SURFING LESSON FAQS

Where do we meet?

We are very easy to find! If you make your way to Fistral Beach when you arrive we are in the International Surfing Complex, we are with the hire centre at the left hand end of the building (as you look to the sea); inbetween the large pay & display carpark and the sand.

Do we get to spend a lot of time in the water?

Yes! Our location not only makes us easy to find, it also means we only have to walk the boards down to the water’s edge preserving that precious surfing time (and energy)! On the beach we cover the safety points and the different techniques needed to make sure everyone fully understands what they are meant to be doing. All of our coaches love being in the water and recognise that there is nothing like practise, so we encourage you to get as many waves as possible and have a great time while surfing!

What is included in the price?

Everything you need is included in the price you get for your surfing lesson; equipment, coaching, changing rooms and hot showers (subject to current restrictions). There are no extras needed during the lesson. During the summer we kit you out in our full length summer suits, and during the cooler winter months we make use of our thermal hooded rash-vests, full length winter wetsuits, boots and gloves- all included!

What should I bring?

The essentials are just your towel and some swimwear.

How long do the lessons last?

The surfing lessons last 2 hours, for example we may start the lesson at 10.30 am so any participants would need to arrive by 10.10am in order to be changed and ready to leave at 10.30am to return by 12.30pm. We recommend you leave up to 3 hours in total.

Can I keep the equipment after the lesson?

If you would like to continue surfing after the lesson, then you can enjoy rest of the day hire at a discounted price. For £15pp you are welcome to keep all of the gear you used in the lesson until the end of the day. If you stop for a break at all in the afternoon we can look after the equipment and then you can grab it again when you are ready to get back in the water. You also receive discounted rates at the hire shop once you have had a lesson with us.

Do I have to be a really strong swimmer?

Surfing is a physically demanding sport so we do ask all participants to be able to swim 25m. However, we are not going to be doing timed swims during the lessons, so as long as you are confident with your ability to complete 25m then that is fine. If you have any concerns feel free to ask us.

What is the minimum age of your students?

The ability to swim is the main criteria that we work to. To be part of a group lesson the minimum age is 8, alternatively in private lessons the minimum age is generally 6.

What courses are on offer with Fistral Beach Surf School?

At Fistral Beach Surf School there is something to suit everyone. Whether you are interested in group lessons, private lessons, combining surfing lessons with surf hire or coasteering, there is a huge range of experiences available. We are also able to offer access to the UK’s largest dedicated surf hire centre that has boards for all abilities and ages, ranging from bodyboards and surfboards to stand up paddle-boards and kayaks. Keep your eyes peeled for our specialised coaching weekends!

Where do the lessons take place?

Being the only surf school based on Fistral Beach the UK’s premier surfing beach means we can just stay where we are the vast majority of the time with the lessons happening at Fistral. However, our unique location also means are lucky enough to be able to walk around to the Newquay Bay Beaches if ever necessary, this is dependent on conditions and ability level of any participants.

New for 2021… Fistral Surf School site will also operate from Tolcarne Beach!

In 2021 we are opening a new Fistral Surf School site at Tolcarne Beach. If you’re staying closer to Tolcarne you may find it a more convenient venue for your lessons or hire, Tolcarne Beach, Narrowcliff, Newquay TR7 2QN. If this is of interest please ask, and we can let you know what’s available at Tolcarne on your chosen day.

Where should I go when I arrive?

At Fistral Beach our booking office is by the carpark, underneath Anne’s Cottage. However if you’re arriving for a lesson then you’ll find your instructor and equipment ready and waiting for you on the beach. Come down the slope of the beach by the carpark towards the RNLI lifeguard building and you should see the Fistral Surf School Team.

I have never surfed before, so what can I expect by the end of a lesson?

By the end of one of our 2 hour lessons we can guarantee you will be riding the waves. During your first lesson we cover everything from how to carry the board to different methods of standing up, and the instructor (who is a qualified lifeguard and surf coach) remains with you all of the time.

How many lessons do you recommend?

It is difficult to say a definitive amount as everyone learns at different paces and wants to achieve different outcomes. Generally after 3 lessons you should be getting confident with the basics, and know a few things you need to practice. However, if you are more interested in becoming sufficient enough to navigate the surf with some confidence yourself, then a course of 5-7 lessons would be more suitable.

Would my lesson ever be cancelled?

Dealing with mother nature does mean that occasionally some lessons are cancelled. If the conditions are too dangerous then we won’t go in the water; if there is not enough surf to learn to surf, then we can take you on our flat day activity sessions or cancel the lessons. If we cancel the lessons then we try to reschedule them to another convenient time, alternatively if you cannot make that we can arrange gift vouchers or refunds. Have a glance at our T&C’s at the bottom of the page for more information or get in touch with any queries.