WATER
A coast for all seasons
North Devon has some of the finest surfing in the UK. But there's more to North Devon than surfing.
There is something irresistible about the coastline, where soft sand and jagged rock meet the water. It is never the same. At times wild with the crash and tumble of white horses, at others, still and luminous in the glow of dusk.
Consider this your guide to all things exhilarating; a guide for all the water babies out there...
SURF SPOTS
Ride the waves
There are few things as exhilarating as the first time you catch a wave. Waiting with bated breath as the green belly of the wave swells. Then comes a frenzied succession of paddling, drawing your legs up to stand, and flying on its crest.
North Devon has some of the finest surfing in the UK. Strong westerly swells from the Atlantic Ocean roll in to our long, gently shelving sandy beaches. The best time of year to surf is in the autumn, when the swells are higher, and the water is still warm with summer’s heat. As Finisterre’s Ernie Capbert puts it ‘autumn is definitely the best season for swells, sunset barbecues, and general good beach vibes.’
SUP LOCATIONS
Stand-up Paddleboarding
In the spring and summer, when the weather conditions are favourable, stand-up paddleboarding (or SUP) is easy for beginners or children to pick up quickly, and it's a great way to escape the crowds. With just a little paddle power, you can explore North Devon's enchanting waterways and coastline in the most peaceful way, at your own pace. Nothing beats the sensation of gliding swiftly across the water on a quest to find those secret spots that will be yours and yours alone! For the ultimate SUP experience, hit the water at sunrise to really see its velvety smoothness in a whole new light.
These are all great places from which to launch from. Each has easy access and favourable launch conditions...
WILD SWIMMING
Take a dip
Wild swimming, or just cold water swimming as it used to be known, is rewilding at its best. A chance to re-engage with nature, and ourselves. Cold-water swimmers say they suffer less illness, are better able to deal with stress and enjoy a boost in wellbeing with every icy dip. And it doesn’t get wilder than Exmoor National Park and Devon’s gorgeous North coast!
Perfectly positioned for the brave, these wild swimming spots are among our favourites...
KAYAKING
Paddle power
Taking to the water in a kayak is an opportunity to go that bit further - exploring sea caves, seeing the stunning coastline from a fresh perspective and discovering secluded coves. But where to launch from? We've picked our top spots...
BOAT TOURS
& Sailing Experiences
Explore the coast with Wild Frontier... and experience some of Devon's finest views by boat!
Have you ever seen the Devon coastline by boat? Witnessed wild sealions playing along the rocks as you dive? Watched dolphins riding along the waves of the bow? If not, then a tour with Wild Frontier is a must. There are private tours, diving trips, fishing trips, swimming with wild seals packages and more. With all that the stunning Devon headlands have to offer paired with Wild Frontier's unparalleled local knowledge of hidden secret spots, this is one experience we insist you can't miss...