Searching Availability…
Our Cornwall Surf Camp is a fun-filled salty adventure, full of opportunities to learn new surf skills in a zero-pressure, friendly, all-female space. Whether you’re completely new to surfing, or already confidently surfing outback, our surf coaching week based in Newquay is designed for you. Explore Cornwall, during September, our favourite month. Expand your horizons and enjoy the company of like-minded water women of all abilities. If that’s not enough, on the last day of the trip we’ll adventure up to The Wave in Bristol for the most perfect mechanical wave to put your skills into practice.
Newquay is the home of UK surfing, so what better place to base yourself for this amazing week of surf culture?
Our Cornwall Surf Camp is for all water-loving women. Please don’t fall into the trap of thinking that it’s only for experienced surfers with established skills; this isn’t the case at all.
Zero previous experience in surfing is required to enjoy this week; all you need to bring is your swimsuit, a sense of adventure and a passion for learning new skills. We have separate groups for ability levels. What better way to begin your surfing journey, than with a deep dive right to the heart of this highly accessible and hugely enjoyable sport. After you’ve spent a whole week riding the best waves in Cornwall under the tutelage of our expert coaches and made a firm circle of amazing gal pals in the process, you’ll be a fully anointed surfer, and be raring to plan your next surf adventure.
If you’re lucky enough to have already discovered surfing and want to progress your skills, then the Cornwall Surf Camp is just what you need to help take your riding to the next level. If you’re an experienced rider who wants to finesse specific techniques, you’ll gain a lot from a week of focused instruction and video analysis. Our instructors have devoted their lives to the Cornish waves, so there’s not much they don’t know, and they’ll be excited to share their knowledge with you.
Every waking minute of the surf coaching week will revolve around you, and your fellow guests. Ensuring everyone had a progression pathway mapped out, and is getting personalised coaching and focused video analysis to help them reach their goals. Sprinkle in lots of fun, friendship and female support along the way, and you have a recipe for one of the best weeks of your life.
We guarantee you’ll get at least five days of epic ocean sessions throughout the week including one session at The Wave in Bristol. Whether you’re a beginner or intermediate rider, catch flawless waves at this awesome inland surf spot. The consistent waves are perfect for practising your moves under the close-up guidance of our coaches.
We keep our plans flexible so that we can seize the best surf opportunities as the week unfolds, and surf more when the waves are dreamy, and slightly less when they’re not. When you’re not in the water we have a range of other activities we have planned, such as morning wild swims, sunset stand-up paddle boarding and two surf skate sessions.
You’ll be based in the heart of the action, but we’ll remain agile, travelling to the best spots for the conditions each day. Newquay has seven top-quality beaches, chock-full of nooks,
crannies and all working on different winds and swell. Rest assured, we’ll work hard to find the
best waves for your skill set each day.
You’ll also get the chance to have your surf-related questions answered in our daily surf theory and video analysis sessions to pick up lots of handy skills that will improve your performance during this trip – and beyond.
PRE-TRIP
ACCOMMODATION
FOOD
COACHING
A DAY AT THE WAVE
SURF THEORY WORKSHOPS
PHOTO AND VIDEO ANALYSIS
INTRODUCTION TO SURF SKATING
OTHER ACTIVITIES
Even though your schedule will be action-packed with surfing activities, there will still be free time for you to enjoy the wealth of other activities Newquay and Cornwall has to offer, such as:
Please note that there is an additional charge for some of these activities.
Please note that this itinerary is only for guidance and general planning purposes. We always keep our schedule flexible so that we can adapt to conditions, and give you the best experience possible.
WEEK PLAN
Saturday, Day 1
Sunday, Day 2
Monday, Day 3
Tuesday, Day 4
Wednesday, Day 5
Thursday, Day 6
Friday, Day 7
Saturday, Day 8
Our Female Friendly Accommodation
We have two beautifully appointed, modern and spacious apartments, both offering twin-bed accommodation exclusively to women on our retreat. Both of our apartments are like a home away from home, so what better place to stay than with your tribe of fellow saltwater lovers?
You’ll be staying in a shared twin room with one other female guest on the trip.
Sunset View Apartment on Pentire Headland
Location:
Our first apartment overlooks Pentire Headland and benefits from plenty of natural light. This two twin-bedroom property is in one of the most peaceful spots in Newquay, just minutes from both Fistral and Crantock Beach. It’s also really close to the Gannel Estuary which is a stunning paddle boarding or swimming spot, and one of Newquays hidden gems.
Even though it’s surrounded by nature, Sunset View Apartment is still close enough to Newquay Town Centre for a bite to eat in the evening, or a spot of retail therapy. It’s the best of both worlds.
Sunset View Apartment is all about the stunning ocean views. It has a spacious, open-plan kitchen diner with a Juliet balcony that enjoys morning sunshine. It’s a great kitchen to cook in, and if you want to knock up a post-surf feast you can enjoy it around the large communal dining table. There are three bedrooms, one of which has a south facing balcony, another a south facing juliet balcony. Bedrooms have a set of twin beds, a chest of drawers, bedside table etc. One has an en-suite with a bath, shower and toilet. There is also a separate bathroom and WC. All bedrooms have stunning sea views.
Newquay Bay Apartment on Fore Street
Location:
The second location is our Newquay Bay Apartment. This apartment is located above the Newquay Activity Centre HQ. It is a modern, quiet, two twin-bedroom property that was completely refurbished in 2021. There’s a lovely kitchen as well as a new bathroom with an enormous shower. The apartment is a short walk from Newquay Harbour where you’ll find one of our favourite wild swimming spots. Just a few steps in any direction, you’ll find an abundance of coffee shops, restaurants and surf shops – you’re right in the heart of it all.
The property comprises a spacious living room/diner complete with sofa bed and new 52” TV. There is a sizable dining table perfect for studying or hosting meals. The bedrooms are both twin rooms with zip-link beds; easily connectable for private or couple rooms. Both rooms have wardrobes, drawers, bedsides and reading lights. The living room benefits from large windows with excellent sea views. There is also a large courtyard, perfect for catching rays or drying wetsuits.
Whatever your experience in the surf we’ve got you covered, as our tuition will be tailored to suit your ability perfectly. Over the week, you’ll have five surf lessons, with video analysis, plus a day at The Wave in Bristol. You’ll have use of the surfing equipment to surf whenever you want out of the surf lessons and are only a 5-minute walk to the beach.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or are looking to nail advanced manoeuvres, our personalised coaching will help take your surfing to the next level. Our sessions are zero pressure and lots of fun and our highly-qualified female instructors will be by your side during all surf sessions. They’re friendly, approachable and highly encouraging, plus they’re all qualified lifeguards, so you’re in super safe hands.
Coaching is fun and informal and includes beach, ocean and classroom sessions. We also offer individual photo and video analysis. This is the best way to improve, giving you a move-by-move breakdown of your surfing. Plus you get to take the footage home with you to show off to your friends
This surf programme is packed full of practical instruction in the water, and in-depth surf theory sessions back at our base, your surfing skills will skyrocket by the end of the programme!
We’ve included two surf skate lessons to refine style and technique. We will be focusing on learning and improving our turns, style and balance by targeting the biomechanics of the movements.
Every waking minute of the retreat will revolve around you, and your fellow guests; ensuring everyone has a great time, and is getting personalised coaching to help them reach their goals. Sprinkle in lots of fun, friendship and female support along the way, and you have a recipe for one of the best trips of your life.
HOW TO PAY
We can’t guarantee your place until we have received a payment from you.
Once you have made a payment, you’ll then be sent a trip confirmation email with all details.
One month before the trip you’ll receive a PDF with all further details.
You’re ready to begin your surfing journey and want to learn the right way from the start. We’ll supply you with all the correct kit, knowledge and skills that you need to know. You’ll progress quickly in a fun, no-pressure environment with other like-minded girls.
We’ll get you up and surfing in no time!
You’ve surfed before and are keen to take your skills and stoke up a level. You’ve successfully caught white water waves, stood up and cruised to the shore. Perhaps you’ve had a taste of surfing out the back?
You want to surf regularly ‘out back’ and learn to catch unbroken waves. We can take you there!
Paddling out, catching unbroken waves and successfully enjoying the buzz of taking the drop in fun conditions has captured you in its addiction. Now you’re looking to refine your skills, improve your style and work on the huge array of moves that will see you love surfing even more.
The north coast of Cornwall is exposed to consistent Atlantic swell year-round, which means our waves are better than anywhere else in the country. It’s no wonder that Newquay is the surf capital of the UK, and our centre is based right in the heart of it, just a short walk from the world-famous Fistral beach. We also have easy access to Newquay’s variety of swell-filled sandy bays; all amazing surf spots in their own right. You’ll benefit from our local knowledge, and vast experience of interpreting how the tides, winds, and conditions affect each beach, to ensure you get the best possible experience in the surf.
FISTRAL
Backed by rugged cliffs and sand dunes, Fistral Beach is the jewel in the crown of Cornwall’s surf scene. It delivers waves on every stage of the tide and serves up dreamy conditions on an offshore southeasterly wind. You can almost always find a suitable peak for your ability.
GREAT WESTERN BEACH
Wedged between Towan and Tolcarne, this is one of Newquay’s central beaches. It offers consistent, clean conditions in a southwesterly wind. There are plenty of lefts and rights for everyone.
Newquay has some great cafes and restaurants serving fresh, locally sourced food. From freshly caught fish and hearty burgers to wood-fired pizzas and vegan curries, there’s something to satisfy every appetite. All dietary requirements are catered for.
During the week we will have some evening meals together. These are entirely optional but are a great chance to get to know each other better. We’ll pick our favourite coastal restaurants, the places all the locals go.
You can make your own breakfast at your accommodation. Depending on the tides and schedule, we often meet for coffee at a coastal café that offers stunning views. There is no better way to check the waves than with a coffee in hand chatting with your fellow surf girls.
Please bring a packed lunch with you or some money to buy something after our morning surf. We will keep lunch times flexible around the tides, and best to always have some fruit or snacks in your bag to feast on when you get out of the water.
Remember to bring a reusable water bottle each day and we will have regular opportunities to refill when you need to.
You’ll receive a discount card for Rip Curl and local bars, coffee shops and eateries.
Known as “Kernow” to locals, Cornwall is beautiful, wild and rugged. A string of golden beaches stretch up and down the coastline, with a variety of surf from mellow rollers to steep, powerful waves. Head inland and discover the raw beauty of Cornwall’s wilderness moorland, granite-topped hills and ancient stone structures. Explore abandoned pumping houses – relics of the county’s famous mining history – uncover local traditions and breathe in the fresh sea air as you watch sunsets that set your soul on fire.
Lucky for us, Cornwall benefits from the warmest air and sea temperatures in the UK. In September, it’s usually the warmest it’s been all year! Thanks to both the jet stream in the atmosphere and the Gulf Stream in the Atlantic Ocean, Newquay has a relatively mild climate all year round. With our varied coastline we have our own little micro-climates from one beach to the next, so make sure you always pack sun cream.
NEWQUAY
Our cool little surf town has a laid-back vibe and friendly community. It’s full of independent shops and cute cafes, with three beaches right in the town centre. Grab an artisan coffee and watch surfers wander down the streets to the waves, or stock up on your surf essentials. Visit the RipCurl store near Newquay Activity Centre – and receive a 15% discount when you join the Newquay Surf Retreat.
The list below is an idea of what you might like to bring for your Cornwall Surf Retreat. Please note that surfboards and wetsuits are included in the package, so don’t panic, we’ve got you covered.
Please bring a reusable water bottle and coffee cup to take with you to the beach.
SWIMWEAR
Don’t forget a cossie to go under your wetsuit, and in case you fancy fitting in a wild swim while you’re visiting.
TOWEL
Essential for drying off after our sessions in the water! A microfibre towel is light and super-absorbent. Changing towel robes are also a good option and make changing out of a wet swimsuit a doddle.
SURFBOARD
We’ll be supplying you with “foamies”. They’re the perfect board to learn on, great fun, super floaty and make it much easier to catch waves. You’ll progress faster than if you were on a hardboard or riding a board that’s too small for you. However, we do also have hardboards if you prefer these.
BOARD BAG (OPTIONAL)
A decent board bag will protect your kit and store bulky things like your wetsuit and a towel.
BOARD SOCK (OPTIONAL)
A cheaper option than a board bag, it’ll protect your board from the sun and double up as a board towel. They don’t offer as much protection as a bag.
WETSUIT
Although our Cornish waters are the mildest in the country, we’d still recommend a wetsuit suitable for the season. We will provide you with a wetsuit, but if you’d like to bring your own then please use the following as a guide:
From June to October, a 3/2mm is ideal for those sunny summers and early autumn sessions.
SUN PROTECTION
This is essential in the summer and even on colder days – the sun’s rays still penetrate through the clouds and reflect off the water’s surface. Make sure you wear waterproof sunscreen. Zinc based sticks are a good option and won’t run into your eyes.
CLOTHING
Bring warm clothing suitable for all weathers – it’s not uncommon to get four seasons in one day in the southwest of England. Layers are the best option and a woolly hat is ideal for warming up after a surf.
CLASSROOM
Please bring a pen to make notes during the video analysis and surf theory sessions. We will provide you with a logbook.
APPS
You may also like to download ‘Surfline’ and ‘Windy’ in advance as during our classroom sessions we’ll show you how to use them and interpret the information. They are both free apps and you don’t need to purchase any premium subscriptions. You’ll need Whatsapp to stay in touch with group plans.
BY CAR
Newquay is a 15-minute drive from the A30, which links to the M5.
We’re based near Towan Beach. We’ll send you detailed information before your arrival, including parking instructions and maps.
BY TRAIN
The railway station is in the town centre. If you’re travelling by train, we may be able to pick you up from the station (time dependent). Get in touch for more details.
BY AIR
We’re a 20-minute drive from the airport. You can fly into Newquay from London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Dublin, Edinburgh and Glasgow. Flights are available from key European cities.
DURING THE CAMP
We sometimes load up the van and go in search of the best waves in Cornwall. On the last day we’ll drive up to The Wave in Bristol (Just over a 3 hour drive away). We try to maximise sustainability by carpooling. Please contribute a pound or two to car parks and fuel if you are sharing a car with another guest.
We Offer 3 Easy Ways To Pay!
1.Pay In Full – Pay the full amount in one, that’s it your done! (Available online)
2.50/50 – Pay 50% deposit and the remaining 50% 12 weeks before the trip starts. (Available online)
3.Payment Plan – Pay an initial deposit and the rest in instalments! (Contact us using our online chat for this option).
We can’t guarantee your place until we have received a payment from you.
Once you have made a payment, you’ll then be sent a trip confirmation email with all details on.
Due to this trip being in high demand and having limited spaces, we can only hold your space for 24 hours without payment.
Yes definitely! We pride ourselves on being super welcoming and friendly. Most of our guests arrive solo and leave with friends for life.
Yes, we can arrange for you to extend your stay. You may want to consider our Private 1 to 1 lessons before or after the retreat as well. Give us a call on +44 (0) 1637 226017 and we can discuss in further detail.
If you wish to bring a non-surfing partner with you that is fine. Partners are welcome to join our evening meals, excursions etc. We recommend that you organise your own accommodation. Give us a call if you’d like a hand with that.
FOOD, DRINKS & SHOPPING
You’ll receive a discount card for Rip Curl and local bars, coffee shops and eateries.
There are lots of restaurants and cafes in Newquay if you want to eat out, there are a range of budgets to suit, but most main meals will fall in to the £12-15 range
Newquay has several large supermarkets within walking distance of the apartments
TRANSPORT
We sometimes load up the van and go in search of the best waves in Cornwall. On the last day we’ll drive up to The Wave in Bristol (Just over a 3 hour drive away). We try to maximise sustainability by carpooling. Please contribute a pound or two to car parks and fuel if you are sharing a car with another guest.
You’ll be asked to fill in an enrolment form as part of the booking process. You’ll signify which level of surfer you are. You may be in different groups suited to your ability. However, there will be plenty of time to see each other back at camp and during our social times.
We choose the time of year and location for our events based on local knowledge and historical swell data. In the event of flat waves or stormy conditions, we will offer alternative activities to help you get the most out of the ocean conditions. This may include stand up paddleboarding, coasteering, kayaking or other coastal activities.
We may adjust the format of the week. For example, choosing to run more sessions when the waves are at their best. With Cornwall having two coasts and there being 7 beaches in Newquay alone is very, very unlikely that we won’t be able to find a ride able wave each day of the retreat.
Please view our T&Cs for more information.
With decades of experience and knowledge within our team, we pick the best dates that the surf conditions are most consistent and will be most suitable for the group. We’ll send you a brief predicted forecast in the pre-trip pack on the run up to the trip. We choose Newquay due to the huge variety of beaches. The beautiful long sandy beaches offer peaks for all abilities; the skill is to know which is best on the tide and wind conditions that are on offer. That’s where our local guides are worth their weight in gold. We pride ourselves in having you in the right place for the best waves for your ability each weekend.
Before booking please take a look at our surfing level in the boxes above. If during the trip you would benefit from changing groups your instructor will organise for you to move, no problem! Please be aware, we pride ourselves on coaching everybody as an individual, so you will always receive individual feedback throughout each session.
We do our best to include as many female instructors and team members as possible and are always recruiting the best female coaches in the industry. However we do occasionally call upon our male experts such as 3 x British Champion Alan Stokes to explain how he overcame his fears and built his surfing confidence. All our Women + Waves staff are not only suitably qualified by the relevant governing body but all undergo extensive in-house training.
We do not offer a discount for bringing your own equipment.
If you are under 18 we will need to chat to you on the phone and you will need to be accompanied on the trip by a parent or guardian throughout the weekend (they don’t have to participate). If you are 65 or over we’d love to chat to you about the weekend before you book. Please email us to arrange a time and we’ll contact you. Or you can call us on +44 (0) 1637 226017
Please inform our coaching staff of any medical complaints or conditions prior to your trip.
We’ll ask for travel insurance details when you book, so please organise this as soon as possible. Travel insurance needs to cover you for medical issues, cancellations and baggage. We’ll also ask you to fill out an enrolment form with these details before the holiday. Please read our helpful blog post about travel insurance.
We are a UK based company that delivers trips all over the world welcoming travellers of all nationalities.
Yes! This is a scenario that we are very familiar with. Why not make a family break of this surf retreat? You can join the retreat each day while the rest of your family enjoy Newquay. Please contact us if you need a hand organising accommodation. Book early to avoid disappointment and get the best prices.
You will be sent your pre-arrival information on the run up to the trip. We will send you the meeting time and location in your pre-weekend information pack.
Please refer to our ‘Food’ tab for all information regarding breakfast, lunch and evening meals.
We choose our fave coastal restaurants because of the range of great menu options that they have available. All dietary requirements are catered for.
We finish on Saturday morning. You can check out of your accommodation by 11 am and head home from there.
Yes, we have a full range of hire equipment that we can present to you and recommend the most suitable board for you to progress on. Hire costs can be seen under ‘Prices’.
No, we have a great mix of all ages. Surfing shows no age boundaries. We welcome whippersnappers to silver surfers and everything in between.
After meeting on the first Sunday of the trip, we’ll explain how this works.
Yes! Several women bring their dogs on our Newquay coaching retreats. There are a number of dog friendly accommodation options in the area. Some leave their dog in their van whilst they surf.
Alternatively, we can organise for a dog sitter to look after your four-legged friend. Contact us for details and costs.
If you’re based outside the UK and want to chat through the trip details, you can contact us through WhatsApp, Facetime, Zoom or Skype.
Just let us know by email and we can arrange this with you.
If your circumstances change and you can’t join the trip, please let us know as soon as possible via email. Your cancellation notice will start from the date we receive it.
Cancellation terms:
We hold part or full costs, depending on when you cancel:
Cancellation may fall under the terms and conditions of your holiday insurance policy and you may be able to claim.