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Surfing and Watersports: 8 Family-Friendly Activities to Try This Summer Holidays
Surfing, watersports and being outdoors are ways to make the summer holidays (which are imminent!) unforgettable for the whole family.
Whether you’re heading to Cornwall or simply planning a coastal getaway elsewhere, there’s a world of surfing and watersports fun waiting for all. Here at NCW, we get what it means to be a family of water-loving and board-adoring individuals – that’s us after all. But before diving into some suggestions for what you can get up to this summer holidays, let’s talk wetsuits – because staying warm and safe is essential.
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Affordable, Quality Wetsuits for Kids and Adults from NCW
North Coast Wetsuits (NCW) offers kids’ wetsuits that are more than just toy replicas – they’re proper, high-performance surfing wetsuits at a price that won’t stretch the family budget. Designed with flexibility, warmth, and comfort in mind, these suits keep little ones smiling and splashing for hours.
Kids & Juniors 5mm Winter Wetsuits (backzip)
Price range: £64.95 through £89.95
Kids & Juniors 5mm Winter Wetsuits (chest zip)
£109.95
Adults aren’t left out either. NCW’s premium wetsuits for men and women strike the perfect balance between top-tier performance and affordability. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a weekend paddleboarder, you’ll feel the difference in NCW’s quality craftsmanship.
Not sure you’re ready to invest just yet? NCW also offers wetsuit hire, making it easier than ever to get the whole family geared up for adventure without the upfront cost.
Pro tip: why not take advantage of NCW’s wetsuit hire service if you don’t own your own.
1. Surfing – Not Just for the Pros
You don’t need to be a pro to enjoy surfing. With family-friendly beaches across the UK – especially in Cornwall – surfing is more accessible than ever. Whether your kids are catching whitewater waves for the first time or you’re riding green waves, it’s all about fun, not fear.
NCW stocks a range of wetsuits, surf accessories, and soft-top surfboards ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers alike. Plus, you can get expert advice from the friendly team at The Rubber Shack, NCW’s shop just 10 minutes from Polzeath.
Pro tip: NCW can supply quality soft top surfboards. If you’re planning on heading down this way why not grab yourself a quality bit of kit. Just make sure to order in advance and then pick up in store.
2. Bodyboarding – Instant Fun for All Ages
If surfing feels a bit too ambitious, try bodyboarding. This watersport is perfect for all ages and requires minimal equipment to get started – just a board and a beach.
NCW offers bodyboarding gear for kids and adults, including boards, leashes, and fins. Lightweight and easy to use, bodyboards give your family the thrill of wave-riding with an easier learning curve.
All our bodyboards are proper and not single-use use destined for landfill. We sell kit that’s built to last and provide many hours of fun.
Pro tip: NCW has all the bodyboarding gear you need found in our online shop. Some come direct from the supplier, so be sure to order well in advance if you’re heading down to Polzeath. Other items are available in store. Call us for more details – 01208 880 839
3. Bellyboarding – The Retro Classic
Bring some old-school charm to your beach day with bellyboarding, the original British wave sport. It’s simple, fun, and requires no wetsuit if the weather’s warm enough – though NCW has you covered if it’s not!
North Coast Wetsuits sells authentic bellyboards, perfect for younger children and those new to watersports. This nostalgic activity is a great way for families to connect with the surf culture of yesteryear.
Pro tip: NCW can sort out visitors with FREE bellyboard hire if you book in advance. Call us for more info – 01208 880 839
4. Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) – Peaceful and Versatile
Paddleboarding is a relaxing way for families to explore calm waters, harbours, and estuaries. It’s easy to pick up, suitable for all fitness levels, and can be enjoyed solo or with your kids aboard.
NCW has a wide selection of SUP gear, including inflatable paddleboards, paddles, leashes, and accessories – some of which are currently on sale. Whether you’re cruising the Cornish coastline or gliding across a local lake, paddleboarding is the ultimate mellow summer adventure.
Pro tip: we have a small selection of used and ex-demo paddle boards for sale if grabbing your own is on the agenda. Give us a call for more info – 01208 880 839
5. Snorkelling – Discover the World Beneath the Waves
Turn your beach day into an underwater adventure with snorkelling. It’s a great way to introduce kids to marine life and build their confidence in the water.
NCW makes snorkelling even more accessible with snorkel hire options. You don’t need to invest in expensive gear for a one-off experience – just grab a snorkel, mask, and fins from NCW and explore safely.
Pro tip: check out NCW’s snorkel hire options here if you don’t own your own kit. Get in touch to discuss details or if you have any questions – 01208 880 839
6. Dinghy Sailing – Catch the Wind as a Family
For those who love a mix of water, wind, and teamwork, dinghy sailing is a rewarding activity. Many local sailing schools in Cornwall cater to families and offer lessons throughout the summer holidays. Search on Google to find some options.
NCW’s wetsuits are popular with dinghy sailors, thanks to their durability and comfort in colder waters. Whether you’re helming or crewing, having a warm, flexible wetsuit makes a huge difference on those breezy days.
Pro tip: check out this article we recently published about dinghy sailing for more info. Or call us to discuss your needs – 01208 880 839
7. Surf Skating – Dry Land Training for Surf Lovers
Not a watersport in the traditional sense, but surf skating is a fantastic way to improve your balance and surfing technique on dry land. It’s also a great entry point into skateboarding for kids and adults alike.
NCW stocks affordable surf skate gear, including Waterborne surf adapters and boards that mimic the fluid feel of surfing. It’s the perfect activity for flat days or evenings back at the holiday park.
Pro tip: Waterborne Skateboards surf skate adapters retrofit to any existing setup, turning into a surf skate. a highly affordable option, this could be a way to get involved in surf skating this summer holidays. Give us a shout to talk all things surf skating – 01208 880 839
8. Beach Days and Sandcastle Engineering
Sometimes the best summer memories are the simplest. Spend a day with your family building sandcastles, collecting shells, or jumping over waves. No fancy gear needed – just sunscreen, snacks, and good vibes.
Of course, having a decent wetsuit for your kids means they can stay in the water longer without catching a chill – and that’s where NCW’s budget-friendly kids wetsuits come in again.
Pro tip: The Rubber Shack, at St. Endellion – NCW’s HQ – is a treasure trove of goodies. It’s always worth stopping off, therefore, if you’re in the Polzeath area. Find us on Google Maps here.
Why Choose North Coast Wetsuits (NCW) This Summer?
Based just 10 minutes from Polzeath, North Coast Wetsuits and The Rubber Shack is your authentic, family-owned surf and skate shop in the heart of Cornwall. Whether you’re into surfing, watersports, or starting your skateboard journey, NCW combines expert advice with affordable, high-quality gear.
Families return year after year for NCW’s friendly service, reliable wetsuits, and huge range of kit – not to mention the flexible wetsuit hire options that make trying new watersports easy and stress-free.
Final Thoughts: Get Your Family in the Water This Summer Holidays
The summer holidays are the perfect time to introduce your kids to the joy of watersports, from surfing and paddleboarding to dinghy sailing and bodyboarding. Whether you’re a seasoned wave rider or new to the beach scene, North Coast Wetsuits has everything you need to get started.
Affordable wetsuits, rental options, and an unbeatable location near Polzeath – NCW is your go-to hub for all things surfing, watersports, and family beach adventures.