🏄 Ride the Wave: The Best UK Surfing Campervan Trips to Celebrate International Surfing Day
Every June, International Surfing Day unites people across the globe in celebration of one of the most exhilarating sports on the planet. And in the UK, where wild coastlines and surf-loving communities stretch from Cornwall to the Scottish Highlands, there is no better way to join the celebration than by planning a road trip to the waves.
The best way to do it? With your campervan.
With a campervan at your disposal, you hold the reins to your surfing adventure. The freedom to chase the tide, follow the sun, and wake up just steps from the sand is unparalleled. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a novice planning your first lesson, surfing campervan trips in the UK offer a unique blend of flexibility, comfort, and adventure.
At Free Spirit Campervans, we are proud to help you start that journey. We stock one of the largest selections of high-quality campervans in the UK, and our award-winning team is here to help you find the right campervan for all your surf trips and more.
Why Campervans Are Perfect for UK Surf Adventures
Surfing is a sport built on freedom, timing and connection with nature. And travelling by campervan fits that lifestyle perfectly.
Here is why surfers love van life:
- No need to book hotels or check-in times
- Park up close to the beach and sleep by the waves
. - Securely store your board, wetsuit, and gear in your campervan, ready for the next wave. Use your campervan’s shower tailgate setup for quick rinse-offs, and cook post-surf meals right in your campervan kitchenette. With a campervan, you’re always prepared for your next surfing adventure.
. - Use your campervan’s shower or tailgate setup for rinse-offs
- Cook post-surf meals right in your campervan kitchenette
.
When you own your campervan, you control every part of your trip. You can wake up early for a dawn session, relax in the campervan with a hot drink, and chase the swell to your next beach — all on your schedule.
Top Surfing Campervan Trips in the UK
To help you plan your next trip for International Surfing Day and beyond, we’ve compiled a list of the top surfing destinations in the UK that are ideal for campervan travel.
Each one has great waves, welcoming surf communities and nearby campervan parking or campsites.
1. Croyde Bay, North Devon
đź“Ť https://www.visitdevon.co.uk/places/croyde
A mecca for surfers of all levels, Croyde Bay delivers consistent waves and a lively surf village vibe. Ruda Holiday Park is just a short stroll from the beach and offers campervan pitches.
Bonus: Grab a coffee at the Croyde Surf Club café and watch the pros from the dunes.
2. Rhossili Bay, Gower Peninsula, Wales
đź“Ť https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wales/rhossili-and-south-gower-coast
Voted one of the best beaches in the world, Rhossili is perfect for long rides and scenic walks. You can park at Hillend Camping and Caravan Park, which is only a few minutes’ walk from the sand.
The area is also ideal for beginners thanks to local surf schools like Llangennith Surf School.
3. Perranporth, North Cornwall
đź“Ť https://www.visitcornwall.com/beaches/north-cornwall/perranporth-beach
A long stretch of golden sand with enough space for everyone. Surf schools, bars and shops make it a great place to stay for a few days. There are multiple campervan sites nearby, including Perran Sands Holiday Park.
This spot is perfect for combining surfing with socialising, hiking and sunset BBQs by the campervan.
4. Bamburgh, Northumberland
đź“Ť https://www.visitnorthumberland.com/explore/destinations/coast/bamburgh
An unexpected gem in the north of England, Bamburgh offers dramatic views, quiet waves and a castle backdrop that looks straight out of a fantasy film. Wild camping spots and low-cost sites nearby make it a hidden favourite for campervanlifers.
Great for those wanting fewer crowds and peaceful post-surf evenings.
5. Pease Bay, Scottish Borders
đź“Ť https://www.peasebay.com/
Ideal for more experienced surfers looking for something different. The Scottish coast is rugged, quiet and undeniably beautiful. Pease Bay Leisure Park allows direct campervan access to the beach, with electric hook-up and stunning clifftop views.
Best Campervan Features for Surfing Road Trips
Not all campervans are created equal. If you are planning to make surfing trips a regular part of your life, here are the key features to look for in your next campervan:
- Rear boot space for boards and gear
- Pop-top roof for standing space and extra sleeping room
- External shower or rinse kit for cleaning off salt and sand
- Onboard fridge for post-surf snacks and cold drinks
- Easy-to-clean flooring and waterproof storage
- USB charging points for devices and GoPro batteries
- Optional solar panels for off-grid power
At Free Spirit Campervans, our stock includes both surf-ready campervans and base models you can personalise over time. Whether you want a fully kitted-out conversion or a blank canvas, we have something for you.
đź”— https://freespiritcampervans.co.uk/high-quality-campervans-for-sale/
đź”— https://freespiritcampervans.co.uk/ulez-compliant-campervans-2/
đź”— https://freespiritcampervans.co.uk/campervan-showroom-in-chichester/
Surfing for Wellness: The Mind-Body Connection
International Surfing Day is not just about the sport, but also about sustainability, community, and wellbeing. Surfing is more than just a physical activity; it’s a mental health booster, reducing stress and enhancing mindfulness. Pairing this with campervan travel creates the ultimate combination for balance and wellbeing, inspiring you to celebrate International Surfing Day with a new adventure.
Pairing this with campervan travel gives you the ultimate combination for balance and wellbeing.
- Early starts watching the sun rise over the sea
. - Active time outdoors in fresh, clean air
- Social opportunities at surf spots and vanlife gatherings
- Evening meals cooked in your campervan with your favourite playlist in the background
It is about the rhythm of the road, the power of the waves and the joy of choosing your own pace.
Why Buy a Campervan from Free Spirit for Your Surf Lifestyle?
If you are serious about turning weekends into surf escapes or planning full-time campervan life with your board strapped to the roof, you need the right vehicle.
Free Spirit Campervans offers:
- One of the largest selections of high-quality campervans on the UK market
- A mix of surf-suitable models and flexible layouts
- ULEZ-compliant options for coastal cities like Brighton, Portsmouth and London
- An award-winning reputation built on trust and service
- Our team at Free Spirit Campervans genuinely loves campervan life and is ready to guide you with expert advice
Explore our full range online:
đź”— https://freespiritcampervans.co.uk/high-quality-campervans-for-sale/
Or pop into our Chichester showroom to see what is in stock today:
đź”— https://freespiritcampervans.co.uk/campervan-showroom-in-chichester/
Pro Tips for Surf-Centric Campervan Life
- Dry gear on pop-top struts or bungee cords inside the campervan
- Store wetsuits in waterproof tubs under the bed
- Invest in a compact rinse kit or solar shower to stay fresh on the go
. - Use hooks and velcro loops to hang towels, rash vests and leashes
- Keep a small toolkit in the campervan for board repairs or fin replacements.
- Use waterproof seat covers if you often jump straight into the driver’s seat after a session
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Celebrate International Surfing Day with a New Adventure
This June, make it more than a one-day celebration. Make it the beginning of a new chapter. Whether you are catching your first wave or chasing perfect breaks every weekend, a campervan can take your surf lifestyle to the next level.
Let Free Spirit Campervans help you find the right campervan to match your freedom-loving, wave-chasing goals.
đź“Ť Visit us: https://freespiritcampervans.co.uk/campervan-showroom-in-chichester/
đź“ž Speak to our team: (01243) 649087
đź“© Or browse our vans now: https://freespiritcampervans.co.uk/high-quality-campervans-for-sale/
Board ready. Fridge stocked. Tunes loaded. It is time to follow the swell and find your new favourite surf spot along the way.
10 FAQs – Surfing Campervan Trips UK
- What are the best UK surfing spots for campervans?
Top picks include Croyde Bay (Devon), Rhossili Bay (Wales), Perranporth (Cornwall), Bamburgh (Northumberland), and Pease Bay (Scotland). All have campervan-friendly campsites or parking. - Can I park my campervan close to the beach?
Yes. Many of the locations listed offer beachside or nearby parking, especially with campsites like Ruda Holiday Park and Hillend Camping Park. - Do I need a surf-specific campervan?
Not necessarily—but features like board storage, a rinse kit, and waterproof flooring make your surf trips much easier and more comfortable. - What features should I look for in a surf campervan?
Key features include: boot space for gear, external showers, USB chargers, solar panels, pop-top roofs, and easy-to-clean flooring. - Are ULEZ-compliant campervans important for surf trips?
Yes—especially for accessing coastal cities like Brighton, Bristol, or Portsmouth without emissions fines.
đź”— https://freespiritcampervans.co.uk/ulez-compliant-campervans-2/ - Is wild camping allowed at surf beaches?
It varies. Some spots like Bamburgh offer low-cost, informal stops, but always check local rules and stay respectfully. - Can beginners enjoy these surf spots too?
Absolutely. Rhossili Bay and Perranporth offer surf schools and gentle breaks ideal for first-timers. - How does campervan life support surfing wellness?
It gives you space for reflection, access to fresh air, flexibility for dawn patrols, and a community of like-minded travellers. - Do Free Spirit Campervans offer surf-ready models?
Yes—we have surf-suited stock with board storage, rinse-off areas, pop-tops, and more.
đź”— https://freespiritcampervans.co.uk/high-quality-campervans-for-sale/ - Where can I see campervans in person?
Come visit our Chichester showroom or browse online for current availability:
đź”— https://freespiritcampervans.co.uk/campervan-showroom-in-chichester/
