Surf Thurso, Scotland

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The reef breaks at Thurso Bay, Scotland offer the traveling surfer a unique experience. While wave riding is typically thought of as a warm weather sport the superb waves of Thurso Bay, on Scotland’s north coast at the mouth of the Thurso River, are best tackled in full wetsuit. 8 meter swells that roll in from the Pentland Firth are not uncommon in March and April (late winter to early spring) when the water temperature can range from 4C –7C. Summertime finds somewhat smaller surf but warmer water (up to 16C ). The three primary named breaks at Thurso are Thurso East, thought of as the area’s premier break with long right tubes over a kelp covered reef – Thurso East is the home of an ASP qualifying competition; Pipeline, providing challenging left and right breaks; Thurso Beach presenting a good left break over a sandbar. The greater area, referred to as “Caithness”, is regularly visited by surfers from all over Europe, Australia, South Africa and America. The ruins of Thurso castle cast its shadow over the beach creating a surreal vision from the water. Thurso is best reached from Inverness, Scotland by car or bus via the A9 highway or by train. Surf shops and schools are nearby as well as a good selection of hotels and inns. Perhaps you have ever dreamed of surfing world class waves in the shadow of a medieval castle? If so, then a trip to Thurso, Scotland belongs on your list. Don’t forget to pack the full steamer wet suit and consider taking along your golf clubs; after all Scotland is the home of golf as well as some tasty waves.

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