When you think of surfing, Scotland might not be the first place that comes to mind — but with a new world class attraction that has recently opened this perception is set to change. Just outside Edinburgh is the Lost Shore Surf Resort, a revolutionary inland surfing destination, and something you may not expect to find in Scotland.
We visited with our two teenage daughters on a spontaneous stop during a recent road trip, and while we didn’t manage to get in the water this time, we still had a brilliant afternoon exploring this new Scottish hidden gem. Here’s everything you need to know if you’re planning a visit — plus what we thought as a family of four.
What Is Lost Shore Surf Resort?
If you’re new to the name, Lost Shore Surf Resort is the world’s first purpose-built inland surf resort and features Europe’s largest and most advanced wave pool.
Built within a reclaimed quarry in Ratho, just 25 minutes from the city centre of Edinburgh, the resort opened fully in November 2024 after a £60 million investment.
All of this is possible through the use of Wavegarden technology and complex bathymetry, with the water sourced from the local canal, treated and eventually returned cleaner. The wave pool here is capable of producing over 1,000 waves per hour — with more than 20 different wave types, suitable for total beginners and pro surfers alike, what they have created here is nothing short of incredible.
We hadn’t originally planned to visit Lost Shore — it was one of those “let’s just call in and see” moments while in the area.
When we arrived, our youngest daughter was excited by the prospect of surfing in Scotland, and we did check to see if there were any last-minute surf slots available, but everything was fully booked, especially with it being the start of the summer holidays. (so its highly recommended to book in advance, especially during school holidays and weekends.) Surf sessions start from around £40 for adults, with full kit rental available.
Still, even without a surf session, there was plenty to enjoy — and it turned out to be one of the most memorable stops of our trip.
We arrived just before lunchtime and after walking along the 250-metre ‘beachfront’ watching the surfers and checking out the rental luxury pods and lodges which looked a really unique place to stay in Scotland, we decided to try the food offerings at Lost Shore.
Dining
The waterfront bar, café and restaurant here called the Canteen is a destination in itself. I loved its industrial and pale wood interior and its location, set beside the lagoon, which had views of the surfers on the water and it had such a modern, trendy feel in here. We didn’t need to book in advance and got a table as a walk-in.
We ate at Civerinos, a name anyone from Edinburgh will recognise — known for some of the best pizza in the city. Their Lost Shore venue didn’t disappoint. We had fresh, wood-fired pizzas which were delicious, and it’s a really unique veneue, being able to have lunch whilst overlooking a surf lagoon. Alongside pizza, there were other food vendors here, and there was a welcoming, street food feel to the food court style setup.
Retail Therapy: Skincare, Surfwear, and Trendy Teens
After lunch, we browsed the surf shop, which is much more than your average resort store. My daughters were instantly drawn to the Bum Bum Sun range (you’ll know it if you’ve got teens — the scent alone is enough to lure them in), plus a really well-curated selection of stylish surfwear and on-trend clothes and jewellery – that was a hit with teenagers.
Whether you’re an experienced surfer or just want to look the part, the shop has something for everyone — including some lovely gift items and resort-branded merchandise.
Practical Info: Parking and Accessibility
Parking was free, and while the main entrance isn’t immediately beside the car park it wasn’t more than a five-minute walk. The path leads through natural landscaping until suddenly, the view opens up to reveal the water, the modern lodges, and the wave pool in action — it’s quite a sight to see for the first time.
Beyond Surfing: What Else You’ll Find at Lost Shore
Even if you’re not a surfer, there’s plenty to enjoy here:
- Luxury Lodges: Choose from waterfront pods, family-sized three bedroom luxury hilltop lodges — ideal for a weekend break.
- Spa & Wellness: Including the Scandi-style Spear Sauna, spa treatments and even a Surfskate Academy to practice your skills on land.
- Retail: From surfboards and wetsuits to skincare and trendy clothing.
Good to Know
- Location: Craigpark Quarry, Ratho (about 25 mins from Edinburgh by car)
- Booking: Surf sessions must be booked online in advance — especially at weekends or holidays.
- Price: Surf sessions start from around £40 for adults, with full kit rental available.
- Accommodation: Book via the Lost Shore website .
- Parking: Free, with a short walk to the entrance.
Final Thoughts
Despite not surfing this time, we left feeling genuinely impressed — not just with the scale of the place, but the quality of the food, the shops, and the unique setting. For teens, there’s a cool, beachy energy here that’s unlike anywhere else in Scotland.
We’ll definitely be back — this time with our wetsuits packed and surf lessons booked. Whether you’re an experienced surfer or just looking for a fun family day out with a difference, Lost Shore Surf Resort is well worth a visit.