The Cribbar
The Cribbar is Newquay’s legendary big wave, breaking just a few times each year when Atlantic swells meet the reef off Towan Headland. From Surf Sanctuary, we look directly over it. This section explores the Cribbar in three ways; an overview of its history and mechanics, Ocean Confidence training that shares the same foundations, and The Cribbar Pathway, a six month one-to-one apprenticeship for surfers ready to step onto the big-wave track.
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All images by: Geoff Tydeman unless otherwise credited
The Cribbar Overview
Newquay’s Cribbar breaks far offshore over deep reefs when long-period swells hit. Rare, powerful and unpredictable, it delivers hazardous rips and violent wipeouts. Learn where to see it, what makes it break, and why it demands respect.
Ocean Confidence Training
Build calm, clarity and resilience in the ocean through structured training that blends psychology, fitness and science. Ocean Confidence applies the same foundations that prepare surfers for the Cribbar, scaled to everyday surf conditions.
