Polzeath
A gentle, family bay by the Camel estuary, perfect for learning.
Polzeath is a north-west-facing sandy bay with soft waves that roll in cleanly. It's one of Cornwall's classic places for learning and longboarding.
In summer it fills with families and surf schools.
Spot facts
| Wave type | Beach break |
|---|---|
| Direction | Lefts and rights |
| Level | Beginner |
| Best swell | NW, W, N |
| Best wind (offshore) | SE, S, E |
| Tide | Mid |
| Size | 0.5–1.5 m |
| Best season | All year |
| Crowd | Heavy |
| Localism | Low |
Surf forecast
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Hour-by-hour forecast for 14 days, with stars for your board and level, and the whole site without ads.
Model forecast for open water a few kilometres offshore: it can't see sandbanks or the shelter of headlands and jetties. The rating (0–5) is worked out from this spot's ideal swell and wind. Use it as a guide and check the sea before paddling out. Data: Open-Meteo (DWD, ECMWF; CC BY 4.0)
Which board to bring
A minimalibu, funboard or longboard. How many litres? Work out your volume with the volume calculator.
What to bring to surf Polzeath
The safest, easiest board to learn on here.
View on AmazonKeeps your board from drifting off or hitting someone.
View on AmazonHold and smooth turns for a single fin.
View on AmazonAmazon affiliate links: if you buy through them, Shapers Europe earns a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Localism and vibe
A family vibe.
Surfing style
Soft waves for learning.
Hazards
Currents at either end of the bay.
Map
Shapers near Polzeath
Order a board designed for these waves from a local shaper.
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All spots in Cornwall and Devon →
Indicative information gathered from surf guides and surfers' experience. Conditions change with the sandbanks: check the forecast and ask at the beach.