A Comprehensive Guide to Surfing at Westward Ho!

Westward Ho! is a small seaside village located on the North Devon Coastline, situated near the border between Devon and Cornwall, in the southwest of England.

The village’s history can be traced back to prehistoric times when it was a small farming community. Today, the village primarily depends on tourism and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in North Devon.

Westward Ho! is known for its vast sandy beaches and picturesque seafront views. And surfing, lots and lots of surfing!

The village provides visitors with an array of activities such as surfing, swimming, hiking trails along its rugged coastline, and cycling through expansive marshlands. This diverse range of activities attracts visitors from different parts of the UK and around the world.

Surfing in Westward Ho!

Surfing has become one of the most significant recreational activities in Westward Ho!, drawing surf enthusiasts from all over Europe.

It has become a driving force behind tourism development in this part of England. Surfing is now an essential component of Westward Ho!’s economy since it generates employment opportunities for residents.

Additionally, surfing also has benefits beyond economic growth; it contributes to environmental sustainability since tourists are more likely to respect local ecosystems they value and appreciate through recreational activities like surfing.

Consequently, surfing also plays a crucial role as an environmental education tool by raising awareness about marine conservation among tourists and residents alike.

Beyond economic growth or environmental conservation motivations, there are many mental health benefits associated with surfing. Surfers often report that they experience stress reduction after engaging in this water sport due to its calming effects on both mind and body.

Surf Bay Westward Ho

Located in North Devon, England, Surf Bay Westward Ho is a popular surf spot situated in the coastal town of Westward Ho!. The bay can be easily accessed by car or public transport.

For those coming by car, there is ample parking available near the beach. Alternatively, buses run regularly from nearby towns such as Bideford and Barnstaple.

Known for its consistent waves that are suitable for surfers of all levels. The bay is a sandy beach break that works best on mid to high tide. The waves are generally fast and powerful with lefts and rights breaking over sandbars.

The average wave height at Surf Bay ranges from 2 to 4 feet but can get up to 8 feet on bigger swells during winter months. The waves tend to be most consistent during autumn and winter when Atlantic storms generate swell.

History of Surfing at Westward Ho Bay

Westward Ho! has been a popular tourist destination since Victorian times due to its sandy beaches and picturesque views.

In recent years, it has become increasingly popular among surfers due to the consistent waves at Surf Bay. The surfing community in Westward Ho!

started in the early 1960s when a group of local teenagers began riding homemade wooden bellyboards at the beach. As surfing became more popular in the UK throughout the 70s and 80s, more locals began taking up surfing as a sport.

Today, Surf Bay Westward Ho! continues to attract surfers from all over the world who come to enjoy the quality waves and stunning scenery that this coastal town has to offer.

Surf Schools

Westward Ho! is famous for its excellent surfing conditions, which makes it a magnet for surfers from all over the world. For those who are new to surfing or want to improve their skills, there are several surf schools in and around Westward Ho! that cater to all skill levels.

Services Offered by Each Surf School

Each surf school has its own unique approach when it comes to teaching surfing skills. Most of them provide equipment like wetsuits, boards, and other necessary items required for surfing lessons.

Some even have changing rooms, shower facilities or lockers available. The North Devon Surf School offers beginner’s courses like ‘Learn to Surf’ where they teach how waves work along with basic techniques such as paddling and standing up on the board.

They also offer more challenging courses such as Intermediate or Advanced courses that focus on improving technique and wave selection ability. On the other hand, Surf South West prides itself on providing bespoke coaching sessions tailored towards an individual’s needs – they take pride in their low student-to-coach ratio ensuring a safe environment for learners while encouraging progress at their own pace.

Eco-Friendly Surfing Initiatives in Westward Ho!

In line with its commitment to environmental sustainability, Westward Ho! has introduced an innovative initiative that sets it apart from other surf spots. Recognizing the environmental impact of single-use body and surf boards, the local authorities have decided to ban their usage at Westward Ho! beaches.

Single-use body and surf boards are typically made of low-quality foam or plastic materials. They are designed to be affordable, lightweight, and accessible to novice surfers or those looking for a one-time surfing experience. However, their short lifespan and disposable nature contribute significantly to marine pollution when discarded improperly.

These boards often end up on the beaches, in the ocean, or in landfills, where they can take hundreds of years to decompose. Even then, they break down into microplastics, which can cause harm to marine life and infiltrate the food chain.

With this new rule in place, Westward Ho! is encouraging visitors and locals alike to make more sustainable choices when it comes to their surfing equipment. The decision has been largely welcomed by the surfing community and environmental advocates, who view it as a vital step in protecting the area’s pristine beaches and marine life.

Surfers are now encouraged to rent or purchase durable, high-quality surfboards from local surf shops. These boards are designed to last for many years with proper care and maintenance. Not only does this reduce waste, but it also supports the local economy by promoting local businesses.

Westward Ho!’s ban on single-use surfboards is a testament to its commitment to environmental stewardship. As surfers enjoy the exceptional waves at Surf Bay, they can also take pride in knowing that they are contributing to the preservation of this beautiful surf spot for future generations.

Beach Conditions

Tides, Swells, and Wind Patterns

If you’re a seasoned surfer or a beginner, it’s important to understand the beach conditions before embarking on your surfing adventure in Westward Ho! One significant factor that can affect your surfing experience is the tide.

The beach offers different surf experiences depending on whether it’s high or low tide. During high tides, the waves are more powerful and offer bigger swells while low tide allows for slower waves perfect for beginners.

Another factor to consider is swell direction. Swell direction is essential because it determines how the wave will form and break.

In Westward Ho!, swell typically comes from the north-west or west through the Bristol Channel making it an ideal spot for left-hand point breaks. Don’t forget about wind patterns as they play a significant role in shaping waves.

Ideally, surfers want offshore winds which blow against the wave face, creating clean hollow waves perfect for skilled surfers. However, be cautious of side-shore winds that can create messy waves with poor shape.

Best Times to Surf

The best time to surf in Westward Ho! depends on several factors such as tides and weather conditions as mentioned above.

Generally speaking, during summer months from June to August, there are smaller swell sizes making it more suitable for beginners or those looking for a more laid-back experience.

From October to March temperatures drop but provide bigger swells generated by Atlantic storms forming big powerful tubes. Additionally, during these months you’ll face less crowded beaches giving you more space to practice your skills.

Safety Precautions

When surfing in Westward Ho!, especially if you’re new to the sport it’s important to follow safety rules and regulations outlined by local authorities and instructors at surf schools.

First things first: wear appropriate clothing including a wetsuit and rash vest to avoid skin irritation or hypothermia. Always surf with caution and never surf alone.

Be aware of the beach conditions, including tide times, wave conditions, and weather forecasts. Familiarize yourself with the local surfing etiquette such as right of wave ownership.

Take breaks when necessary, stay hydrated and always listen to your body’s needs. Practicing basic first aid knowledge can also be beneficial in case of minor injuries.

Understanding beach conditions is crucial to ensure a successful surfing experience in Westward Ho! Be mindful of tides, swells, wind patterns, and always prioritize safety precautions for an enjoyable time on the waves.

Tips for Beginners

When it comes to surfing, choosing the right board is critical to your success. A surfboard that is too small or too big can make learning difficult and even dangerous.

As a beginner, you’ll want to look for a board that is long and wide with a rounded nose and tail that provides stability.

The ideal size of the board will be between 8-10 feet in length but may vary depending on your height and weight. Before investing in a surfboard, it’s essential to rent or borrow different types of boards to determine which one works best for you.

Surf shops near Surf Bay Westward Ho offer rental services so that you can test out various boards before making a purchase. Learning how to recognize the differences between different boards will help choose one that is perfect for your skill level as you progress.

Basic techniques: Mastering Fundamentals

Mastering basic surfing techniques takes practice and patience. As an aspiring surfer, it’s essential first to familiarize yourself with fundamental skills like paddling, standing up on the board, riding waves, and turning in various directions.

To start practicing these skills, beginners are encouraged first to learn how to paddle correctly by positioning themselves appropriately while laying on their boards so they can efficiently generate forward momentum before attempting other crucial maneuvers like standing up or riding waves. Once comfortable with paddling movements and providing enough forward motion on the wave, it’s time to stand up on the board.

To do this successfully: 1) Begin by lying flat on your belly at least shoulder-width apart.

2) Slide one foot underneath until both knees are bent at roughly 90-degree angles. 3) Push up gently with both hands while simultaneously popping up onto your front foot.

4) Raise your back foot onto the board and stand up. 5) Keep your knees bent, arms outstretched, and your eyes focused on the horizon.

Practice Drills: Improving Your Overall Technique

As a beginner, it’s essential to focus on mastering basic techniques while still having fun. One way to improve your surfing skills is by incorporating practice drills into your routine.

These drills can include anything from riding waves in different directions to practicing turns and even practicing standing up on a surfboard with no waves. One popular drill for beginners is practicing ‘pop-ups’ – this is when you lay flat on your stomach with both hands under the chest.

Then, practice quickly popping up onto the board one foot at a time without using your hands. You can repeat this drill several times until you feel comfortable with standing up quickly.

Another great way to improve surfing skills is through watching instructional videos or attending surf schools in Westward Ho!. Surf schools like Surf South West offer beginner-friendly classes that provide instruction on various techniques like paddling, catching waves as well as ocean safety practices like reading currents and spotting potential dangers while in the water.

Conclusion

Westward Ho! is a fantastic surfing destination for those seeking adventure on the water.

With its picturesque landscapes, warm weather, and consistent waves, it’s no wonder why surfers from all over the world flock to this spot. Surfing offers not only an opportunity to connect with nature but also a chance to improve one’s physical fitness, mental clarity and social connections.

For beginners and experts alike, Westward Ho! provides an ideal setting to experience the thrill of the sport.