Scotland: Dunnet Beach Surf Lesson with Champion Instructors

Summary

Surfing lessons on Scotland’s wild north coast with local champions guiding you through the chill and thrill of Dunnet Beach

You’ll step into a thick wetsuit at Dunnet Beach and learn to surf with Scottish champion instructors who know these waves inside out. After some laughs on the sand practicing basics together, you’ll head straight into chilly waters — but honestly, you won’t notice once you catch your first wave. Expect small moments of triumph and plenty of saltwater smiles along Scotland’s wild north coast.

What’s the experience like?

We shuffled across the car park at Dunnet Beach, clutching wetsuits that felt thicker than my winter coat back home. The wind had a salty bite to it — not exactly what I’d call inviting — but our instructor Jamie just grinned and said, “Best waves come with a bit of weather.” I half believed him. Getting into those wetsuits was an adventure itself (my left foot got stuck and I nearly toppled over; Jamie didn’t even blink). There was this low hum from the sea behind the dunes, like it was calling us out.

On the sand, we practiced popping up on battered boards while gulls squabbled overhead. Jamie showed us how to read the waves — he pointed at a set rolling in and rattled off something about “the break” that I pretended to understand. The group was a mix: a couple of locals who clearly knew what they were doing, a family from Glasgow, me just trying not to embarrass myself. The sand was cold and gritty under my toes but somehow comforting too. When we finally splashed into the water, I braced for ice but honestly? Those wetsuits worked better than I expected.

Catching my first wave felt nothing like I’d imagined — more slippery chaos than graceful ride — but when Jamie shouted “That’s it!” over the crash, I couldn’t help laughing out loud. Salt stung my lips and my arms burned after maybe ten minutes (how do people make this look easy?). Between attempts, we bobbed in the water swapping nervous jokes and tips. At one point, someone wiped out spectacularly and everyone cheered; no judgment here, just soggy camaraderie.

I keep thinking about that last run where for three seconds everything clicked — board steady underfoot, wind in my face, horizon wide open. It’s not something you can really explain until you’re there yourself. Even now if I close my eyes I can still hear Jamie shouting encouragement over the roar of the North Sea.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Surf lesson at Dunnet beach

• Meet at Dunnet beach carpark
• Get kitted out in wetsuits
• Learn surfing basics on sand dunes
• Enter water with instructors
• Practice surfing with personalised tips

Top questions

How long is the surf lesson at Dunnet Beach?

The group surf lesson lasts for 2 hours.

Is all surfing equipment provided?

Yes, all equipment including wetsuits and boards is included.

Where does the lesson start?

The lesson begins at Dunnet Beach car park on Scotland’s north coast.

Are beginners welcome or do I need experience?

No experience needed; lessons are suitable for all levels.

How many people are in each group lesson?

Groups range from 3 to 16 people per session.

Will it be too cold to surf in Scotland?

You’ll get high-quality cosy wetsuits so cold isn’t an issue during the lesson.

Are children allowed to join?

Yes, infants and small children can attend (in prams/strollers), but active surfing is best for older kids and adults.

Can people with service animals join?

Yes, service animals are allowed at Dunnet Beach during lessons.

What’s included

Your day includes a two-hour group surfing lesson at Dunnet Beach with all equipment provided—cosy high-quality wetsuit, board, and expert guidance from local champion instructors—so you just show up ready for some fun in Scotland’s refreshing waves.