Dive into the action at the National Trust’s Watersports Weekend in South Devon

This June, the National Trust is hosting ‘The Rock: Watersports Weekend’ at South Milton Sands. Set to be an action-packed family event, there will be taster sessions in paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkelling, yoga and more. South Milton Sands is a beautiful stretch of sand with a clear blue sea between Hope Cove and Bigbury in South Devon- the perfect place for getting on the water.

Surfin’ Sam will be on hand with 15 minute tasters in paddleboarding, kayaking and windsurfing all weekend, and Waterborn are offering 20 minute paddleboarding tuition sessions for those wanting to start learning this popular activity. If all that fun has got your heart racing, you can join Simply Soulful Yoga for a yoga experience like no other – balancing on a stand-up paddleboard. The National Trust rangers will be leading adventures in the reef for those who’d like to try snorkelling, looking out for creatures and learning about their habitats.

The National Trust is working with local businesses to put on the festival which aims to encourage people of all ages and abilities to have a go at a wide range of activities, both on and off the water. Emma Reece, National Trust Ranger explains, ‘We wanted to celebrate the amazing businesses involved with South Milton Sands, bringing them all together in one place to offer a mixture of watersports and beach based activities for families and those who love the coast.’

For those who prefer dry land, the rangers will offer families the chance to go rockpooling for more underwater wildlife spotting. There will also be ‘50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾’ activities including kite making, beach trails and scavenger hunts. Trudy Turrell will be leading seashore foraging walks, with a chance to cook and taste the results of your hard work at the end. For the competitive, there will be beach sports including volleyball, ping pong, and beach games; but if you’re looking to unwind, Simply Soulful Yoga will also be running sessions on the beach for those who’d like to try sun salutations on dry land.

Please be aware that it is cash only for events on the beach, with small charges for activities ranging for £4-7. The car park is £5 for the day or free for National Trust members. Refreshments, take away lunches and evening supper options are available at the Beachhouse café. For all watersports sessions, children must be aged over 6-10 years.

For more information, please visit https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/south-milton-sands/features/the-rock-watersports-festival