Sarah P
03 December 2020
Kitesurfing in Cornwall is a popular activity for water sports lovers and thrill-seekers. Due to its south-westerly location and huge sandy beaches, Cornwall is a perfect place for wind and space, two crucial elements for kitesurfing. There are also plenty of beaches to choose from, so no matter what the wind direction, you’ll easily find a suitable place to launch. The exposed beaches of North Cornwall are particularly popular for kitesurfing in Cornwall, but that’s not to say the south coast doesn’t offer up a few delights too.
Whether you’re seeking somewhere that will propel you at 50mph across the water, or somewhere sheltered where you can perfect your skills, we’ve picked some of the best kitesurfing spots in Cornwall.
Watergate Bay, North Cornwall
One of the most famous kitesurfing locations in the UK, Watergate Bay is a firm favourite. Annually hosting the British Kite Sports Association (BKSA) tour, crowds flock to this expansive beach to try their hand at kitesurfing, from the experienced who take on the big Atlantic swells to beginners who can polish off their skills in the safer shallow waters. If you’re looking for 1-to-1 tuition during your stay in Cornwall, then book lessons through Atlantic Riders, a BKSA recognised instructor based at Watergate Bay.
Good to know:
- Wind direction: N, NW, W and SW
- Restrictions: none, but it is best to enter the water at the ends of the beach where it’s quieter
- Look out for: the small strip of rocks just below high tide and the big cliffs
- Facilities: toilets, pub, cafes, restaurants, shops
Stay nearby: Porth Apartment | Sleeps 4 + 1 dog
Perranporth (Perran Sands and Penhale), North Cornwall
As well as wind, another essential for kitesurfing is a big beach, and you certainly get that at Perranporth, which stretches for 3 miles. Its exposed beach means you get the best of the winds, and because sand dunes flank the beach instead of rocks, you often get more time out on the water before the tide comes in. On days when there are big twin rip tides, you’ll find huge wide flat sections of water where you can fly, making Perranporth a favourite Cornwall kitesurfing spot.
Good to know:
- Wind direction: N, NW, W and SW
- Restrictions: there are different zones that are enforced throughout the year so check before you head out
- Look out for: big Atlantic swells
- Facilities: bar and restaurant on the beach
Stay nearby: Blue Bay | Sleeps 8 + 2 dogs
Daymer Bay (and Hawker’s Cove), North Cornwall
Sitting on the east side of the Camel Estuary opening, Daymer Bay offers flat, shallow waters which make it a great spot for both experienced kite surfers, and those looking to hone their skills. A little more exposed than the sheltered Hawkers Cove which sits opposite, an incoming swell often provides small waves at Daymer Bay for some water sports fun and games. As one of the few spots that work in easterly winds, pros will come here for flat water pools where they can shred ground.
Good to know:
- Wind direction: N and NW (NW at Hawkers)
- Restrictions: no kite-flying in July and August between 10am – 6pm
- Look out for: strong river currents and passing boats
- Facilities: shop and toilets
Stay nearby: Polzeath Bluebird | Sleeps 4 + 1 dog
Gwithian (and Godrevy)
Located in St Ives Bay, this is the longest continuous piece of sand in Cornwall, so you won’t find a better kitesurfing spot that offers up so much space. Depending on where you park up and access the beach, it is named differently. You’ll find the Gwithian section near the lighthouse, where it benefits from big waves perfect for the real thrill-seekers! There are a couple of big rocks that you need to pinpoint before setting off, so get a good look of the beach when you park up on the cliffs.
Good to know:
- Wind direction: N, NW, W and SW
- Restrictions: none, but be sure to look out for other beach users in the water
- Look out for: two big rocks below the high-tide line
- Facilities: café, beach shop and toilets
Stay nearby: Kehelland Farmhouse | Sleeps 8 + 2 dogs
The Bluff, West Cornwall
The Bluff, also known as Hayle beach, is in St Ives Bay on the west coast of Cornwall, and it is said to be one of the finest places in the UK for professional kite surfers to launch. That is possibly reflected by the fact the beach has a code of conduct, and a permit and insurance are required to kitesurf here. While that might seem like a hassle, for the more experienced kite surfer it is well worth it for fabulous wave riding and flat-water shredding, without too many others to avoid! The Bluff Inn located right on the beach makes a great spot for groups of kite surfers to grab breakfast and a morning coffee before hitting the water.
Good to know:
- Wind direction: NE, N and NW (avoid gusty westerly winds)
- Restrictions: there is a code of conduct, and a permit and insurance is required
- Look out for: boats, beach users, a strong current, telegraph poles and the shallow sand bar as the tide comes in
- Facilities: pub, toilets, restaurants, shops
Stay nearby: Hayle Estuary View | Sleeps 2
Marazion and Longrock
One of the best places to kitesurf in winter, and to capture some stunning GoPro footage, Marazion sits on the south coast, against the backdrop of the striking St Michael’s Mount. The swell is often smaller on the south coast, but that can be welcoming conditions for the less-experienced kite surfer who is looking to perfect their skills. Be sure to survey the beach well and pick your spot; if you’d like to book lessons, head towards the village and join classes with Mobius.
Good to know:
- Wind direction: SE, S and SW
- Restrictions: none
- Look out for: the sea wall at high tide
- Facilities: pub, toilets and café
Stay nearby: Riverside | Sleeps + 3 dogs
Par, South Cornwall
Located between Fowey and St Austell on the south coast, Par Beach or ‘Parbados’ as it’s known to locals, is a great kitesurfing spot if you’re starting out and want to learn the basics of kitesurfing. The water stays shallow for a long way out, and although there is a swell, it’s gentle enough for beginners to build up their confidence. The great thing about kitesurfing at Par is that it tends to be used less than many of the other Cornwall kitesurfing spots, so you’re likely to have the waves to yourself.
Good to know:
- Wind direction: SW, S, SE (which can be gusty and dangerous)
- Restrictions: none
- Look out for: bathers in the water
- Facilities: toilets, shop and pub
Stay nearby: The Hollies | Sleeps 6 + 1 dog
Kitesurfing schools in Cornwall
Whether you want to try kitesurfing for the first time, you’d like to book a block of lessons or you want to brush up on your skills, there are several kitesurfing schools in Cornwall where you can do just that, under the guidance of trained instructors.
Book a cottage in Cornwall
Ready to fly? We hope our guide to the best kitesurfing spots in Cornwall has inspired you to enjoy the very best of British water sports on your next holiday. Whether you’re a seasoned kite surfer, or you’d like to try something new, base yourself in one of our Cornwall cottages and you’ll never be too far from a popular kitesurfing spot! Like the idea of trying another sport in Cornwall? Check out our top places to paddleboard in Cornwall, where to learn to surf and be inspired by these thrilling extreme sports.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.