Woolacombe

Whether you're dreaming of long days on golden sands, catching your first wave, exploring coastal walks or simply unwinding beside the sea, Woolacombe is one of North Devon's most iconic seaside destinations. Renowned for its award-winning beach, relaxed atmosphere and coastal scenery, it's a place where you will make holiday memories. Its unique combination of natural beauty, excellent visitor facilities and friendly village atmosphere makes it a favourite with families, surfers, couples and walkers alike.

Discover Woolacombe Beach

At the heart of the village lies Woolacombe Beach, a spectacular three-mile stretch of golden sand that is regularly recognised as one of the finest beaches in the UK and Europe. Backed by dunes and surrounded by cliffs, there's plenty of space to spread out, whether you're building sandcastles, playing beach games or simply relaxing with the sound of the waves. The beach is famous for its cleanliness, excellent water quality and breathtaking views across the Bristol Channel towards Wales. At low tide, the vast expanse of sand seems to stretch endlessly, creating the perfect playground. During the main holiday season, RNLI lifeguards patrol the beach, making it a safe and popular choice for swimming and family days out.

Surf, Swim and Enjoy the Water

Woolacombe is one of the UK's premier surfing destinations being part of  the North Devon World Surfing Reserve. It attracts everyone from complete beginners to experienced surfers. Several surf schools and hire centres along the beachfront offer lessons, surfboard and wetsuit hire, making it easy to get out on the water. Bodyboarding, paddleboarding and sea swimming are also popular, while the gently sloping beach provides plenty of room for paddling and family fun. Always check local tide times and sea conditions before entering the water and swim between the lifeguard flags when they are in operation.

Dog Friendly Holidays in Woolacombe

Woolacombe is one of North Devon's most popular destinations for visitors holidaying with their dogs. Outside the main summer restriction period, dogs can enjoy long runs along Woolacombe Beach, while nearby beaches such as Barricane Beach and Combesgate Beach also offer excellent walking opportunities, subject to seasonal restrictions.  Away from the beach, miles of scenic footpaths, the South West Coast Path and nearby countryside provide walks with sea views. Many cafés, pubs, holiday parks, self-catering cottages and accommodation providers are dog friendly, with some even offering dedicated facilities for canine guests. As with all coastal areas, owners are encouraged to check seasonal beach restrictions before visiting and help keep Woolacombe beautiful by cleaning up after their dogs.

Visitor Information and Facilities

Woolacombe is exceptionally well equipped for visitors, making it easy to enjoy a full day, weekend or a longer holiday by the coast. There is a Tourist Information Centre that offers friendly local advice, maps and visitor information to help you make the most of your stay on the North Devon coast. Several large public pay-and-display car parks are located close to the beach and village centre, while public toilets, accessible toilets and baby changing facilities are all available nearby. During the summer months, RNLI lifeguards patrol the main beach, and visitors will find a wide choice of cafés, restaurants, pubs, beach shops, convenience stores and ice cream kiosks all within a short walk of the sand. The village also offers a fantastic range of accommodation, including hotels, holiday parks, apartments, campsites, guest houses and self-catering cottages. During peak summer weekends and school holidays, arriving early is recommended as parking can fill up quickly.

Walk the South West Coast Path

Woolacombe is the perfect base for exploring some of the most spectacular sections of the South West Coast Path. Head north towards the dramatic headland of Morte Point, famous for its rugged cliffs, breathtaking sea views and opportunities to spot grey seals basking on the rocks below. Walk south towards Baggy Point and Croyde, where panoramic coastal views and wildflower-covered cliffs await. Whether you're looking for a gentle stroll or a full day's hike, every route offers unforgettable scenery and plenty of opportunities to stop for a picnic or photograph the coastline.

Explore the Surrounding Coast

Woolacombe is perfectly placed for discovering some of North Devon's most beautiful beaches and hidden coves. Just around the corner is Barricane Beach, a small sheltered cove known for its fascinating rock pools. To the south lies Putsborough Sands, a quieter stretch of beach popular with surfers, families and walkers looking to escape the crowds. Together, these beaches offer a wonderful variety of coastal experiences, all within easy walking distance of the village.

Discover Mortehoe

Just a mile from Woolacombe, Mortehoe overlooks the dramatic coastline between Woolacombe and Lee Bay. It offers a quieter atmosphere while being within easy reach of Woolacombe Beach and the surrounding coast. The village is well known for its coastal walks, with direct access to the South West Coast Path. Popular routes lead to Morte Point, one of North Devon's best places to spot grey seals, and along the cliffs towards Woolacombe and Lee. The area is also rich in wildlife and offers spectacular views across the Bristol Channel.

Mortehoe has a small selection of pubs, cafés and local shops, along with Mortehoe Museum, which tells the story of the village's maritime history, shipwrecks and local heritage. St Mary's Church, dating back to the 13th century, is another point of interest. Mortehoe has a pay and display car park that is reasonably priced and conveniently located.

While Rockham Beach is currently inaccessible due to a landslip, the surrounding coastline remains one of North Devon's most scenic areas for walking, photography and wildlife watching. Mortehoe is an excellent place to stay or visit if you're looking to explore both the coast and nearby Exmoor National Park.

Frequently Asked Questions