Why North Devon is the perfect holiday home destination for surfers

Home to sandy beaches and shore-breaking waves, North Devon is a true water sports hotspot. Owning a holiday home here means you can hit the waves as often as you like, then relax in your own private retreat after a day of surfing. Find out why North Devon is home to some of the best surfing beaches in the UK.

The best surfing beaches in North Devon

1. Woolacombe Beach

Woolacombe Beach is a popular choice for surfers all over the UK. The beach is almost 3 miles long, meaning there is plenty of space for everyone who wants to enjoy a day out at this coastal paradise, whether it be families, dog owners, or water sports enthusiasts. The Woolacombe surf offers a range of waves, which is ideal for everyone from beginners to experts. What’s more, you can bring your family along for the perfect beach day out. From building sandcastles to enjoying a drink in the local town, there’s something for everyone here.

• 5-minute drive from Cleavewood

2. Croyde Bay

Croyde Bay is perfect for lovers of fast waves. It’s best surfed at low tide, and with great surfing conditions almost all year, this beach is better suited to more experienced surfers. For those wanting to get involved, there are several annual surfing competitions held here, too:

• Jesus Surf Classic, 9th-10th September 2024
• Goldcoast Oceanfest, 20th, 21st, and 22nd June 2025

There are also plenty of facilities in the area, including food outlets, shops, and a beach car park.

• 19-minute drive from Cleavewood

3. Putsborough Beach

Looking for a gorgeous surfing backdrop with spectacular sunsets? Look no further than Putsborough Beach. As a fairly exposed beach, Putsborough has consistent surf throughout most of the year. Plus, it’s a great place to avoid the southerly winds thanks to the position of Baggy Point which provides some shelter. We recommend visiting early in the day if you’re looking to avoid the crowds.

• 17-minute drive from Cleavewood

4. Saunton Sands

For longboarders, surfing beginners, and those just wanting a more relaxed wave, Saunton Sands is the beach for you. It’s known for its long, gentle waves that flow into the huge stretch of sandy beach. Why not stretch your legs after hitting the waves? There is a beautiful walking route from the beach to Crow Point.

• 23-minute drive from Cleavewood

Did you know? Saunton Sands features in Robbie Williams’ Angels music video.

5. Lynmouth Beach

Although conditions are perfect only a few times of the year, Lynmouth Beach is known as one of the best surf spots in Devon. If you catch it on the right day, you might find peelers of up to 200 metres (Surf Atlas). Plus, this hidden gem offers the most incredible views of the Exmoor hills and forests. Then, after a day of surfing, you won’t have to travel far to find some cosy pubs by the shore.

• 37-minute drive from Cleavewood

6. Westward Ho! Beach

Located on the edge of a lovely little village, this beach falls into the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Westward Ho! tide times and conditions make it a popular hotspot for a range of water sports, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and of course, surfing. With very few riptides and a Blue Flag award for cleanliness, this beach is one of the safest in Devon for surfing. What’s more, at just over 2 miles long, Westward Ho! Beach offers plenty of space for everyone, so very rarely feels crowded.

• 53-minute drive from Cleavewood

Why choose Cleavewood Leisure Park?

With an exclusive holiday home owners development, this holiday park is a true haven for relaxing and escaping your busy daily life. Relax in your very own holiday home from home, take in the gorgeous views, and spend quality time with your loved ones. Plus, as a holiday home owner, you can make the most of exclusive benefits including:

• 5% off food and drinks in our bars and restaurants
• Exclusive social events with a community of owners
• Discounts at local area attractions
• Access to the latest part exchange deals
• Opportunities to earn income through subletting your holiday home

Plus, you and your family will be able to enjoy the fantastic entertainment and facilities at our sister park, Golden Coast. These include:

• Pet-friendly bars and restaurants
• Indoor and outdoor heated swimming pools
• Outdoor activities including wave surfing simulator, climbing wall, and high ropes
• 10 pin bowling alley
• And so much more!

If you’re just starting out with surfing, we offer discounts for our holiday home owners and holiday guests at some top-rated surfing schools and surfboard hire in and around Woolacombe and Ilfracombe:

• 15% off with Nick Thorn Surf Coach
• 10% off at OSKC Watersports
• 10% off at Woolacombe Surf Centre

Whether you’re a seasoned surfer, or you’re just beginning, North Devon is the perfect destination to own your very own caravan or lodge. If you’re interested in holiday home ownership at Cleavewood Leisure Park, browse our holiday homes for sale or contact us here.

Looking for a one-off stay in North Devon? View our holidays at Golden Coast Leisure Park.