Falmouth surf guide

Falmouth offers three main surf beach options: Maenporth, Swanpool, and Gyllyngvase. These spots can catch quality waves, but you really need a decent Atlantic storm or a solid southwesterly swell to make it happen. The area has a busy surf scene, especially with the local surf crowd and university students eager to hit the water when conditions are right. Remember to check the forecast before heading out.

The surf here works best between thigh-high (about 0.6 meters) to overhead (around 2 meters) when the swell rolls in from the southwest or northwest. You can catch both left and right waves over a sandy bottom, mixed with some rocks, which adds a bit of variety. The best time to surf is during low, mid, or high tides. You'll find that the waves can be beach breaks, but there's also a rocky section called Falmouth Reef between Swanpool and Gyllyngvase, which sometimes offers longer, more consistent rights. Just keep in mind, it can get crowded when the conditions are firing.

Access is convenient with beachside car parks at all three beaches. Crowds are common when the waves are on, and the vibe can be a bit competitive due to the local scene. If you’re a beginner or intermediate surfer looking for winter action, you might want to plan your surf sessions from December to February when the swells tend to be bigger. Bring various boards, as you'll see everything from shortboards to longboards in the lineup.