Surf Lessons

Woolacombe; Hunter surf school (Woolacombe) https://www.surfingwoolacombe.co.uk (01271 – 870543/ Woolacombe Surf Centre http://www.woolacombesurfcentre.com (01271 871533).

Putsborough; Nick Thorm http://www.nickthorn.com ((01271 871337)

Beaches

Woolacombe

Is obviously on your doorstep.  Miles of golden sand.  Everything you need for the beach and surfing is on sale in the village.  You can walk from the apartment, or drive and park in the centre.  Great for kids to play on the beach, body board, surf etc.  Dog friendly year-round, apart from the very first part of the beach, which is clearly signed.  Surf lessons take place on the beach and can be booked in advance.

Putsborough

Putsborough is the beach at the other end of Woolacombe.  It can be walked to either along the beach, or over the cliffs.  There’s a café and beach shop there.  The beach is stunning, great for playing in the sea with kids, rock climbing etc.  If you’re going for the day and would rather drive, it’s about 15 minutes from Woolacombe, charges vary but approximately £10 for the day.  Surf lessons on the beach, book ahead.

Croyde Bay

Croyde is the major surfing beach.  It’s great if surfing is your thing and considered a surfing mecca, with some of the best waves in the South West.  It’s also lovely to walk on, or just to watch the surfers.  It’s no dogs apart from in the sand dunes.  There’s a strong rip tide, so if you go with kids, be really careful in the water.  Croyde village is great to wander round, either for something to eat, a visit to the delicatessen, or there’s a small market on a few times a week.  Approximately a 15-minute drive from the flat.

Saunton Sands

Big flat gorgeous beach, just before Braunton.  Popular with surfers and families due to the long stretch of water, well suited to beginner surfers and kids who want to play in the waves.  There’s a café, beach shops, parking etc.  Approximately 25 minutes from the flat.  Dog friendly year-round.