Learn how to surf and have surfing lessons at Gwithian Academy of Surfing, an ASI accredited surf school, located at Gwithian, close to St Ives and Hayle, Cornwall.   It’s  a National Trust beach and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Gwithian Academy of Surfing has been operating since 1999 and is one of the UK’s most established surf schools.

The surf school aims to share the passion for surfing and the unmistakeable ‘stoked’ feeling that it brings – no matter what your age or background is.

They offer all levels of surf coaching, from beginner level to advanced level and competition surfing, have a community club, provide educational programs and video analysis coaching. 

There is a highly experienced management team, who are elite surfers, with years of coaching experience to all age groups and backgrounds.   .

The school is owned and operated by Tyson Greenaway, an ASI Level 4 Master Surfing Coach. He’s been surfing for over 30 years, is a competitive surfer and was ranked 3rd in the British Seniors (over 28's) and Masters (over 35's) categories.  He still regularly competes. Tyson has over 20 years coaching experience ranging from beginners to elite competition level.

Ian Gabbitas is the surf school manager holding ASI Level 3 Surfing Coach qualifications with elite-advanced level surfing ability gained from surfing in Bali and other worldwide locations, has over 15 years coaching experience as well as being an competition surf coach.

Gwithian Surfing Academy is also an ASI Instructor Training Centre (ITC) and are authorised to train others to be ASI accredited surfing instructors.

They are assisted by a crew of  ASI qualified surfing instructors, all holding surf rescue and first aid qualifications.

Gwithian Academy of Surfing offers group and private surfing lessons for all levels - beginners, intermediate and advanced level - for all ages, families, backpackers, travellers, hens and stags parties, girls only, kids parties, universities, school sports, corporate groups and community groups.

The instructors will also spend time with you to find the right equipment to suit your build and style – which is very important in learning to surf and improving your skills

For beginners, the surf school prides itself on a 90% success rate to get you up and riding in the first lesson.

Intermediate and advanced level coaching sessions, using video analysis to take your surfing to the next level.

Learn to surf sessions are also available for different clients – offering sessions for the more mature silver surfers, girls/women’s only, kids school holiday programs and family groups sessions.   

They specialise in school sports or community and corporate groups with a large selection of boards and wetsuits.

There is a great surf shop on site where you can buy a range of surf equipment and clothing.

There is also a large selection of rental boards (softboards and hardboards) so you can practice and enjoy the surf in your own time.

Join the Stormriders, community surf club run by Gwithian Academy of Surfing, open to everyone aged 6 and up across Cornwall. Members enjoy exclusive coaching sessions, surf meetups, and social events that celebrate ocean adventure, community spirit, and a shared love for the waves.

Become an ASI Surfing Instructor with workshops and apprentice courses on offer throughout the year.

Surfing sessions take place on the stunning shores of Godrevy Beach, a National Trust area and the start  to an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that stretches along to the North Cliffs.

With its long sandy shoreline and consistent year-round surf, Gwithian offers the perfect playground for wave enthusiasts. The water here is surprisingly warm compared to other UK surf spots, making it especially inviting.

Godrevy Beach is an ideal place to learn to surf or improve your surfing skills, with beginner surf waves and waves for the more experienced – all in close range.

The surf school is conveniently located right on the beach, so you're never far from the action.

The surf school has changing rooms, toilets and parking on site.

The Rockpool Seafood Bar & Grill is right next to the surf school – so you can enjoy a meal or snack after surfing!

Some accommodation options in the beautiful village of Gwithian, only 5 minutes drive to the surf school.

Gwithian Academy of Surfing offers surf and stay packages, with professional surf lessons and equipment hire, offering a complete coastal getaway.

• Choose from one to four bedroom apartments that can cater up to 7 people.    

• Camping  packages are available through out partnership with Prosper House, a local family run campsite just minutes from the beach.

• For an authentic pub stay: Red River Inn  website

The Gwithian–Godrevy area offers a blend of coastal charm and nature-rich experiences.

Visitors can enjoy long walks on Godrevy Beach with its iconic lighthouse and surf-friendly waves, or spot seals and seabirds along the cliffs near Mutton Cove.

Gwithian Towans Nature Reserve invites peaceful dune strolls with wildflowers and historical remnants, while Hell’s Mouth delivers dramatic cliff-top views just a short drive away.

Nearby, St Gothian Sands provides a quiet space for birdwatching along its circular walking route.

The South West Coast Path ties it all together, offering scenic trails that link these highlights with nearby destinations like St Ives and Portreath.

St Ives is only 9 miles (14.5 km) away.  Famous for its natural beauty, arts and culture including the Tate Art Gallery , cobbled streets, historic buildings, inns and harbour dating back to 1300’s. It’s a blend of history, culture, and coastal charm that continues to captivate visitors.