Best North Devon Beaches – A Coastal Wonderland Awaits You

Why North Devon over other destinations?

While a flight to Bali might cost you around £500 and take over 16 hours of travel, you can stay in a 2-bedroom standard apartment at our North Devon Resort stating at just £126 per night. By saving on travel expenses and time, you can spend your budget on delightful experiences like dining at our Monkey Puzzle Restaurant, where you can savour delicious meals made with local ingredients, or spend more time exploring the beautiful surroundings.

North Devon is an under-the-radar gem with some of the UK’s finest beaches, area of outstanding natural beauty, rich history with country estates, many of which are managed by the National Trust, and a summer visit here offers a distinctive and vibrant experience that truly stands out among other popular summer destinations.

Award-winning beaches: The main reason North Devon is a must-visit!

Welcome to the best North Devon beaches, where a coastal wonderland awaits you. This stunning region is celebrated for its award-winning beaches, which are the heart and soul of what makes North Devon a must-visit destination.

Imagine sprawling sandy shores perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, and beachcombing. Woolacombe Beach, repeatedly voted one of the best in the UK, offers golden sands and azure waters, while Croyde Bay is a surfer’s dream with its rolling waves and vibrant beach culture. These are just a taste of the best North Devon beaches that make this region a coastal paradise.

But that’s not all—North Devon is also home to hidden gems. Discover secret coves like Barricane Beach, where you can enjoy a Sri Lankan curry as the sun sets, or explore the dramatic cliffs and rock pools at Lee Bay.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve prepared a list of the best North Devon beaches for you to explore. From lively spots to tranquil retreats, this guide will ensure you experience the very best of our beautiful coastline.

It’s the combination of these incredible beaches and the unique experiences they offer that truly sets North Devon apart as a must-visit destination. Come and explore the best North Devon beaches, where a true coastal adventure awaits!

Best North Devon Beaches

Ilfracombe Harbour Beach

Ilfracombe Harbour Beach is a charming sandy retreat nestled in the heart of Ilfracombe. Its picturesque setting and calm waters make it perfect for a relaxing seaside day. Stroll along the beach or explore nearby Rapparee Cove and Wildersmouth Beach for unique coastal experiences. From the harbour, you can also embark on a scenic cruise to Lundy Island and the rugged North Devon coastline.

Tunnels Beaches

Tunnels Beaches offers a unique coastal experience in Ilfracombe. Nestled at the base of dramatic cliffs, this picturesque beach features a mix of sands and rocky tidal pools, perfect for exploration. The iconic Victorian tunnels leading to the beach add a touch of historical charm.

Lee Bay

Lee Bay is a tranquil beach just a short drive from Ilfracombe. This secluded cove boasts a sandy shore and lush green surroundings, creating a peaceful escape. Swim in the calm waters or explore the rock pools. For adventure, hike the South West Coast Path for breathtaking views. After, visit our Monkey Puzzle Restaurant for fresh, local meals.

Hele Bay

Hele Bay is a hidden gem near Ilfracombe, blending golden sands with dramatic cliff views. This serene beach is perfect for a relaxed day, with calm waters ideal for swimming or sunbathing.

Woolacombe Beach

Woolacombe Beach is one of North Devon’s most celebrated spots, renowned for its award-winning golden sands and natural beauty. Regularly voted one of the UK’s best beaches, it offers ideal conditions for sunbathing, swimming, and sandcastle building. Its extensive shoreline is perfect for strolls, while the cliffs and dunes provide a stunning backdrop.

Putsborough Sands

Putsborough Sands is a magnificent stretch of North Devon coastline. Known for its expansive golden sands, this beach is ideal for a relaxing day by the sea. Perfect for beach activities, it offers a peaceful retreat from crowded spots. Enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline, including the iconic cliffs of Baggy Point.

Croyde Bay

Croyde Bay is a surfer’s paradise with its rolling waves and vibrant beach culture. This stunning bay, surrounded by picturesque dunes, offers golden sands perfect for sunbathing and sandcastle building. The charming village of Croyde nearby adds to the appeal with its quaint shops and cosy pubs.

Saunton Sands

Saunton Sands is a vast expanse of golden sand backed by the unique Braunton Burrows dune system. This beach is ideal for long walks, beach sports, and surfing. Its wide, open space makes it a favourite for families and dog walkers. The nearby Saunton Golf Club offers an additional attraction for visitors.

Instow Beach

Instow Beach is a charming and tranquil spot located where the rivers Taw and Torridge meet. Known for its calm, shallow waters, it’s perfect for families and safe paddling. The quaint village of Instow provides lovely cafes and pubs with stunning estuary views.

Combe Martin Beach

Combe Martin Beach is nestled in a picturesque village, offering a mix of sandy shores and intriguing rock pools. It’s perfect for a family day out with safe swimming and beachcombing opportunities. Explore the nearby Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park for a fun-filled adventure.

Westward Ho!

Westward Ho! is renowned for its expansive sandy beach and famous pebble ridge. The beach offers excellent conditions for surfing, kiting, and family fun. The bustling seaside village provides a range of shops, eateries, and amusements, ensuring a lively atmosphere.

Lynmouth Beach

Lynmouth Beach is a picturesque and rugged beach located at the meeting point of the East and West Lyn Rivers. Known for its dramatic cliffs and pebble shore, it’s perfect for scenic walks and photography. The charming village of Lynmouth offers quaint shops, cafes, and the historic Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway.

Hartland Quay Beach

Hartland Quay Beach is a dramatic and rugged spot known for its spectacular cliffs and rock formations. Perfect for those seeking adventure, the beach offers rock pooling and breathtaking coastal walks. The Hartland Quay Hotel provides a cosy spot to relax with stunning sea views.

Welcombe Mouth

Welcombe Mouth is a hidden gem with a wild, unspoiled charm. This beach is perfect for those seeking solitude and natural beauty, with its rocky shore, waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs. Ideal for rock pooling and scenic walks, it offers a true escape from the crowds.

Spekes Mill Mouth

Spekes Mill Mouth is a stunning and secluded beach known for its dramatic waterfall cascading down the cliffs. This wild and rugged beach is perfect for adventurous souls who enjoy rock pooling and exploring coastal paths. The surrounding scenery provides breathtaking views and a sense of tranquillity.

Sandymouth Bay

Sandymouth Bay is a beautiful and expansive beach with golden sands and dramatic cliffs. Perfect for family outings, it offers excellent rock pooling and surfing conditions. The beach’s natural beauty, combined with its stunning coastal views, makes it an ideal spot for a day of fun and relaxation.

Mouthmill Beach

Mouthmill Beach is a secluded and picturesque spot nestled at the mouth of a wooded valley. Known for its distinctive rock formations, including the iconic Blackchurch Rock, it’s perfect for photography and coastal exploration. The tranquil setting provides a peaceful retreat.

Dunster Beach

Dunster Beach offers a unique mix of sand and pebble shores, set against the backdrop of the historic Dunster Castle. This charming beach is perfect for a leisurely day out, with scenic views and the opportunity to explore the quaint village of Dunster. The nearby West Somerset Railway adds a touch of nostalgic charm to your visit.

Porlock Beach

Porlock Beach is a pebble beach with a wild, natural beauty. It’s perfect for peaceful walks and enjoying the stunning views of the Bristol Channel. The nearby village of Porlock offers charming tea rooms, pubs, and shops, enhancing the coastal experience with its quaint, traditional atmosphere.

Kilve Beach

Kilve Beach is a fascinating and geologically rich location, known for its unique rock formations and fossil hunting opportunities. This rugged beach is perfect for exploration and discovering ancient marine fossils. The scenic coastal path offers breathtaking views and the chance to explore the surrounding countryside.

North Devon’s coastline is a treasure trove of stunning beaches, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. Whether you’re seeking a bustling beach with plenty of activities or a tranquil retreat to escape the crowds, the best North Devon beaches have something for everyone. Come and explore this coastal wonderland, where award-winning beaches and unforgettable experiences await.