St Ives Surf School - Image 1

St Ives Surf School

St Ives, United Kingdom•4.9(251)•Beaches

Learn to surf, paddleboard, kayak and coasteer with expert instructors on the stunning Blue Flag beaches of St Ives, Cornwall.

St Ives Surf School is one of Cornwall's premier watersports venues, offering expert instruction and guided adventures across multiple ocean activities. The school operates from two beautiful beach locations at Porthmeor Beach and Porthminster Beach in the heart of St Ives. The venue specializes in five progressive levels of surf lessons, from complete beginners catching their first waves in shallow water through to advanced surfers paddling out through bigger surf and trimming green waves. Stand-up paddleboarding lessons and guided tours operate from the tranquil, sheltered waters of Porthminster Beach, ideal for learning the sport. The school also offers thrilling coasteering adventures combining rock traversing, sea swimming, cave exploration and cliff jumping in a safe, professionally-supervised environment. Guided sea kayak tours provide scenic cruises along Cornwall's stunning coastline with expert local guides sharing knowledge of shipwrecks, wildlife and hidden sea caves. Equipment hire services are available across all watersports. The venue is highly regarded for its experienced team of salt water specialists, bespoke tuition and commitment to creating unforgettable ocean experiences in a safe, fun and friendly atmosphere suitable for various ages and abilities.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 09:00 – 17:30
Tuesday: 09:00 – 17:30
Wednesday: 09:00 – 17:30
Thursday: 09:00 – 17:30
Friday: 09:00 – 17:30
Saturday: 09:00 – 17:30
Sunday: 09:00 – 17:30

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Book in advance

Recommended ages

8 years+

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
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Google Reviews

4.9(251 reviews)
M
Matthew Cleathero

Matthew Cleathero

3 weeks ago

Excellent experience, we booked for SUP lessons. Tegan(?) is a brilliant instructor, everything is really well organised and accessible. The equipment is good quality. We got to go out and round towards Carbis bay from Porthminster Beach and back across towards the harbour. Thanks very much for a great experience

A
Amanda Scott

Amanda Scott

2 months ago

Lovely, friendly instructors. Really looked after my son who was a compete beginner but progressed lots over 3 days and loved it. Will definitely book again in our next visit.

S
stuart leonard

stuart leonard

2 months ago

We had a surfing lesson, complete beginners! Jess and Hattie were brilliant instructors, really calm and patient, their encouragement enabled us to feel comfortable and confident. It was such a joy even though we need way more practice! We’ll come again and definitely recommend this experience. Thank you.

J
Jacklyn Low

Jacklyn Low

4 months ago

Attended a beginner's surfing lesson as a family of 4, and were very lucky to be assigned to Marley again (after going on the kayaking tour with him a few days prior). It was just us in the group, which meant that Marley could really help our youngest (10 yr old) out as he wasn't really strong enough to carry/push his board out against the fairly strong waves. However, with Marley's support he did get to go out many times and caught the most waves while stood upright! We were all given a good briefing, lots of tips throughout and Marley made sure to rotate his attention between everyone so we all got some good chances to catch a few good waves. Despite the cold temperature, we had a lot of fun and were grateful the school had a good range of gear (wetsuit, gloves, booties, hat) in all sizes on offer. Decent changing facilities onsite too. The school had multiple groups taking lessons when we were there, and it's no surprise given what a good bunch they are. Highly recommend!

N
Nick Thomas

Nick Thomas

a year ago

Absolute first class. Extremely helpful to us as novices. Booked beginners and improvers surfing, and coasteering. All the staff were brilliant, from the people on the desk, to the wonderful surfer tutors, and the 2 staff who did the coasteering, who were really patient with my daughter, when jumping from heights. Would recommend without hesitation.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026

Events at St Ives Surf School

No upcoming events scheduled

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This venue was last updated on 29 September 2026

Frequently asked questions about St Ives Surf School

Is St Ives Surf School free to visit?

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

What ages is St Ives Surf School suitable for?

St Ives Surf School is best for children aged 8 and up.

Is St Ives Surf School dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at St Ives Surf School.

Is there parking at St Ives Surf School?

St Ives Surf School doesn't have on-site parking, but parking is available nearby.

Is there food at St Ives Surf School?

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

Is St Ives Surf School pushchair-friendly?

Yes, St Ives Surf School is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at St Ives Surf School?

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

How do I get to St Ives Surf School by public transport?

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

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