Below are just some of our general frequently asked questions about Harlyn Surf School. We do also have specific FAQ sections for our Surf School, Stand Up Paddleboarding, Coasteering and Kayaking.
Where are you based?
We have a cabin right on the beach at Harlyn bay, nearest sat nav postcode is PL28 8SB. Harlyn is well signposted and is approx. 2 miles from Padstow.
Is there parking?
There is a large beach car park with plenty of availability, Please do not park in the Harlyn Inn car park.
What are your opening times?
The surf school is open for business from Easter each year up til the end of November. Office hours are 9 – 5.30. Bookings can be made online outside of these hours. We hope you find all the info on our website and encourage you to book online. You will automatically receive confirmation and full joining instructions.
What times are your lessons?
These vary depending on which activity you choose and the tide times. All times are available via our online booking system.
Where do I meet you for my lesson?
Meet on the beach by our cabin 30 mins prior to your lesson start time. If you have booked paddleboard lessons you will be given a meeting point when booking.
Do you provide all equipment?
Yes all the kit is provided for your lessons. Coasteering, Kayaking and SUP you will need to bring a pair of trainers that you don’t mind getting wet.
How can I book and do I need to book in advance?
We recommend advance booking online using our booking system so we can get you booked in on the day of your choice. You can book at the beach but we cannot guarantee availability for same or next day sessions.
Do you have a card machine at the beach?
Yes we accept most major cards (excluding AMEX) and we also take cash.
Do I have to pay for my lesson in advance?
Yes we require full payment upfront. If booking for a larger group of 8 or more people we may accept a deposit – please contact us.
What if the conditions are not appropriate for my booked session?
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.
What do I need to bring?
Please bring a towel, swimwear for under your wetsuit, sunscreen and any refreshments you require. If you are coasteering you will need to bring trainers that you do not mind getting wet or wetsuit boots. We do not accept open toed shoes or beach shoes.
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?
Of course, one of the instructors carries a waterproof backpack to the shore, so we can take anything you need with us.
I've got my own equipment, can I use it for the lesson?
We’ve got everything you need here, but if you’ve invested in your own wetsuit especially if it is a winter suit you’d be welcome to bring it along. We use winter wetsuits so if you want to be really toasty we advise wearing one of ours. For all of our sessions we require you to wear a full length wetsuit except for kayaking and SUP you may wear a shorty. You are welcome to bring your own surfboard booking a progressor lesson.
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 lifeguard 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. Our instructors all hold lifesaving and coaching qualifications.
Do you have a cancellation / refund policy?
Yes please see our terms and conditions.
Is there anywhere for refreshments nearby?
Yes there is a catering van “Food for Thought” located in the car park during the main season and there is also a variety of pubs, restaurants and bakeries in the immediate area.
Is the beach dog friendly?
Yes Harlyn is one of the few beaches in the areas that allows dogs.
