Surf-at-the-beach

A volunteer supporting a surfer getting back on their board

Our charity’s mission is to deliver adaptive surfing experiences for adults and children with disabilities that would otherwise limit their access to the waves.

We deliver 1-1 and group surf sessions from three surfing beaches Belhaven Bay, Pease Bay (closest to those from East Lothian, Edinburgh and Glasgow) and St Andrews West Sands (closest to those from Dundee, Perth and Fife).

With the support of our amazing volunteers, Inclusive Surfing Scotland delivers bespoke surfing sessions tailored to meet the needs of each surfer, with specialist adaptive surfboards, accessible wetsuits and a beach wheelchair available.

Types of Surfing

We offer four different types of surfing.

Seated tandem surfing

Seated tandem surfing is perfect for surfers with complex needs or those who find sitting, kneeling or lying unsupported uncomfortable or difficult. It is an amazing way to experience the thrill of surfing in a safe and secure way! The surfboard is controlled by a qualified surf instructor riding behind the seat on the surfboard, whilst additional team members provide in-water support.

Ratio
4 coaches/volunteers : 1 surfer

Prone surfing

Specialist prone surfing sessions are available for surfers who find sitting, kneeling or standing tricky but who want to surf as independently as possible. Our adaptive prone boards come equipped with handles and a chest riser to allow the surfer to surf in a comfortable lying position. Coaches and volunteers work in pairs, with one pushing the surfboard and one catching in the shallows.

Ratio
2 coaches/volunteers : 1 surfer

Tandem surfing

This surfing style is ideal for surfers who need assistance with balance or following instructions. Surfers will be supported throughout the session by a qualified surf instructor, with the instructor riding on the back of the board. We encourage surfers to surf in the way that is most comfortable and enjoyable for them, they may be seated, kneeling or standing.

Ratio
1 coach : 1 surfer

Independent or Groups

This surfing style is for surfers who can control a surfboard independently. Our coaches adjust and adapt the level of support given, depending on the individual needs of our surfers. Surfing independently may take place in small groups or with one-to-one support from a coach. There are different ways to surf, and we encourage our surfers to surf in a way that is comfortable for them.

Ratio
From 1:1 to 1: 5 coach to surfers

Get Started

Pricing and Availability

Inclusive Surfing Scotland employs a variable pricing model in order to further reduce the barriers to entry to surfing.

Please pay what you can to support our service and ensure we can continue to offer inclusive surfing sessions into the future.

Although we endeavour to facilitate every individual, we are a charitable organisation and our programmes are subject to availability of staff, resources and funding at any one time.

Surf on the East Coast of Scotland can be inconsistent. If there are no waves forecast or if conditions are deemed unsafe by a qualified coach the session will be rearranged (or a refund offered if this is not possible).