Women create strong surfing community with Saunton Surf Sisters

Saunton Surf Sisters, a group created to support and empower women in surfing, is rapidly growing in North Devon. 

Founded by Ella Louise Sullivan, a former London advertising creative turned counsellor at North Devon Against Domestic Abuse, the group now boasts over 1,250 members on Facebook and 150 women in its community WhatsApp group.

Ella, who discovered her passion for surfing while working at a surf camp in Portugal and taking surfing holidays in Indonesia, noticed a lack of female surfers.

“I was constantly surfing on my own, surrounded by men, and thinking, where are my girls at? Surely there must be other women thinking like me?” she said.

Since its formation, Saunton Surf Sisters has seen significant growth, with a wide range of women joining, from beginners to experienced surfers. 

The group organises monthly events at Saunton Beach for anyone from seasoned surfers to total newbies. 

Beginners can get the hang of their pop-up in the whitewash, while more experienced surfers head out and join the line-up. 

“It doesn’t matter if it’s your first time on a board, or you’ve shredded for years, everyone can benefit from getting in the sea – it’s about creating community and making pals for life,” Ella explained.

The group’s activities go beyond surfing. 

In addition to the regular surf meet-ups, Saunton Surf Sisters also organises yoga sessions, skateboarding events, and beach BBQs. 

“Surfing with a group of women can be empowering. You can cheer each other on as you catch (or miss) waves, and help each other learn. It’s always good to have surfing friends because they can give you tips and tricks to help you improve,” she added.

Ella does not make any money from Saunton Surf Sisters or Surf Sisters, instead doing it for the love of it.

“I work as a counsellor at North Devon Against Domestic Abuse, so female empowerment is my bag,” she explained.

While the group is thriving with minimal intervention from Ella, she’d like to do even more. 

“I would love to spend a bit more time creating more events for the community, but it really looks after itself as people connect and reach out on the WhatsApp group or Facebook to find their surf partners in crime,” she said. 

Ella also has plans for future adventures, including a surf trip to Wales and Cornwall. 

“I’d love to organise a surf trip over to Wales and Cornwall for some overnight fun times,” she added.

The rise of women’s surfing in North Devon has been notable, with local surfer Laura Lou Crane now competing in the World Surf League and making waves at renowned spots like Nazare.