If you’re searching for the best surf beach UK has to offer, Widemouth Bay in North Cornwall deserves your full attention. Tucked just a few miles south of Bude, this wide, golden-sanded beach has built a well-earned reputation among surfers of all levels — from first-timers to seasoned wave chasers.
At OA Surf Club, we’ve spent years helping people learn to surf, improve their technique, and fall in love with the magic of the ocean. And time after time, we see why Widemouth Bay is often considered one of the best surf beaches in the UK. In this blog, we’ll break down exactly what makes this stretch of coastline so special — and why it should be top of your surf trip list.
Consistent Waves for All Levels
One of the biggest reasons Widemouth Bay stands out as the best surf beach UK wide is its wave consistency. Thanks to its west-facing position, it picks up regular Atlantic swells throughout the year, meaning there's almost always something to ride. Whether you’re after clean summer rollers or more powerful winter sets, Widemouth delivers.
Beginners benefit from the beach’s gently sloping sands, which create long, spilling waves ideal for learning. Meanwhile, intermediate and advanced surfers can often find punchier peaks at either end of the bay, particularly on a pushing tide.
Space to Spread Out
Unlike some of the UK’s more crowded surf spots, Widemouth Bay boasts ample space — both in and out of the water. Even during peak summer months, there’s usually plenty of room to paddle out without feeling cramped. This makes a massive difference, especially for beginners who need space to practice safely and confidently.
For surf schools like ours, this is a game-changer. We can give each student the individual attention they deserve, without battling for wave priority.
Top-Quality Facilities
Another reason Widemouth earns its place as a top UK surf beach is the quality of the local facilities. There’s ample parking right by the sand, clean public toilets, a beach café serving hot drinks and snacks, and even outdoor showers to rinse off post-surf.
At OA Surf Club, our surf school and hire centre is located just minutes from the beach entrance, making it incredibly easy to grab a board, get suited up, and head straight to the waves. Whether you're booking a beginner lesson, joining a weekend course, or just hiring gear, everything you need is close at hand.
Safe and Supervised
When looking for the best surf beach in the UK, safety matters — and Widemouth scores highly here, too. The beach is lifeguarded daily during the main season by RNLI professionals, who mark out safe swim and surf zones and provide extra peace of mind for families and learners.
Our own instructors are fully qualified, DBS-checked, and trained in beach safety. We run our lessons within RNLI-supervised areas, making Widemouth one of the safest places in the country to try surfing for the first time.
Breathtaking Scenery and Local Charm
Of course, surfing isn’t just about the waves — it’s also about the setting. And Widemouth Bay is simply stunning. Surrounded by rugged cliffs and rolling Cornish countryside, it offers unbeatable views, especially at sunrise or sunset.
After your surf, it’s easy to explore the local area. Bude, just a short drive away, has independent shops, great food spots, and a laid-back surf culture that welcomes visitors with open arms.
Year-Round Surfing Opportunities
While many surf spots in the UK are summer-only affairs, Widemouth Bay offers great conditions year-round. With the right wetsuit (and a warm drink after!), autumn and winter can bring quieter beaches and excellent surf. We run surf lessons across all seasons, and some of our most rewarding sessions take place in the cooler months when the waves really come to life.
Final Thoughts
So, is Widemouth Bay the best surf beach UK has to offer? At OA Surf Club, we firmly believe it is — and we’re not alone. With its consistent waves, safe environment, stunning scenery, and welcoming vibe, it ticks every box for surfers and beach lovers alike.
Whether you're planning your first ever lesson or looking to refine your cutback, Widemouth Bay offers the ideal location to progress your surfing journey. Ready to hit the water? Book a lesson or hire your gear with us today — and discover for yourself why Widemouth Bay deserves its place among the UK’s very best surf beaches.
