Croyde
The surfing capital of North Devon, Croyde is a beautiful and fun part of Devon with a great family friendly and vibrant atmosphere.
Surfing Mecca
Surfers will already know this, Croyde village is one of Devon’s most renowned seaside location due to its excellent surf and beautiful scenery. It is known locally as a real surfing mecca with people travelling from all over to try their hand at the waves. Because of this popularity, there are plenty of places to hire boards and arrange lessons for the less experienced. Croyde is a great place for surfing, particularly short rides as the waves in this part of Devon tend to break quickly. There is a point break at one end with a reef break at the other. As the beach is fairly steep in comparison to its neighbours, the rip currents are extremely strong, making it a challenging spot for water sports. You’ll also find an annual weekend dedicated to water sports every summer hosted on Croyde Bay which is definitely not to be missed.
Quiet and charming village
The village is a real magical location surrounded by breath taking scenery. The village is mainly unspoiled and retains much of its original charm, it’s also relative quiet with an old-world feel to it which is well respected by visiting surfers and holiday goers. Its popular with tourists of all ages and a hub of wonderful places to stay, eat and while away the hours can be found here. Croyde can be found within the North Devon Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty which is evident from the far reaching views of the coast and the countryside around the village. A stream runs through the centre of the village leading down to the beach with a bridge directing traffic around the village.
Great for families
The sheltered bay and seafront facilities make this an ideal destination for families. There are a number of restaurants, cafes and hotels right on the sea front and with a life guard presence during the busier months, it is a safe beach to take the children swimming, rock pooling or surfing. Croyde Bay has a number of large sand dunes and sand lines the way to the centre of Croyde village. The beach forms the middle section of a trio of glorious beaches that can be found in this region, nearby is Saunton Sands which is another popular spot for surfers and further along Woolacombe Sands, which is divided into Putsborough and Woolacombe beaches.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there shops at Croyde?
Croyde Bay has a lovely collection of shops in the village, from traditional village shops to places you can pick up surfing equipment and more. Full of cute, winding streets and thatched roofs, Croyde is a lovely spot to shop.
Learn more about shopping in North Devon
Does Croyde get busy?
Yes, Croyde can get busy in the summer months, as it is a popular beach, particularly for surfers. It is a large beach, however, so even in the busier months, there is still plenty of space. Croyde Bay is very popular with swimmers, more experienced surfers and sunbathers, and is rated as one of the best surfing beaches in the world. There is an RNLI Lifeguard service available from May to September throughout Easter weekend all October weekends and October Half Term.
Croyde falls within the Surf Reserve and the North Devon AONB.
Find out more about Croyde Bay here
Is Croyde beach dog friendly?
Croyde Beach has restrictions on dogs during the summer. Dogs are allowed on the beach from 1st October until 30th April. At all other times, dogs can be walked on the dunes which sit above the beach.
Learn more about dog friendly beaches in Devon
Where can I park in Croyde?
There are several parking areas in Croyde, including:
Croyde Car Park
Down End Car Park
Baggy Point National Trust Car Park
Croyde Beach Car Park