When the warm weather arrives, we are drawn to the water. Hazel Sillver suggests some of the best ways to experience the big blue this summer.
Surfing, West Wittering
Instructor Simon Bassett and his team at West Wittering Windsurf Club offer lessons in all varieties of surfing, including kitesurfing, SUP (stand-up paddleboarding), surfing, and windsurfing, for adults and kids. Teaching takes place in the calm waters of the lagoon off West Wittering’s sandy beach.
Where: Beaver Lodge, Bell Lane, Birdham, Chichester, West Sussex PO20 7HY
More information: 2xs.co.uk
Sailing, Worthing
Adults and children can learn to sail with the RYA instructors at Worthing Sailing Club. This friendly, family-focused club sails monohulls and catamarans, holds regular social events at the clubhouse and boasts a good program of races on Sundays and mid-week evenings from March to November.
Where: 1 Sea Place, Worthing, West Sussex BN12 4DG
More information: worthingsailingclub.co.uk
Sailing, Chichester
Families, couples and individuals are welcome to sail in the sheltered waters of Chichester Harbour with Dell Quay Sailing Club. The clubhouse has a bar, lounge, and changing facilities and hosts sailing events all year round. There is the option of hiring a club boat if you don’t have your own.
Where: Dell Quay Rd, Chichester PO20 7EE
More information: dellquaysc.co.uk
Wildlife boat trips, Chichester
Board Chichester Harbour Conservancy’s Solar Heritage (a solar-powered catamaran) and enjoy a 90 minute trip through Chichester Harbour, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The fume-free, quiet boat allows you to see wildlife close up, including birds (such as sea ducks, swans and herons) and seals.
Where: The Harbour Office, Itchenor, West Sussex, PO20 7AW
More information: conservancy.co.uk
Sea swimming, Brighton
Strengthen your body safely and for free by joining the city’s thriving sea swimming community. Brighton Swimming Club has been going strong since 1860 and welcomes new members (be warned, there is a waiting list). Alternatively, join the informal Salty Sea Dogs club (find them on Facebook), which meets regularly to swim in the sea.
Where: Madeira Dr, Brighton BN2 1TW
More information: brightonsc.co.uk
Lifesaving, Hove
Being able to save a life is one of the greatest skills you can have. Learn how with the friendly Brighton Surf Lifesaving Club, which teaches adults and juniors in groups according to age and ability. Lessons take place in the sea and in pools, such as the King Alfred Centre in Hove.
Where: 109-111 Kings Road Arches, Brighton, BN1 2FN
More information: brightonslsc.org
Kayaking, Eastbourne
Learn the ancient art of kayaking along the iconic Seven Sisters cliffs in Cuckmere Haven. Buzz Active offers basic lessons for complete beginners, as well as more testing sea excursions for those with lots of experience (and strong arms!)
Where: Seven Sisters Canoe Centre, Exceat, Nr Seaford, East Sussex, BN25 4AD
More information: buzzactive.org.uk
Watersports, Rye
Learn the wild and wonderful arts of kitesurfing, windsurfing, SUP surfing, and dinghy sailing in the coastal lake and the sea off Camber Sands. The instructors at Rye Watersports offer lessons for adults and children. Boards, sails, and wetsuits are available to hire.
Where: Northpoint Water, Camber Road, Camber, Rye, East Sussex, TN31 7QS
More information: ryewatersports.co.uk
Sea fishing, Hastings
Fish for your supper with the East Hastings Sea Angling Association, which has been going for more than 100 years. The clubhouse in Hastings has a bar and social area and serves food; competitions are held throughout the summer, and members are welcome to hire a club boat free of charge.
Where: The Stade, Hastings, East Sussex TN34 3FJ
More information: ehsaa.co.uk
Diving, Eastbourne
Learn the freedom of breathing underwater by doing a dive course with Planet Divers. The top instructors offer PADI courses in diving for all levels, including open water diving, scuba diving, and rescue, but you must be a reasonably proficient swimmer from the off.
Where: Eastbourne Angling Club, Eastbourne, East Sussex BN22 7AA
More information: planetdivers.co.uk
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