Newquay: Surf Lesson for Beginners & Improvers on Towan Beach

Summary

Catch your first wave in Newquay with hands-on coaching and salty laughs

You’ll start your Newquay surf lesson with local instructors who actually make you laugh (and don’t judge your wobbles). Expect sandy toes, salty air, hands-on help in small groups—even if you’re brand new or want to improve your skills. Wetsuit, board, showers—all sorted. That first wave is wild—you’ll remember it.

What’s the experience like?

“You’ll be fine, just remember to breathe,” was the first thing our surf coach, Jamie, said as we wriggled into wetsuits at Escape Surf School above Towan Beach. I’d never worn a wetsuit before—it’s like squeezing into a cold, rubbery sock that smells faintly of seaweed and neoprene. The group was mixed: a couple from Manchester who’d surfed once in Spain, two teens from Bristol, and me, nervous but curious. Jamie grinned at us all and tossed out boards with nicknames scribbled on them in Sharpie. Mine said “Doris.” Not sure why.

We started with a quick huddle on the sand—feet gritty, wind whipping hair into mouths—and Jamie showed us how to paddle and pop up. He actually held the tail of my board while I tried to stand (I wobbled like a penguin). You could hear gulls screeching overhead and the crash of waves below; it felt weirdly calming after my heart stopped racing. When I finally caught a small wave (okay, more like rode it for three seconds), Jamie whooped louder than anyone. Saltwater got up my nose but I couldn’t stop laughing.

The lesson split after that—improvers paddled out further while us newbies kept practicing near shore. There was this moment when the sun broke through clouds and everything glowed silver-blue for a second; I still think about that view sometimes. Afterwards, we peeled off our wetsuits (takes longer than you’d think) and piled into hot showers back at the surf school. My arms were jelly but honestly? I’d do it again just for that feeling when you finally stand up—doesn’t matter if you fall right after.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Beginner and improver surf lesson

• Meet at Escape Surf School
• Discuss surfing techniques on beach
• Practice surfing with coach support
• Ride waves with hands-on coaching
• Improvers focus on advanced techniques

Top questions

How long is the Newquay surf lesson?

The lesson lasts around 2 hours total.

Is this suitable for complete beginners?

Yes, it’s designed for beginners as well as those looking to improve basic skills.

Where does the surf lesson take place?

The meeting point is Escape Surf School above Towan Beach in Newquay.

Are wetsuits and boards provided?

Yes, wetsuits and boards are included in the lesson price.

What if I’ve surfed before?

You’ll join an improver group focused on technique and catching more waves.

Is there somewhere to change or shower afterwards?

Yes, use of hot showers and changing rooms is included.

Do lessons run in all weather conditions?

Lessons depend on safe surf conditions; you’ll be contacted if rescheduled due to weather.

How many people are in each group?

The groups are split by ability to keep coaching hands-on and personal.

What’s included

Your session includes use of a wetsuit (plus gloves and boots if needed), a surfboard matched to your level, access to hot showers and changing rooms at Escape Surf School in Newquay, all taxes and fees covered—and plenty of encouragement from local coaches before you head back salty but smiling.