Surfing in Bournemouth

Although surfing has always been a popular outdoors sport in Bournemouth, the town is set to become a surfers hotspot in 2009. Europe's first artificial surf reef is currently being constructed off Boscombe pier, a region east of the Bournemouth pier and is due to be completed in December 2008.

Because of this unique construction, Bournemouth is said to attract more tourists and business in the Boscombe region. In the past years, Boscombe has been the neglected child of the family, but is seeing an increase in investment. The first £million pound apartments have been sold nearby Boscombe pier and with the completion of the new surf reef, as well as the regeneration of Boscombe pier, new business will be opened to serve tourists and locals alike. Surf outlet Fat Face has already taken advantage of this potential and opened a brand new store on Boscombe high street.

How does an artificial surf reef work?

An artificial surf reef replicates waves in the same way a normal reef would. On the seabed, geotextile bags filled with special sand and compound are laid to create a barrier, which shapes the existing waves of the sea better, improving surf conditions. These bags are completely ecologically friendly and will not impact the environment in any negative way. Two thumbs up for all you eco-warriors out there. The Bournemouth artificial surf reef will only work when the weather permits it and the waves are already about 0.5 metres. In which case, the waves can often be enlarged by twice the size!

In the past years, Boscombe beach was already a popular surfing location in Bournemouth. Surfers can hop on their board virtually all year long and catch the waves. With the new surf reef, the riding length will be alot longer, allowing surfings to enjoy the surf even more.

How much will access to the surf reef cost?

Nothing! You didn't think Bournemouth would be looking out for you freeloaders would you? The surf reef will be freely accessible for everybody. It will however, take an experienced surfer to reach the reef, as it is 200 yards off the seafront. So if you have troubles peddling across your jacuzzi, perhaps it's time to hit the gym once or twice before you throw yourself into the deep. Surfing might look easy, but it still requires you to have healty and fit body conditions (and Hawaii swimming pants).

Surfing lessons in Bournemouth

If the thought of catching a wave on Bournemouth's new surf reef tickles your fantasy, but you have no clue how even stand on a surf board, let alone look cool on one, fear not. Bournemouth has a surf school which will teach you exactly how to do that double air flip (or maybe just the basic at first). Bournemouth Surf School, situated on Bournemouth beach is currently the only National Governing Body (BSA) approved surf school on the South Coast and closest school to London. From the 21st of May until the 31st of October you can take a 2-3 hour beginners lesson, which will guide you through all the basics and will provide you with a wet suit and board for the lesson. This costs approximately £35 but enquire at Bournemouth Tourist Office first before you complain that we've misguided you on pricing details.

For those who have mastered the bunny hill (hill - wave), there are 2 hour long improvement lessons available for £15 (again check first). Whether you'll end up proudly grinning while you are hitchhiking a lift from a great white like we did, completely depends how far your fantasy reaches.

The surfing lessons are also for kids, but only from 8 years old and if you're lucky enough to be under 10, you must be accompanied by an adult. For more information about surf lessons, please visit:

Before you hit the beach with your new board, here's some surfers lingo for you to practice, should you wish to make yourself understood:

For more information about surf conditions, please visit Bournemouth surfing