Harlyn Bay in Cornwall is simply one of the best locations to choose for your watersports actvities and we are recognised as ‘The Number 1 surf school on the North Cornish coast’ by the Sunday Times! Whether you want to learn to surf, or improve on your surfing skills, them come and meet our fantastic team of instructors. Beginner, Improver, Group and Private lessons are all available for all ages. If surfing is not your thing then why not try one of other activities, Paddleboarding, Coasteering or Sit on Top kayaking.
Why learn to surf with us?
Harlyn Surf School is one of the UK’s premier surf schools, and with season 2024 being our milestone 30th year, we can probably claim to being one of the UK’s longest running surf schools as well!
We have an amazing location on what we think is one of the most beautiful and unspoilt beaches in Cornwall. Harlyn also happens to be one of the safest beaches on the North Cornish coast and is perfect to try a variety of watersports safely. That is why Harlyn has been voted as one of the top 5 beaches in the UK for activities and families and in the top 10 of beaches worldwide – what an accolade!! See our Surf School FAQ’s.
Choose Your Surfing Adventure
Surf Lessons
Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned surfer, we have a variety of different surfing lessons available.
Our Surf Lessons
Equipment Hire
We offer a great range of top quality surf hire including wetsuits, surfboards, bodyboards, paddleboards and sit on top kayaks ready for you right on the beach.
Our Equipment Hire
Surf School FAQ’s
How often do your lessons run?
We run lessons daily 3 times a day in peak season from 10 – 11.30, 12-1.30 and 2- 3.30. All of our sessions can be booked online and timings are shown. We ask you to meet us 30 mins prior to your lesson start time so we can check you in and kit you out.
Is all the equipment provided?
Yes we provide a range of quality wetsuits and a great range of surfboards.
What is the max class size?
We work on a ratio of 1 instructor to 8 pupils although class sizes are often smaller. Private lessons are available for individuals, couples or families
How do I book lessons? Do I need to book in advance?
We are often teaching during the day and we would love you to book everything using our online booking system if posssible – you will find most, if not all the answers to any questions you have throughout the website FAQ’s and activity pages. Please email us if you have any further question. We do take bookings from our beach base but we highly recommend you book in advance to guarantee availability.
Can i book more than one session?
Of course – If you really want to get to grips with surfing we recommend a series of lessons. You are never too good to stop learning!
What is the min/max age?
We run lessons for children starting from age 5. Our 1hr fun sessions are especially designed for 5-7 yr olds. There is no max age just as long as you can put a wetsuit on and make it down to the water you are most welcome.
When does summer camp start?
From the first Monday in July and runs every week throughout July and August. We do run a summer camp as on a one off over the Whitsun break.
Where do we meet?
At our beach cabin right on the beach at Harlyn Bay – Plenty of parking available.
What do I need to bring?
Towel, something to wear under your wetsuit, suncream and if you are also taking part in coasteering, sup or kayaking remember to bring a pair of trainers.
I am part of a group with mixed ability – can we stay together?
Yes for the most part – it is best to email us with your specific requirements, let us know age and ability range.
What if the conditions are not appropriate for my lesson?
If we deem the conditions not appropriate on the day we will try and contact you in advance. Please note conditions can change very quickly and it is not always possible for us to contact clients. If the session is cancelled we will try and rearrange or offer you an alternative activity subject to availability (see terms and conditions). The weather can be unpredictable and the safety of our clients is very important to us. Please note we do not cancel if it is raining.
Is there somewhere to leave belongings?
We recommend leaving your belongings in your vehicles once changed. We can look after your keys during your session. We ask you not to leave your personal belongings around the surf school as it can get very busy around our base.
I've got an inhaler / insulin / medication, can I bring it with me on the lesson?
Yes our instructors will have a drybag with them at the shoreline and it can be kept there. Please make sure that the person completing the booking has declared any medical conditions on the online system and MOST importantly informs your allocated instructor before your lesson starts shoukd you have medical conditions or physical concerns we need to be made aware of.
I've got my own equipment, can I use it for the lesson?
If you have your own full length wetsuit and have booked a lesson in the summer months June to end of September you are most welcome. You can wear your own shorty wetsuit if kayaking or paddleboarding. You can use your own surfboard if you have booked our intermediate or progressor lessons.
Will I be safe during my activity?
Rest assured Harlyn beach is one of the safest beaches on the North Cornish coast. It is lifeguard patrolled from Easter to the end of September. All of our instructors hold lifesaving qualifications and the surf school is accredited and regulated by a number of different bodies including Adventure Activities Licensing Service which ensures we operate to the highest standards.
Do you have a cancellation / refund policy?
Yes please see our terms and conditions.
Is there anywhere for refreshments nearby?
Yes – on site we have two refreshment facilities The Big Pan and Beachbox both offering a great range of food options. There are also a variety of pubs, restaurants and bakeries in the immediate area and of course the obligatory ice cream van!
Is the beach dog friendly?
Yes Harlyn is one of the few beaches in the areas that allows dogs.
