BEACHES
Days out at the seaside
There's something very special about the feeling of sand between your toes. Here on the North Devon coast we have some of the UK's finest beaches.
From soft sand speckled with shells and perfect for sandcastles, to more rugged beaches where the tide recedes to reveal rockpool treasures...secret little hideaway coves to miles of sand as far as the eye can see...it's all here, you just need to know where to look.
This is our guide...
BEST FOR FAMILIES
Sandy-toe adventures
North Devon beaches are beautiful. Blessed with magnificent stretches of golden sand, secret beaches and secluded coves, this designated area of outstanding natural beauty is a fabulous place to enjoy some sandy adventures.
From caves, grottos and body boarding, to kite-flying and tide-filled rockpools, this is our pick of the best family-friendly beaches. All of the following have toilets, cafe or restaurant, and easy parking.
QUIET COVES
Shhh...
North Devon is famed for its hidden coves, sandy stretches and breath-taking bays. But those are the shores that people know about...for every one of our famous expanses, there is a lesser known gem waiting to be discovered. You may need to pack your own your picnic (or ask us to prepare one for you), and you may need to hike a little to get to these, but they're worth it.
ROCKPOOLING
Top picks...
Wildlife including crabs, shrimps, anemones, limpets, snails and starfish can all commonly be seen in rockpools around the North Devon coastline. This is a great pass time for little'uns and adults alike, and you don't need any equipment at all. However, if you would like a closer look, then just a bucket is enough. It's best to use your hands rather than a net to scoop up any wildlife as nets can get tangled or damage important little homes. If you use a bucket, operate a 'one in, one out' policy - sea creatures get stressed too! And remember: always replace animals, rocks and seaweed as you found them.
SURF SPOTS
Ride the waves
There are few things as exhilarating as catching a wave. We've got some of the best places to surf in North Devon. The best time of year to surf is in the autumn; this is when the swells are higher, but the water is still warm with summer’s heat. That said, there's nothing better than heading to a surf break that constantly delivers above average, very good or world-class conditions throughout the year, whatever the weather. North Devon is that place.