About Holywell Bay School of Surf

Holywell Bay School of Surf is proud to be at the heart of Cornwall’s surfing community, providing safe, fun, and professional surf lessons for all ages and abilities.

We are passionate about sharing our knowledge of the waves, the beach, and the ocean environment, and it’s that spirit that we bring to every lesson.

It’s a privilege to help people experience the thrill of surfing in one of Cornwall’s most beautiful bays — an experience that many might associate only with far-flung tropical beaches.

Our lessons also aim to educate students about ocean safety, coastal awareness, and surf etiquette, helping learners gain confidence in the water while developing a lifelong appreciation for the sea. By fostering respect and understanding of the coastal environment, we hope to inspire our visitors to enjoy and care for Cornwall’s beaches responsibly.

Founder

Lee Griffin is the head instructor at Holywell Bay School of Surf. With years of surfing and coaching experience along the Cornish coast his expert knowledge of the waves ensures every lesson is safe, fun, and perfectly suited to each student’s ability.

Lee is a fully qualified surf coach and lifeguard, with a background in teaching individuals, families, and groups of all ages. Being the head lifeguard at Holywell Bay for over 30 years years now, he has a huge wealth of knowledge and understanding of tides, conditions and how to make every session memorable.

Surfing has been at the heart of his life for years, shaping both his lifestyle and competitive journey. Along the way, he has earned multiple accolades, winning English titles in senior, masters, and veterans divisions. His approach combines experience, passion, and respect for the ocean. Whether competing or free surfing, he brings the same energy and commitment every time he enters the water.

We’re very lucky to have Lee leading our lessons… and yes, he always brings plenty of smiles along with the surfboards!

Our Instructors

All of our instructors are fully qualified surf coaches with extensive experience in teaching beginners, intermediates, and advanced surfers. Our coaches are also all RNLI Lifeguards so you know safety is paramount at all times.

They have spent years exploring the waves along the Cornish coast and are passionate about helping students gain confidence, improve technique, and have fun in the water.

Lessons focus on ocean safety, board handling, and reading the waves, ensuring every participant gets the most out of their time on the beach.

Instructors are always happy to give extra tips and guidance, making each session enjoyable, safe, and memorable for all ages and abilities.

The National Trust at Holywell Bay

Holywell Bay is part of the stunning Cornish coastline protected by the National Trust, ensuring the area remains natural, safe, and accessible for everyone to enjoy. The Trust helps preserve the wide sandy beach, rolling dunes, and coastal paths, making it the perfect backdrop for a day of surfing.

By learning to surf at Holywell Bay, visitors also support the conservation of this beautiful environment. The National Trust provides parking, walking routes, and essential facilities, while maintaining the natural beauty and wildlife of the bay.

We encourage all our students and visitors to respect the beach, follow the National Trust guidelines, and enjoy this unique coastal landscape responsibly. Surfing here isn’t just fun, it’s an opportunity to connect with Cornwall’s protected coastline.

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