Polzeath
Distance: 40 minutes (25 miles) | Level: Beginner to Intermediate | Type: Sandy Beach Break
North Cornwall’s best-loved family surf beach, with gentle waves, soft sand, and a lively village atmosphere.
Beach Overview
Polzeath is the go-to surf beach for families and beginners in North Cornwall. The wide, sandy bay picks up consistent Atlantic swell and produces forgiving waves that are ideal for learning. The village behind the beach has a good selection of shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it easy to fill a full day here. It can get very busy in the summer holidays, so arriving early is worthwhile.
Surf Conditions
- Best Tide: Mid tide (can be flat at high, rocky at low)
- Swell Direction: W to NW
- Wave Type: Gentle beach breaks, long rolling walls
- Bottom: Sand
- Crowding: Busy in summer, especially school holidays
Facilities
- Parking: Large pay & display car park above the beach
- Lifeguards: RNLI lifeguards May to September
- Surf Hire: Multiple surf hire shops and surf schools
- Toilets: Yes, at the car park
- Cafes: Several in the village, including beachside options
Best For
- Beginners: Gentle, forgiving waves on a sandy bottom
- Families: Lifeguards, surf schools, village amenities
- Intermediates: Fun walls to practise on when the swell picks up
Getting There
From Waterloo Farm: Head south on the A395, then pick up the A39 towards Camelford. From Camelford, follow the B3314 through St Minver to Polzeath. Around 40 minutes in good traffic.
A brilliant day out for families and anyone learning to surf. Combine a morning lesson with lunch in the village and you have one of the best days out in North Cornwall.