Cornish Wave
Six Things To Know Before Your First Surf Lesson
The History of Surfing in Newquay, Cornwall
Surfing and Newquay are synonymous. For decades, the town has been the heart of British surfing. Why has Newquay emerged as a premier surfing destination? Let’s dive into the rich history of Cornwall, from the birth of surfing in the UK to modern times.
Early Surfing in the UK
Surfing in the UK has roots dating back to 1890 when two Hawaiian princes, Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole and David Kahalepouli Kawananakoa, surfed at Bridlington, on England’s north-east coast. This is the earliest recorded instance of surfing in Britain (Museum of British Surfing). Fast forward to 1929, Newquay became the birthplace of British surfing when a group of friends, inspired by footage of Australian surfers, took to the waves on wooden bodyboards.
1960s: The Return of Surfing
Surfing’s popularity exploded in the 1960s, driven by Californian and Australian surfers bringing fiberglass boards to the UK. Fistral Beach in Newquay became the epicenter for this resurgence, with its west-facing shoreline and the Cribbar Reef producing consistent high-quality waves. This natural wonder helped Newquay secure its place as the home of British surfing (Cornish Wave).
The Growth of Surf Competitions
In the 1970s and beyond, Newquay became the epicenter for UK surf competitions. The British Surfing Association (BSA), founded in 1966, established Newquay and Fistral Beach as the go-to locations for surfing championships like the BSA’s Gold Rush Big Wave competition, Quicksilver Skins, and the UK Pro Surf Tour (British Surfing Association).
These competitions attracted international surfers and helped Newquay build its global reputation.
Fistral Beach and the Modern Era
Today, Fistral Beach remains the UK's top surfing destination, hosting major events like the **Boardmasters Festival**, which draws thousands of surfers and spectators. The Cribbar reef continues to offer world-class waves, and Newquay has become a global surfing hub, attracting surfers from around the world.
Beyond competitions, Newquay is home to numerous surf schools that play a crucial role in introducing new generations to the sport. These schools are accredited by the BSA and help solidify Newquay’s place at the heart of UK surfing culture (Museum of British Surfing).
Surf Schools: Securing the Future of Newquay’s Surf Culture
Modern-day surf schools in Newquay ensure the sport's future by making it accessible to everyone. With trained instructors and top-notch facilities, these schools cater to all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned surfers. They also offer lessons in related water sports like bodyboarding and coasteering.
As Newquay continues to thrive as a surf destination, these schools will play a vital role in promoting safe and sustainable surfing practices. The presence of accredited surf schools means that surfing is more accessible and popular than ever.
