Category: Travel

What To Pack For A Summer Surf Camping Trip

Posted on | by James Price | Leave a Comment on What To Pack For A Summer Surf Camping Trip

Featured image featuring @rolling_homes_campers

The summer is almost here, the sun is out and the surf is pumping! So where better to spend some time than on a surf camping trip in the UK or Europe? Circle One Surf Co. was founded by Jeff Townsley and his love for surfing the coasts of Cornwall, Devon and Wales, here’s some of his top tips on what to take with you!

Surf Kit

As the main purpose of your camping trip is to surf, the first things to organise are your surf equipment. If you are lucky enough to have your own surfboard, make sure it is protected on the journey by a robust surfboard travel bag or sock, and pack it out with soft things such as your towel, changing robe or hoodie. Make sure you have plenty of surf wax of the correct temperature for the water (cold or cool in the UK) and put this into your surfboard bag too so you don’t forget it! Double check your fins and leash before you go to make sure they are in good condition. If you are thinking of buying your own surfboard this summer, check out the Circle One guide to buying your first surfboard here.

 

 

Your wetsuit and swimming gear should be next on the list. By July, the sea temperature in the South of the UK should be warm enough for a 3/2 mm full length wetsuit but if you’re heading out sooner definitely wear a thicker suit. Check out the 5/3mm winter suits here. On top of this you can wear a rash vest underneath your wetsuit and take wetsuit boots in case you want to be in the water for a long time. For the ladies remember to pack a bikini or swimsuit for underneath your wetsuit or for a quick dip in the sea. And don’t forget a towel or changing robe for after your surf! A dry bag or few are also really useful to protect important things from getting wet on the beach or to put wet things in.

 

Circle One Wetsuit

 

Camping Kit

So the other side of this trip is the camping side of things. Whether in a campervan, caravan or tent, camping does need quite a bit of kit, and it is easy to get carried away and bring everything you think you might need, packing the car as full as it can go! On the other hand, a good surf camping trip doesn’t need to over complicate things, with surfing being the main priority. Getting back to basics might be just what you need.

A tent is pretty important if you aren’t in a van or caravan. Then a sleeping bag and comfortable sleeping mat or airbed so you can get a good night’s sleep ready for surfing the next day! A light or head torch are always useful to find your way to the loo in the night, and some camping table and chairs bring some comfort to your set up, especially for breakfast and in the evenings at the campsite. A washing line, clothes rack or wetsuit hanger is really useful to dry your wetsuit and towel ready for the next day, and don’t forget some warmer clothes for in the evening too.

A small gas stove is useful if only to boil some water for a cup of tea or coffee in the morning, and I think a summer camping trip is not complete without a BBQ on the beach or in the campsite. Don’t forget your reusable coffee cup, water bottle, cutlery and plates.

 

Beach Kit

And no surf camping trip is complete without some time just chilling on the beach too! The art of making a good beach camp to come back to after your surf is definitely worth it, especially if there is a group of you together. A pop up beach tent or large umbrella is great to create some shade on the beach & to protect your skin from the sun. A picnic blanket is a great addition to sit on and stop things getting sandy while you read your book in the sun. Beach games are also good additions to your surf camping trip, definitely pack a frisbee, beach cricket and beach bats. Most importantly, don’t forget sun cream, a sun hat and sunglasses to protect yourself on the beach.

 

 

THE KIT LIST

  • Surfboards
  • Surfboard Bag
  • Towel
  • Surf Wax
  • Wetsuit
  • Rash Vest
  • Bikini/ Swimsuit/ Board-shorts
  • Tent
  • Sleeping Bag
  • Sleeping Mat/ Airbed
  • Head Torch
  • Camping Lamp
  • Table & Chairs
  • Picnic Blanket
  • Cool Box
  • Reusable plates, mugs, cutlery
  • Water Bottle
  • Gas Stove/ BBQ
  • Matches/ Lighter
  • Beach Tent/ Parasol
  • Frisbee
  • Sun Cream
  • Hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Book
  • Warmer clothes for the evening (changing robe)
  • Dry Bags for wet gear

 

The Ultimate Vehicle For Staycation Surf Trips

Posted on | by James Price

 

Surfing road trips are easily one of the best types of staycation. Exploring the incredible coastline the UK has to offer, with no fixed destination and waves on tap. (If the swell is good). Plus if you have a cool camper van with all the home comforts it makes the experience undeniably better!

One of the most iconic van trips and one that is close to the heart of Circle One was undertaken by Jeff Townsley himself, founder of Circle One Surf Co. In the 60’s Jeff had become a skilled and respected self-taught surfer and had saved enough cash to fulfil his ambition of travelling to new foreign surf spots. He purchased the most iconic of surfing transport, a VW split screen camper van, ditched the day job and set off on a European and African surfing adventure with a few close surfing buddies. He spent the next couple of years living the surfing dream, chasing waves in France, Portugal, Spain, Canaries, Morocco and soaking up the local culture wherever he went.

With 2021 forcing us to stay a little more local, it’s worth looking at slightly different holiday styles and UK surf trips. But for the great adventure, you need the perfect vehicle. We think we have found the ultimate surf trip wagon!

We caught up with Ben at Rolling Homes to find out more about their Expedition camper van model.

A little about the van..

The new Expedition is designed to go anywhere. There will be no stopping your adventures with this rugged all terrain vehicle.

This camper has all the equipment and comforts of our whole Rolling Homes range has, but this one has a twist. This Expedition camper will allow you to go anywhere you want. With extra underbody protection, diff locks, 4 motion and many more options, this camper really makes your adventures unstoppable.

What you get:

  • Side kitchen layout with 4 berths and 4 seats all with 3 point seat belts

  • Award winning handmade lightweight units, we are the only company using real wood in the UK with Corian work surfaces, industry leading storage space and a fold away table

  • Fully Insulated camper with eco-friendly sheep wool

  • 50ltr fridge freezer, twin burner hob with neat integrated sink, water tank and pump. Sealed gas locker with regulator and gas safety certificate

  • 75 Amp leisure battery that runs all 12v fitting and ultra-low power LED lighting with full safety certificate

  • Blackout curtains on a twin track system behind timber window panels and cab blinds

  • RIB crash tested bed system with two three point seat belts

  • Deluxe SCA elevating roof, the only roof suitable for two adults TUV and VW approved

  • Blown air heating system

  • 3 year warranty on conversion and vehicle

  • DAB touch screen, Bluetooth radio, electric windows and mirrors

  • SWB VW T6.1 T28 Euro 6 90ps Bluemotion

  • Bilstein Lifted Suspension

  • Body protection

This camper van in incredible! So what about you Ben? How do surfing and VW camper vans fit into your lifestyle?

Basically when I see any free time heading my way I get excited about a trip in the camper van. Even if it is an afternoon off-work I pack myself, my dogs and mountain bike into the camper and head off to the woods to get in some trails. If it is a weekend or longer I pack myself, my wife, our two dogs, our two bikes, my surfboard, her bodyboard and our inflatable SUP (you know-for good measure) into the van and head off to find some waves.

I am a regular guy really, my family business just happens to be Rolling Homes, the VW Camper Conversion specialists. We have established the business through our passion for high-quality design and innovation which has enabled us to create a range of award-winning T6 Campervan Conversions. So when I say I head out in my van, I am lucky enough to be rocking around in the a Rolling Homes show vehicle.

I suppose I didn’t chose the van life, the van life chose me. A major part of that life involved surfing from a young age. I don’t think my dad actually planned on me surfing but I remember popping up on bodyboards, so he eventually caved and bought me a surf board. I surfed all through school and Uni but then somehow life got in the way and I parked my board for a while.

After obtaining the pleasure of rolling around in the show van it immediately reignited my passion for surfing, the freedom and independence you get with a van is quite inspiring. And there is definitely an added bonus of having the creature comforts after coming out the water. A comfortable van, a hot cup of tea or chilled beer depending on the season. It also helps that my newly acquired Circle One longboard fits comfortably inside the van.

Can I talk about my surfboard and my van now?

Right well my board is a 9’ Bamboo Round Pin and I am so excited about it! I wanted a new board for ages and couldn’t decide whether to go shorter or longer. I decided to go long, I am not getting any younger and my days of shredding, (or at least trying to shred), are over. Now it’s just cruising and my days of cruising are very much ahead of me and my Circle One bamboo board is the perfect ride.

My Van

My van is a Rolling Homes Expedition camper, (as mentioned above). It’s a VW T6.1 4Motion with lifted suspension, a rear locking diff and sits on some O.Z Racing wheels. Obviously these had to be wrapped in BFGoodrich tires. I have put it to the test many times on so many epic surf adventures and it has never let me down. The truest testament was maybe when I drove it to the Arctic Circle, a trip over a Christmas break and we camped in -40C without a problem! I was even a bit too hot! And before you ask… No I wasn’t brave enough to surf there haha… I cannot wait to get out for more surf trips this year!

Looking for a camper van? Find out more about Rolling Home campers here, or check out the surfboard that Ben rides here.

 

The best places to SUP in Devon and Cornwall this Summer

Posted on | by Anna Ross | Leave a Comment on The best places to SUP in Devon and Cornwall this Summer

Being based in Devon, at Circle One we are always keen to get out and explore on our doorstep, plus of course try out the latest technology and boards we develop each year. This year we’ve noticed more than ever the growth of paddleboarding around the area. With many beautiful spots In Devon and Cornwall to enjoy this tranquil sport it’s no wonder it’s on the up. With the prospect of a summer at home this year, we’ve pumped up our SUPs and headed to the best places to paddleboard in Devon and Cornwall. Here are just some of our favourites!

Best for beginners

When you are just starting out, it is important to find somewhere really sheltered from wind and currents, and as flat as possible to make learning to balance on a SUP easier. Often this is on canals, lakes or sheltered estuaries as there is less chance of waves and they are more sheltered. Estuaries and the edges of lakes are also a bit shallower so if you do fall off, it is easier to get back on again!

The Gannel, Crantock Beach, Newquay

A really sheltered spot, close to the hub of Newquay but without the world class waves it is known for. The Gannel is the river estuary running along the West edge of the town and at high tide especially offers a really gentle place to learn to SUP and even head off on your first adventure up the river! There is SUP hire and lessons in the Crantock car park too.

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The Duckpond, Exmouth

Exmouth is a great place for all abilities to enjoy paddleboarding. The duckpond is the area within the River Exe estuary, behind the main beach. It is very sheltered and at high tide offers shallow flat water perfect for learning to SUP.

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Best for exploring

There is something about exploring the coast or rivers on a paddleboard. The peace and quiet as you gently paddle along. The elevated view over the water and the ability to get to places you might not be able to on land. Just pack a dry bag with a picnic and some essentials and away you go!

Trescore Islands to Bedruthan Steps, North Cornwall

This beautiful section of coast has many caves and secret bays to explore. With white sand and turquoise waters it feels like exploring tropical desert islands. There is also wildlife spotting opportunities, with dolphins, seals, basking sharks and seabirds all spotted around this area.

.

River Teign, Teignmouth

A fun day paddle down the river Teign starts in Teignmouth and with the incoming tide takes you up the river to The Combe Cellars Inn in Combeinteignhead, and then back again on the outgoing tide. Make sure you check the tides and time it right!

.

Best for SUP surfing

To start catching some waves on your SUP, the waves don’t need to be big, as paddle boards can more easily catch small waves than surfboards. We like the waves at Bantham in South Devon and Gyllingvase Beach in Falmouth when the conditions are good. Both offer great variety of SUP conditions for all abilities of rider.

So now all you need to do is grab your SUP, make sure you have a leash and paddle, get yourself a dry bag to protect your kit, especially on SUP adventures, and you are ready to go!

Top Winter Surf & Sun Destinations 2019/20

Posted on | by Anna Ross | Leave a Comment on Top Winter Surf & Sun Destinations 2019/20

As the nights draw in and the wind gets cold, I know I’m not alone in dreaming about heading somewhere warmer for a bit of winter surf and sun. With so many top surf destinations firing in Autumn and Winter, it can be hard to narrow down your choice or find the best value option. We’ve done the research for you and come up with our top surf destinations for a winter surf holiday.

 

Best for a Short Break – Sri Lanka

November and December is when the West Coast of Sri Lanka really gets going with clean, empty waves, warm water and plenty of sunshine! It may seem like a fairly long way to go just for a week or two, but direct return flights with Sri Lankan Airlines from London Heathrow start at only £500 even during this peak holiday time, and once you are there it is a very easy country to get around. To get to the main surf spots in the South West of the island only takes 2 – 3 hours in a taxi or minibus from the airport, so you can get straight to the beach to start your holiday! Add to that the amazing food, cheap accommodation and beer and friendly locals and you have a top destination to head to this winter!

Ticket To Ride have just opened up a Surf House in Ahangama right opposite one of the most consistent waves in the South West of the island. They offer tailored accommodation, surf coaching and yoga packages suitable for all abilities in their very smart new house complete with rooftop bar/ yoga space. Ticket To Ride are known for their top coaching and sociable trips so are perfect for anyone looking to improve their surfing (whatever their current ability) and meet like minded people in a beautiful setting.

 

 

 

Best for Adventure – South Africa

Voted as one of the top cities to visit in the World this year, Cape Town has a bit of everything to excite even the itchiest of feet! With only a two hour time difference, you can flit from cold dark UK winter, to warm summer with minimal disruption to your body clock! As well as world-class waves to surf, you can see penguins on Boulders Beach, spot the Big 5 on safari, try the world’s highest bridge bungee jump, climb Table Mountain, go wine tasting in the nearby Vineyards and enjoy a sunset Braii all on one amazing adventure.

African Soul Surfer is a great hostel right on the seafront on Muizenberg Beach, offering surf lessons, hire and yoga for the perfect trip for those who like to be on the go!

 

Photo by Tobias Fischer on Unsplash

 

Best for a Shorter Journey – Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

You may think to escape the UK winter, you need to try pretty far – either to the Southern Hemisphere or somewhere on the Equator at the very least! But with affordable flights from many UK regional airports such as Bristol, Manchester, Newcastle and Birmingham, and only 4 hours in the air to get there, Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands may be the perfect place to head to in November/ December for some warm weather and waves!

With temperatures in the mid 20s even in November/ December and solid Atlantic swell, Fuerteventura offers a perfect last minute winter escape. As an island, there is invariably surf to be had on any coast depending on wind direction and swell. Hiring a car to get around is easy and helpful to fully explore this beautiful volcanic island. For accommodation, surf lessons and hire, check out Planet Surf Camp who can arrange trips to the best spots each day to fully make the most of your well-earned break!

 

Photo by Michael Baccin on Unsplash

 

Best for Relaxing – Costa Rica

If chilled vibes, hot weather, great food and surf are exactly what you need this November and December, then Costa Rica will not disappoint. Everything about this beautiful country makes it an easy place to travel around and relax. Head to Santa Teresa for beautiful tropical beaches and fun places to stay. We love Funky Monkey Lodge, close to the beach and in the jungle, for ultimate relaxing accommodation surrounded by nature. If a daily routine of yoga, surfing, reading your book in a hammock and keeping up your energy with plenty of tasty food sounds good, then get planning your trip now!

 

Photo by Drew Sullivan on Unsplash

 

Have the best winter whether you head somewhere warm or stay for the winter swells in the UK! Get in touch if you need any gear for your trip, from a new surfboard to a rash vest or winter wetsuit if you are staying put!

 

What To Pack For A Summer Surf Camping Trip

Posted on | by Anna Ross | Leave a Comment on What To Pack For A Summer Surf Camping Trip
surf camping trip

The summer is almost here, the sun is out and the surf is pumping! So where better to spend some time than on a surf camping trip in the UK or Europe? Circle One Surf Co. was founded by Jeff Townsley and his love for surfing the coasts of Cornwall, Devon and Wales, here’s some of his top tips on what to take with you!

Surf Kit

As the main purpose of your camping trip is to surf, the first things to organise are your surf equipment. If you are lucky enough to have your own surfboard, make sure it is protected on the journey by a robust surfboard travel bag or sock, and pack it out with soft things such as your towel, changing robe or hoodie. Make sure you have plenty of surf wax of the correct temperature for the water (cold or cool in the UK) and put this into your surfboard bag too so you don’t forget it! Double check your fins and leash before you go to make sure they are in good condition. If you are thinking of buying your own surfboard this summer, check out the Circle One guide to buying your first surfboard here.

 

 

Your wetsuit and swimming gear should be next on the list. By July, the sea temperature in the South of the UK should be warm enough for a 3/2 mm full length wetsuit but if you’re heading out sooner definitely wear a thicker suit. Check out the 5/3mm winter suits here. On top of this you can wear a rash vest underneath your wetsuit and take wetsuit boots in case you want to be in the water for a long time. For the ladies remember to pack a bikini or swimsuit for underneath your wetsuit or for a quick dip in the sea. And don’t forget a towel or changing robe for after your surf! A dry bag or few are also really useful to protect important things from getting wet on the beach or to put wet things in.

 

Circle One Wetsuit

 

Camping Kit

So the other side of this trip is the camping side of things. Whether in a campervan, caravan or tent, camping does need quite a bit of kit, and it is easy to get carried away and bring everything you think you might need, packing the car as full as it can go! On the other hand, a good surf camping trip doesn’t need to over complicate things, with surfing being the main priority. Getting back to basics might be just what you need.

A tent is pretty important if you aren’t in a van or caravan. Then a sleeping bag and comfortable sleeping mat or airbed so you can get a good night’s sleep ready for surfing the next day! A light or head torch are always useful to find your way to the loo in the night, and some camping table and chairs bring some comfort to your set up, especially for breakfast and in the evenings at the campsite. A washing line, clothes rack or wetsuit hanger is really useful to dry your wetsuit and towel ready for the next day, and don’t forget some warmer clothes for in the evening too.

A small gas stove is useful if only to boil some water for a cup of tea or coffee in the morning, and I think a summer camping trip is not complete without a BBQ on the beach or in the campsite. Don’t forget your reusable coffee cup, water bottle, cutlery and plates.

 

Beach Kit

And no surf camping trip is complete without some time just chilling on the beach too! The art of making a good beach camp to come back to after your surf is definitely worth it, especially if there is a group of you together. A pop up beach tent or large umbrella is great to create some shade on the beach & to protect your skin from the sun. A picnic blanket is a great addition to sit on and stop things getting sandy while you read your book in the sun. Beach games are also good additions to your surf camping trip, definitely pack a frisbee, beach cricket and beach bats. Most importantly, don’t forget sun cream, a sun hat and sunglasses to protect yourself on the beach.

 

 

THE KIT LIST

  • Surfboards
  • Surfboard Bag
  • Towel
  • Surf Wax
  • Wetsuit
  • Rash Vest
  • Bikini/ Swimsuit/ Board-shorts
  • Tent
  • Sleeping Bag
  • Sleeping Mat/ Airbed
  • Head Torch
  • Camping Lamp
  • Table & Chairs
  • Picnic Blanket
  • Cool Box
  • Reusable plates, mugs, cutlery
  • Water Bottle
  • Gas Stove/ BBQ
  • Matches/ Lighter
  • Beach Tent/ Parasol
  • Frisbee
  • Sun Cream
  • Hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Book
  • Warmer clothes for the evening (changing robe)
  • Dry Bags for wet gear

 

Top Tips For Travelling With Surfboards

Posted on | by James Price | Leave a Comment on Top Tips For Travelling With Surfboards

Are you heading off somewhere surfing this year and wondering how to take your precious surfboard along with you? Whether you are taking it camping in Cornwall or heading further afield on a plane, it is important when travelling with surfboards to make sure they arrive in one piece! Here are some top tips on how to pack your surfboard to try and protect it while you travel.

 

1. Purchase a travel Board Bag

The best thing you can do is buy yourself a really good heavy duty board bag with thick padding on the inside. Circle One travel bags are generous with space, but you should ideally buy a bag that is 15 to 20 cm longer than your board. This additional length leaves room for cushioning and packing other items around your surfboard.

 

2. Remove your fins

Always remove your fins before travelling so they don’t snap off in transit. It is simple on most surfboards to take your fins out with a fin key, and put them back in when you reach your destination.

 

3. Pack under the rocker of your surfboard

It’s important to pack under the nose area of your surfboard just in case pressure is applied to the board from above. It is the perfect place to put a towel or clothes in the space and ensure your surfboard is protected all around from bumps and handling.

 

4. Bubble Wrap

I like using Board Bubl or Flexi Hex for really good protection to cover my board or parts of it when travelling. It is lightweight and cushions impact well and both of these products are also recycled materials.

 

5. Grab yourself a day bag/surfboard sock

For extra protection put your surfboard in a board sock. The board sock (or day bag) will serve as an extra layer of protection and can be quite handy when traveling short distances once you have arrived at your destination.

 

6. Towels and wetsuit wrapping

Before you pop your board into your board bag, cover your board with your towels, clothes and wetsuit (if you’re taking one) . It will serve as an extra layer of protection, especially at the nose, tail and on the rails.

 

7. Mark as Fragile

Circle One Board Bags have large ‘FRAGILE, HANDLE WITH CARE’ logos on them, make sure this is reiterated with the baggage handlers when checking the surfboard onto the flight. They are usually more than happy to offer you nice bright yellow stickers to make sure its obvious.

 

8. Make sure you check your surfboard before you leave the airport

If there is any damage in transit you can see when you get your surfboard back, it is important to tell the airline while you are still at the airport to register the damage. This can help if you need to claim damages later on travel insurance as they can prove that the damage was caused in transit on the aeroplane.

 

Do you have any tips for travelling with surfboards? Let us know in the comments.

Top Places to Surf in the UK this Summer!

Posted on | by Anna Ross | Leave a Comment on Top Places to Surf in the UK this Summer!

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With the 13th longest coastline in the World (more than Brazil, Mexico and India!), and great exposure to the Atlantic Ocean, it is no surprise that the UK has some of the best surfing beaches around. As the weather and sea temperatures increase in the summer, it is the perfect place to explore and get some of the surf action. Whether you are a beginner wanting to try surfing for the first time, or a seasoned pro looking to find something special, there are so many options of places to surf in the UK. Here are some of our favourites!

Putsborough, North Devon

We are obviously a bit biased being based in Devon ourselves, but this section of North Devon coastline is just stunning and encompasses a selection of beautiful surf beaches such as Croyde, Saunton and Woolacombe. We love heading to the quieter end of the massive Woolacombe beach, to Putsborough. Nicely sheltered from the South by Baggy Point, it is a top surf spot, and less crowded than nearby beaches. You can approach Putsborough through Croyde, and park right on the beach. There are also two campsites – one right on the beach in an amazing location and another quiet site back on the clifftop. The beach has toilets and a cafe so everything you need for a great day or weekend surfing!

surf in the uk putsborough
Putsborough from Marine Drive

You can also access the beach from the Woolacombe side, and park on Marine Drive, a road which goes behind the beach. There you can access the quiet middle section of the beach to really get away from the crowds. There is a beautiful new cafe in the car park at the top called The Porthole which is perfect for lunch or a post-surf coffee and ice cream!

surf in the uk woolacombe
View of the beach from Woolacombe

Crantock, Cornwall

Often in the shadow of its nearby Newquay neighbours of Fistral and Watergate Bay, we think the wildness and relative emptiness of Crantock makes it a better prospect if you are in the area. Managed by the National Trust (so members can park for free), you feel a world away from the bustle of Newquay. There are beautiful walks down the Pentire Headland where you can watch the sunset from the end, and along The Gannel estuary. And of course there is great surfing to be had. There are surf lessons and hire from Big Green Surf School, who also rent SUPs and run SUP tours around the headland too.

Photo: Mike Simmonds – www.nationaltrust.org.uk/crantock-beach

Llangennith, Gower Peninsula, Wales

Wales has many spectacular beaches, but this is commonly seen as one of the best, not only in Wales but in Europe! Miles of stunning wild sand backed by dunes and with the iconic Worms Head at one end. The surf is consistently good all along it’s length, so there is plenty of space to spread out and find your own spot. You can stay right on the beach at Hillend campsite, perfect for a weekend or week to surf in the UK this summer.

surf in the uk llangennith
Iconic Worms Head, Llangennith

Saltburn, North Yorkshire

Saltburn is a long-established surf centre of the North of England. Alongside the pretty Cayton Bay a little down the coast, both beaches offer great surfing for all abilities. While thousands of Brits flock down to Cornwall and Devon in the summer holidays, why not head the opposite direction and try out these gems instead? North Yorkshire is a beautiful place to visit with the North York Moors and beautiful seaside towns to explore too.

Surf in the uk saltburn
@saltburnsurfschool

Portrush, Northern Ireland

Maybe more famous for its golf course than its surf beaches, Portrush is a beautiful spot on the North coast of Northern Ireland. A holiday here on your surf tour of the UK could mean a trip to the famous Giants Causeway just down the road, or visiting the biggest lake in the UK Lough Neagh.

There are plenty of places to stay in Portrush, and surf shops and surf schools to choose from.

Dalmore Bay, Scotland

Scotland has many amazing surf and non-surf beaches. Our top pick is not the most popular or well known, but offers an extra adventure to get there as it is on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides. Less crowded than breaks on the mainland, and getting the full force of the Atlantic Ocean, it is a wild place to go. You may also be in with a chance of spotting orcas and dolphins as you paddle out.

surf in the uk dalmore bay
Photo – www.visitouterhebrides.co.uk

In need of surf equipment, accessories or a wetsuit for your UK surf trip this summer? Check out our extensive range of kids and adults summer wetsuits, beginner surfboards, intermediate to advanced shortboards, beautiful longboards and SUPs on our website – www.circle-one.com or give us a call on 0330 043 1256 to find the perfect products for you!

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Surf Trip Planning Tips

Posted on | by James Price | Leave a Comment on Surf Trip Planning Tips

Don’t let the January blues get to you! After what feels like a long month of socialising and festivities, for most of us it’s back to work and quieter evenings. So now you have some more free time, it’s time to book your next big surf trip! We have put together some of our best tips for you to remember when planning your next surf trip.

Aren’t surf trips just the best thing to plan? You can research into where you are going to go, exactly where you’re going to surf, how warm the water is and then watch videos of the surf breaks on repeat until you go… (some of us do anyway).

With all this in mind there are a few important things to remember when you’re planning your big trip.

Research every part of the trip (not just the surf)

The surfing is the most exciting part of the trip for most of us, so exciting it seems that we can often forget to research into the things that will help us all out. Things like daily costs to live, (food costs etc.) Do you need to hire a car? Do you need a visa? These important things could extend the amount of time you spend NOT in the water!

Choose the destination accordingly to your ability

Judging your own surfing ability can be difficult but generally you can figure if a destination is good for beginners, intermediate or advanced surfers, use this as an idea to compare to your own ability. The last thing you want, is to be paddling out in heavy overhead waves when you aren’t ready. Likewise if you are advanced more than likely you’ll want pumping overhead waves.

Airline baggage fees (surfboard)

if you are going to be flying somewhere hot for your surf trip, make sure you have read all of the T&Cs of the airline that you have chosen to fly with. The worst thing you can have is getting caught out last minute at the check in. If you are flying with your surfboards this could be especially frustrating. Check out this 2018 Carve mag airline guide.

Get some good travel insurance that covers Surfing

Nobody wants to think about what could go wrong, but its definitely for the best if you find a good travel insurance policy that covers you whilst surfing. Without a doubt, its better safe than sorry.

Remember to pack some additional essentials

Snapping a leash or breaking fins add additional costs to your trip and in some destinations be very hard to come by. Pack some extra accessories in your bag, squeeze in at least an extra set of fins and a spare leash. Check out our accessories here.

Sun-care and a decent first aid kit

Don’t forget these items, sometimes easy to forget when you’re packing your bags up, but be sure to remember that these two will always come in handy when you’re away.

 

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10 Things To Do Whilst There’s No Surf

Posted on | by James Price | Leave a Comment on 10 Things To Do Whilst There’s No Surf

Whether you are an inland surfer or a coastal living wave chaser there are inevitably going to be times like these, small pulses of long range swells come and go but on the whole there’s a serious lack of surf. We’ve come up with some fun alternative beach activities to pass the time.

1.) Snorkelling

Snorkelling will still satisfy your need to be in the ocean and with the current lack of waves, the visibility is incredible. Its amazing what you can see if you head to the Devon, Cornwall and Welsh coastlines, the underwater world is truly fascinating. Who knows you may get to see a seal or two. Click here to view Circle One snorkel sets.

2.) Skateboarding

Skateboarding is a great way to keep you in the surfing mindset, find a cruiser longboard and carve up the tarmac. Mind surf those streets! Be careful though concrete isn’t as forgiving as water. Not only does skateboarding help with your balance on a board the fitness gained is phenomenal.

3.) Skim-boarding

If you’re not so keen to on land on tarmac, why not try your hand at skim boarding? Most sandy beaches work well for this and if there’s a very small wave you can even surf if back to the beach. Our range of skimboards have something to suit every level. Click here to browse.

4.) Yoga

Keep loose for the next time there are waves, surfing requires so much flexibility why not keep training for that whilst you have the time out of the water.

5.) A beach clean

Help out mother nature, she is struggling at the moment with the amount of plastic and litter pollution on our beaches. Every little bit of litter removed from our beaches is a help to clean up our coastlines. Our planet will not clean itself and you get to enjoy the beach! For more information on beach cleans and plastic pollution check out The Plastic Project here.

6.) Ride the largest board you can get hold of

There have been small windows of swell to grace our shores, keep an eye on the surf forecast and if there is the chance of some knee / waist high surf, grab the largest surfboard you have and go surfing! A wave is a wave… feed the addiction. Who knows you may learn to tandem surf with your buddies. Here are some 9Ft + boards from Circle One Surf Co.

7.) Wild swim

The southwest is home to some picturesque wild swimming spots, take the family, your friends, your partner and spend some time to relax in the countryside. Be sure to check out some spots online before you go.

8.) SUP

Stand Up Paddle Boarding will get you in the water even on the flattest of days, maybe choose a lake or river to go for an adventure. This is not only relaxing its also extremely good fitness training and of course allows you to be outside enjoying the sunshine.

Circle One SUP’s

9.) Walk the coastline

Take a walk on the wild side, the UK’s coastline has so many hidden beaches there are around 1500 beaches currently mapped. Go explore!

10.) Plan your next surfing adventure

Look at flights, book time off of work, check swells, lets go! Use the time you would have been surfing wisely, your next overseas surf adventure is waiting, so why not book it now?

Stay positive! The surf will be back soon! 

Circle One Surf Co.