Surf Scotland: Catching a Break
Learning to surf In Scotland takes perseverance, determination and a very, very thick wetsuit
Those from warmer climes often greet the idea of surfing in Scotland with a snort of derision – they find it hard to believe a country synonymous with rain and deep fried confectionary could partake in such a glamorous, sun-tinted sport. But partake in it we do – and in larger numbers than ever before. Surfing in Scotland is booming – there are estimated to be 2000 regular surfers in the central belt alone.
No one is quite sure why a sport that involves being repeatedly beaten by the frigid waves of the North Sea has become so appealing, but more people than ever are picking up a board and heading for the beach. Will Beeslaar, founder of independent Scottish Surf brand Staunch, has a theory. “Well for a start, wetsuit technology has come on a long way in the last 30 years. But there’s also a gradual realisation that surfing here comes with many advantages. I like to think of waves in glamorous destinations like women – the more glamorous they are the more issues they have. Waves in hot countries are fun in the short term, but they usually come with complications like sharks, overcrowding, reef cuts and territorial locals. In this country the water might be cold, but that’s about it, that’s your biggest worry.”
“I like to think of waves in glamorous destinations like women – the more glamorous they are the more issues they have” – Will Beeslaar
When it comes to learning the art of surfing, Scotland is spoilt. As long as you’re prepared to deal with the cold, there’s no reason not to try catching your first wave. The East Coast is awash with surf spots, many of which are less than an hour from Edinburgh. Pease Bay, Coldingham and Belhaven beaches all offer great playgrounds for learners. There are a number of surf schools operating from the aforementioned beaches, and all offer lessons for the absolute beginner through to more experienced surfers who want to focus on their technique. If the thought of wearing neoprene in front of strangers is just too hideous, you can even book a private lesson. Surf shops within Edinburgh and Glasgow will hire you all the kit you need – but obviously if it’s your first time either book a lesson or tag along with someone who knows what they’re doing. Otherwise you risk pulling a Bodhi – and we all know he wasn’t coming back.
As with all good things in life, surfing doesn’t come easy. Learning to surf is hard; lots of people don’t manage to stand up on their first time, which can be a little hard to swallow, much like the several gallons of seawater you’ll consume in the process. There will be hard knocks and frustrations along the way, and it’s pretty much inevitable at some point you’ll upset more experienced surfers by getting in their way. But if you stick with it the hard work is bound to pay off sooner or later, and you’ll begin to see what all the fuss is about and why surfers talk of their sport in such hyperbolic terms. Will says: “Surfing is the best rush in the world. It’s not just the surfing; it’s about the camaraderie and paddling out with your mates. In the summer you can surf before and after work – there is no better way to start or end the day. It’s incredibly healthy for both body and soul. Once you’re hooked you become completely obsessed with looking at weather charts and OS maps in search for that perfect wave.
“I’ve been surfing for 15 years and have chased waves all over the world. Scotland might not be as exotic as Hawaii or Australia or Bali, but it's actually better then all of them – it's home.”