Surfing in Wales

Whether you like to surf on a beach or reef break, winter soldier or summer beginner the coast of Wales has waves for all kinds of surfers. With lots of surf spots scattered along 1,680 mi (2,704 km) and even the first surf pool open for the public, Wales should definitely be on your surf trip bucket list. The best time to surf in the country is during the winter and autumn months (September to March). This is when the North Atlantic is more active sending lots of swells in the direction of the coastline of Wales. Have in mind that this is also the time that the water temperatures are colder so make sure you bring the right gear. During the winter you will need a 5/4 wetsuit plus gloves, booties and a hood. Summer (June to August) is the peak of the surf season, there’s good surf conditions and during this period of the year a 3/2 wetsuit is enough to keep you warm. Besides surfing, Wales has a lot to offer. The country is full of history, medieval castles, picturesque views and famous scenic walks making Wales a perfect holiday destination to have a nice mix of action and culture.

1. Anything remarkable in the geography of this country (Relevant to surf)? 
   • (ocean, currents, winds, climate, mountain, type of coast, rivers (impact of river mouth) and surfable rivers (tidal waves)?)  
2. When did Surfing start in this place? What’s the (short) story of surfing and board sports here?
3. Famous personalities in surf / surf history in this {country}?
4. Anecdotes (if any) regarding surf / board sports in this country?
5. Popular board activities here (surf, longboard, Kite, Wind ?)
6. Main Surf Areas & why they are unique? (short Summary)
7. Most Remarkable surf spot(s) of {the country}
8. Remarkable Competitions in {Country}?
9. Who should surf there? (budget surfers, luxury surfers, beginners, advanced, pros, people from certain countries or languages, religions… etc.) and Why ?

Climate in Wales

The climate in Wales is influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, it’s temperate and humid, with relatively small temperature variations between winter and summer. The northern areas of Wales are usually more rainy because of the northwest winds that bring cool moist air down from the North Atlantic while the warmer, sunnier areas are most often found in the south.

Winter (December to February) and Autumn (September to November) are usually the wettest seasons and the weather can be unpredictable and change from day to day or even on the same day. During summer the temperatures can be pleasant with average temperatures ranging from 18-23°C. Between May and September the weather really warms up, particularly in London and parts of south east England where temperatures can reach up to 30°C. The surf high season goes from September to May. The best surf can be found during autumn months but be aware that the water is cold all year, so make sure you pack your wetsuit!

Best surf spots in Wales

The best surf spots in Wales are found on the more exposed west coast. This is where the Gower Peninsula is located. Considered the epicentre of the Welsh surfing culture, Gower has many surf spots to offer. The most famous is Llangennith, a super long beach break that can be perfect for beginners on the small days and challenging enough for advanced surfers on the big days. Other surf spots in the Gower Peninsula are: Caswell Bay, Hunts Bay, Langland and Rhossili. On the northwest of Wales you will find a spot called Porth Neigwl/Hell's Mouth in Gwynedd. This beach works better with mid to high tide and it’s perfect for beginners. The long stretch of sand makes it easy to find a spot for yourself. Llantwit Major in Glamorgan near Cardiff has a solid right-hander. This break works better from low to mid and with a nice south west swell. Be prepared to paddle a lot since there is a strong current constantly swiping the crowd away from the take of zone. Freshwater West in Pembrokeshire is surrounded by nature and it’s a great spot for intermediate surfers. This fast hollow wave breaks better with a S-W swell on mid to high tide. Last but not least there is Snowdonia, the first wave pool in the world to open their doors for the public.

Budget Planning

Meal price range

A cheap meal at a cafe or pub will cost around $4-12 USD. Midrange meals in restaurants are from $15-25 USD. Dining & drinking at high-end restaurants can cost anywhere from $45-60 USD.

Equipment rental

There’s a handful of places where you can rent gear. Boards start at $12 USD a day. 

Prepaid SIM cards

EE is a good choice. Their prepaid packages start at $12 USD. Prepaid SIM cards can be purchased from official stores and approved resellers, plus SIM card vending machines, corner stores and supermarkets.

Public transport

Buses are nearly always the cheapest way to get around but you'll generally get to places quicker by train. All the main centers have local bus services. 

You can find a taxi outside the train station in bigger towns. In smaller places, the best place to find the local taxi phone number is in the local pub.

You can find car rentals starting at $35 USD a day. 

Gas prices

$1.57 USD a liter.

Types of risks

Cold in the winter and strong cold coastal winds.

Some beaches have flag systems and lifeguards. Research the flag meanings before you go. 

How to prepare

Visa

If you are an EU, Irish citizen or British citizen you can freely enter. Citizens from 56 countries, including the US, Australia and Canada are visa exempt, allowing you to stay for up to 6 months. You should check the most current policies, as the UK is still implementing new laws since leaving the EU.

Vaccines

Although it's not mandatory, it’s recommended that you have been vaccinated for hepatitis A & B, rabies, meningitis, polio, Tdap, chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, influenza, measles, mumps and rubella.

Things to know

Language & Currency

There are two official languages English and Welsh. Almost the entire population of Wales is able to speak English, and around a quarter can speak Welsh, to varying degrees of fluency.

The official currency is the pound sterling (GBP), known as the pound 

Best time to go

The best time to surf is during the autumn and the winter months.

Checking Surf forecast
Checking the forecast about a week before your trip is always a good idea. Understanding what the waves will be like and knowing what gear to pack is essential. You can check the forecast for the waves here.

Do I need pack a pharmacy kit
You should bring a basic kit. Including ear drops, eye drops, bandaids, ear plugs, gaze, alcohol, and broad spectrum antibiotic ointment.

Travel/Surf Insurance

World Nomads has great travel insurance packages that are not super expensive and they cover surfing.

Emergency

Dial 112 or 999 for all emergencies. 

Check surf pictures of Wales at #surfwales.