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- Expert instructors take you to the best beaches
- Guaranteed improvements over two days for all abilities
- Includes photo + video analysis package to take home
- Social weekend with like-minded women
Feel the thrill of the Atlantic, immerse yourself in nature and hang out with like-minded women on our Newquay Bodyboarding Weekend. Whether you’re a complete beginner or aspiring pro, you’ll pick up new skills and boost your confidence in the water.
QUICK FACTS
- Water temperature: 10°C – 18°C
- Local currency: pound sterling
- Language: English
- Local beer: Korev
- Mixed climate
- Consistent swell
- Surf 2ft – 6ft
- Beachbreaks
- Perfect for beginner/intermediate/advanced riders
- Bespoke one-to-one coaching in a group setting tailored to your skill set
- Many local activities and beauty spots
- Exclusive Women + Waves discounts at the Ripcurl store and selected accommodation
Raise your bodyboarding game with two days chock-full of tuition, tips and tailored coaching. Compared to surfing, bodyboarding allows you to get even more up-close-and-personal with the ocean, the sense of speed is increased as you’re closer to the water, the boards are lighter and it’s super accessible – no matter your ability.
If you’ve never tried bodyboarding before and want to learn a new sport in a safe environment, this weekend provides the perfect introduction. Maybe you surf already but want to experience a new and different way of riding waves?
Bodyboardboarding is a great alternative to surfing, especially when the waves are bigger. It’s a great way to gain more confidence in the water, with a bodyboard being easier to duckdive. Wearing swim fins on your feet, you’ll see how fast you can propel to make it out back beyond the breaking waves and ready to catch those peeling unbroken swells.
If you bodyboard already and you’re looking to improve your skills, or are an advanced rider wanting to nail manoeuvres, our individualised coaching will help you progress. We make sure you’re on the best waves for your ability, with women of a similar level.
These weekends are also an opportunity to meet a bunch of women just like yourself in a super-chilled, no-pressure environment. We welcome women of all ages, abilities and backgrounds. We’re all about having fun whilst developing your skills and getting excellent results – but this certainly isn’t a boot camp!
From backpacking hostels and B&Bs to self-catering apartments and plush hotels, Newquay has accommodation options to suit all budgets.
See our full list of recommendations here!
HOTELS AND HOSTELS
We’ve got a great relationship with the Carnmarth Hotel. It’s a short walk from Fistral and Towan beaches plus you receive an exclusive Women + Waves discount if you stay. Just quote “WWavesS10” when you book.
Smarties Surf Lodge is a cheaper option with a homely feel. Jackie will look after you – from cold beers on arrival to her home-cooked treats. Accommodation is clean, well-maintained and perfect for bodyboarders – with bodyboard and surf storage outside.
For more recommendations, get in touch with Jackie on 01637 872391 .
CAMPING
For those that would like to camp or park their motorhome or van, we recommend Trethiggey Holiday Park.
You’ll find lots more options on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Our postcode is TR7 1HN if you want to find somewhere near our centre.
JURASSIC VANS
Fancy driving down + staying in a van? Check out Jurassic Vans for the ultimate adventure getaway!
This isn’t just any old camping, it’s rugged and practical with ultimate luxury, including:
-A king size/Super king bed
-A hot shower for the post surf wash down
-A fully kitted kitchen to whip up delicious feasts
-Cinema to relax and catch your favourite surf film
-Unique interiors designed to help you relax in complete comfort
-Roof racks to carry boards/SUPs/kayaks
-Chunky all terrain tyres
-Solar powered
Great for solo or group adventures.
Please contact directly for more information and to book. Collection from Bournemouth.
Whatever your ability and experience in the water, we’ve got you covered. Our highly qualified coaching team offers tailored tuition suited to your ability. Our female instructors are all qualified lifeguards and are fully insured, so you’ll be in safe hands! Our coaches love to surf and bodyboard and will always grab the board that is most suited to the conditions on the day. We pride ourselves in employing the most talented instructor and photography team and our events always have 80% + female staff.
We also run in house training to make sure you get the best tuition and experience.
We work with 3 x Gold Cornish Tourism award winners (and winner of a South West Tourism award) Newquay Activity Centre – a RipCurl sponsored surf and bodyboarding school that stands out from the rest! It’s one of the select few in Newquay to have Centre Of Excellence status by the International Surfing Association (ISA) and national governing body, Surfing England.
WEEKEND PLAN
SATURDAY
You’ll have two bodyboard sessions, both two hours long. We’ll focus on aspects you’d like to cover and help you set goals for the weekend.
In between sessions, we’ll go through the photo and video analysis to help practice what you’ve learnt ready for the afternoon session.
SUNDAY
Building on all the skills you learnt during Day 1, you’ll have your final in-water coaching session today. There will be another video analysis session including demonstrations and in-depth breakdowns to help improve your technique.
During the weekend, we’ll also cover surf theory with opportunities for you to ask questions on any aspect of surfing you’d like to know more about. We’ll also cover theory including safety, board types and surf forecasting.
Our theory sessions are friendly and relaxed and we want to help you gather as much bodyboarding knowledge as possible.
PHOTO AND VIDEO ANALYSIS
Our professional surf photographers and videographers will capture you in action throughout the weekend. We’ll look at the footage and images during the photo and video analysis sessions. It’s a fantastic way to improve your riding.
At the end of the weekend, we’ll give you a memory stick to take your video footage home and upload the photos to an online gallery and email you the link. It’s perfect for sharing your snaps on social media or creating prints of your best highlights. Our photography team works hard to ensure that everyone receives an excellent selection of imagery.
We include photo and video analysis, plus all your images and footage, in the cost of the weekend.
NEWQUAY BODYBOARD COACHING WEEKEND £219 PER PERSON
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Three bodyboarding sessions covering all aspects you wish to focus on
- Video analysis of the sessions – demonstrations and move-by-move breakdowns to help you progress
- Photos and footage of your bodyboarding. Seeing yourself bodyboard is a fantastic way to improve, and you’ll get copies of everything at the end of the weekend so you can show your friends and family
- Board and wetsuit hire for the duration of the programme
- Individual goal setting – breaking down progression barriers and taking your skills to the next level
- 3 x bodyboard-specific stretch sessions incorporating yoga techniques
- Q+A and performance-enhancing bodyboard discussions covering forecasting, fear, boards and more
- Encouragement and feedback on every ride paddle out and wipeout!
- Good times with like-minded women
- Optional breakfast and evening meal reservations for good food and socialising
- Discount card for food/drink and the Rip Curl shop (15%)
- Discounted hotel accommodation
WHAT ELSE DO I NEED TO BUDGET FOR?
You should budget £16 for the Saturday evening meal.
HOW DO I BOOK?
- If you’d like to join our event please click our ‘Book Now’ button and complete our quick and easy online payment system or please give us a call +44 (0) 1637 226017
- Select the equipment you will need at the time of booking if you need any.
- Enter your credit or debit card details into our secure system to make payment. Or we can take your payment over the phone.
- Once paid you’ll be sent an email confirmation and an online enrolment form to complete.
- Three days before the weekend, we’ll send you your pre-trip information pack.
We have developed an event status to reflect travel advice with reference to Covid-19.
EVENT STATUS: GREEN
This trip is planned to go ahead, all systems go for you to book with us. At the time of booking we will advise you when to book your travel (and when relevant – accommodation) for the trip or weekend. Book your place by paying a deposit or the full amount.
Further information about Green status in our Covid Terms and Conditions
AUTUMN/WINTER COACHING WEEKENDS (October 31 to April 30)
As the weather gets colder, we like to make the most out of our water sessions by offering one extra-long surf per day.
This means no getting in and out of wet wetsuits. We’ll be keeping you extra warm throughout our ‘power sessions’ with an optional hot chocolate + sweet treat break. After our surf we’ll then warm up and do our video analysis session followed by a surf theory session in our warm and cosy venue!
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Two extended surf lessons throughout the weekend (to get maximum coaching without having to put on a wet wetsuit!)
- Two video/photo analysis sessions to see your progression sky rocket
- Indoor coaching + surf theory
- Professional photos and footage of your surfing. Seeing yourself surf is a fantastic way to improve, and you’ll get copies of everything at the end of the weekend so you can show your friends and family
- Individual goal setting – breaking down progression barriers and taking your surfing to the next level
- Q+A and performance-enhancing surf discussions covering forecasting, fear, surfboards and more
- Encouragement and feedback on every ride, paddle out and wipeout!
- Good times with like-minded women
- Discount card for apres-surf food/drink and the Rip Curl shop (15%)
- Discounted hotel accommodation
- Railway station pick up and drop off (terms apply)
- Opportunity to buy Women + Waves merchandise
SUITABLE FOR ALL SURFING LEVELS (SEE BELOW FOR SURFING ABILITY DESCRIPTIONS)
WHAT ELSE DO I NEED TO BUDGET FOR?
A few pounds for the car park and any food, drinks + snacks.
EQUIPMENT HIRE:
We’ve got an excellent range of equipment to hire for the weekend at an additional cost. Just let us know what you need and your sizes when you book.
- Foam surfboard – £10 per day
- Wetsuit – £8 per day
- Foam surfboard + wetsuit – £15 per day
- Wetsuit boots – £8 per day*
- Gloves – £5 per day*
- Hood – £5 per day*
*Recommended for our Autumn and Winter weekends.
We have limited hardboards/progressor boards available. Contact us if you have any questions.
HOW DO I BOOK?
- If you’d like to book please click our ‘Book Now’ complete the online form and we will be in touch.
- Once paid you’ll be sent an email confirmation and an enrolment form to complete.
Three days before the weekend, we’ll send you your pre-trip information pack.
Please see our FAQs tab for payment plans.
NEW BODYBOARDER
You’re ready to begin your bodyboarding 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 riding in no time!
PROGRESSOR BODYBOARDER
You’ve bodyboarded before and are keen to take your skills and stoke up a level. You’ve successfully caught white water waves and cruised to the shore. Perhaps you’ve had a taste of being out the back?
You want to bodyboard regularly ‘out back’ and catch unbroken waves. We can take you there!
ADVANCED BODYBOARDER
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 bodyboarding even more.
MORE INFO
AREA
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.
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 and bodyboarders stroll down the streets to the waves, or stock up on your bodyboarding essentials. Visit the RipCurl store near Newquay Activity Centre – and receive a 15% discount when you join one of our coaching weekends.
WAVES
Newquay is known as the UK’s surf capital – and for good reason.
The town is surrounded by golden beaches, with beautiful waves and epic sunsets. Feel the laid-back vibe as soon as you arrive in this chilled out surf town. Look out for road signs covered in surf stickers, cute cafes and surfers heading to the waves.
Most of the beaches work on different tides, wind and swell directions, so you’ll always find a wave somewhere if you know where to look. This is where we’re from, so we use our local knowledge to find the best conditions for the day and those secret spots.
As well as bodyboarding the best-known beaches, we’ll also head off the beaten track and take you to places only a few know about.
TOWAN BEACH
This sheltered, sandy bay is the perfect spot when the west-facing beaches are big and blown out. It’s the most friendly break for beginners, and you’ll almost always find a fun, clean wave here.
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. We’ve got another centre at Fistral, making it easily accessible for changing and parking.
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.
Other great spots nearby include Crantock, Perranporth and Watergate Bay. There are plenty more that offer uncrowded perfection on their day – you just need to know where to look. That’s where we come in.
CLIMATE
Lucky for us, Cornwall benefits from the warmest air and sea temperatures in the UK. 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.
If you have your own kit, great! You’re more than welcome to bring it with you. If you need to hire anything, we’ll make sure it’s ready for you when you arrive.
See our equipment hire costs under the ‘Prices’ tab for details.
BODYBOARD
Being Britain and not the tropics, we’d recommend a board with a bit of flex. Aim to bring a board with either a stringered PE or a low-density PP core.
To help with this, we can supply hired boards, which are perfect for use in British temperatures and wave types.
If you need to hire one for the weekend, or are interested in trying one different to your own, get in touch and we can get you sorted with the right-sized board so you can get the most out of the weekend.
WETSUIT
Although our Cornish waters are the mildest in the country, we’d still recommend a decent wetsuit.
Between January and March you’ll need a 5/3mm wetsuit.
From April to May, we suggest a 4/3mm.
From June to October, a 3/2mm is ideal for those sunny summers and early autumn sessions. During hot summer days, you may want to wear a shortie wetsuit.
Between November and December, generally a 4/3mm will be fine. If it’s a little cooler than usual, it won’t be too early to wear a 5/4mm winter suit.
FINS
It’s essential to use a pair of comfortable, powerful, bodyboarding swim fins to get the most from the awesome waves on the trip.
LEASH
It’s a simple insurance policy on any trip, so don’t forget a leash – it’ll save you a whole load of unnecessary swimming.
WETSUIT BOOTS
Keep your toes toasty between November and April with some well fitting neoprene boots.
GLOVES
Keep your digits warm when the water gets chilly from mid January to the end of March .
HOOD
Required in the depths of winter, and if you fancy some extra warmth.
HEEL SHIELDS
If you don’t wear wetsuit socks and want to prevent rubbing around your heels, it’s worth considering a set of heel shields. They make fins comfortable, stop chafe and have different thickness levels to suit the snugness of your fin.
FIN TETHERS
Don’t let a lost fin ruin the rest of your trip. Bag a set of tethers and know you’ll pop up from every duckdive and wipeout with both fins still attached.
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 south west of England. Layers are the best option and a woolly hat is ideal for warming up after a cold surf.
WOMEN + WAVES SHOP
Support our female surf society and buy a unique piece of Women + Waves merchandise! During the weekend you can browse our shop items in person and try things on for size.
We hand pick and create our products with you in mind. We’ve got high quality items from our favourite local designers with the coolest surf prints. From T-shirts and hoodies to hats, bags and changing robes, treat yourself and represent us in style!
A highlight of the weekend is Saturday evening. After a day in the sea we have earned some tasty, locally sourced food and Cornwall is the home to some delicious dishes. We work with our favourite local beach side restaurants to create a chilled evening that takes in scrummy food and drink. It’s entirely optional but it’s a great opportunity to let your hair down, make new friends and relax after a great day’s surfing. All dietary requirements are catered for.
Depending on the tides and schedule we often meet for breakfast coffee and enjoy a varied menu of options before the day begins. Again this is optional but our coastal café meet up offers stunning views. There is no better way to check the waves than with a coffee in hand chatting with your fellow surf girls.
For lunch, please bring a pack up with you for both days so that we can make the most of the waves and keep lunch times flexible around the tides.
Please bring a reusable water bottle and mug.
BY CAR
Newquay is a 15-minute drive from the A30, which links to the M5.
We’re based at 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.
HOW DO I BOOK AND PAY?
- If you’d like to join our event please click our ‘Book Now’ button and complete our quick and easy online payment system or please give us a call +44 (0) 1637 226017
- Select the equipment you will need at the time of booking if you need any.
- Enter your credit or debit card details into our secure system to make payment. Or we can take your payment over the phone.
- Once paid you’ll be sent an email confirmation and an online enrolment form to complete.
- Three days before the weekend, we’ll send you your pre-trip information pack.
Can I reserve a spot to think about it for a few days?
Due to this weekend being in high demand, we have very limited availability. However, we can hold your space for 24 hours without payment.
Can I attend on my own?
Yes definitely! We pride ourselves on being super welcoming and friendly. Most of our guests arrive solo and leave with friends for life.
Do I get a discount if I book more than one person on?
If you book in a group of 5, the fifth person will be free.
I’d like to join the event while my family enjoy Newquay for the weekend, is that possible?
Yes! This is a scenario that we are very familiar with. Why not make a family break of the weekend? You can join the bodyboard weekend with us 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.
What time do I need to arrive?
You will be sent your pre-arrival information on the Wednesday before the weekend. We will send you the Saturday morning meeting time and location in your pre-weekend information pack.
On Sunday if I need to check out of my accommodation is there somewhere that I can store my bag?
Yes, we can store your bag and other belongings at our centre.
Do you have showers at the centre?
There are public showers on the promenade at Towan beach. They are generally operational year round. Perfect for a quick rinse off.
What do we do about food?
Please refer to our ‘Food’ tab for all updates regarding breakfast, lunch and evening meals.
Can my male partner come to the evening meal?
Yes, partners are welcome to join the evening meal, just let us know at the welcome meeting and we will add them to our booking.
Does the evening meal on Saturday cater for all dietary requirements?
We choose our fave coastal restaurant because of the range of great menu options that it has available. All dietary requirements are catered for.
I’d like to come on the trip but I can’t attend for the full duration?
If you can’t make the full weekend, you can join us on Saturday only for £199.
What time does the weekend finish?
We finish around lunchtime on Sunday afternoon. If you need to leave earlier then please let us know at the time of booking and we can make sure that your group sessions are timed so that you finish in time to get away.
Do I get a discount for bringing my own bodyboard or/and wetsuit?
Equipment hire is included. We do not offer a discount for bringing your own equipment.
If I bring my own bodyboard and I find that I don’t get on with it are there other options?
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.
My friends are different surf levels to me, will this be ok?
You’ll be asked to fill in an enrolment form as part of the booking process. You’ll signify which level of bodyboarder 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 evening meals.
I’ll be arriving on Friday, is it possible to book another bodyboarding lesson prior to the weekend?
Yes absolutely. We can deliver extra bodyboarding lessons at any time just give us a call on +44 (0) 1637 226017 to arrange the best time for your lesson.
What happens if the surf conditions aren’t good enough?
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 weekend. For example, choosing to run all of the sessions on Sunday if that’s when the waves are at their best.
Please view our T&Cs for more information.
What are the surf conditions likely to be during my stay?
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-weekend pack on the Wednesday before the weekend. 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.
Can I switch my bodyboarding level during the weekend?
Before booking please take a look at our bodyboarding levels. If during the weekend you would benefit from changing groups your instructor will organise for you to move groups, no problem! Please be aware, we pride ourselves on coaching everybody as an individual, so you will always receive individual feedback throughout each session.
ARE THERE ANY AGE RESTRICTIONS?
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.
Will an all female team coach me?
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 over come 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.
Are the weekends predominantly young girls?
No, we have a great mix of all ages. Bodyboarding shows no age boundaries. We welcome whippersnappers to silver surfers and everything in between.
How will we travel to the surf?
After meeting on Saturday morning, we’ll split each group according to ability levels. After getting changed, we’ll take a short walk to the beach.
Where do I park?
There is a pay and display car park a short walk from our meeting point. We will supply further details and costs in the pre weekend information pack.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes! Several women bring their dogs on our Newquay coaching weekends. 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.
CAN I MAKE CONTACT FROM ABROAD?
If you’re based outside the UK and want to chat through the weekend details, you can contact us through WhatsApp, Facetime or Skype.
Just let us know by email and we can arrange this with you.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I WANT TO CANCEL MY BOOKING?
If you can’t join the weekend, please let us know as soon as possible via email. Your cancellation notice will start from the date we receive it.
Cancellation charges are payable as follows:
- Over 12 weeks – deposit only (one third of the total weekend price)
- 36 days to 12 weeks – 50% of total cost
- 21-35 days – 75% of total cost
- Under 20 days – 100% of total cost
Cancellation may fall under the terms and conditions of your holiday insurance policy and you may be able to claim.
Find out more under our terms and conditions.