Join a group surf lesson at Westward Ho! Beach and experience beginner-friendly waves with expert guidance in a relaxed seaside setting. Perfect for all skill levels, it’s your chance to catch your first wave or sharpen your surfing skills.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness level recommended for paddling and balance
Wildlife
History
Westward Ho! Beach was popularized in the early 20th century as a surf haven and retains its laid-back coastal charm.
Conservation
The area emphasizes responsible surfing practices to preserve its delicate shoreline and marine life diversity.
Surf SUP Academy
Join a group surf lesson at Westward Ho! Beach and experience beginner-friendly waves with expert guidance in a relaxed seaside setting. Perfect for all skill levels, it’s your chance to catch your first wave or sharpen your surfing skills.
Surf SUP Academy is a Westward Ho!, England based adventure provider offering coasteering, group surf lessons, stand up paddle board tours and private surf lessons. Located on the north Devon coast and operating around Westward Ho! Beach and the Torridge River, Surf SUP Academy delivers on-water and on-rock experiences that use the local coastline and river scenery.
Coasteering sessions in North Devon run for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours and are suitable for ages 8 and up, with each session led by expert instructors who prioritise safety and local knowledge. Group surf lessons focus on Westward Ho! Beach’s uncrowded, gentle waves and welcome participants from beginner to advanced levels, with tailored instruction and the option to use personal kit when preferred. Private surf lessons offer one-to-one coaching for focused progress, using the same Westward Ho! surf conditions and village amenities to support a comfortable visit.
Stand up paddle board tours explore the Torridge River and nearby waterways, including popular routes such as the Bideford to Appledore cruise, providing scenic paddling past forests, cliffs and riverside villages. All experiences are delivered in third-party supervised formats by expert instructors who provide clear safety briefings, route guidance and local insights.
Surf SUP Academy’s location in Westward Ho! makes it accessible to visitors staying in the seaside village, and the mix of river and coastal trips offers options for families, groups and individuals seeking outdoor adventure in North Devon.
Location
Westward Ho!, England
Based on the North Devon coast
Session Length
2.5–3 hrs
Typical coasteering session time
Age Range
Ages 8+
Coasteering suitable for 8 and up
Instruction
Expert-led
Activities run by expert instructors
Reserve coasteering, surf lessons or a stand up paddle tour with expert-led instruction and local route knowledge — spaces fill quickly during peak season.
Arrive early
Getting to the beach early ensures you find a good spot and the best waves of the day.
Bring your own gear
Using your own surfboard and wetsuit can make the experience more comfortable and customized.
Check weather conditions
Ensure wave and tide conditions are suitable for your skill level before heading out.
Respect local surfers
Observe surf etiquette and give priority to more experienced surfers to keep the community friendly.
Wetsuit
Keeps you warm and protected while riding the waves.
spring;summer;fall
Surfboard
Provided by the academy, but bringing your own can improve comfort and familiarity.
Sun protection
Sunscreen and a hat help protect against UV rays during the lesson.
summer
Towel
Useful for drying off after the session and staying comfortable.