Gwen Spurlock's top surfing beaches in Wales

There’s an advanced right-hand reef or more mellow beach peaks beneath the ruins of a Norman castle in this picturesque bay. 'A nice wave,' Gwen agrees. 'I haven’t surfed at Manorbier a lot but each time it was a lot of fun and it’s a really pretty spot.'

Perfect conditions: south to west swell, north-east wind, mid-tide.

A great wave in front of amazing cliffs says Gwen of this break near Cardiff. There’s a good right-hand point and a left that’s fun and has good shape, walling up well. Llantwit Major is not as scary as a reef break but it’s a bit rippy, so best suited to experienced surfers.

Perfect conditions: south-west swell, north-east wind, all tides.

Close to Cardiff and Bristol and an easy day trip from London, Porthcawl is always popular for a quick blast and its mellow waves suit beginners. Rest Bay is the most consistent break, providing well-formed peaks, while Coney Beach in front of the esplanade offers more shelter.

Perfect conditions: south to west swell, north-east (Coney) or east (Rest Bay) wind, all tides.

Newgale offers the break that starts a lifetime of surfing for many first-timers due to easy hire of equipment, forgiving waves at most tides – beware the shore-dump at high, however – and space. More sheltered waves break on sand beaches further down St Bride’s Bay.

Perfect conditions: south to west swell, north-east wind, mid-tide.

'Langland Bay is my favourite break in Wales,' Gwen says, of the Gower’s premier surf spot. 'The shore break can be fun and fast at high tide, then Lefts is good as the tide drops. Crab Island reef doesn’t work often but it’s pretty special when it does: quick on the take off then easy and long.' Nearby Caswell Bay is better for children and novices.

Perfect conditions: south-west or west swell, north wind, all tides.

The Harry Potter film crew came for magical scenery at Freshwater West. The Welsh Surf Championship arrives for waves and there are many at different tides, Gwen says. 'From low to mid-tide I surf Middle Bay – it’s fast and hollow with a good shape. Also Fresh' West picks up more swell than Llangennith, so it’s a great for consistency.'

Perfect conditions: south to west swell, east wind, all tides.

Voted Britain’s best beach in 2013, the sands down to Rhossili provide waves for all abilities. 'Three Peaks at the north end gets really good – quite peaky,' says Gwen. 'I’d give the rest of Llangennith about seven out of ten because it’s the most consistent spot in the area, but Peaks has more shape and power.'

Perfect conditions: south to west swell, east wind, all tides.

Ignore the name – Hell's Mouth (Porth Neigwl) is a forgiving beachbreak is a mellow option because waves lose their power en route north. It still packs a punch on its day, though, and surfers from Liverpool, Manchester and the Midlands drop everything to surf here when it’s on.

Perfect conditions: south to west swell, north-east wind, all tides.

Whitesands is another popular beach for beginners though it can get crowded during the peak summer season. Out of school holidays its mix of dazzling sand and punchy turquoise peaks beneath St David’s Head make it one of the most memorable surf spots in West Wales.

Perfect conditions: south to west swell, east wind, all tides.

The Welsh coast can be fantastic fun and provides great opportunities for adventurous activities, but please read up on the risks and make sure you are prepared.

• Follow these tips from the RNLI for staying safe on the Welsh coast.
• Visit AdventureSmart.uk for further information on how to stay safe whilst exploring Wales.