Dreaming of exploring the coastline from a different perspective?
Here's what you should know:
Coasteering is an adventure sport that allows you to reach parts of the coastline inaccessible to the general public. Think of hidden caves, secret swimming spots, and climbable cliff faces.
Adventure tourism has seen exponential growth in the last few years, with 90% of travelers saying they are likely to spend the same or more on experiences in 2024. Coasteering adventure activities are a huge part of this market.
[image: pixabay]
In this post you'll find:
What Is Coasteering Really All About?
The Essential Gear You Need To Get Started
Top Safety Tips Every Beginner Should Know
Best Coasteering Locations In The UK
How To Choose The Right Guide For Your Adventure
What Is Coasteering Really All About?
Coasteering can be described as moving along rocky coastlines on foot or by swimming. Boats or surfboards aren't used.
It is an adventure activity that combines:
Cliff jumping into deep and often crystal-clear water
Swimming through sea caves and natural rock arches
Scrambling over rocky coastlines
Exploring areas that are only accessible from the sea
The sport was invented in the 1980s by an engineer called Andy Middleton in Wales. He wanted to provide access for people to the dangerous, rugged coastline that couldn't be explored on foot.
Exciting right?
The activity is now accessible to all and most providers ensure that people of all ages can take part, starting at 8 years old.
Pretty cool, right?
The Essential Gear You Need To Get Started
The one thing you must have for coasteering:
Wetsuit & Safety Equipment
A good-quality 5mm wetsuit will be your best friend during your coasteering session. The UK waters are cold year round, even in summer you are likely to spend hours in the water.
You will also need a buoyancy aid, helmet, and old trainers for grip on the slippery rocks.
What The Professionals Provide
If you book with a Newquay Coasteering adventure guide company, they will provide all the specialist equipment needed. This can be £100-200 per person to purchase outright, so it makes sense to go with an established company as a beginner.
Do not forget to bring with you:
Swimming costume to wear underneath the wetsuit
Towel and warm clothing for afterwards
Waterproof camera if you want photos
Top Safety Tips Every Beginner Should Know
Safety always comes first.
Coasteering is a ton of fun (it really is!) but it is also an extreme adventure sport that must be taken seriously. This means always following all the safety guidelines and listening to your guide.
Always Go With A Qualified Guide
This is so important it's worth mentioning again. The coastline changes with the tides, weather conditions can change rapidly, and local knowledge is vital.
Look for a guide who has:
AALA licensing (Adventure Activities Licensing Authority)
Experienced, qualified guides
Excellent safety record and good reviews
High-quality equipment that is well maintained
Be Aware Of The Risks
Coasteering is inherently dangerous. Falling off a 20 foot cliff face will mean you hit the water at 25mph. That's a lot of impact force and enough to cause serious injury if you're not careful.
The good news is that qualified guides will know where it is safe to jump, how to enter the water correctly, and how to spot and read sea conditions. They won't put pressure on you to do anything that you aren't comfortable with.
Best Coasteering Locations In The UK
The UK is blessed with some of the best coasteering locations in the world. Adventure and water sports activities have increased by 75% in the UK between 2011 and 2019, and coasteering is a big part of this.
Wales – The Home Of Coasteering
Pembrokeshire in South West Wales is where it all began. The rugged coastline around St. Davids is home to everything from routes suitable for families to those for the more extreme.
Anglesey is another great spot offering some very different coasteering.
Cornwall – The Adventure Capital
Cornwall has a dramatic coastline that is ideal for coasteering. Check out the Newquay area if you're a beginner or more experienced and want a challenge, or Land's End. The Isles of Scilly is another great destination for coasteering that is very different from the mainland.
Scotland – Wild And Remote
If you're after something wild and remote, then the Highlands and Islands have some of the most stunning and challenging coasteering in the UK. The scenery is incredible, but conditions can be more demanding.
How To Choose The Right Guide For Your Adventure
Not all coasteering providers are equal.
With the sport's rising popularity, lots of operators have entered the market. Some are excellent, others less so.
What To Look For
Look for experience and qualifications. A provider who has been running for a few years and has guides with relevant outdoor qualifications is a good sign.
Check group sizes. Smaller groups (6-8 max) get more attention, instruction, and supervision. Some operators who charge the lowest prices will run very large groups that compromise safety and the overall experience.
Read reviews. TripAdvisor and Google Reviews give you a good idea of what other customers have experienced. Check for consistently positive feedback about safety, equipment, and guides' expertise.
Red Flags To Avoid
Prices that seem too cheap (quality equipment and experienced guides cost money)
No visible safety equipment or wetsuits that look cheap
Guides who appear inexperienced or unprofessional
No clear safety briefing before setting out
Pressuring people to do jumps or activities they are uncomfortable with
Ask The Right Questions
Questions to ask before booking:
What qualifications do your guides have?
How many people are in a group? Are there group size limits?
What kind of equipment is provided?
What route options are there? Is there a beginner's route?
What are your policies on weather cancellations?
What To Expect On Your First Coasteering Adventure
Your first coasteering experience will be one you will never forget.
Sessions usually begin with a thorough safety briefing on land. Guides will explain the route, show you some basic techniques, and check everyone's kit is on correctly.
The session lasts 2-4 hours depending on the route and group ability. You'll typically start with some easier scrambling and small jumps to build confidence, before moving on to more challenging sections.
Don't worry if you are nervous about jumping. Qualified guides will never put pressure on you. You can walk around any jump you don't want to do. Many people are surprised at what they can achieve.
Wildlife Encounters
One of the hidden bonuses of coasteering is the wildlife you will see. Seals are common on UK coasts and will often follow coasteering groups out of curiosity. You may also spot dolphins, seabirds like gannets and puffins, and rock pool critters.
Memories & Photos
Bring a waterproof camera or enquire about photo packages with your guide company. The unique angle of seeing the coastline from sea level level provides incredible photo opportunities that you just can't get from land.
Many companies offer action shots and group photos as part of the experience or a small additional charge.
Wrapping Things Up
Coasteering adventure activities are an amazing way to experience the UK's stunning coastline from a completely new perspective.
Key takeaways:
Never coasteer without qualified and experienced guides
Start with beginner-friendly routes and build confidence and skills
Buy your own gear or choose a company that provides it
Respect the ocean and all safety guidelines
Choose a location that matches your ability and experience level
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