Tips for Staying Safe in the Waves
Planning to surf in Cornwall? Whether you're just visiting or taking your first lesson, understanding surf safety is key to enjoying your time in the water. At Shore Surf School, we’re here to help you catch waves confidently and safely. Here’s our essential guide to staying safe while surfing in St Ives Bay.
1. Know Your Limits
The ocean doesn’t care how many TikToks you’ve watched. Be honest about your ability. If you’re new to surfing, start with a lesson from a qualified surf instructor (that’s us 👋). You'll learn how to fall safely, spot hazards, and paddle with purpose — not panic.
2. Check the Conditions First
Before you pull on a wetsuit, check the local surf conditions:
- Wave size: For beginners, 1–3ft is ideal.
- Swell period: Longer periods (10–16 seconds) = more power.
- Wind direction: Offshore = clean waves, onshore = messy surf.
- Tide times: Some spots can become dangerous at certain tides.
📲 Use surf forecast apps like Surfline or Windy, or ask our team on the beach.
3. Respect the RNLI Flags
At our Godrevy and St Ives Bay Beach Resort surf school locations, lifeguards fly safety flags:
- 🏳️🌈 Red & yellow flags: Safe swimming and bodyboarding zones
- 🏁 Black & white chequered flags: Surfboards, SUPs, and kayaks only
- 🚫 Red flags: Do not enter the water
If in doubt, ask an RNLI lifeguard — they’re legends!
4. Understand Rip Currents
Rip currents are powerful channels of water that can drag you out to sea. They’re common on most beaches.
What to do if caught in a rip current:
- Don’t panic or fight the current
- Paddle parallel to the shore until free of the rip
- Then paddle back in with the waves
- Need help? Raise your hand and shout
5. Use the Right Gear
Our surf hire gear at Shore Surf School is designed for maximum safety and fun:
- Soft-top surfboards – beginner-friendly and safe
- Wetsuits – keep you warm and protected
- Leashes – keep your board (and you) connected
All equipment is checked daily — if you’re unsure, just ask.
6. Surf With a Mate or Tell Someone
Even experienced surfers buddy up. If you’re going solo, tell someone your plans and check in when you’re done. It’s always better to be safe.
7. Look Out for Others in the Lineup
Respect goes a long way in surfing:
- 🚫 Don’t “drop in” on someone else’s wave
- 🤝 Hold on to your board when possible
- 💛 Be patient with beginners — we all start somewhere
Final Thoughts
Surfing in St Ives Bay is magical — and surf safety is part of that experience. Whether you're here to learn, rent a board, or just enjoy the waves, keeping these tips in mind ensures a safer and more fun session for everyone.
👉 Ready to surf? Book a surf lesson or hire a surfboard today at www.shoresurf.com, or visit us at Godrevy (National Trust Car Park) or St Ives Bay Beach Resort.
Shore Surf School – established 1999. RNLI-supported, locally loved.
