If you've always wanted to ride the waves but don’t know where to start, there's no better place to learn to surf than Cornwall’s beautiful Widemouth Bay. At OA Surf Club, we specialise in helping beginners build confidence, develop skills, and fall in love with the ocean — all while having a blast.
As a proudly local surf school with years of experience, we’ve pulled together our top 10 tips to help you learn to surf like a pro. (And if you're closer to Summerleaze Beach, our sister surf school, Big Blue Surf, offers the same expert guidance in Bude!)
1. Pick the Right Beach for Beginners
Widemouth Bay is one of the best beaches in Cornwall to learn to surf. Its wide sandy stretch and consistent waves make it ideal for first-timers. At OA Surf Club, we run daily beginner sessions in waist-deep water, giving you the safest and most supportive environment to get started.
2. Take a Lesson with Qualified Instructors
Learning with friends is fun — but learning with professionals is smart. Our qualified surf coaches know how to break everything down into simple steps. Whether it’s your first time on a board or you’ve had a few goes before, an OA lesson will boost your confidence and improve your technique.
3. Start with a Foamie (Not a Shortboard!)
We know shortboards look cool — but they’re not the best for learning. We’ll kit you out with a soft foam board that’s stable, buoyant and forgiving. It’s the best way to practise balance and catch your first waves successfully.
4. Learn Ocean Awareness Early
Before we even get in the water, we’ll teach you about tides, currents and how to read the surf. Understanding the ocean is just as important as knowing how to stand up. Our team will help you feel safe and in control in the sea.
5. Practise Your Pop-Up on Land
It might feel silly at first, but practising your pop-up on the sand helps train your muscles for the real thing. We’ll guide you through the correct technique before hitting the water — making the transition from belly to feet far smoother.
6. Stay Low and Look Ahead
Once you’re up, bend your knees and keep your eyes looking forward. Standing too tall or looking down can throw off your balance. Our instructors will help you fine-tune your posture so you can ride those waves with confidence.
7. Embrace the Wipeouts
Yes, you’ll fall off — and that’s totally normal! Wipeouts are part of the learning process. At OA Surf Club, we create a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where mistakes are part of the fun. Every fall brings you one step closer to standing up for good.
8. Dress for the Conditions
Even in summer, Cornwall’s water can be a little chilly. We’ll provide you with a well-fitted wetsuit so you stay warm and comfortable during your session. The right gear makes all the difference when you’re spending time in the surf.
9. Go at Your Own Pace
Everyone learns differently. Some people pop up on their first try, others take a few sessions — and both are totally fine. Our small group sizes and personalised coaching mean you’ll get the support you need, at a pace that suits you.
10. Keep Practising (and Stay Stoked!)
The more time you spend in the water, the better you’ll get. After your lesson, keep practising what you’ve learned. We offer progression sessions, multi-day courses and surf hire to help you keep improving — and stay stoked.
Learn to Surf in Cornwall with OA Surf Club
Whether you’re a complete beginner or coming back for another go, OA Surf Club at Widemouth Bay is the perfect place to learn to surf. With friendly instructors, amazing scenery and safe, consistent waves, you’ll be up and riding in no time.
And if you’re visiting Bude, check out our sister school, Big Blue Surf, based at Summerleaze Beach — same great teaching, different stretch of coast!
Book Your Surf Lesson Today
Ready to ride your first wave? Join us at OA Surf Club and discover how easy — and fun — it can be to learn to surf in Cornwall. Lessons run daily from Widemouth Bay. All equipment provided. Just bring a towel, a smile, and your sense of adventure!
