Woolacombe Bay, on North Devon’s coastline, feels like my top pick for a beach day with golden sand, surfing, sunbathing, and those breathtaking views. The beach stretches wide, with rolling hills all around, so even when the crowds show up, I usually find a quiet spot for myself.
Each visit brings something new, whether I’m splashing into the surf or just flopping down on the dunes with a book and a snack.
There’s this easy vibe where families and surfers mix, but the beach never feels crowded or overwhelming. The village of Woolacombe sits close by, offering handy shops and friendly cafes, so grabbing a coffee or an ice cream is never a hassle.
Whenever I crave a day by the sea—good waves, soft sand, and peaceful views—Woolacombe Bay jumps straight to mind. It’s a spot that works whether you want to unwind or catch some waves on North Devon’s beautiful coast.
Discovering Woolacombe Bay’s Golden Sands
Woolacombe Bay boasts long golden sandy beaches, clear water, and sweeping views across the North Devon coast. Award-winning beaches, wild sand dunes, and dramatic cliffs all come together in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Woolacombe Beach: Award-Winning Sandy Shores
Stepping onto Woolacombe Beach for the first time, I couldn’t help but notice how open and inviting it looked. The beach runs for about 2.5 miles, stretching from Woolacombe village all the way to Putsborough.
The sand is soft, perfect for barefoot walks, and the water stays clean, with lifeguards keeping an eye out during the busy months. I always spot clear zones for swimming and surfing, with flags marking the safe bits.
Woolacombe Beach often lands on lists of the UK’s (and even Europe’s) best beaches. Cafes, surfboard rentals, and toilets sit nearby, so you don’t have to wander far for the essentials.
Early mornings or sunset here? The views of the Atlantic and Lundy Island just glow. I never get tired of that.
Putsborough and Surrounding Beaches
Down at the southern end, Putsborough Beach waits with its quieter vibe. Cliffs wrap around it, blocking the wind and making it feel a bit tucked away.
Surfers love Putsborough when the waves pick up. There’s a car park above the sands and a small café—super handy if you want a hot drink after a chilly dip. The golden sand here blends right into Woolacombe Beach when the tide’s out.
Nearby, Barricane Beach and Combesgate Beach offer something a little different. Barricane is scattered with pretty shells and little rock pools, while Combesgate stays quieter—ideal for a peaceful swim or just a bit of solitude. Every beach along this stretch has its own personality, honestly.
Sand Dunes and Coastal Landscapes
Behind Woolacombe Beach, sand dunes roll out in gentle waves. I love wandering these paths, especially in the early morning when the world feels hushed and the sea breeze rustles through the grasses.
The dunes come alive with wildflowers, insects, and nesting birds. It’s a little haven for nature lovers, and I always spot something new.
Woolacombe and its coastline belong to an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The cliffs at both ends of the bay shoot up sharply, giving hikers some epic routes and big-sky views.
The South West Coast Path runs right through, leading off to places like Grunta Beach or even Saunton Sands if you’re up for a longer trek. The mix of sandy stretches, dunes, and rugged cliffs gives Woolacombe Bay a real edge over other Devon beaches.
Surfing, Swimming and Water Activities
Woolacombe Bay stands out for its steady surf, lifeguard-patrolled swimming spots, and a whole mix of water activities. This stretch of coast really delivers—whether you want to ride waves, swim safely, or poke around tide pools.
Surf Culture and Surf Schools
Surfing is a huge part of Woolacombe’s identity. The long, west-facing bay catches Atlantic swells, so there’s usually something happening out on the water.
Most days, I see everyone from beginners on foam boards to seasoned surfers gliding along the waves. The vibe is friendly—no one takes themselves too seriously.
Several surf schools operate right in the village. Woolacombe Surf Centre, in particular, gets great reviews and offers group or private lessons. They sort you out with wetsuits, boards, and plenty of encouragement.
If you want to up your game or just try surfing for the first time, these schools make it easy. Kids and adults are welcome, and you can book lessons for all levels. I’ve always found the instructors patient and genuinely enthusiastic.
Swimming, Lifeguards and Safety
Swimming here feels relaxed, mainly because lifeguards keep things organized and safe. They set up flagged zones along the main stretch, so I always know where it’s safest to head into the water.
Lifeguards stay visible and approachable, updating safety info about tides and conditions every day. They use colored flags to show where to swim or surf, which makes things much less stressful.
Still, I pay attention to the sea and stick inside those marked areas. Rip currents can sneak up outside the flags, especially on windy days. It’s extra important for kids and less confident swimmers to stay close to shore and in the lifeguards’ line of sight.
Kayaking, Rockpooling and Tides
There’s more to do than just surf or swim. At low tide, rock pools pop up at both ends of the beach. I’ve spent ages here, bucket in hand, searching for little crabs, shrimp, and the odd sea anemone.
On calmer days, kayaking is a fun way to see the coastline from a new angle. Local shops rent out kayaks, so you don’t have to bring your own kit. I always check the tide times before heading out, because the coastline changes a lot between high and low tide.
Knowing the tide schedule really helps plan the day. High tide works best for swimming and kayaking, while low tide opens up the rock pools for exploring. Tide tables are easy to find online or on boards near the main entrance.
Scenic Views and Coastal Walks
Walking along Woolacombe Bay, I get to soak up dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and rolling countryside. The paths range from gentle strolls to tougher hikes, and each one gives a fresh perspective on Devon’s coast.
South West Coast Path Adventures
The South West Coast Path runs right above Woolacombe’s sands. I love how the views open up—cliffs, the endless Atlantic, and sometimes Lundy Island floating in the distance.
It’s easy to hop onto the path from the village edge. Heading out toward Baggy Point, the path stays mostly level, so it’s doable for just about anyone. Wildflowers, sea air, and the sound of surf below make it a real treat.
If I’m after a bit more adventure, the trail towards Morte Point ramps up with steeper climbs and rougher ground. The route is well-marked, so getting lost isn’t really a worry. Benches pop up at the best viewpoints, perfect for a breather or a quick photo.
Some days I just ramble for half an hour, other times I make a full day of it. Either way, the fresh air and big horizons stick with me long after I’m back home.
Morte Point, Marine Drive and Wildlife
Morte Point always draws me in with its rocky headland and sweeping sea views. It’s famous for old shipwrecks, but these days it’s a great spot to watch seals lounging on the rocks below.
The loop walk from Woolacombe to Morte Point, returning along Marine Drive, is packed with wildlife. I often spot seabirds, butterflies, and sometimes even wild ponies grazing along the path. The peace and fresh air are hard to beat.
Marine Drive itself gives those wide, open views back over the beach and hills. On a clear day, Lundy Island stands out on the horizon. Info boards along the way share details about local plants and animals, which I always find interesting.
Every now and then, if I’m lucky, dolphins or porpoises show up further out in the water. It’s those little surprises that make this walk a favorite of mine.
Nearby Destinations: Ilfracombe, Croyde and Beyond
There’s plenty to explore just beyond Woolacombe. Ilfracombe buzzes with its busy harbor, quirky art galleries, and rocky pools that appear at low tide. Sometimes I catch a boat from here to Lundy Island for a day out.
Head south and you’ll find Croyde, a magnet for surfers and walkers. The coastal path from Woolacombe to Croyde takes you along dramatic headlands and through wildflower meadows, with sandy bays curving beneath you.
Other spots like Lee Bay, Clovelly, and Westward Ho! offer their own charms—cobbled lanes, quiet coves, and fishing villages that feel almost untouched. I love stumbling on new walks and secret corners just outside Woolacombe.
Family-Friendly Activities and Amenities
Woolacombe Bay makes family days out a breeze. You’ll find safe places to stay, tasty food, and plenty of classic seaside fun right by the sand.
Holiday Parks and Accommodation
Woolacombe Bay serves up loads of family-friendly places to stay. I’ve tried a holiday park myself, but there’s a whole range—cosy cottages, caravan parks, and everything in between. Popular picks include Woolacombe Bay Holiday Park, Twitchen House, and Woolacombe Sands.
Holiday parks are a win if you want easy beach access, playgrounds, pools, and family entertainment. At Woolacombe Bay Holiday Park, I loved being just minutes from the sand, and the outdoor showers made it so easy to rinse off after a swim.
If you’re after more space or privacy, cottages around the bay are a solid choice. Some come with sea views and gardens—great for longer stays or bringing the whole family along. The Woolacombe Bay Hotel is another classic option, with perks like afternoon tea and an indoor pool.
Cafes, Restaurants and Beach Huts
Food and drink are sorted here. There are plenty of family-friendly restaurants and chilled-out cafes near the beach. You’ll find everything from classic fish and chips to fresh seafood and lighter bites for kids.
Woolacombe Fryer is a local favorite for takeaway—nothing beats eating fish and chips while watching the waves roll in. The Red Barn pub is another go-to with its relaxed vibe, big tables for groups, and views over the bay.
Beach huts line the sand in bright colors. I’ve rented one for the day and found it perfect for stashing stuff, changing clothes, or just escaping the midday sun. Lots of families use them as a home base while the kids run wild.
Family Fun: Funder Island, Red Barn and Woolacombe Fryer
If you’re looking for something to keep the kids busy, Funder Island is a hit. This little amusement spot has mini-golf, go-karts, soft play, and even a climbing wall. It’s a handy break from the beach and gives younger ones a safe space to burn off energy.
After a busy morning, I usually swing by the Red Barn for lunch or a cold drink. Their kids’ menu is decent, and the outdoor seating means no one has to sit still for long.
If there’s room left, the Woolacombe Fryer is our go-to for dinner. Eating fish and chips on the beach as the sun sets just feels right—like the perfect end to a classic seaside day.
Essential Visitor Information
Woolacombe Bay has earned its reputation for clean sands, a welcoming vibe, and great surfing. I’ve found that planning ahead for parking, checking the latest dog rules, and knowing where to rent surf gear really helps the day go smoothly.
Car Parking and Access
When I pulled up in Woolacombe, I actually found parking way easier than expected. Several car parks sit close to the beach, so you won’t have to lug your stuff too far.
There’s a big main car park right next to the sand, run by the council. In peak summer, especially on weekends or during school breaks, the lot fills up fast. I’d recommend arriving early if you can swing it.
National Trust runs a few other car parks nearby, and I noticed they’re usually quieter. The paths from those spots down to the dunes are gentle and easy to follow.
Parking fees are by the hour, and the machines mostly take contactless cards, which is handy if you don’t carry cash. I spotted plenty of disabled spaces right by the main entrance—nice touch for accessibility.
Walking to the beach from the car park couldn’t be simpler. Wide, paved paths lead you straight to the main sands and all the amenities. If you’re coming by bus, they drop off in the village centre. It’s just a short stroll to the water from there.
Dog-Friendly Guidelines
Woolacombe really does welcome dogs, but there are a few rules to keep in mind. Dogs can visit all year, though in summer, some zones require leads or don’t allow dogs at all.
Signs at the beach entrances make it clear where your pup can run free. Before I visited, I checked the Woolacombe Bay Holidays website for the latest dog-friendly map. Super helpful.
The northern stretch of the beach usually stays open to dogs, even during peak season. Waste bins dot the area, so cleaning up is no hassle. I always bring a water bowl and some shade for my dog—makes a huge difference on hot days.
Dog owners are expected to keep pets under control and tidy up after them. Following these simple guidelines keeps Woolacombe lovely for everyone, and honestly, it’s part of what makes the place feel so welcoming.
Surf Shops and Tourist Services
Woolacombe just oozes surf-town energy. Surf shops and hire centers line the main street, and you can feel the buzz as soon as you arrive.
I stopped by Hunter Surf for a board and wetsuit rental. The folks there really knew their stuff—they chatted with me about the best local breaks and gave honest advice, whether you’re a total newbie or chasing bigger waves.
They also run lessons and group sessions every day. Families can get in on the action too, which I thought was a nice touch.
The village keeps its tourist info hub close to the heart of things. The Woolacombe and Mortehoe Tourist Information Centre sits just a short stroll from the sand.
I ducked in, grabbed a map, and chatted with staff for tips on the best cafes. They pointed me toward some local gems and mentioned cool activities beyond surfing, like coastal walks.
Shops around here sell all the beach basics—buckets, sun cream, you name it. I managed to pick up everything I needed right by the seafront.
Honestly, it made the whole day feel easy. No running around or last-minute panics—just more time to enjoy the waves.
