Beginner Surf Lessons with Ma Simes Surf School in Pembrokeshire - Cardiff

Beginner Surf Lessons with Ma Simes Surf School in Pembrokeshire

Cardiffeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2 hours

Fitness Level

Basic fitness needed; ability to swim and stamina for paddling recommended

Overview

Catch your first wave off the shores of Pembrokeshire with Ma Simes Surf School’s beginner lessons. Learn surf basics in two hours from seasoned instructors near St. Davids’ dramatic coastline.

Details

On the rugged southwestern coast of Wales, Pembrokeshire offers one of the UK’s finest seascapes for water lovers and adventurers alike. Ma Simes Surf School situates itself near St. Davids, a stone’s throw from Haverfordwest, providing an accessible gateway to the Atlantic’s rolling waves. The coastline here is shaped by ancient volcanic and sedimentary rock formations, creating sheltered coves and sandy beaches that catch consistent swell—ideal conditions for beginner surfers to gain confidence.

Ma Simes Surf School specializes in the 2-hour group beginner surf lesson, a session tailored for newcomers eager to stand up on their first wave or those with some experience looking to sharpen their technique. Expert instructors start with grounded lessons on beach safety, board handling, and wave selection before moving into the surf. This practical approach ensures participants feel prepared and supported under varying conditions typical of Pembrokeshire’s coast.

What sets Ma Simes apart is the intimate, hands-on teaching ethos in a region famous for its natural beauty, from the iconic Green Bridge sea arch to the rugged cliffs that frame the coastline. Learning here means not only acquiring surf skills but immersing yourself in an environment marked by rich marine biodiversity and Welsh coastal heritage dating back centuries.

Surfing at Ma Simes taps into the local rhythm of tides and weather, offering a practical, down-to-earth introduction to Wales’s vibrant surf scene. It is a perfect starting point for anyone seeking to move beyond the lounge chair and into the thrill of the ocean, all while gaining a deep respect for the powerful yet fragile coastal environment of Pembrokeshire.

Adventure Tips

Check the tide schedule

Surf conditions vary greatly with the tides—plan your lesson during incoming or mid-tide for manageable waves.

Arrive early for beach briefing

Spend time warming up and understanding local hazards like rip currents and rocks before entering the water.

Limit sunscreen use before lesson

Choose water-resistant, reef-safe sunscreen and apply it generously, but avoid heavy lotions that can make grip slippery.

Wear suitable footwear for rocky access

Beach access might involve walking over pebbles or rocks—neoprene booties or sturdy sandals can protect your feet.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Porthclais Harbour - a quiet spot for watching local fishermen
  • Solva Harbour - ideal for post-surf coastal walks

Wildlife

  • Common seals
  • Grey herons

History

Pembrokeshire’s coast has been shaped over millennia, supporting marine trade routes and Celtic settlements, with St. Davids itself renowned as Wales’s smallest city and early Christian center.

Conservation

Local surf schools emphasize low-impact practices, including using reef-safe products and educating visitors on respecting tidal habitats and marine life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Overcast midday
Sunrise

Best Viewpoints

  • Whitesands Bay cliffs
  • St. Davids Head lookout
  • Porth Clais Harbour

What to Photograph

Surf action shots
Rocky coastline
Early morning light on waves

Recommended Gear

Wetsuit

Essential

Keeps you warm and protected against wind and cold water throughout the year.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Water-resistant sunscreen

Essential

Protects skin from prolonged UV exposure on reflective water surfaces.

spring|summer|fall specific

Neoprene booties

Offer extra warmth and foot protection when walking on rocky beaches.

fall|winter specific

Board wax

Essential

Improves grip on your board’s surface, crucial for standing up and balancing.

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