Why Watergate Bay for surfing?
As the waves roll in and the swell rises at Watergate Bay, all types of surfers find their rhythm and place on the shoreline. Both beginners and professionals alike ride a combination of elements as tides, swell, and wind direction come together to create the conditions ideal for surfers.
The tide is on your side
Unlike many other beaches in Cornwall, Watergate Bay is a surf spot that works on most tides, and knowing how this affects the waves at the Bay is a bonus. You’ll find the best waves at mid to high tide – and there are not that many places on the north coast that work that high. Visit at low and you’ll find two-miles of space to play with and hopefully a peak to yourself – just take care during big swells.
Sure is swell
Facing straight out into the Atlantic, Watergate Bay picks up a lot of groundswell and is a safe bet during small waves. It also takes advantage of working on most swell directions, although a westerly swell is best. If there’s not much swell around then low tide is your best bet.
Sheltered winds
The Bay works best on a light south-easterly offshore wind, but the best thing is that waves are sheltered at high tide by our big imposing cliffs. If everywhere else in Cornwall is blown out, it’s always worth checking for a sneaky high-tide dip. At the other end of the spectrum, low tide can be quite exposed. But once the wind picks up past 20 knots then it’s time to get the kites out for a kitesurf.
The pros surf here
A centre stop on the UK Pro Surf Tour, the Bay plays host to the English National Surfing Championships with Surfing England every year. This year, hundreds of the UK’s best surfers will battle it out to be the best in the country. The final of the Rip Curl Grom Search also landed at Watergate Bay. If it’s good enough for the pros, it’s good enough for us.
Beach-side hangout
When you’re warm and ready to refuel, you’ll find plenty of places to eat and drink. Step off the sand and into the Beach Hut for an Extreme hot chocolate, or a sundowner cocktail.
Discover more
Twelve drinks of Christmas 2024
This year’s Twelve Drinks of Christmas menu serves up a sparkling flavour of the Bay. Find out more.
Read moreHot Honey Margarita
A spicy twist on a classic margarita, with Ocho Reposado tequila, lime, Cointreau and hot honey.
Read moreThe Matterhorn
"With its nostalgic notes of Toblerone and amaretto, The Matterhorn cocktail sums up that Christmassy feeling for me” - Meg Clark, resident mixologist
Read moreLove & lemons
Made with our own Watergate Bay x Loveday Gin; balancing the lively freshness of lemon verbena with the creamy floral notes of coastal chamomile and elderflower
Read moreBlackberry & Vanilla Bramble
Discover the recipe for our Blackberry & Vanilla Bramble, featuring our new Watergate Bay x Loveday Gin and finished with frosted blackberries.
Read moreBanana Rum Old Fashioned
Warming flavours of winter spices, toasted banana bread and dark chocolate, this take on an Old fashioned features sustainable discarded banana peel rum.
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