Top 10 Longboarding breaks in the UK

Top 10 Longboarding breaks in the UK

1. Crantock, Cornwall

Crantock is a popular sandbar near Newquay's Fistral Beach, favored by local longboarders. Located at the north end of the beach where the River Gannel meets the sea, it offers a sweet right-hander peeling off the rocks. The spot is more sheltered from the wind compared to nearby surf spots, and on sunny days, the water can be clear and blue. A recommended tip is to enjoy a pub lunch at the Bowgie Inn after surfing.

2. South Bay, Scarborough

For those residing on the east coast of the UK, South Bay in Scarborough is an excellent spot for mellow longboarding waves. Ideal conditions include a northerly swell with north-west winds. The welcoming local community is friendly to newcomers, but it's advisable to stay alert, especially on busy days when there can be over 70 surfers in the water. A top tip is to visit the surf shop Fluid Concept to stock up on wax and gather more information about the break from local surfers.

3. Saunton Sands, Devon

Saunton Sands offers one of the UK's best longboarding waves—a slow, easy break ideal for noseriders seeking an extended ride. Best surfed during the incoming tide, it surges up the Bristol Channel. A tip for visitors: During peak summer, arrive before 9 am or in the evenings to park for free next to the beach and avoid expensive car park fees.

4. Skaill Bay, Orkney, Scotland

For cold-water enthusiasts, Skaill Bay in Orkney, where the North Sea meets the Atlantic, offers a stunning, uncrowded point break. Positioned at the northernmost point in the UK, it thrives on a north-westerly swell and a south-easterly wind. Adjacent to Skaill Bay, Skara Brae is another excellent surf break. A tip for surfers: Skaill Bay is especially appealing during the summer months, boasting minimal crowds and the advantage of long daylight hours, allowing surfing from 5 am until nearly midnight.

5. Inch, Co Kerry, Ireland

Inch on the Dingle Peninsula is renowned for hosting one of Ireland's longest waves, reaching up to 200 yards under favorable conditions. The Strand, a 3km-long mellow beach break, attracts tourists and longboarders in the summer, thriving on south-westerly swells. The Reef, though infrequent, can yield an incredible right-handed wave for patient surfers.

A valuable tip is to rent a car and embark on the Wild Atlantic Way to discover some of the best surf spots in Ireland, including hidden gems.

 

6. Broughton, Gower Peninsula, Wales

Located just above Rhossili Bay on the Gower Peninsula, Broughton is a longboarders' paradise celebrated for its extended rides during significant swells. While it offers intermediate-level waves, caution is advised at low tide due to potential dangers like rips and strong estuary currents across the bay.

For those seeking smaller waves or beginners, a top tip is to visit Llangennith, a nearby 4km beach suitable for all skill levels if Broughton's waves are too small or challenging.

 

7. Sennen, Cornwall

Located just north of Land's End, Sennen is the westernmost beach on mainland UK and a beloved destination for longboarders nationwide. The rugged sandy beach is known for capturing even the slightest westward swell, with waves growing larger towards the northern end. Optimal surfing conditions are during low to mid tides.

A top tip for visitors is to visit Little Bo Cafe for a well-deserved bagel and coffee after enjoying a dip in the sea at Sennen.

 

8. Brandon Bay, Ireland

Brandon Bay, a vast 6km beach break on the southwest coast of Ireland, boasts a crescent bay that captures ample swell, resulting in gentle, peeling waves. Particularly friendly for longboarding in the summer, surfers can enjoy extended sessions and then relax in the sand dunes, watching the sunset over the ocean.

A valuable tip is to park at Gowlane, especially when waves are small, as this section of the beach tends to get waves even when the rest appears flat.

9. Woolacombe, Devon

If Saunton is overcrowded, head up the North Devon coastline to Woolacombe, often voted among Europe's best beaches. This three-mile long sandy beach break attracts tourists in the summer and longboarders seeking glassy peelers. Next door on Barricane Beach, there's a delightful cafe serving delicious Sri Lankan curry during the summer months, worth a try.

A top tip is to explore Combesgate at the north end of the beach when the tide is super low for some enjoyable waves.

 

10. St Ouen’s Bay, Jersey

St. Ouen's Bay stands out as the premier surfing destination on the island of Jersey. A hotspot since the 1960s, it was once among Europe's top surf spots, attracting hundreds of enthusiasts. The bay features various breaks, including Secrets and Watersplash, both favored by longboarders. St. Ouen's Bay frequently hosts national longboarding competitions.
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