North Devon
We usually go to places such as Woolacombe, Putsborough or Saunton in North Devon as these are the nearest and nicest places to go and are relatively easy to get to from London. The beaches are large and can accomodate lots of surfers. They are patrolled by lifeguards. A lot of the coastline belongs to the National Trust and is very scenic, with some nice coastal walks. Croyde has good surf but is best avoided as it gets crowded. We normally camp at one of the campsites near Morthoe or Woolacombe. North Morte Farm Campsite, Easwell Farm Campsite are in great locations with fantastic views but do not take large groups. You can always tell everyone to camp separately, (i.e. not in a group). You can walk to the pubs in Morthoe. Europa Park is more downmarket but takes large groups. There are other campsites in Saunton area. If you do not want to camp, you may be able to hire a static caravan on one of the campsites.
South Wales
We usually go to places like Rhossili or Llangenith on the Gower Penninsula as these are the nearest and nicest places to go and are relatively easy to get to from London. There is a really good bunkhouse called Rhossili Activity Centre. The local area has fantastic scenery and good coastal walks to Worms Head. It is worth booking the centre well in advance as it is popular. Alternatively there are some cabins near Port Talbot at the L&Aoutdoorcentre. There is a bar and they can do breakfasts and evening meals. You need to be careful with kit as bikes have been stolen from the centre. It is 5 minutes away from a great mountain biking and walking in Afon Forest. You can also surf at Rest Bay in Porthcrawl but the beaches are smaller and more likely to be crowded. You can always drop in to the Cardiff International White Water (CIWW) course on the way there or on the way back if the surf is no good.
South Devon
Other places we have visited include Bantham on the South Devon coast if water levels are low during a river trip on Dartmoor.
Kent or South coast
We have done day trips from London to Joss Bay in Kent. although the surf is much less reliable here than in the South West. Bournemouth is also a possible day surf trip from London. It is well worth checking the surf forecasts before making the journey!
North Wales
When staying in North Wales, (e.g. Bala or Dolgellau), for a river trip, you are within easy reach of one of the local surf spots such as Hell's Mouth if you fancy doing something different or the rivers are too low to paddle.
Or you can just look for a new spot on the Wannasurf website.