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Harlyn Surf School

Harlyn, United Kingdom•5(257)•Beaches, Skate Park

Learn to surf at Cornwall's premier surf school on the safe, family-friendly Harlyn Bay beach with expert instructors and 30+ years of experience.

Harlyn Surf School is one of the UK's most established and respected water sports venues, founded in 1994 and based at the exceptional Harlyn Bay near Padstow. Recognised by The Sunday Times as "the best surf school on the North Cornish Coast," the school operates from one of the safest and most versatile watersports beaches in the South West. The venue offers expertly delivered surf lessons, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), coasteering, and kayaking experiences. Their programmes cater to beginners, families, children (including summer surf camps for 8-14 year-olds), improvers, and returning surfers. The school maintains industry-leading safety, training and governance standards, holding AALS and Cornwall Council licenses. Harlyn Bay itself is a rare two-mile crescent of golden sand with rock pools and dramatic cliffs, sheltered and spacious enough for families to enjoy. The location is family-friendly and dog-friendly, with booking required for all activities. Beyond lessons, the venue offers surf hire, SUP hire, sea kayak hire, gift vouchers, and special group activities including school trips, corporate team building, and stag and hen experiences. With 32 years of proven excellence and outstanding reviews across Google, TripAdvisor and Facebook, Harlyn Surf School remains a trusted choice for families and groups seeking quality coastal water sports instruction.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: Closed
Friday: Closed
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Book in advance

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly
Follow:

Google Reviews

5(257 reviews)
G
Graham Triggs

Graham Triggs

a month ago

Ryan had three session over the week we stayed and loved it. The instructors were really good and got him standing up from day one. The surf lessons were the highlight of his week.

A
Alexandra Robson

Alexandra Robson

a month ago

Cannot recommend these guys highly enough. We did surf lessons on day one and coasteering on day two. Reece was fantastic. Our boys thoroughly enjoyed both activities and we will be back. Harlyn beach is idyllic with a couple of great cafes and toilets over the road. The entire set up is faultless

M
Max Ashton

Max Ashton

2 months ago

I honestly had the best time at Harlyn Surf School! From the moment I got there, everyone was so friendly and made me feel really welcome. A huge thank you to Kendra for being such an amazing instructor. She was so patient, encouraging, and explained everything really clearly, which made me feel so much more confident in the water. She made the whole lesson really fun, and I caught way more waves than I thought I would because of her. I also want to say a big thank you to Will, who was brilliant as well. He was really friendly, supportive, and gave loads of helpful tips that made surfing feel much easier. He created such a fun atmosphere and made sure everyone was enjoying themselves. I’d 100% recommend Harlyn Surf School to anyone who wants to give surfing a go. I had such an amazing experience, and a massive thank you again to Kendra, Will, and the whole team for making it so memorable. I can’t wait to come back!

V
Victoria Jarvis

Victoria Jarvis

3 months ago

We had an absolutely fantastic experience at Harlyn Surf School. Tommy was an incredible instructor and did an amazing job with my 9-year-old daughter Grace and her best mate Winnie, despite some very challenging weather conditions. From the moment they got in the water, Tommy made them feel confident, safe, and excited to learn. His patience, encouragement, and enthusiasm were exceptional, and it was clear he genuinely loves teaching people to surf. The girls came back to shore absolutely buzzing with excitement, full of stories about what they had learned and eager to get back in the water. They are now completely hooked on surfing! 🏄🏼‍♀️🏄🏼‍♀️ We can’t thank Tommy enough for making the lesson such a memorable experience. He turned a challenging day into an unforgettable one and gave Grace and Winnie a passion for surfing that I’m sure will stay with them for years to come. Highly recommend Harlyn Surf School to anyone looking for professional, friendly, and inspiring surf instruction.

C
Charlotte Leach

Charlotte Leach

4 months ago

5 of us booked last week for a surf lesson and it was the first time for all of us as a family. We absolutely loved the whole experience. Alex met us and couldn’t have been more helpful in teaching us as beginners and showing so much patience. The weather and sea conditions were perfect which definitely helped and Alex made it fun for all of us as well as being an excellent instructor. We would highly recommend and definitely book again.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026

Events at Harlyn Surf School

No upcoming events scheduled

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This venue was last updated on 29 September 2026

Frequently asked questions about Harlyn Surf School

Is Harlyn Surf School free to visit?

Harlyn Surf School is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

Is Harlyn Surf School dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Harlyn Surf School.

Is there parking at Harlyn Surf School?

Harlyn Surf School doesn't have parking — public transport is recommended.

Is there food at Harlyn Surf School?

Harlyn Surf School doesn't have food on site — bring snacks or grab something nearby.

Is Harlyn Surf School pushchair-friendly?

Harlyn Surf School isn't the easiest for pushchairs, prams or buggies — stairs or uneven terrain may make a baby carrier a better option.

How long should we plan to spend at Harlyn Surf School?

Harlyn Surf School is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Harlyn Surf School by public transport?

Harlyn Surf School isn't on a major public transport route — driving is recommended.

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