
Croyde Beach
A legendary North Devon surf spot with golden sands, rolling Atlantic waves, and a vibrant village atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better surf

Croyde Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better surf
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary North Devon surf spot with golden sands, rolling Atlantic waves, and a vibrant village atmosphere.
"Croyde Beach is absolutely stunning – one of the best beaches in North Devon!"

🏄♀️ Surf's Up!
Book surf lessons in advance, especially during peak season. Many spots offer rentals too!
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking is available but can be busy. Arrive early or consider walking if staying nearby.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Golden Sands & Rolling Waves
Croyde Beach
A stunning stretch of golden sand with iconic rolling waves, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing.

Surfer's Paradise
Croyde Beach
Famous for its consistent waves, Croyde is a top destination for surfing and bodyboarding for all skill levels.

Rock Pool Exploration
Croyde Beach (at low tide)
Discover fascinating marine life in the rock pools revealed during low tide, a hit with families and curious explorers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Surf's Up: Best Times to Catch a Wave
Beach Access & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🏄♀️ Surf's Up!
Book surf lessons in advance, especially during peak season. Many spots offer rentals too!
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking is available but can be busy. Arrive early or consider walking if staying nearby.
☀️ Tide Times Matter
Check tide times for the best beach experience, whether for surfing or exploring rock pools.
🍔 Foodie Finds
Explore local pubs and cafes for delicious food, including vegan options and famous nachos!
Tips
from all over the internet
🏄♀️ Surf's Up!
Book surf lessons in advance, especially during peak season. Many spots offer rentals too!
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking is available but can be busy. Arrive early or consider walking if staying nearby.
☀️ Tide Times Matter
Check tide times for the best beach experience, whether for surfing or exploring rock pools.
🍔 Foodie Finds
Explore local pubs and cafes for delicious food, including vegan options and famous nachos!
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun
Great for kids! Plenty of space for kites, sandcastles, and gentle waves for beginner surfers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Croyde Beach is widely praised for its stunning golden sands, rolling waves, and suitability for surfing and family fun. Visitors love the vast space, clean beach, and the refreshing coastal atmosphere. Some minor drawbacks include the upkeep of certain facilities and variable opening times for local shops.
"Croyde Beach is absolutely stunning – one of the best beaches in North Devon!
The golden sand, rolling waves, and beautiful surrounding scenery make it the perfect spot for a day out.
It’s great for surfers, families, or anyone who just wants to relax and enjoy the sea air.
The beach is clean and well looked after, and there are lovely coastal walks nearby with amazing views.
We always feel completely refreshed after a visit. A real gem on the Devon coast! 🌊🏄♂️☀️"
Jason Owen
"Very nice sandy beach with people surfing, everyone having a lovely time. Lifeguards on patrol"
Riley Harris
"Lovely flat beach with plenty of space! Great for the kids for surfing lessons, really great day here!"
Terry Rideout
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Croyde Bay is located in North Devon, England. It's accessible by car via the A361 and then local roads. Public transport options are limited, so driving is often the most convenient. If coming from further afield, you might fly into Exeter Airport and then arrange onward travel.
Yes, Croyde Beach is a well-known destination in North Devon. Follow signs for Croyde village, and you'll find parking areas close to the beach entrance.
From Barnstaple or Ilfracombe, driving is the most straightforward. Local bus services may operate, but check schedules as they can be infrequent, especially outside of peak season.
While not a formal park and ride, there are several car parks near Croyde Beach. Arriving early is recommended, especially during summer and weekends, to secure a spot.
Cycling is possible, and there are scenic routes through North Devon. Secure bike parking might be limited, so plan accordingly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Croyde Beach itself does not typically have an entrance fee. However, parking facilities near the beach usually charge a fee, often on an hourly basis.
Croyde Beach is a public beach and is generally accessible at all times. However, amenities like surf shops and ice cream stands may have limited opening hours, especially outside of the main tourist season.
No, tickets are not required for entry to Croyde Beach. It's a public access area. Booking might be necessary for specific activities like surf lessons or accommodation.
Yes, Croyde Beach is patrolled by lifeguards, particularly during the busy summer months, ensuring a safer environment for swimmers and surfers.
Facilities can include public toilets, a surf shop, and places to grab refreshments. However, the upkeep of some facilities has been noted as needing improvement.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Croyde Beach is most famous for its excellent surfing conditions, golden sandy shores, and beautiful coastal scenery. It's a popular spot for both surfers and families.
Absolutely! It's a lovely flat beach with plenty of space for children to play, build sandcastles, and even try beginner surf lessons. The rock pools at low tide are also a hit.
Besides surfing and bodyboarding, you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, exploring rock pools, beachcombing, and coastal walks. Flying a kite is also popular due to the open space and wind.
Yes, the surrounding area offers beautiful coastal walks with amazing views. Baggy Point is a popular nearby destination for scenic hikes.
Croyde Beach boasts beautiful, clean, golden sand, offering plenty of space for visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are several great options! Pubs like The Thatch Croyde are famous for their nachos and offer vegan choices. Biff's Kitchen serves delicious jerk chicken toasties, and Cafe Croyde is popular for brunch.
Yes, Croyde is increasingly catering to vegans. Pubs like Billy Budds and The Thatch Croyde offer plant-based dishes, making it easier to find vegan meals.
Many visitors rave about the nachos at The Thatch Croyde. Other popular choices include jerk chicken toasties and fresh seafood.
Yes, there are usually places selling ice cream near the beach, perfect for a sunny day treat. However, opening times can vary.
The beach itself offers ample space for picnics. You can also find charming spots in the nearby village or at designated picnic areas along the coastal paths.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the iconic rolling waves, the golden sand dunes, and the expansive coastline. Sunsets over the Atlantic can be spectacular. Don't miss the views from nearby coastal paths like Baggy Point.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) offers beautiful light for photography. Low tide can reveal interesting rock formations and tide pools.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the beach and coastline. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the sea and sky. If you're into surfing photography, a telephoto lens might be useful.
Drone regulations can vary and are subject to local bylaws and airspace restrictions. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the National Trust (if applicable to the area) before flying a drone.
The dramatic waves, the vast sandy expanse, the charming village cottages, and the rugged coastal paths all offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider staying at family-friendly accommodations like Parkdean Ruda for easy access. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and be prepared for the parking fees. The lifeguards provide peace of mind, making it a safe and enjoyable day out for everyone.
🏄♀️ Surfers and Watersports Enthusiasts
For a more adventurous experience, consider coasteering in the area, which combines climbing, swimming, and exploring the coastline. Always check the surf report and tide times to maximize your time in the water and choose conditions that suit your skill level.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including seabirds. The varied terrain, from sandy beaches to rugged headlands, makes for a diverse and rewarding hiking experience. Remember to wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Surfing at Croyde Bay: A Surfer's Guide
For those new to surfing, numerous surf schools operate directly on or near the beach, offering lessons and equipment hire. These schools are invaluable for learning the basics, understanding wave etiquette, and staying safe in the water. It's highly recommended to book lessons in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
When planning your surf session, pay close attention to the tide. Low tide often provides more manageable, gentler waves suitable for beginners, while high tide can bring more powerful, hollower waves favored by more experienced surfers. Checking local surf reports and forecasts will help you make the most of your time in the water.
Exploring Croyde Village and Beyond
Beyond the immediate beach, consider venturing to nearby attractions. Baggy Point, a National Trust headland, offers stunning coastal walks with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding coastline. It's a fantastic spot for photography and spotting local wildlife. For a change of scenery, explore other beautiful beaches in the region, such as Woolacombe or Saunton Sands, each offering its unique charm.
Croyde also boasts a vibrant food scene. From traditional pubs serving hearty meals to cafes offering lighter bites and even vegan-friendly options, there's something to satisfy every palate. Don't miss trying the famous nachos at The Thatch Croyde, a local institution.
Family Fun at Croyde Beach
At low tide, the beach reveals fascinating rock pools teeming with small marine creatures, providing an exciting natural playground for curious kids. Many families also opt for beginner surf lessons, as the gentler waves at certain tides are ideal for youngsters to get a taste of surfing. The presence of amenities like ice cream stands adds to the overall family-friendly appeal.
For those staying nearby, holiday parks like Parkdean Ruda offer convenient access and family-oriented facilities. The surrounding area also provides opportunities for gentle walks and exploring the charming village, ensuring a well-rounded family holiday experience.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit