Surfing Lesson on Dunnet Beach near Thurso

Please allow 2.5 hours in total for this activity.

• Welcome & Safety Briefing (10 min): Introduction, safety rules, and equipment overview.
• Warm-Up & Dry Land Practice (20 min): Stretching, paddling technique, and pop-up practice on sand.
• Water Practice (1 to 1.5 hours depending on the season): Enter shallow water with instructor guidance, catch small waves, practice standing, balance, and basic turns. The instructors will take turns helping you into waves and giving you personalised tips and instructions are adapted to each participant’s skill level.
• Cool-Down & Feedback (10 min): Gentle stretching and recap of skills learned.

A minimum of three participants is required for group lessons. If fewer than three bookings have been made for a given day and time, participants will be contacted at least 12 hours prior to the session to arrange either an alternative time or conversion to a private lesson.

All children under 8 years old must be accompanied by an adult.

Swimming ability is advantageous but not mandatory. Please indicate at the time of booking if there is any uncertainty. Participants are always kept in water at a comfortable standing depth.

The scheduled times provided at the time of booking may be adjusted to accommodate prevailing wave conditions. Participants will be notified in advance if any changes to the meeting time or location are necessary.

Please note that there are no changing or shower facilities at the beach.

The water temperature ranges from 7 to 13 degrees Celsius, which is cold, but you will be provided with super warm winter 5/4mm wetsuits (and boots, gloves & hood if required).

The minimum age for participation in a surf lesson is four years, corresponding to the smallest available wetsuit size. Very small children may not be accommodated. For optimal safety and enjoyment, it is strongly recommended that young children take a private lesson.

Activities are generally not affected by light wind or rain. However, in the event of strong wind or significant swell, sessions may be cancelled or postponed. In cases of completely flat water, alternative arrangements such as relocation or other activities (e.g., stand-up paddleboarding) will be offered whenever possible. A full refund will be provided if no suitable alternative can be arranged, though such instances are extremely rare.

The meeting point is accessible by bus: you need to take the Stagecoach bus route 80 and get off at Dunnet corner. Then it’s a few minutes walk to the beach carpark.