An Ode To Cornwall’s Vast Array Of Novelty Waves

While Cornwall may be a little short on world-class setups, there is no doubt that it hosts more than its fair share of supremely fun novelty waves.

Defined by an intangible sense of value that falls outside of the realms of traditional quality, each has its own unique and endearing characteristics.

Some of them need a rare swell-wind-tide combo to work, while others break frequently, and are able to hold up under a whole variety of conditions. Each has their own crew of dedicated enthusiasts, who turn out come rain, shine, hell or highwater to sample surfing at its most jovial.

This gallery is by no means extensive as there are dozens of these little wedges, shories and almost-points hidden in coves all along the coastline, but we’ve hand-picked a selection of some of our personal favourites. However, if you’ve got a snap of one you think is missing and would like to add into the mix, send it to us via our facebook.

Every now and again, some of these get classic, producing a wave of the kind of quality that the aforementioned crew of enthusiasts would argue could rival anywhere else in Cornwall, but most of the time they’re wobbly and weird, with just enough indiscernible draw to see folk constantly coming back for more:

Photos by @lugarts and @photogregmartin