Woolacombe
Devon, England
Beach breakIntermediate
On Devon's north coast, Woolacombe is one of Britain's finest surf beaches, a 3-mile arc of golden sand facing directly into the Atlantic where consistent swells deliver quality waves in a setting voted among the top beaches in Europe.
Typical Conditions
The Surf Window
Swell Window
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size–W 1.5–3m at 12–16s
Wind
SE
Light to E under 15 knots
Tide
Mid tide
LowMidHigh
Season
Sep–Apr
JFMAMJJASOND
The Wave
Type
Beach break
Bottom
Sand
Shape
Multiple peaks along the long beach
Length
60–150m
Skill Level
- •Who it's for: All levels
- •Why: Long beach provides peaks for beginners at the south to advanced surfers at the exposed north
Hazards
- •Strong rip currents especially in the channels
- •Very crowded in summer, one of Britain's busiest beach resorts
- •Car parking is far back from the beach, gear-heavy trek
Local Tips
- •Baggy Point headland at the south end is one of Devon's best coastal walks
- •Putsborough at the south end of the beach is much less crowded and just as good
- •The Woolacombe Bay Hotel has been the surf community's gathering point for generations
Location
51.1728, -4.2051