The Best Beaches in North Devon
A local’s guide
Discover the enchanting allure of North Devon’s coastal treasures with this exclusive guide, crafted by our local experts. Delve into the secluded coves, pristine sands, and breathtaking vistas that define the region’s wild Atlantic shoreline.
Your guide to
THE Best North Devon Beaches
Welcome to your guide to the region’s favourite North Devon beaches including the most popular spots as well as many hidden gems – all waiting to be discovered along the rugged shores of this picturesque region! From the sandy shores of Woolacombe to the hidden coves of Mortehoe, North Devon beaches offer an unparalleled coastal experience.
Each beach is another chapter in the story of this remarkable coastline, renowned for its natural beauty and diverse landscapes. Join us as we embark on a journey to uncover some of the finest beaches in the world right here in North Devon…
WOOLACOMBE BEACH
Hailed as one of the best beaches in the UK, this three-mile expanse of golden sand stretches along the North Devon coast. It may not be one of the ‘secret beaches’ in North Devon, but with its endless dunes and clear waters, it was awarded ‘UK’s Best Beach’ by The Sunday Times!
Just a short stroll across our hotel lawns, this is Woolacombe’s main beach.
Great beach for: Thanks to its gently sloping shoreline and lifeguard patrols during peak season, this a safe family beach. It’s also one of the best surfing beaches in Devon.
Watch out for: Rip currents; only swim between the flags.
Facilities: There are toilets, coffee shops, shops, surf schools, and surf hire. Lifeguards are available daily from May – September.
From Woolacombe Bay Hotel: 0.1 miles (3 min walk)
BARRICANE BEACH
Barricane Beach is a cove near Woolacombe Bay Hotel. Nestled away, it’s a hidden gem along the North Devon coastline.
Known for its unique beauty and tranquil atmosphere, Barricane is also a haven for shell collectors and beachcombers seeking unique treasures. After stormy seas it’s a great spot to search for exotic seashells, particularly cowrie shells, which are washed ashore from distant shores.
Great beach for: Paddling and rockpooling, thanks to the shallow waters of this shingle beach. It’s also the perfect place for an evening stroll to watch the sunset.
Watch out for: While Barricane Beach offers natural beauty in abundance, amenities such as toilets and refreshment facilities are limited.
Facilities: There’s parking close to hand, and a cute cafe serving Sri Lankan food on warmer evenings in the spring/summer. There are no lifeguards.
From Woolacombe Bay Hotel: 0.1 miles (5 min walk)
GRUNTA BEACH
Grunta Beach, nestled near Woolacombe and Mortehoe, offers a unique coastal experience accessible only at low tide.
Legend has it that this beach earned its name from a ship carrying pigs that ran aground, startling locals with the unexpected sound of squeals and grunts! We can’t say whether that’s true, but nearby Morte Point (meaning Death Point) claimed a fair few ships over the centuries!
Today, this quaint sandy cove provides a tranquil retreat from the crowds of Woolacombe’s main beach, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a quieter coastal escape.
Great beach for: Another great beach to escape the crowds of Woolacombe’s main beach in the busier months, and a fantastic place to explore rock pools which are easily exposed on low tide and often full of shellfish!
Watch out for: Only available at low tide and located down a steep set of uneven stairs so only pack what you can easily carry!
Facilities: There are no facilities or lifeguards.
From Woolacombe Bay Hotel: 1.0 miles (4 min drive or 27 min walk)
LEE BAY
Lee Bay, near Lynton, in the picturesque village of Lee, is a rocky beach at high tide, and a sandy beach is accessible at low tide.
Surrounded by lush greenery and offering stunning panoramic views – as far as Wales on a clear day – Lee Bay is a favourite destination for local beachgoers. No trip to North Devon is complete without a visit!
Reachable via the South West Coast Path, and with parking close to hand, Lee Bay’s tranquil ambiance and serene atmosphere make it an ideal spot for relaxation and contemplation amidst the unspoiled coastal landscape.
Great beach for: Rockpooling! Thanks to its rocky nature at low tide, Lee Bay beach is a great place to search for treasure in the rockpools.
Watch out for: The terrain can be uneven. Watch your step, especially on slippery rocks and seaweed-covered surfaces.
Facilities: This is a secluded beach with limited amenities, so go prepared with essentials. There are no lifeguards.
From Woolacombe Bay Hotel: 3.5 miles (14 min drive)
PUTSBOROUGH BEACH
Putsborough Sands Beach, nestled between Woolacombe and Croyde Bay, is a pristine stretch of golden sand backed by rolling dunes and rugged cliffs. This Blue Flag beach offers a tranquil escape and stunning views along the beach. With its crystal-clear waters and expansive shoreline, Putsborough Beach is a popular destination for families, surfers, and nature enthusiasts alike.
Putsborough Sands is the next beach along, or the southern part of, Woolacombe Sands. Hence Putsborough and Woolacombe are joined by the Woolacombe Coastal Path. It is generally less crowded than Woolacombe, Saunton and Croyde beaches.
Great beach for: Escaping the breeze – it is protected by Baggy Point from the prevailing southwesterly winds. It’s also a nice walk from the hotel.
Watch out for: Parking availability is limited.
Facilities: There are toilets and a cafe here, but no lifeguards.
From Woolacombe Bay Hotel: 4.7 miles (15 min drive)
CROYDE BEACH
Croyde Beach, nestled within the North Devon Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. It’s one of the most popular surfing beaches and holiday destinations in North Devon.
Considered one of the best North Devon beaches, Croyde Beach is a mecca for surfers, thanks to its consistent waves and renowned surf breaks. Experienced surfers flock to the beach to ride the powerful swells, while beginners can take lessons with local surf schools to learn the basics of wave riding.
Great beach for: Surfers, family fun, and coastal walks.
Watch out for: While ideal for surfing, swimmers should be cautious of strong rip currents, especially during high tide.
Facilities: There are public toilets, outdoor showers, and ample parking here. Lifeguards patrol here during the summer season.
From Woolacombe Bay Hotel: 5.3 miles (15 min drive)
TUNNELS BEACH
Tunnels Beach, located in Ilfracombe, North Devon, gets its name from the network of hand-carved tunnels that lead down to the sheltered coves and tidal pools. Originally excavated in the 1820s, these tunnels were provided access for Victorian bathers to the secluded bathing areas – the ‘Ladies’ Beach’ and the ‘Gentleman’s Beach’. While the secret beaches have retained their names, the gender division is a thing of the past!
However, an air of exclusivity still lingers, and Tunnels Beach is one of the few private beaches in the area. Hence, a small entrance fee is payable (£3-£4 per person), which helps to maintain the beach.
Great beach for: Surrounded by dramatic cliffs, this is a stunning place to visit for relaxation and exploration. Furthermore, its sheltered coves, clear waters, and tidal pool are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and rock pooling.
Watch out for: Private celebrations in the summer – the Gentleman’s Beach is closed if a celebration is scheduled, which can make Ladies’ Beach busy. Also, check the tide times, and avoid days in the summer where high tide falls in the middle of the afternoon.
Facilities: Café, beach shop, parking, and toilets. No lifeguards.
From Woolacombe Bay Hotel: 6.2 miles (15 min drive)
ILFRACOMBE BEACH
Ilfracombe Beach, although not considered the best beach in the North Devon, offers a unique seaside experience within the charming coastal town of Ilfracombe. Situated on the rugged North Devon coast, you’ll find picturesque views of the surrounding cliffs and the bustling harbour.
Great beach for: Bustling harbour vibes, the chance to see Damien Hirst’s renowned ‘Verity Statue’, and hiring a paddleboard. The harbour provides the perfect shelter to develop your paddleboarding skills, and you can explore a bit further afield to neighbouring secluded beaches.
Watch out for: This beach does not have lifeguards.
Facilities: There are many restaurants and easy car parking options close to this beach. Public toilets can be found nearby.
From Woolacombe Bay Hotel: 6.3 miles (15 min drive)
SAUNTON SANDS BEACH
Saunton Sands, located on the North Devon coast near the village of Braunton, is a beautiful beach backed by impressive sand dunes and the rolling hills of Braunton Burrows. One of Devon’s most popular beaches, it spans over three miles along the coast, making it one of the longest sandy beaches in the UK.
Great beach for: Surfers flock to the beach to catch some of the best waves in North Devon, while kite surfers and windsurfers also enjoy the favourable wind conditions. You can also hike through the towering sand dunes, or venture into Braunton Burrows, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its unique flora and fauna.
Watch out for: Strong currents and changing tide patterns, especially during high tide.
Facilities: There are public toilets, seasonal beach shops, surf and beach equipment rental, and ample parking here. Lifeguards patrol here during the summer season.
From Woolacombe Bay Hotel: 6.9 miles (20 min drive)
BROADSANDS BEACH
This is a little cove near Combe Martin and Ilfracombe.
What sets this Broadsands apart is its secluded location, offering a sense of escape from the crowds. The stretch of golden sand offers space for leisurely strolls, sunbathing, and picnics, while the crystal-clear waters invite swimmers and sea-glass hunters. Take a video tour…
Great beach for: Breathtaking panoramic views of the rolling Devon countryside. Framed by dramatic cliffs and rolling hills, Broadsands is a haven for photographers and nature lovers.
Watch out for: Steep steps! Access to Broadsands is down over 200 steep steps. Also, avoid high tide – most of the beach disappears! Check tide times before visiting – low tide is best for this beach.
Facilities: There are no amenities or lifeguards at this wild swimming spot.
From Woolacombe Bay Hotel: 9.9 miles (23 min drive)
WILD PEAR BEACH, COMBE MARTIN
Nestled after a testing yet rewarding 2-kilometre walk, Wild Pear Beach awaits, offering a serene retreat from the bustle of everyday life. This secluded bay boasts rocky shores sheltered by surrounding cliffs, providing the perfect spot for soaking up the sun. A quiet beach, you can immerse yourself in the soothing melody of freshwater cascading down slate cliffs.
Great beach for: Quiet beach days and naturists – locally, this secluded beach is considered a designated naturist beach, as it is shielded from prying eyes by the coastal path above.
Watch out for: The access path down can be difficult as it can be a bit over-grown, and the final few metres down onto the beach itself is a steep bank.
Facilities: There are no amenities or lifeguards at this wild swimming spot.
From Woolacombe Bay Hotel: 12.0 miles (25 min drive)
MOUTHMILL BEACH
Another secret beach, nestled within the rugged expanse of North Devon’s coast, this remote, pebbly beach lies along the unforgiving stretch towards Hartland Point. Over the centuries, its jagged rocks have posed a formidable challenge to seafarers, earning it the moniker “Iron Coast” due to the countless ships that have crashed into the beach here.
To get here, leave your car at the National Trust car park at Brownsham and follow the pathway from here. The trail passes through woodland following a trickling stream, before opening out to the remote and secluded cove of Mouthmill. Take a video tour…
Great beach for: Rugged, rocky seclusion, off the beaten path – the kind of place many visitors to the area never knew existed. North Devon is famous for the Atlantic coastline, and this is the perfect place to experience it, and you can visit the steep cobbled streets of Clovelly too (here’s a 6.6km circular walking trail).
Watch out for: The lack of facilities – be sure to take everything you need with you!
Facilities: There are no amenities or lifeguards at this spot.
From Woolacombe Bay Hotel: 33.0 miles (60 min drive)
FAQS ABOUTNORTH DEVON BEACHES