Surfing in Scotland

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Download your copy of the Active in Scotland 2013 brochure.
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View the official 2013 guide to adventure activities in Scotland

  • Looking along the beach at Balephuil Bay as three surfers walk along
    Balephuil Bay, Isle of Tiree
  • Looking over to a group of surfers making their way out of the water and onto the beach on the Isle of Lewis
    Isle of Lewis surfing
  • A surfer competing in the O'Neill Highland Open mid jump
    O'Neill Highland Open at Brims Ness
  • A surfer riding a wave at the O'Neill Highland Open at Brims Ness
    Brims Ness, five miles east of Thurso

Golden sandy beaches, beautiful clear waters and isolated locations combine to make Scotland one of Europe’s top surfing destinations. Surrounded by Atlantic and North Sea swells throughout the year, you are guaranteed to catch some great waves.

The west coast of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides offers surfers a thrilling day out and is one of the best surfing destinations in the UK. Some of the best and most consistent surf in Europe can be found around Lewis and the clear, safe waters and beautiful white sands make it an extraordinary location for any surfer.

Head to Tiree and explore the sunny, mild climate of the Inner Hebrides, with waves suitable for all abilities. A number of companies offer surfboard hire as well as equipment delivery and uplift to the beach.

For those new to surfing, why not start with a surf lesson on Belhaven beach in Dunbar or the stunning beach at Coldingham Bay? Make the short trip from Edinburgh to the east coast between East Lothian and Eyemouth in the Scottish Borders to learn the basics and improve your technique at some great surfing spots with safe conditions.

Situated on the northern tip of Scotland, Thurso’s world-class surfing not only attracts a great number of surfers from around the globe, but also hosts some of the most prestigious surfing contests in the UK and Europe.

This rugged shoreline along Caithness’ northern coast produces big, fast powerful breaks which have been compared to those found in Hawaii. This is definitely one for the more experienced surfer.

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