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Swansea Surf Scene

Intro:

Gower coastline is truly spectacular. The people, the hills, the views, the beaches…are all to be admired, but it’s the surf that adds the cherry on the cake. If you are looking for somewhere with a vibrant and friendly atmosphere to ride some thrilling breaks, or simply learn the ropes of the sport, Swansea can accommodate you. Gower is the place to be, and be seen as far as surfing in the UK is concerned.

‘Gennith’:

A Birds Eye View: Llangennith, or ‘Gennith’ as the locals call it, is by far the most consistent beach break in the Gower. Thanks to its three mile long sandy beach, there are a number of different breaks to be found here – a variety suitable for all levels of experience. Due to its south-westerly facing, Gennith boasts the most reliable waves throughout the year and is, subsequently, one of the most popular locations in which to catch a ride. A favorite with long boarders, pros and body boarders alike, the swell picks up during the winter months and is regarded as one of the hardest places to paddle out back in the country. So pace yourself and know your limits.

Rhossili:

Rhossili and Llangennith actually join along the beach, with Rhossili taking up the further part towards Worms Head. Rhossili’s claim to fame is its sunsets, but you can also catch some cracking waves to boot, similar in type to those found at Llangennith.

The ride & the gear: With a large Car Park directly behind the dunes, and easy access to the beach, Llangennith is hard to beat if you’re somewhat horizontal in nature and a long walk to the breaks is far from ‘gnarly man’. Rhossili can be reached by the same route, or via the steps leading down from the tops of the cliffs of Worms Head. The local village at Llangennith seems set up specifically to accommodate surfers, with PJ’s Surf Shop coming in at number 1! PJ’s stock everything for your surfing needs. Whether you want to buy a board, wetsuit or new hoodie, simply wish to hire some gear for the day, or get that ding fixed, PJ’s is on hand to offer bags of friendly help and advise. Not sure what the waves are doing today – why not call PJ’s hotline for a first hand up-to-date on the breaks: 0901 6031603.

The digs: If you’re camping, Hill End Caravan & Campsite is by far the best choice. Situated next to the Car Park, behind the dunes, it’s just a two minute walk to check the surf every morning before breakfast. In the Summer it can get full pretty quickly so try and phone and book in advance: 01792 386204. Want a little more comfort? Why not try one of Llangennith's great B&B’s? College House Bed and Breakfast is very popular, or why not rent a cottage of your own?

Tips for the tummy: The Kings Head is definitely the favorite place to spend the evening after a hard days surf. The homemade portions are large and the beer is cold. With a friendly and inviting atmosphere to boot, it is easy to see why it is always busy. The Kings Head is also a Hotel - the perfect choice for those far too lazy to walk back down the hill to the campsite after a rather merry summers evening.

Langland:

A Birds Eye View: Langland is a relatively sheltered surf break and when the onshore winds are blowing everywhere else flat, solace can be found at this fantastic beach. With less space and a serious haunt with the locals, on a good day, there can be limited room for the average Joe. When the surfs up, the competition in the water can be fierce, attracting pro surfers from all over the country who come to take advantage of the somewhat more challenging reef breaks at either side of the Bay. For a live view of the surf check out Gower Live

Caswell:

Caswell is the next beach along from Langland around the peninsular and, like Langland, it offers some fairly sheltered breaks. It can be, however, a lot quieter in the water, which makes it somewhat more suitable for beginners. Due to the easy access, sandy beach and less crowded water, Caswell is popular with the local surf schools.

The ride & the gear: Both Langland and Caswell offer ample Car Parking space. Langland Bay offers some fab facilities such as, toilets one minute walk from the waters edge, and fresh water showers. In the summer months, Caswell has some great shops along side the beach. There are a variety of surf shops in the area – all offering great kit for rental or purchase. If you’re looking to rent or buy a board, top choices include Gower Surf and Hot Dog Surf Shop. Need a new leash and fast? Nucleus and Big Drop Surf Shops are just down the hill from Langland in Mumbles village.

The Digs: Your budget will have to stretch a little further here, with very few cheap places to stay. Its Bed and Breakfast or Hotels only, but boy do you have some choice! In summer it is vital that you book in advance. Some good options are topped by KnabRock which is a lovely Bed and Breakfast.

Tips for the tummy: It’s just as much about partying as it is about surfing in this neck of the woods. Surfing is considered a way of life as opposed to a hobby by most locals. Five minutes down the road is the village of Mumbles, which offers a fantastic variety of cafes, restaurants and bars. Popular haunts include The White Rose, Ocean and Bentleys. Want to get in on the local surfers drinking scene? Check out the Langland Surf Division (LSD), for the next big party!