Whether you grew up by the coast, or if you look forward to that once or twice a year visit, there are so many different ways to enjoy the waves. From boating and swimming to surfing and other watersports, there is something for everyone. This week, we take a look at just a few of the options for having fun in Britain’s coastal waters.
Open Water or Sea Swimming
We’ve mentioned open water swimming in Loch Lomond before, and with so many miles of coastline around Britain, sea swimming is a logical choice for many. Sure, you can paddle and splash around in the shallows by the beach. But many devotees can’t wait to really feel one with the currents. Some love sea swimming year round, but you don’t have to brave the frigid waters on a wintry morning. You can stick to warmer months if you prefer. Sea swimming can be intimidating at first. It can also be very dangerous if you are not prepared for currents, riptides, temps, and all manner of potential risks. Therefore, we recommend either joining a local group or taking a few open water lessons first. Sea Swim Cornwall offers a variety of options, including weekend swimming trips, one-off and private swims, open water coaching, and assisted accessible swims. The owners and coaches grew up in the area and are licensed lifeguards so you will be in good hands.
Surfing
You don’t have to head to the coasts of California or Hawaii to catch a wave or two. You can find some world-class surfing spots right here in the UK. Wales, Cornwall, and Devon all have some prime areas that dedicated surfers flock to. There are also some great schools to help you get started, no matter what your age. If you’re lucky enough to live near a surf school, you can take regular lessons. Alternatively, plan a holiday for a week or so. Whether you choose one-on-one or group classes, you’ll be skimming the waves like a pro (or nearly) in no time. Newquay is often hailed as the home of British surfing so Quiksilver Surf School is one to check out. Or for somewhere different, head to the coast of Northern Ireland’s Portrush Surf School.
Kitesurfing
In the mood to try something a little more extreme? Give kitesurfing a try. How is it different from windsurfing? With windsurfing, the sail is attached to the board, but with kitesurfing, or kiteboarding as it is also known, you are attached to both the board and a kite. The kite acts rather like a parachute and a strong enough wind can lift you off the waves several feet into the air. Kitesurfing is harder to learn than windsurfing as you need to get used to the kite before you can even go on the board. Therefore, lessons are definitely recommended. Earnse Bay Kitesurfing near Barrow in Furness has been operating for six years. They offer a two-day course to introduce you to all the basics.
Sea Kayaking
Imagine peacefully gliding along the waters, just the cry of a few gulls for company. Or perhaps you’d rather be navigating the windswept waves of the Scottish islands as saltwater whips your face. Whether you prefer tranquil or a little more white water, sea kayaking can be a fantastic way to explore all the little nooks and crannies along a rocky coastline. It can also be a wonderful way to see the UK’s wildlife. But, it can be risky, especially if you are planning to go solo kayaking. So take the time to learn how to do it properly and safely. Seafreedom Kayak near Oban, Scotland, is one place where you can learn everything you need to take to the waters confidently.
Stand Up Paddleboarding
Stand up paddleboarding (SUP) has become incredibly popular over the last decade or so. It is easy to learn (you can be up and paddling within 10 minutes of your first lesson), and provides some great exercise. You’ll tone your arms and legs while building that all-important core strength necessary for balance. Although it is easy to learn, it’s a good idea to take a lesson or two to get you started before you go and buy all the equipment. You’ll find that lots of surf and watersports schools along the coast now offer SUP, and you’ll even find some racing events. Saltworks SUP on the Isle of Man offers beginner and refresher lessons as well as sea safaris where you can paddle the day away while watching puffins and other shore life.
Wildlife spotting
Watersports are all well and good but sometimes, you’d rather just sit back and enjoy the ride while someone else does the work. In that case, you might consider a sea safari. Britain’s coastal waters are teeming with fascinating birds, seals, dolphins, and more. So hop on a boat trip and enjoy the views. Whenever I’m back in Kent, I try to book a trip to sea the nearby seals with Sea Searcher Boat Trips in Ramsgate. Cornwall’s Orca Sea Safaris offers sightings of dolphins, orcas, and sharks. On the Northumberland coast, head out to see the puffin colonies with Billy Shiel’s Boat Trips. Or join a sailing vessel on a research expedition around the Hebrides. The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust has trips of up to 12 days where you join the crew and assist with data collection. The choices are endless.
Stay on a Houseboat
You can enjoy all the relaxation and mental health benefits of the water without even getting wet if you stay on a houseboat. Renting a houseboat can give you proximity to the water and a fantastic place to wake up each morning. For example, the Harbour Houseboat pictured above is moored in Bembridge Harbour on the Isle of Wight. It sleeps 6 and has every convenience you need, including being in the perfect spot to buy a freshly caught crab from one of the local fishermen.
However you choose to enjoy and explore Britain’s coastal waters, remember to do so safely. Have fun!