be simultaneously dramatic and gentle, wild and welcoming — a combination that very few places on the Cornish coast can honestly claim. The surf is consistent and accessible, the setting is extraordinary and the presence of one of Cornwall’s most experienced and well-regarded surf schools right on the beach makes it one of the most complete and practical surf destinations in the south west of England.
A landscape view of Holywell Bay on a cloudy day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need experience to surf at Holywell Bay?
Not at all. Cornwall Surfing Academy runs lessons for complete beginners of all ages, and the sheltered nature of the bay makes it one of the most forgiving and welcoming beaches in Cornwall for those just starting out.
What is the best time of year to surf at Holywell Bay?
Summertime for beginners is consistent swell, offshore mornings and a beach that is refreshingly quiet after the summer season.
How do I get to Holywell Bay?
Holywell Bay is signposted off the A3075 between Newquay and Perranporth. There is a pay and display car park at the top of the beach with a short walk down through the dunes to the sand.
Is equipment provided during lessons?
Yes. All lessons with Cornwall Surfing Academy include a board and wetsuit as standard, so there is nothing to organise before you arrive.
What wetsuit thickness do I need at Holywell Bay?
A 4/3mm fullsuit is recommended from October through to April. During the summer months a 3/2mm is generally sufficient, though water temperatures in Cornwall rarely climb above 17°C even at their warmest.
Is Holywell Bay suitable for families?
It is one of the best family beaches in Cornwall. The rock pools, dunes, golden sand and relatively sheltered conditions make it an ideal day out for all ages, and Cornwall Surfing Academy offers dedicated family surf sessions throughout the season.
Are there other surf spots worth visiting in England?
Absolutely. Check out Surf Travel Guide for England for more locations to surf in England.