Finding an activity that’s suitable for the whole family can be a struggle, but with numerous beaches, bays and harbours located throughout Cornwall, water sports are a fantastic option for families holidaying in the area. From surfing to stand up paddleboarding, there are plenty of water sports to choose from, and we’ve listed just a few of these activities below to help give you an idea of what’s available.
Surfing
©Cornwallsurfacademy.com
Surfing is Cornwall’s favourite water sport; in fact the county is so famous for the sport that it’s often referred to as the home of British surfing. The array of beaches in the area ensure that there is more than enough room for capable surfers to spread out and work on their skills, and with a number of sheltered bays also available there is ample space for beginners to get to grips with the sport too.
Where to learn: The lively team at Cornwall Surf Academy offers family surf lessons from the stunning beach at Holywell Bay. The Academy caters for people aged between seven and 88 to ensure that the whole family can get involved.
Price: Full-day’s surf lessons are available for adults at £40 and children at £30, half-day lessons are also available at £20 for both adults and children.
Opening times: Full-day lessons start at 10am and finish at 4:30pm, half-day lessons start at either 10am or 2pm and finish at 1pm or 5pm.
Contact: 01637 831369; info@cornwallsurfacademy.com; www.cornwallsurfacademy.com
Kayaking
@Cornishcoastadventures.com
Kayaking is a wonderful group activity that allows families to experience the beauty of the Cornish coast together as they make their way around hidden coves and sandy beaches. Kayaks can hold up to three people with many families choosing a two person kayak so parents can have some one-on-one time with their children. The speed of your kayak is controlled by your strokes, so you can always travel at a pace suited to you and your family.
Where to learn: Cornish Coast Adventures offers an excellent family fun session which is suitable for the whole family. The session teaches families basic skills and allows then to explore the beautiful harbour at Port Quin before playing some kayak games with the instructors.
Price: Family fun sessions are available at £30 per person, or at £25 per person if there are more than eight people in the group.
Opening times: Open daily for tours, please contact for more details.
Contact: 01208 880280; sam@cornishcoastadventures.com; www.cornishcoastadventures.com
Stand up paddleboarding
©WeSup.co.uk
Stand up paddleboarding combines both surfing and kayaking to form an exciting group activity which is growing in popularity all across the UK. This up-and-coming sport is suitable for families of all ages and fitness levels and, as long as the weather is calm, stand up paddleboarding can be enjoyed throughout the year. Our top tip for families looking to enjoy this sport is to seek professional assistance when choosing a board, as this can make all the difference when out on the water.
Where to learn: WeSup provides superb training for new and experienced stand up paddle boarders in Cornwall and has an exceptional safety record. WeSup’s group activities are perfect for families looking to try something new.
Price: Beginner lessons are available at £35 and advanced lessons at £45.
Opening times: Monday to Friday 9am to 7pm, Saturday 9am to 5:30pm and Sunday 10am to 5pm.
Contact: 07833 451533; sean@wesup.co.uk; www.wesup.co.uk
Windsurfing
©Coverack.co.uk
Windsurfing is a really fun activity for families to learn together; you don’t have to be super fit, the equipment is light, and there are a number of companies offering lessons across Cornwall. Taster sessions are a great way to introduce your family to the sport and learn the importance of stance, balance and confidence.
Where to learn: The Coverack Windsurfing Centre offers fantastic windsurfing lessons from the beautiful sandy shores of Coverack. The bay is protected from the south westerly winds making this area ideal for beginners with a windier area also available for more experienced windsurfers.
Price: Half-day windsurfing tutorials are available at £40 per person
Opening times: Half-day windsurfing lessons are available from 9:30am to 12:30pm and then again from 2:30pm to 5:30pm.
Contact: 01326 280939; windsurfing@coverack.co.uk; www.coverack.co.uk