Dreaming of riding waves along Scotland’s wild north coast? Surfing in Caithness is perfect for those looking for an unforgettable adventure on the NC500.

Harnessing the power of the ocean and the proven benefits of ‘Blue Health,’ North Coast Watersports offers unforgettable activities and experiences to connect with nature and boost your well‑being. Set against the dramatic beaches of Dunnet Bay near Thurso, it’s an experience that perfectly blends exhilaration and calm.

North Coast Watersports Founder Iona McLachlan first fell in love with surfing as a child growing up in Caithness. From splashing in the shallows to discovering world‑class waves at Thurso East, she shares her experiences of the healing power of the sea.

Surfing in Scotland: Why there is nowhere better the North Coast

The north coast has always been home for me, and I believe there is nowhere better to experience the power of ‘blue health’ – the sense of wellbeing you find by being in and around water. The Caithness coastline offers space, clarity and a sense of calm that is hard to find elsewhere. The sea has shaped my life from childhood, and it continues to shape the experiences we create at North Coast Watersports. 

I was born on the north coast and brought up here in Caithness. Ever since I was little I have loved splashing about in the sea, and I discovered surfing when I was about 10 or 11. I had some lessons in Cornwall and got a surfboard for my Christmas, and from then on I was hooked. I spent hours practising by myself at Dunnet Beach, with my mum patiently waiting on the shore. I didn’t get too far on my own until I got to know some local surfers who took me under their wing. I didn’t know then that Thurso was a world-famous surfing spot, and it’s now a host to national surf championships. 

I have been lucky to travel extensively, visiting Australia, Indonesia and Sri Lanka for surfing. They were amazing but also really busy. There’s something magical about surfing the incredible waves here at home without the crowds. It was while travelling that my partner Finn and I realised how special this place truly is, and the idea for North Coast Watersports came to life. I was only eighteen or nineteen at the time.

North Coast Watersports: Surf Lessons and Retreats

At North Coast Watersports we offer experiences for all ages and abilities. Surf is still our most popular activity, with two-hour lessons from our base at Dunnet Beach on the NC500. We also run trips up the coast to Bettyhill and Durness, as well as weekend surf retreats mixing surf, yoga and great food. We love to create a really authentic local experience, bringing in guided walks to reveal our region’s history and stories. 

Paddleboarding Adventures Along the NC500

Paddle boarding adds a more relaxed way to explore the coastline on calm days. It’s absolutely amazing to paddle board below the massive cliffs at Dunnet Head, discovering coves, beaches and hidden caves you would never see from land. Beyond Dunnet, the landscapes around Melvich, Strathy, Farr, Armadale and Torrisdale are breathtaking and varied, combining mountains, heather and glens. These are true hidden gems on the North Coast 500. 

Family-Friendly Surfing & Paddleboarding for All Ages

One of my favourite parts of the job is showing people how accessible the ocean can be. Its really such a family friendly activity and anyone can enjoy it. Many customers tell us they hate the water or fear the sea, yet by the end of the lesson they always love it. 

Many people have a misperception that surfing is an extreme sports where you fly to your feet and tackle huge waves. In reality, surfing can be as gentle as you need it to be. You can stay in knee-deep water with tiny waves, or stay on your belly or knees on the board. This summer we had lots of customers in their 70s trying the water for the first time. Whatever your comfort level, you can still experience the incredible exhilaration of flying across the waves: that’s a feeling you can’t beat. Then there’s the slow, calm rhythm created by paddleboarding on a still day, taking in the wildlife and scenery from the unique vantage point of the ocean. 

Blue Health: The Healing Power of the North Sea

‘Blue health’ is something I experience every day. It’s hard to be present in our daily lives – we are naturally always thinking about the past or imagining the future, and we love to worry! Being on the water shuts out everything else in your life and demands your full attention. Over the last few years, more people have begun to appreciate this, helped by community projects like Wave Water Wellness in Thurso. I used to be the only person in the sea as a child; now the beaches are full of wild swimmers, dippers and paddlers who understand how healing the water can be. 

The cold doesn’t have to be a barrier. With a good wetsuit, boots, gloves and a hood in winter, the cold becomes a kind of therapy. For me it slows my heart rate, releases endorphins and clears my mind. The motivation is higher, and so are the rewards. 

When you’re out on the water, waves come in pulses – sets and lulls. In the lulls you find your balance and take in the crystal-clear water, the sparkling light, the dunes, forests and cliffs. On sunny days you could almost believe you’re in the Med, even if it is a tad colder! Getting to share this place with people is a privilege. 

For anyone visiting the North Highlands, I hope you find what I found as a child: freedom, presence and the kind of calm only the sea can give. 

Why Surfing in Caithness Belongs on Your NC500 Itinerary

Ready to feel the exhilaration of catching your first wave? Surfing isn’t just an adrenaline sport, it’s a proven way to boost mental well-being and physical fitness. Immersing yourself in the ocean connects you with nature, reduces stress, and helps you tap into the sense of calm and clarity you get from being in and around the water. That’s why surfing on Scotland’s north coast is such a transformative experience.

Surfing here combines the thrill of riding waves with the awe of Scotland’s wild coastal landscapes and gives you a completely different perspective of the NC500. While Thurso East is world-famous and considered the “jewel in the crown” of Scottish surfing, the beaches along the Caithness and North Sutherland coast have waves for every skill level, it doesn’t matter if you you’re a complete beginner or an experienced surfer! Plus, with expert instructors and top-quality surfboards, wetsuits and paddleboards available for hire, North Coast Watersports makes it easy for anyone to give it a go!

More and more travellers are seeking authentic, immersive experiences. If you’re looking for adventure on your NC500 journey, surfing in Caithness is for you!

Ready to make your NC500 trip unforgettable? Book your surf lesson today and explore more on North Coast Watersports website.