Polzeath
Cornwall, England
Beach breakIntermediate
On the Camel Estuary in north Cornwall, Polzeath is one of Cornwall's most popular family surf beaches, a beautiful sheltered cove where consistent swells and excellent surf schools have been introducing generations of surfers to the sport.
Typical Conditions
The Surf Window
Swell Window
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size–W 1–2.5m at 12–16s
Wind
SE
Light to E under 15 knots
Tide
Mid tide
LowMidHigh
Season
Sep–Apr
JFMAMJJASOND
The Wave
Type
Beach break
Bottom
Sand
Shape
Multiple peaks in the bay, best lefts at the south end
Length
50–100m
Skill Level
- •Who it's for: All levels
- •Why: Protected bay, good lifeguard service, and multiple surf schools make it the best learn-to-surf beach in north Cornwall
Hazards
- •Very crowded in summer, the most popular beach in the area
- •Rip currents near the south end of the beach
- •The Doom Bar sandbank in the Camel estuary is extremely dangerous, stay away from it
Local Tips
- •Poet Laureate John Betjeman surfed here as a child and is buried in St Enodoc Church above the beach
- •Padstow is across the estuary, the Black Tor ferry runs seasonally
- •Polzeath Village has great ice cream and surf shops right on the beach
Location
50.5728, -4.9149