Flowrider Cornwall

Standing on the artificial wave at Retallack Resort near Tremayne, you'll quickly discover why the Flowrider draws queues of teenagers and twenty-somethings desperate to nail that first proper ride. This stationary wave machine fires a thin sheet of water up a curved surface, creating the sensation of surfing or bodyboarding without the unpredictability of actual waves.

Most riders spend their first few attempts being unceremoniously dumped at the bottom, which is half the entertainment for spectators. Once you get the hang of it though, there's a proper rush to carving across the wave face. The instructors are patient with beginners but will push experienced boarders to try more advanced tricks.

Families with younger children might find it less appealing - this is really aimed at confident swimmers aged 8 and up who aren't fazed by taking a tumble. Sessions typically run for 30-45 minutes, though you'll want longer once you start getting the hang of it.

If you're staying at one of the nearby parks like White Acres or Newquay Holiday Park, it makes for a cracking day trip when the weather's too iffy for the beach. The artificial nature means it runs regardless of surf conditions, unlike the temperamental waves at nearby Watergate Bay. Book ahead during school holidays - this thing gets properly busy when the sun comes out.