When Is The Best Time To Surf Newquay?
Newquay is the home of British surfing. When the conditions align, you can experience world-class waves in this vibrant surf town. But when is the best time to surf Newquay?
The short answer is throughout the year, as there’s basically always a wave to ride at Newquay. However, certain times of year and conditions produce far better waves - mostly it depends on your skill level.
For beginners or those building on their skills, May through to September (the warmer months) are a great time to get out. Skyhook's local Guides hold their two Newquay surfing trips (4-Night Newquay Surf Camp and Surfing, Coasteering & Wild Camping in Cornwall) during this time.
Here’s everything you need to know about the best time to surf Newquay to help you plan your coastal holidays.
When is the Best Time to Surf Newquay?
The best time to surf in Newquay, Cornwall, largely depends on your surfing preferences and skill level.
However, for optimal surfing conditions, the best time is typically during the autumn (September to November) and winter months (December to February). During these times, the Atlantic Ocean swells tend to be larger, creating better waves.
The autumn and winter months often bring more consistent swells and stronger waves due to storms in the Atlantic. The water temperature is colder during these seasons, though, so wearing a suitable wetsuit is essential.
That said, Newquay can be surfed year-round as it's a popular surfing destination with waves available in different seasons.
Spring and summer also offer surfable conditions, but the waves may be smaller and more suitable for beginners or those who prefer gentler waves. However, the summer months also bring warmer water temperatures and sunnier skies. What's not to love!
Ultimately, the best time to surf in Newquay depends on your surfing ability, preferences regarding wave size, and your tolerance for different weather and water temperatures. Checking local surf forecasts and conditions before heading out is advisable to help you prepare for your surf.
And if you arrive in Newquay and there’s no surf, don’t worry! The area offers loads of other fun outdoor activities, like hiking, doing yoga classes in Cornwall or even Cornwall wild camping.
When is the Best Time to Surf Newquay for Beginners?
Surfing for beginners in Cornwall is ideal, as the area offers many gentle waves that are perfect for learning. Of all the surf spots in Cornwall, Newquay is the best place to learn.
For beginners, the best time to surf in Newquay typically falls during the spring and summer months, particularly from April to August. During this period, the weather is generally milder, and the waves tend to be smaller and more manageable, which is ideal for those who are new to surfing.
Spring and summer offer more consistent smaller waves compared to the larger swells typically experienced in autumn and winter. The water temperatures also tend to be more comfortable during these months, making it easier for beginners to spend extended periods in the water without feeling too cold.
The gentler conditions in spring and summer also create a better learning environment for beginners to practice their skills and gain confidence on the board. Newquay's beaches offer various spots suitable for novice surfers, with some beaches having more forgiving waves that are better for learning.
Newquay Surf Conditions
If you’re going to surf in Cornwall, then you probably want to do some surfing in Newquay. It’s the UK’s capital of surfing, and it offers consistent waves for all levels of surfers.
With eleven beaches around Newquay, there’s always a wave to catch somewhere. However, if you want to figure out the best time to surf Newquay, then it’s important to understand what influences the surfing conditions.
Here are some of the main factors to consider.
Swell
Here’s a very brief breakdown of Newquay’s swell conditions:
Autumn (September to November): This season typically brings larger swells, providing more consistent and powerful waves. The Atlantic storms generate sizable waves, ideal for experienced surfers.
Winter (December to February): Similar to autumn, winter sees substantial swells, offering good surf conditions for intermediate to advanced surfers. Wave heights can be impressive but may be less suitable for beginners due to the stronger currents.
Be sure to check the swell size before planning your surf. You can also watch live webcam footage of popular Newquay surf spots for a better idea of how the waves are looking.
Wind
Cornwall is a windy place. When the wind is blowing onshore, it can seriously mess up the surf at Newquay.
Spring (March to May) and summer (June to August) are the best times of the year for clean winds. These seasons often experience lighter winds, creating cleaner and more manageable waves, particularly suitable for beginners and those looking for smaller waves to practice on.
While there is often some swell coming through, the best time to surf Newquay is usually when the winds aren’t blowing too hard.
Water Temperature
The water temperature can seriously affect your surf experience.
In summer, water temperatures are generally warmer and more comfortable for surfing, making it more inviting for extended surf sessions without freezing.
In autumn and winter, the water temperatures drop during these seasons. This means you need thicker wetsuits to keep warm.
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Tides
At Newquay, the incoming tides generally produce better conditions, especially for beginners, as waves break more gently during these times.
The outgoing tides can sometimes create faster and more challenging waves, suitable for more experienced surfers. Try to check the tides before you go surfing.
Seasonal Considerations
Spring and summer offer more consistent smaller waves, making it ideal for beginners to practice and improve their skills. This is also when you get the most enjoyable, sunny beach experience.
Autumn and winter months provide larger, more powerful waves, attracting experienced surfers seeking more challenging conditions. You can get great surf at this time, as long as you’re able to brave the cold.
That being said, when the conditions line up properly, you can get great waves at any time of the year.
Newquay Beaches
In order to understand the best time to surf Newquay, you also need to understand the different beaches around the town.
Newquay boasts several beaches, each offering unique surfing conditions suited for different skill levels and preferences. Here’s an overview of these beaches.
Fistral Beach:
Conditions: The most popular beach, suitable for various skill levels.
Best Performance: Works well during smaller swells for beginners, while larger swells cater to experienced surfers.
Ideal Conditions: Mid to high tides for better wave shape.
Towan Beach
Conditions: Best for beginners during smaller swells.
Best Performance: Gentle waves during smaller swells provide an excellent learning environment for beginners.
Ideal Conditions: Low to mid tides for manageable waves.
Watergate Bay
Conditions: Suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Best Performance: Offers varied conditions and space for surfers of different levels.
Ideal Conditions: Mid to high tides for more consistent waves.
Porth Beach
Conditions: Varies, but often suitable for beginners.
Best Performance: Works well during smaller swells, providing gentler waves.
Ideal Conditions: Mid to high tides for more consistent waves.
Crantock Beach
Conditions: Can cater to various skill levels.
Best Performance: Offers a mix of waves suitable for both beginners and intermediate surfers.
Ideal Conditions: Lower tides for better wave shape.
Each beach in Newquay has its own unique characteristics and performs differently under various swell sizes, tides, and wind conditions. Understanding these differences helps surfers choose the most suitable beach based on their skill level and the prevailing surf conditions at the time of their visit.
Tips for Surfing Newquay
Other than choosing the best time to surf Newquay, there are a few important considerations you should keep in mind for a better surf experience. To start with, we recommend linking up with a reputable surf instructor, like Skyhook's local Hosts.
After that, here are some tips to help you catch the best waves in Newquay.
Check Surf Conditions
Always check the local surf forecasts and conditions before heading out. Websites, apps, or local surf shops can provide up-to-date information on swell size, wind direction, tides, and water temperature.
In fact, you can even search for live webcam footage of Newquay’s surf conditions online. If you’re renting a board or getting lessons, then call the shop in advance to ask them when the best time to surf Newquay will be.
Choose the Right Beach
Newquay has several beaches, each offering different surfing conditions. Choose a beach that matches your skill level and preferences for wave size and intensity.
Luckily Newquay is a relatively small town, so you can drive along the coast and check out each of the beaches and their surf conditions before settling on a spot.
Respect Local Rules
Familiarize yourself with any local surfing rules or guidelines at the beach you're visiting. Respect other surfers and beachgoers, and always prioritize safety.
You also need to be aware that when the waves are good in Newquay, the surf can get very crowded. So, always be prepared for crowds. If this isn’t your thing, then try to get into the water as early as possible.
Safety First
Be aware of rip currents and how to identify them. If caught in a rip, stay calm, signal for help, and swim parallel to the shore to escape its pull.
Lifeguards are very active at all Newquay beaches. Always surf within their designated zones and listen to any announcements they make from the beach.
Use Suitable Equipment
Ensure you have the right surfboard and wetsuit for the prevailing conditions. Thicker wetsuits are necessary in colder months to stay warm.
Choosing a suitable board can make your surfing experience infinitely more enjoyable.
Take Lessons if Needed
If you're a beginner or looking to improve your skills, consider taking lessons from certified instructors or joining surf schools in Newquay. They can provide guidance and enhance your surfing experience.
Respect Other Surfers
Be mindful of other surfers in the water. Practice proper surfing etiquette, wait your turn for waves, and avoid cutting off or endangering others.
Stay Hydrated and Protected
Wear sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially during sunny days. Protect your skin and eyes from the sun and saltwater.
Even though Cornwall is often overcast and cloudy, you can still experience sun damage in these conditions. Being proactive with sunscreen no matter how sunny is always a good idea.
Be Patient and Have Fun
Surfing takes practice and patience. Don't get discouraged by falls or challenges. Enjoy the experience, embrace the learning process, and have fun riding the waves!
Conclusion
Knowing the best time to surf in Newquay can help you plan strategically. Luckily, there are many surf shops and websites dedicated to Newquay surf, so there’s plenty of information available about the latest surf conditions.
Whether it's summer or winter, you can always have an awesome time surfing in Newquay. Just be prepared for the specific conditions of the day, and you’ll make great memories.
